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The Recovery Run
He may be the guide, but she’s the one taking them to the finish line in this Brittany Runs a Marathon meets Wild Hearts Can’t be Broken contemporary romance.
Nearing thirty, Jensen Larsen still hasn’t hit her stride. The visually impaired assistant disability coordinator never chases what she wants. Jobs. Friendships. Love. Faced with another romantic disappointment, she’s ready to run toward what she wants, just like her brother. The year they turn thirty, men from her family run a marathon and find the love of their lives.
There are a few obstacles in her way; Jensen hates running, and her idea of a marathon is binging Bridgerton. Trust issues from past relationships continue to make it difficult for her, as a blind woman, to find a guide runner she trusts. Enter her brother’s best friend, Dr. Garrett Marlowe.
For the last five years, Garrett has only worried about himself. Outside of being a reluctant cat dad, Garrett isn’t looking for emotional attachments. Until the woman who both vexes him and makes him smile needs help.
It may not just be Jensen’s stride that Garrett, the experienced marathon runner, is helping find. As Jensen deals with her trust issues, Garrett faces the pain of the tragic event that led him to seal off his heart. With each running session, Jensen and Garrett must learn to trust each other and themselves.
But marathon training, just like life, is a mental game, and the obstacles they face may trip them up before they even reach the starting line.
Nearing thirty, Jensen Larsen still hasn’t hit her stride. The visually impaired assistant disability coordinator never chases what she wants. Jobs. Friendships. Love. Faced with another romantic disappointment, she’s ready to run toward what she wants, just like her brother. The year they turn thirty, men from her family run a marathon and find the love of their lives.
There are a few obstacles in her way; Jensen hates running, and her idea of a marathon is binging Bridgerton. Trust issues from past relationships continue to make it difficult for her, as a blind woman, to find a guide runner she trusts. Enter her brother’s best friend, Dr. Garrett Marlowe.
For the last five years, Garrett has only worried about himself. Outside of being a reluctant cat dad, Garrett isn’t looking for emotional attachments. Until the woman who both vexes him and makes him smile needs help.
It may not just be Jensen’s stride that Garrett, the experienced marathon runner, is helping find. As Jensen deals with her trust issues, Garrett faces the pain of the tragic event that led him to seal off his heart. With each running session, Jensen and Garrett must learn to trust each other and themselves.
But marathon training, just like life, is a mental game, and the obstacles they face may trip them up before they even reach the starting line.
- GenresRomanceDisability
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 3, 2026
9 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Whitney
11 books98 followersWith a name like Melissa Whitney she had two choices become a Real Housewife or a romance author. Sorry Andy Cohen, she's chose romance!
A Jane Austen fangirl, Melissa hails from Western New York, but currently lives in Southern California with her husband and rescue pugs. When she's not brewing the perfect cup of tea, hunting for a delicious pastry, or traveling with her husband, she's writing swoony and steamy romance novels.
Melissa explores themes of disability, mental health, trauma, grief/loss, and family in her emotionally heartfelt and comedic stories. She often says, "Life isn't a romcom nor a high drama. It's somewhere in-between and so are my stories." As a legally blind woman and trauma survivor, Melissa taps into her own lived experience and her masters in social work to craft thoughtful/sensitive stories that delve into deeper themes, while still offering the swoon, steam, and humor that make us fall in love with a good romance.
A Jane Austen fangirl, Melissa hails from Western New York, but currently lives in Southern California with her husband and rescue pugs. When she's not brewing the perfect cup of tea, hunting for a delicious pastry, or traveling with her husband, she's writing swoony and steamy romance novels.
Melissa explores themes of disability, mental health, trauma, grief/loss, and family in her emotionally heartfelt and comedic stories. She often says, "Life isn't a romcom nor a high drama. It's somewhere in-between and so are my stories." As a legally blind woman and trauma survivor, Melissa taps into her own lived experience and her masters in social work to craft thoughtful/sensitive stories that delve into deeper themes, while still offering the swoon, steam, and humor that make us fall in love with a good romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 14, 2026
(3.5 stars)
Thank you to Happily Booked PR for the chance to read an advance copy of The Recovery Run by Melissa Whitney.
I was immediately drawn to the premise of this book - we have a legally blind woman who is training to run a marathon. Yep, all 26.2 miles. This is daunting for ANYONE, let alone someone who needs a guide to do it. I know - I’ve run a marathon and it’s quite the endeavor, with all the training you have to do. I have a lot of runner friends and a few have served as running guides through the Achilles program. It was amazing to watch them from the sidelines and I am still in awe of the whole thing. So yes, I am part of the target audience for this book!
