Peggy Jaeger, Author

It’s release day for another of the wonderful LAST MAN STANDING series books – and today’s addition is from my dear friend and award-winning writer Kathryn Hills.

Meet….

Gavin

Sometimes making waves is the only way to chart your true course.

Gavin Hart’s intentions are noble. He’s putting all his energy and every penny he’s got into the marine science education program he devised with his grandmother, a world-renowned environmentalist from Cape Cod. Big boat, special equipment, and a crew of salty characters—everything is ready to launch. All he needs is the backing of his influential family. Turns out that’s the one thing he won’t get—unless he agrees to settle down and marry the woman of their choosing. A self-proclaimed bachelor for life, he’s never been tempted. That is until he meets Sophie.

High school science teacher Sophie Martin is only subbing in town for a few months. Yet the allure of the Cape—its nautical charm and off-season ambiance—has her wishing she could stay longer. Not to mention she’s falling for a local man with a heart of pure gold. They have a lot in common, including a passion for inspiring young minds. Too bad her days there are numbered. Plus, her boyfriend back home is hinting at a ring. Should she return to her previous life? Or is she brave enough to upend everything and take a risk on a man she barely knows?

Excerpt

Students spilled out into the hallway, and Sophie followed, shutting off lights, and locking the door behind them.

Laura Adams—her best friend and fellow teacher—sauntered up beside her. “Fancy meeting you here, Ms. Martin,” the sassy woman teased. “Well, tell me, how was your first week teaching high school science?”

The two women walked together toward the gymnasium, dodging teenagers, flung-open locker doors, backpacks, and sporting gear.

“I was nervous at first, but now I’m much more confident. The kids are all great.”

“Hey, hey, hey, no running in the halls,” Laura bellowed at a group of boys, speeding past them, shoving one another. She glanced Sophie’s way, instantly switching gears. “Some of us are going out tonight. You should come. I’ll introduce you to some nice guys. We’re meeting at the Galley Hatch.”

At first, the invitation appealed to Sophie, yet the idea of being introduced to “nice guys” made her balk. Laura was a notorious matchmaker, and that was the last thing she needed. “I shouldn’t. I promised my aunt I’d spend time with her since I’ve been gone all week. I think she’s having a hard time adjusting to being alone all day again. She keeps talking about adopting a cat or a talking bird.”

“Oh. Bummer. Offer stands if you can get away. Text me, and I’ll save you a seat.”

They entered the gym together and lingered in the double doors.

“Impressive,” Sophie said, adding a sigh of relief when she saw her class wasn’t climbing the walls. “Nice turnout of exhibitors.”

Laura casually looked around. “You should check it out since it’s your first time. Make the rounds with your kids.”

“I think I will.” Sophie went to leave, yet she ran smack into someone rushing past them with a box.

“Whoa! So sorry,” the person was quick to say.

She stepped back, and her gaze fell upon the one person she never expected to see up close and personal. “You,” she said in disbelief.

Hunky boat guy tipped his dark-haired head. “Do I…know you?”

The smooth, masculine sound of his voice washed over her like a warm summer wave. Sophie blinked up at him, her mortified expression reflected in his mirrored sunglasses. She opened her mouth, but nothing came out.

“Miss… Are you okay?” A sexy little smile turned his lips.

Surprised laughter bubbled out of Laura. “Who’s this?”

The man set his box down and removed his shades.

Both women gaped.

Crystal blue eyes. Stark against his suntanned skin.

“Gavin Hart. I’m exhibiting today. Well, I’m supposed to be. As per usual, I’m late. Can either of you ladies help me find my table?”

“Sophie will,” Laura blurted out, and she gave Sophie a little shove in his direction.

Gavin’s smile widened showing bright white teeth. “Excellent. Thank you, Sophie.”

She spun and narrowed her gaze on Laura. “What about my kids?”

Laura shrugged. “They’re fine. You’re fine. This man is obviously fine.”

********Real Heroes Inspired This Book

New releases are always exciting. However, this book’s birthday is super-special because GAVIN – LAST MAN STANDING was inspired by true heroes. Those dedicated to introducing middle grade and high school students to marine science and the challenges facing our oceans today. So, come on… Meet the real-life and future Gavins and Sophies of the world. I know you’ll be inspired by them, too!

Zephyr Education Foundation is a non-profit ocean science and technology education program based in Woods Hole, MA. They offer unique opportunities to learn about science, research, technology, and career paths in ocean science. Since 2010, over 17,000 kids have experienced their scientific cruises on Vineyard Sound. 65 trips with over 1,200 students so far this year alone! Programs are hands-on, modeling actual operations conducted at the world-famous marine science research institutions in Woods Hole.

Visit Zephyr Education Foundation to learn more!

Buy Link:  https://www.amazon.com/GAVIN-Last-Man-Standing-Book-ebook/dp/B09ZSPTSXC

Genre: Sweet Romance / Clean & Wholesome

Note: This is an Amazon Exclusive book currently available in Kindle, Kindle Unlimited, and Print formats.

About Kathryn Hills

Hauntingly romantic… Unless she’s writing sweet!

The rich history and many mysteries of New England are the perfect backdrops for many of KATHRYN’s books. Winding roads lined by old stone walls, forgotten cemeteries, grand homes with shadowy pasts…all sparks for her imagination. Whether it’s a quaint seaside town or the vibrant city of Boston, it’s easy for this “hauntingly romantic” author to envision the past mingling with the present. No surprise, some of Kathryn’s favorite stories include ghosts! Sprinkle in some magic, and you’re off on a great adventure.

When not writing, this best-selling author is reading, researching, gardening, or cooking up something special in her chaotic kitchen. She shares her colonial home in the north woods with those she loves most – her wonderful husband, daughter, and three crazy dogs.

Find Kathryn Hills Online

* Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Amazon Author Page

* BookBub * Goodreads