What Heals Us: An Age Gap Romance (Falls Creek) Paperback – March 16, 2023

Maggie Gates continues to own my heart with What Heals Us! While I don’t usually gravitate toward romances where the heroine is a virgin and the hero becomes her “first,” this story proved to be the exception—and honestly, it’s a new gold standard for the trope. Austin Hale and Caroline Tyree’s chemistry was nothing short of magnetic, and their journey together was heartfelt, raw, and absolutely perfection.Caroline is a kindergarten teacher with a quiet strength that shines through every page. Her decision to embrace a fresh start with her ten resolutions felt so relatable, and watching her navigate her journey of self-discovery while also falling for Austin was deeply satisfying. And Austin? Sigh. A gruff, emotionally guarded firefighter with a heart of gold? Say no more. His protective nature and the care he showed Caroline had me swooning and giggling and kicking my feet.Their romance is a slow burn that’s worth every second. From their snowed in cabin getaway (which, let’s face it, was peak romance gold) to Austin showing up to help her with her list, the progression of their relationship felt so natural and grounded. The age gap and their individual baggage added layers of depth without ever feeling forced or overwhelming. The balance of heat, heart, and humor in their story was just perfect.And, of course, Falls Creek strikes again! The charming small town chaos of meddling neighbors, town gossip, and quirky personalities adds so much life and texture to the story. Maggie Gates has a way of creating a setting that feels like home, and I can’t get enough of it.What Heals Us is a beautifully written story about growth, healing, and finding love when you least expect it. Whether you’re a fan of small town romances, friends to lovers dynamics, or simply love a story with a lot of heart, this book is a must read. Caroline and Austin’s story will stay with me for a long time, and I can’t wait to return to Falls Creek in the last book!

Austin finally got his book! I always felt so bad for him in the Beaufort Poker Club series that he kept getting friend-zoned by the ladies. Caroline is such a sweetheart and really deserved the best, which Austin is. I liked that Caroline still went through flares of her illness, life isn’t always easy and chronic illnesses are something that many of us deal with. Austin was so supportive of her throughout the book.I don’t love when authors have the MC’s really liking each other but too afraid to say anything because they think the other person doesn’t want what they want. That kept this book from being a 5 star book for me. I’m so glad they told each other though before they did something like stop seeing one another. I can’t wait for Shane and Beth’s book!No third act breakupCinnamon Roll MMCChronic illness4/5 on the Spicy Scale

What a real, poignant look at early motherhood! It felt so close to home (well done, Maggie, for writing those big feelings so perfectly!)The love story is amazing. I mean, helloooo new book boyfriend! He’s possibly perfect. I kept thinking, “who does that?!” whenever he said or did something so supportive and wonderful- which happened a lot. Not in an annoying or fake way, but more of an “I’m jealous“ way.Seeing Beth’s arc as she struggles with her new identity as a mother was *chef’s kiss*.What a lovely way to end a trilogy!

Ummmm. Austin was just a super annoying, controlling character in my opinion. I couldn’t get into it because of all the eye rolls he produced. Definitely did not enjoy this couple/their story

4.25⭐️ Caroline has lupus so she spent a lot of her youth in hospitals until she got a kidney transplant. At 22 she feels like she’s behind on normal experiences. When she ends up in a cabin with Austin who is 13 years older than her, she asks him to be her first kiss. Austin is hooked from the beginning, but the age difference bothers him. They agree to work on her resolution list together, but neither wants it to end. The Falls Creek gang is fun and this story is interesting.

Amazing! Simply an Amazing Listen/read. Tor Thom and Savannah Peachwood captured Maggie Gates writing beautifully! I really loved this casting because their sound/voices matched the age gap for this book. I loved their chemistry, their ability to produce the emotions from the characters as well as bring all the heat for the spice. Tor Thom, Savannah Peachwood and Maggie Gates had been feeling some many emotions while reading this!If you enjoy:- Firefighter MMC- Chronic Illness rep- Age Gap- Snowed in w/ one bed- Hot Painting Scene- Losing V-cardYou should 1000% dive into the book! (It is part of an interconnected series)

Alright who made the mistake of not telling me about this book before now??I loved this story. I wish I could read it again for the first time.Austin Hale is...whew. He is a sweet, firefighting, southern gentleman who can’t seem to stop falling for Caroline. He has always been stuck in the friend zone, but this time he is determined to stay out of it. He wants Caroline, and he wants to give her everything she’s missed out on. With a love language like acts of service and words of affirmation, there’s no way Caroline can stay away from him.Caroline is such a gentle soul who has been through so much in her short 22 years. But she is determined to live her life to the fullest. She starts with making her list of resolutions which spirals into checking each one off with Austin by her side. She was shy and reserved when they first met, but I loved how her sassiness and courage came out as they got to know each other.The side characters in this book add so much to the story. What I love about small town romances is yes they meddle, but it’s all because they truly care about each other. There is no shortage of support or a friendly push when needed. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!