Get ready for a slow-burn romance and lots of character growth. Jensen is 29 and legally blind. She works at a university in southern California, advocating for disabled students. Her brother, Anker, is a marathon runner but got hurt in a “run-in” with some dogs so had to drop out of the NYC Marathon at the last minute. Jensen decides she’s going to train so she can run a marathon with Anker when he recovers, with him as her guide (he has experience doing this). Garrett is Anker’s best friend and Jensen has had a crush on him for several years. He steps in to guide and train Jensen. And sparks fly. But not right away. Garrett has grief issues and Jensen has self-worth issues, much of which stem from unsatisfactory past relationships. It was great to see them grow and change together. The training and the discipline that it took created a huge leap in self-confidence for Jensen. It was great to see Garrett learn how to move on from his grief and let himself be more than friends with Jensen. I loved how Jensen gradually was able to step out of her comfort zone, including making a new friend in a visiting professor, Kayla. The trio of Jensen, her best friend Catherine, and Kayla was a terrific example of female friendships.
So why didn’t I rate this book higher? I’m not really sure why, but I never got completely pulled in to the story, even with the appealing characters. I would read a bit, then put it down, and didn’t feel a big pull to pick it back up again. So YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary). I do recommend this book, even more so after finding out that the author is also legally blind. I’m in awe at the technologies available today that make so much possible for people with disabilities.
NOTE: There are several explicit steamy scenes.
Thank you to Happily Booked PR for the chance to read an advance copy of The Recovery Run by Melissa Whitney.
I was immediately drawn to the premise of this book - we have a legally blind woman who is training to run a marathon. Yep, all 26.2 miles. This is daunting for ANYONE, let alone someone who needs a guide to do it. I know - I’ve run a marathon and it’s quite the endeavor, with all the training you have to do. I have a lot of runner friends and a few have served as running guides through the Achilles program. It was amazing to watch them from the sidelines and I am still in awe of the whole thing. So yes, I am part of the target audience for this book!
Get ready for a slow-burn romance and lots of character growth. Jensen is 29 and legally blind. She works at a university in southern California, advocating for disabled students. Her brother, Anker, is a marathon runner but got hurt in a “run-in” with some dogs so had to drop out of the NYC Marathon at the last minute. Jensen decides she’s going to train so she can run a marathon with Anker when he recovers, with him as her guide (he has experience doing this). Garrett is Anker’s best friend and Jensen has had a crush on him for several years. He steps in to guide and train Jensen. And sparks fly. But not right away. Garrett has grief issues and Jensen has self-worth issues, much of which stem from unsatisfactory past relationships. It was great to see them grow and change together. The training and the discipline that it took created a huge leap in self-confidence for Jensen. It was great to see Garrett learn how to move on from his grief and let himself be more than friends with Jensen. I loved how Jensen gradually was able to step out of her comfort zone, including making a new friend in a visiting professor, Kayla. The trio of Jensen, her best friend Catherine, and Kayla was a terrific example of female friendships.
So why didn’t I rate this book higher? I’m not really sure why, but I never got completely pulled in to the story, even with the appealing characters. I would read a bit, then put it down, and didn’t feel a big pull to pick it back up again. So YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary). I do recommend this book, even more so after finding out that the author is also legally blind. I’m in awe at the technologies available today that make so much possible for people with disabilities.
NOTE: There are several explicit steamy scenes.
March 17, 2026
The Recovery Run is an age gap, brother's best friend, grumpy/sunshine, slow burn, contemporary romance. This book features Jensen Larsen and Dr. Garrett Marlowe.
Jensen is legally blind. She was diagnosed with Stargardt disease when she was only 10 years old. (Stargardt is a rare, inherited juvenile macular degeneration that causes progressive central vision loss in children and young adults.) There is a belief in her family; when the men turn 30, they run a marathon and find their better halves. Her brother, Anker, is an avid runner. When he has an accident and gets down on himself, she convinces him that they will run a marathon together. The main issue here is that Jensen doesn't run nor has she had any interest in running.
In order to train, her brother's best friend, Garrett (also a runner), agrees to be her human guide. This arrangement is less than ideal for Jensen as the man is a perpetual grump and has outright made comments suggesting he doesn't like her. That said, he is thoughtful and considerate, and trusting him comes easily.
Jensen's long time crush on Garrett might be a problem given their proximity and frequent training sessions. She tries her best to get over it, reminding herself that he isn't interested in her, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
This was a beautiful and moving love story. While not someone who has a visual impairment, it opened my eyes to what life could be like if I did. Jensen was a relatable character both in her daily struggles and her internal monologue and self-critique. The book was written from a single POV but felt like there was enough dialogue from Garrett to get a sense of who he was, his backstory, as well as his inner demons.
I enjoyed the characters' personal growth and how they connected. Training for the marathon helped Jensen overcome her limited self-belief, and knock down walls which, while trying to protect her, only served to keep her from becoming her full self. Garrett has his own issues due to past trauma, and while Jensen pushes his buttons, she does so in a loving and caring manner. She helps him move forward and past the grief which kept him stuck in the past.
I loved that Jensen was a strong, independent, fierce and capable woman. I recognize that there characters with disabilities are underrepresented in literature and appreciated Whitney bringing forth a positive representation.
