Last Saturday, my family tried a new tradition: “Reverse Pancake Day.” Instead of my usual Sunday pancake breakfast, I let Rebecca and Marcus be in charge of the recipe and the toppings. It went as you might expect—lavender syrup (thanks to my garden) and an experimental attempt at “zucchini pancakes” that Marcus swore would taste like a science fair victory. While we survived the breakfast, it struck me again how traditions, even the quirky ones, hold us together through life’s messiness. That feeling of facing old routines with fresh eyes carried me straight into Whispers of You. If you’ve ever held on to something familiar, even after heartbreak or a decade apart, this story will feel instantly relatable.
Plot Summary
Whispers of You by Catherine Cowles launches the Lost & Found Series with a blend of romance and suspense in small-town Oregon. The story follows Wren, a resilient police dispatcher, and Holt, her high school sweetheart turned security expert. Their love was torn apart by a violent tragedy years ago—one that left Wren wounded and Holt guilty enough to disappear for over a decade. Now Holt returns to a home full of shadows and unresolved trauma, determined to make amends and protect Wren when danger resurfaces. The mystery intensifies as an unknown enemy targets the survivors, dragging Wren and Holt into a new fight for safety—and for a second chance at love. You’ll get glimpses of future series leads, but this book stands alone with a complete arc.
Why I Love This Book
I love how Catherine Cowles writes emotionally nuanced characters who feel real from the first page. Wren and Holt aren’t just classic second-chance lovers; they’re deeply scarred by grief and regret, which makes each tender moment feel earned. The layers of suspense kept me guessing, but the romance—equal parts comforting and intense—pulled me in. I especially enjoyed how Holt’s protective instincts blend with vulnerability, and Wren’s determination shines even when everything feels hopeless. The balance between heart-pounding tension and small-town warmth is just right, with side characters adding depth and future intrigue. The story doesn’t rely on clichés or easy fixes; it’s about forgiveness, facing fears, and finding light after loss.
Who Will Like This Book
If you enjoy romantic suspense, second-chance romance, or emotionally intense stories set in tight-knit communities, you’ll likely love Whispers of You. Themes of trauma recovery, found family, and overcoming past mistakes are woven throughout. The story is perfect for fans of protective, alpha heroes and heroines who bring both strength and heartbreak to the table. Cowles never shies away from difficult topics but always handles them with care. Expect plenty of mystery, occasional humor, and heartfelt moments.
⚠️ Trigger warning: violence, grief, trauma, murder, stalking, and explicit sexual content.
Tagged As
romantic suspense, contemporary romance, second chance romance, small town, trauma recovery, police dispatcher heroine, protective hero, alpha male, steamy, HEA, emotional romance, mystery/thriller, series starter, tight-knit community, found family, redemption, dangerous secrets, indie romance
Steam Level
The romance is sizzling, with chemistry that leaps off the page. Scenes are explicit and deeply emotional, but never gratuitous—they build tension and reveal character vulnerability. Sex is integral to Wren and Holt’s reconnection, with several graphic but sensitively written encounters.
