A military police officer on the verge of a new beginning. A beautiful woman devoted to her career and her dream of putting down roots. The hardest thing they'll ever do is to take a chance on love . . .

Navy Chief Master at Arms Jackson "Jax" Faraday is at a crossroads. He has to decide whether to reenlist or get out while he's young enough to make a difference in the civilian world. Either choice could mean leaving behind his girl: his K-9 partner, Bella. But when she's injured during a training session, Jax's only concern is making sure she's okay.

As the Navy base veterinarian, town local Risa Reynolds is right where she belongs: close to her parents in a farmhouse full of animals-with room to grow. She's seen enough to put military men are on her "not happening" list, because they always leave.

But when a tall, hazel-eyed sailor arrives in her clinic with his dog in his arms, Risa finds herself falling hard. And all kinds of rules will get broken when Jax, a man who sticks to the straight and narrow, learns that there's no predicting the twists and turns of the heart . . .

Praise for Gail Chianese and her West Side Romance series!

"Engaging and down-to-earth . . . features characters readers can root for." -Library Journal

"This book will make your heart smile." -Kristan Higgins, New York Times bestselling author

"A series destined for the keeper shelf!" -Roxanne St. Claire, New York Times bestselling author

"The West Side Romance series is like the perfect pick-me-up latte-hot and steamy, with a layer of frothy fun on the top!" -Jessica Andersan, New York Times bestselling author

"Convincing characters, hot love scenes, and emotional depth." -Library Journal, Starred Review