Jensen is legally blind. She was diagnosed with Stargardt disease when she was only 10 years old. (Stargardt is a rare, inherited juvenile macular degeneration that causes progressive central vision loss in children and young adults.) There is a belief in her family; when the men turn 30, they run a marathon and find their better halves. Her brother, Anker, is an avid runner. When he has an accident and gets down on himself, she convinces him that they will run a marathon together. The main issue here is that Jensen doesn't run nor has she had any interest in running.
In order to train, her brother's best friend, Garrett (also a runner), agrees to be her human guide. This arrangement is less than ideal for Jensen as the man is a perpetual grump and has outright made comments suggesting he doesn't like her. That said, he is thoughtful and considerate, and trusting him comes easily.
Jensen's long time crush on Garrett might be a problem given their proximity and frequent training sessions. She tries her best to get over it, reminding herself that he isn't interested in her, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
This was a beautiful and moving love story. While not someone who has a visual impairment, it opened my eyes to what life could be like if I did. Jensen was a relatable character both in her daily struggles and her internal monologue and self-critique. The book was written from a single POV but felt like there was enough dialogue from Garrett to get a sense of who he was, his backstory, as well as his inner demons.
I enjoyed the characters' personal growth and how they connected. Training for the marathon helped Jensen overcome her limited self-belief, and knock down walls which, while trying to protect her, only served to keep her from becoming her full self. Garrett has his own issues due to past trauma, and while Jensen pushes his buttons, she does so in a loving and caring manner. She helps him move forward and past the grief which kept him stuck in the past.
I loved that Jensen was a strong, independent, fierce and capable woman. I recognize that there characters with disabilities are underrepresented in literature and appreciated Whitney bringing forth a positive representation.
March 20, 2026
✨ARC REVIEW✨
⭐️ 4
🌶️ 2
-brother’s best friend
-grumpy x sunshine
-age gap (7 years)
-disability rep (blindness)
-slow burn
-sports romance (marathon)
Admittedly I signed up to read this book expecting not to relate much to Jensen, the FMC. I was wrong. I may not be blind but I did grow up being told that I was too much. It did wonders on my self esteem. Hell I’m happily married to a man obsessed with me and I still doubt this is my life sometimes.
What I enjoyed about this was the personal growth between both Jensen and Garrett and willingness to work on themselves to eventually have the healthy relationship and happiness they deserved. I’m also going to sound like a total nerd but I love a book with a little education. I’m not blind and this book gives insight into things that I wouldn’t even think of.
Example: stating where dishes are on the table, mentioning if a room layout has changed, wearing a hat because the sun can mess with your eyes
Absolutely pick this one up if you’re looking for a cute, swoon worthy read full of fun banter, acts of service and a little slow burn.
Thank you Happily Booked PR for the arc
⭐️ 4
🌶️ 2
-brother’s best friend
-grumpy x sunshine
-age gap (7 years)
-disability rep (blindness)
-slow burn
-sports romance (marathon)
Admittedly I signed up to read this book expecting not to relate much to Jensen, the FMC. I was wrong. I may not be blind but I did grow up being told that I was too much. It did wonders on my self esteem. Hell I’m happily married to a man obsessed with me and I still doubt this is my life sometimes.
What I enjoyed about this was the personal growth between both Jensen and Garrett and willingness to work on themselves to eventually have the healthy relationship and happiness they deserved. I’m also going to sound like a total nerd but I love a book with a little education. I’m not blind and this book gives insight into things that I wouldn’t even think of.
Example: stating where dishes are on the table, mentioning if a room layout has changed, wearing a hat because the sun can mess with your eyes
Absolutely pick this one up if you’re looking for a cute, swoon worthy read full of fun banter, acts of service and a little slow burn.
Thank you Happily Booked PR for the arc
February 18, 2026
Recovery Run
I LOVED this book!!! I spent half the time reading it with a grin on my face, twenty percent of the time absolutely swooning, ten percent crying, and the remaining bit cycling through all the rest of the emotions. I literally laughed out loud at multiple points, causing my husband to ask me not to read it in bed (aparently sleep is more important than my book!).
Jensen is a legally blind woman who has had a crush on her brother's best friend for five years. When her brother gets injured and can't run the marathon he was planning to, Jensen decides to train and run to help fulfill a family love prophecy. Because she is blind, she needs a guide runner to traverse the course with her. Her brother suggests Garrett, his best friend, and Garrett agrees.
Jensen feels like she needs to run this race to challenge herself and assumptions she's had about herself. For anyone who has never felt like enough or that they should be willing to accept less because they aren't good enough, her journey felt really relatable. She pushes herself to be uncomfortable and not to accept the bare minimum because she deserves more than that, just like we all do!
When I started this, I didn't expect to find my new number one book boyfried, but I did in Garrett. I am absolutely in love with this man. He’s grumpy but loves so deeply. He cares in unexpected ways, and if I weren’t so thrilled for Jensen, I would push her out of the way to get to him (shh, don't tell my husband!). Garrett is dealing with his own trauma, making him flawed, but he makes an effort to learn to live with his past for HIM not for Jensen, just like she keeps going and training to prove to herself that she can. I love that they both want to work on their issues to better to themeselves and for the person they love.
One of the things I loved about this book is that it features Jensen, a legally-blind main female character. Disability representation is sadly lacking in everything, including romance books, or, if it is included, it's often relegated to a side character or a character that deserves the reader's pity. This book shows a strong, independent woman who is successful in a lot of things, but is faced with challenges because of her disability. One of my dear friends in college was a woman who was blind, so I was familiar with some of the barriers that Jensen faced. It would have been easy to make readers feel guilty, but Melissa did a nice job of explaining what life is like for someone who is blind, while building empathy. Through Garrett, she demonstrates how little changes can make the world more accessible, and how easy it is to do so.
Overall, I loved, loved, loved this book.
I LOVED this book!!! I spent half the time reading it with a grin on my face, twenty percent of the time absolutely swooning, ten percent crying, and the remaining bit cycling through all the rest of the emotions. I literally laughed out loud at multiple points, causing my husband to ask me not to read it in bed (aparently sleep is more important than my book!).
Jensen is a legally blind woman who has had a crush on her brother's best friend for five years. When her brother gets injured and can't run the marathon he was planning to, Jensen decides to train and run to help fulfill a family love prophecy. Because she is blind, she needs a guide runner to traverse the course with her. Her brother suggests Garrett, his best friend, and Garrett agrees.
Jensen feels like she needs to run this race to challenge herself and assumptions she's had about herself. For anyone who has never felt like enough or that they should be willing to accept less because they aren't good enough, her journey felt really relatable. She pushes herself to be uncomfortable and not to accept the bare minimum because she deserves more than that, just like we all do!
When I started this, I didn't expect to find my new number one book boyfried, but I did in Garrett. I am absolutely in love with this man. He’s grumpy but loves so deeply. He cares in unexpected ways, and if I weren’t so thrilled for Jensen, I would push her out of the way to get to him (shh, don't tell my husband!). Garrett is dealing with his own trauma, making him flawed, but he makes an effort to learn to live with his past for HIM not for Jensen, just like she keeps going and training to prove to herself that she can. I love that they both want to work on their issues to better to themeselves and for the person they love.
One of the things I loved about this book is that it features Jensen, a legally-blind main female character. Disability representation is sadly lacking in everything, including romance books, or, if it is included, it's often relegated to a side character or a character that deserves the reader's pity. This book shows a strong, independent woman who is successful in a lot of things, but is faced with challenges because of her disability. One of my dear friends in college was a woman who was blind, so I was familiar with some of the barriers that Jensen faced. It would have been easy to make readers feel guilty, but Melissa did a nice job of explaining what life is like for someone who is blind, while building empathy. Through Garrett, she demonstrates how little changes can make the world more accessible, and how easy it is to do so.
Overall, I loved, loved, loved this book.
March 19, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Representation matters. Taking the time to fully research said representation matters. Representation of a disability, written by an author who has that same disability, 100% yes!! Melissa Whitney is this author! The Recovery Run is a wonderful read that is insightful, steamy, and informative. I love how she never portrays the disability as an inability to do anything. It is never an excuse, but the drive behind her character's stories. She not only provides wonderful stories, but allows those who do not have disabilities the chance to learn how to be better allies.
Jensen is not a runner. At all. So why did she just agree to run a marathon in her brother’s place? The challenges are already stacked against her as she is not a runner, in fact she hates it, and is legally blind. But she is ready to challenge herself. Thankfully her brother’s best friend agrees to help train her and be her human guide. But it’s not all good as this is the man she has had a crush on for years. Even with reminding herself nothing will happen, her heart never gets that memo. Jensen’s determination is amazing. She doesn’t let anything hold her back and through her training discovers just how amazing she’s always been.
Garret is grumpy, at first. What starts out as a favor to his best friend, quickly turns into more as he spends more and more time with Jensen, getting to know the woman she has grown into. Her determination and grit impresses him and soon he finds himself falling for her. All the while, supporting her in a way that allows her to be her own hero. He never overshadows what she wants, never holds her back. He encourages her, challenges her, and pushes her just enough to keep going.
Melissa puts so much heart into this book, as she does every book. If you didn’t know that she was blind as well, the passion she has for her characters would still shine through. Her being able to fully relate to her characters is felt in every one of her books. I will never grow tired of reading her stories and loving what her characters represent. Her stories are like a warm hug, fully enveloping you in comfort, while reminding you to stay determined, fight for what you want, and never back down when someone says you can’t. The only limitations you have are the ones you put on yourself.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🏃Own Voice Disability
💚Brother’s Best Friend
🏃Grumpy x Sunshine
💚Age Gap Romance
🏃Marathon Running Romance
Representation matters. Taking the time to fully research said representation matters. Representation of a disability, written by an author who has that same disability, 100% yes!! Melissa Whitney is this author! The Recovery Run is a wonderful read that is insightful, steamy, and informative. I love how she never portrays the disability as an inability to do anything. It is never an excuse, but the drive behind her character's stories. She not only provides wonderful stories, but allows those who do not have disabilities the chance to learn how to be better allies.
Jensen is not a runner. At all. So why did she just agree to run a marathon in her brother’s place? The challenges are already stacked against her as she is not a runner, in fact she hates it, and is legally blind. But she is ready to challenge herself. Thankfully her brother’s best friend agrees to help train her and be her human guide. But it’s not all good as this is the man she has had a crush on for years. Even with reminding herself nothing will happen, her heart never gets that memo. Jensen’s determination is amazing. She doesn’t let anything hold her back and through her training discovers just how amazing she’s always been.
Garret is grumpy, at first. What starts out as a favor to his best friend, quickly turns into more as he spends more and more time with Jensen, getting to know the woman she has grown into. Her determination and grit impresses him and soon he finds himself falling for her. All the while, supporting her in a way that allows her to be her own hero. He never overshadows what she wants, never holds her back. He encourages her, challenges her, and pushes her just enough to keep going.
Melissa puts so much heart into this book, as she does every book. If you didn’t know that she was blind as well, the passion she has for her characters would still shine through. Her being able to fully relate to her characters is felt in every one of her books. I will never grow tired of reading her stories and loving what her characters represent. Her stories are like a warm hug, fully enveloping you in comfort, while reminding you to stay determined, fight for what you want, and never back down when someone says you can’t. The only limitations you have are the ones you put on yourself.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🏃Own Voice Disability
💚Brother’s Best Friend
🏃Grumpy x Sunshine
💚Age Gap Romance
🏃Marathon Running Romance
March 7, 2026
It’s always good to see positive representation in romance books, especially when it is one of the main characters with a disability. In this case, our FMC Jensen is legally blind. You know it’s going to be written well and honestly because the author is also registered as legally blind. I have read a previous Melissa Whitney book with a similar representation, and it is such good writing. This book was just as good.
Jensen is a good person; she’s kind and considerate. She will also do anything for her big brother, Anker. When Anker is injured before a marathon, Jensen offers to run in his place. However, Jensen has never run a marathon before; her idea of a marathon is binge-watching Bridgerton. As Anker can’t run, she needs a guide, and her brother’s best friend, Garrett, steps up to help. Garrett has been around Jensen for years, and she has a little bit of a crush on him, but they thrive in teasing and riling each other. Yet, when Garrett steps up, she learns to put her trust in him, and he starts to feel more at ease with her.
I loved seeing the relationship changes between Garrett and Jensen. They went from comfortable friends and sparring partners to a deeper, more meaningful and trusting partnership as Garrett becomes Jensen’s eyes around the race track.
The additional characters, such as Catherine, Kayla and Anker, were well-rounded and fit in beautifully with the story. They were all the ideal people for Jensen, never treating her like someone they had to pity or making her feel like she was a burden. She was just Jensen, their friend or sister; she had a few extra things they needed to do, which they did without thought, just because.
Oh and Miles was a douche!
Jensen is a good person; she’s kind and considerate. She will also do anything for her big brother, Anker. When Anker is injured before a marathon, Jensen offers to run in his place. However, Jensen has never run a marathon before; her idea of a marathon is binge-watching Bridgerton. As Anker can’t run, she needs a guide, and her brother’s best friend, Garrett, steps up to help. Garrett has been around Jensen for years, and she has a little bit of a crush on him, but they thrive in teasing and riling each other. Yet, when Garrett steps up, she learns to put her trust in him, and he starts to feel more at ease with her.
I loved seeing the relationship changes between Garrett and Jensen. They went from comfortable friends and sparring partners to a deeper, more meaningful and trusting partnership as Garrett becomes Jensen’s eyes around the race track.
The additional characters, such as Catherine, Kayla and Anker, were well-rounded and fit in beautifully with the story. They were all the ideal people for Jensen, never treating her like someone they had to pity or making her feel like she was a burden. She was just Jensen, their friend or sister; she had a few extra things they needed to do, which they did without thought, just because.
Oh and Miles was a douche!
March 20, 2026
📖 Recovery Run by Melissa Whitney
✨ Main Characters: Garrett & Jensen
❤️ What I liked
This author is right up there on my favourites list; I may have only read two of her books, but they both had me in a pretty strong chokehold. Her knack of creating characters that you’re immediately drawn to is one of the many things I love about her stories. Garrett and Jensen were so likeable, and their connection so believable, that it felt completely natural when their friendship progressed to something more. Jensen, an incredibly strong and resilient character, was determined to push herself out of her pre-set comfort zone by signing up for a marathon in support of her brother. Her sunshine disposition and quick wit was so refreshing, and I loved how she set her own boundaries and wasn’t willing to stand for the bare minimum from her relationships. And Garrett. Deliciously grumpy Garrett. I loved how well he and Jensen complimented each other; straight away I could sense his feelings for her ran far deeper than friendship, and I loved the little things he did to ensure Jensen was always comfortable. This was an easy five start read for me; I’m ready for what comes next from this author.
🌀 What I disliked
Miles. Now here’s a bloke that would have benefitted from a double nipple twist.
🏷️ Tropes
Age Gap, Grumpy x Sunshine, Brother’s Best Friend, Doctor MMC, Disability Rep, Angsty Friends to Lovers, Own Voice, Mental Health Rep,
🚩 TW/CW
Ableism, death of a loved one, description of therapy sessions,
🌶️ Spice Level
🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️ Rating
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🫶 3rd act breakup?
No
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for providing me with a copy of this. This is my honest review.
✨ Main Characters: Garrett & Jensen
❤️ What I liked
This author is right up there on my favourites list; I may have only read two of her books, but they both had me in a pretty strong chokehold. Her knack of creating characters that you’re immediately drawn to is one of the many things I love about her stories. Garrett and Jensen were so likeable, and their connection so believable, that it felt completely natural when their friendship progressed to something more. Jensen, an incredibly strong and resilient character, was determined to push herself out of her pre-set comfort zone by signing up for a marathon in support of her brother. Her sunshine disposition and quick wit was so refreshing, and I loved how she set her own boundaries and wasn’t willing to stand for the bare minimum from her relationships. And Garrett. Deliciously grumpy Garrett. I loved how well he and Jensen complimented each other; straight away I could sense his feelings for her ran far deeper than friendship, and I loved the little things he did to ensure Jensen was always comfortable. This was an easy five start read for me; I’m ready for what comes next from this author.
🌀 What I disliked
Miles. Now here’s a bloke that would have benefitted from a double nipple twist.
🏷️ Tropes
Age Gap, Grumpy x Sunshine, Brother’s Best Friend, Doctor MMC, Disability Rep, Angsty Friends to Lovers, Own Voice, Mental Health Rep,
🚩 TW/CW
Ableism, death of a loved one, description of therapy sessions,
🌶️ Spice Level
🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️ Rating
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🫶 3rd act breakup?
No
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for providing me with a copy of this. This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is such a tender, beautifully written slow-burn romance that truly takes its time in the best way. Both characters are carrying emotional scars from very different kinds of trauma, and watching them cautiously navigate their healing journeys felt authentic and heartfelt. Their connection doesn’t happen overnight—it builds through sharp, playful banter and quiet moments of understanding that make the payoff even more satisfying.
The chemistry between Jensen and Garret is undeniable from the start, especially in their back-and-forth before either of them is willing to acknowledge what’s growing between them. Their teasing is witty and effortless, layered with just enough vulnerability to hint at something deeper. Jensen, in particular, doesn’t immediately recognize what Garret becomes for her—a steady, grounding presence and a true safe space. Watching her slowly realize that he’s the one person she can lean on without fear is genuinely the sweetest part of the story.
What I loved most is that Jensen never loses herself in the relationship. Her goals, her independence, and her strength remain front and center. Garret supports her without overshadowing her, and their partnership feels balanced and healthy. There’s very little manufactured drama—just two people choosing each other, growing together, and proving that love doesn’t have to be chaotic to be meaningful.
Overall, this is a heartwarming, low-angst romance that feels comforting and sincere. If you’re in the mood for something soft, uplifting, and full of emotional warmth, this is an easy, satisfying read that will leave you smiling.
The chemistry between Jensen and Garret is undeniable from the start, especially in their back-and-forth before either of them is willing to acknowledge what’s growing between them. Their teasing is witty and effortless, layered with just enough vulnerability to hint at something deeper. Jensen, in particular, doesn’t immediately recognize what Garret becomes for her—a steady, grounding presence and a true safe space. Watching her slowly realize that he’s the one person she can lean on without fear is genuinely the sweetest part of the story.
What I loved most is that Jensen never loses herself in the relationship. Her goals, her independence, and her strength remain front and center. Garret supports her without overshadowing her, and their partnership feels balanced and healthy. There’s very little manufactured drama—just two people choosing each other, growing together, and proving that love doesn’t have to be chaotic to be meaningful.
Overall, this is a heartwarming, low-angst romance that feels comforting and sincere. If you’re in the mood for something soft, uplifting, and full of emotional warmth, this is an easy, satisfying read that will leave you smiling.
March 16, 2026
The Recovery Run by Melissa Whitney is one of those romances that quietly works its way into your heart and stays there. At its core, this story is about learning to trust yourself, your body, and another person when life has made that feel risky. Jensen’s journey feels especially powerful because her experiences as a blind heroine are written with care and authenticity, and that perspective adds a layer of emotional depth that makes the story stand out. Watching her push past fear and uncertainty while still holding onto humor and stubborn determination made me root for her from the very beginning.
Garrett brings a wonderfully steady energy to the story, and the dynamic between them is where the book really shines. The brother’s best friend tension adds just enough spark, while the grumpy and sunshine contrast keeps their interactions lively and heartfelt. I loved how their relationship develops through shared effort and trust. Training together for a marathon becomes more than just a physical challenge. It turns into a space where vulnerability, healing, and quiet devotion can grow. The emotional beats feel genuine, and the romance unfolds with patience that makes every step forward feel earned.
By the time I reached the end, I felt that warm mix of hope and satisfaction that comes from a story about choosing courage and connection. This is a thoughtful sports romance with heart, humor, and meaningful representation, and it left me cheering for these characters long after the final page.
Tropes:
• Own voice disability representation (blind heroine)
• Brother’s best friend
• Grumpy x sunshine
• Age gap (7 years)
• Sports romance (marathon running)
Garrett brings a wonderfully steady energy to the story, and the dynamic between them is where the book really shines. The brother’s best friend tension adds just enough spark, while the grumpy and sunshine contrast keeps their interactions lively and heartfelt. I loved how their relationship develops through shared effort and trust. Training together for a marathon becomes more than just a physical challenge. It turns into a space where vulnerability, healing, and quiet devotion can grow. The emotional beats feel genuine, and the romance unfolds with patience that makes every step forward feel earned.
By the time I reached the end, I felt that warm mix of hope and satisfaction that comes from a story about choosing courage and connection. This is a thoughtful sports romance with heart, humor, and meaningful representation, and it left me cheering for these characters long after the final page.
Tropes:
• Own voice disability representation (blind heroine)
• Brother’s best friend
• Grumpy x sunshine
• Age gap (7 years)
• Sports romance (marathon running)
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Recovery Run was such a sweet, emotional romance with great yearning and amazing insight into the world of the legally blind (and training for a marathon...what?!).
I truly enjoyed being in the shoes of Jensen and getting such a greater understanding of how the world we take for granted is so much different for her. And not just in a physical sense but in the way she is treated by others. She's so resilient. I also appreciated how she was pro-mental health and not ashamed to share her therapy experiences.
Garrett was a wonderful broody, intelligent love interest. Brother's best friend, love that trope :-) As much as he tries to deny it, you can see the yearning for Jensen. When his past trauma is exposed it is heartbreaking. It was refreshing to see him and Jensen work together to push through their hurtful pasts and start something new and truly their own.
The other characters in the story were so well developed and fantastic comedic relief! The banter between all the characters is epic.
Also, can't forget to mention how much I learned about disabilities and how one trains for a marathon while accommodating that disability. It was truly inspiring!
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and the author for the early copy. All opinions are my own!
I truly enjoyed being in the shoes of Jensen and getting such a greater understanding of how the world we take for granted is so much different for her. And not just in a physical sense but in the way she is treated by others. She's so resilient. I also appreciated how she was pro-mental health and not ashamed to share her therapy experiences.
Garrett was a wonderful broody, intelligent love interest. Brother's best friend, love that trope :-) As much as he tries to deny it, you can see the yearning for Jensen. When his past trauma is exposed it is heartbreaking. It was refreshing to see him and Jensen work together to push through their hurtful pasts and start something new and truly their own.
The other characters in the story were so well developed and fantastic comedic relief! The banter between all the characters is epic.
Also, can't forget to mention how much I learned about disabilities and how one trains for a marathon while accommodating that disability. It was truly inspiring!
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and the author for the early copy. All opinions are my own!
March 3, 2026
Book Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5
Spice Rating:🌶️ 1/5
This was such a tender, heartwarming read that completely pulled me in.
Jensen is a legally blind FMC who refuses to accept less for herself, and I admired her so much. Her journey training for a marathon was inspiring, but what really stayed with me was her emotional growth. She challenges the assumptions she has carried about herself and refuses to settle for the bare minimum. Watching her push past fear and self-doubt felt powerful and relatable.
Garrett is the ultimate grumpy but devoted love interest. He carries his own trauma, yet he chooses to work through it for himself. The yearning between them is so well done. Their connection builds slowly through banter, quiet support, and moments of vulnerability that feel genuine rather than dramatic.
I also really appreciated the disability representation. Jensen is strong, capable, and independent. Her blindness is part of her life, but it does not define her entire identity. The story builds empathy without ever feeling heavy-handed.
This is a soft, low angst romance that focuses on growth, healing, and healthily choosing each other. It left me smiling and fully in my feelings.
Spice Rating:🌶️ 1/5
This was such a tender, heartwarming read that completely pulled me in.
Jensen is a legally blind FMC who refuses to accept less for herself, and I admired her so much. Her journey training for a marathon was inspiring, but what really stayed with me was her emotional growth. She challenges the assumptions she has carried about herself and refuses to settle for the bare minimum. Watching her push past fear and self-doubt felt powerful and relatable.
Garrett is the ultimate grumpy but devoted love interest. He carries his own trauma, yet he chooses to work through it for himself. The yearning between them is so well done. Their connection builds slowly through banter, quiet support, and moments of vulnerability that feel genuine rather than dramatic.
I also really appreciated the disability representation. Jensen is strong, capable, and independent. Her blindness is part of her life, but it does not define her entire identity. The story builds empathy without ever feeling heavy-handed.
This is a soft, low angst romance that focuses on growth, healing, and healthily choosing each other. It left me smiling and fully in my feelings.
March 17, 2026
I loved this book for many reasons, not the least of which is that, with the disability representation in the story, I learned so many new things. That's one of my favorite things about inclusive stories - along with getting a wonderfully steamy romance, I'm also being educated on how others move through and experience this world.
As someone who ran 10ks and a 1/2 marathon in the past, I'm sure I probably saw blind runners and their guides, but didn't realize that was what I was seeing. It was so interesting to read about race training from a different kind of perspective. So many things that sighted runners take for granted work differently for the blind, from the use of guide runners and the trust it requires to the tethers used to keep them connected during the run.
Also, this was a sweet and empowering story about a woman learning that not only is she stronger than she thought, she deserves more than she'd been getting and has every right to demand more from the people who cross her path. Of course, there's also the brother's best friend and forced proximity aspects, along with a fab girl gang and fun banter.
Thank you so much to the author and to Happily Booked PR for my gifted ARC. I am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
As someone who ran 10ks and a 1/2 marathon in the past, I'm sure I probably saw blind runners and their guides, but didn't realize that was what I was seeing. It was so interesting to read about race training from a different kind of perspective. So many things that sighted runners take for granted work differently for the blind, from the use of guide runners and the trust it requires to the tethers used to keep them connected during the run.
Also, this was a sweet and empowering story about a woman learning that not only is she stronger than she thought, she deserves more than she'd been getting and has every right to demand more from the people who cross her path. Of course, there's also the brother's best friend and forced proximity aspects, along with a fab girl gang and fun banter.
Thank you so much to the author and to Happily Booked PR for my gifted ARC. I am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
March 17, 2026
This book really pulled me in with its blurb and I was so happy I read it. It was so sweet, so cute, and everything I wanted. The story is a great slow burn romance that centers around characters you can really get behind. Jensen is legally blind and she is one of the strongest FMCs I have read. She is determined to train to run a marathon when her brother. Garrett is her brother’s best friend and Jensen’s biggest crush. These two both have damage and it gets in the way. But the connection and chemistry between them is there and it’s strong. Watching these two grow and develop was so endearing. They helped each other move forward in life. Garrett may be a grump but he loves deeply and fiercely once someone is part of his life. Jensen learns to want more out of life. These two continue to work on their issues and become better for themselves and each other. It’s so heartwarming. And the ending was exactly what they deserved. It was perfect. And now all I need to see is the same for Anker and Sonora.
March 18, 2026
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have never enjoyed a book as much as I enjoyed The Recovery Run. I think what made this book so fantastic was that Melissa Whitney, a disabled author, used her experience in writing Jensen. I also loved the fact that pretty much right away, we could see that Garrett was the right guy for her, as he treated her with respect and made sure she knew what was around her with no problem at all. While these two seemed great for each other, they both did have issues to work through from the past. With each chapter, you can see Jensen working on herself and working to make sure she is a better person. And towards the end, it is great to see Garrett also know he has a few things to work on and actually does.
The Recovery Run is full of emotion, and if you want just a bit of spice to your books, don’t worry, it also has that as well. In my thought you can’t go wrong with picking up this book and will enjoy every moment of it. If you are a Kindle Unlimited member, this book is included in your membership.
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I have never enjoyed a book as much as I enjoyed The Recovery Run. I think what made this book so fantastic was that Melissa Whitney, a disabled author, used her experience in writing Jensen. I also loved the fact that pretty much right away, we could see that Garrett was the right guy for her, as he treated her with respect and made sure she knew what was around her with no problem at all. While these two seemed great for each other, they both did have issues to work through from the past. With each chapter, you can see Jensen working on herself and working to make sure she is a better person. And towards the end, it is great to see Garrett also know he has a few things to work on and actually does.
The Recovery Run is full of emotion, and if you want just a bit of spice to your books, don’t worry, it also has that as well. In my thought you can’t go wrong with picking up this book and will enjoy every moment of it. If you are a Kindle Unlimited member, this book is included in your membership.
March 6, 2026
This book was beautiful, emotional and sweet. There’s a good balance of witty banter and fun parts of watching their relationship develop and the emotional, vulnerable bits to each of their stories.
Garrett has always been there for Jensen, in more than just a brother’s best friend kind of way. He notices everything about her, does whatever he can to help her/ make things easier for her without ever making her feel like a burden, and is always protecting and defending her.
It takes them both a long time to realize/admit their feelings for the other, but training together for their marathon brings everything to the surface and they can’t run from their feelings for long (pun intended).
I loved how we watched not only their romance/relationship develop, but also Jensen’s growth and development solo as well. Garrett also worked through some healing, but as this was single POV we got a more up close look into Jensen’s.
Garrett has always been there for Jensen, in more than just a brother’s best friend kind of way. He notices everything about her, does whatever he can to help her/ make things easier for her without ever making her feel like a burden, and is always protecting and defending her.
It takes them both a long time to realize/admit their feelings for the other, but training together for their marathon brings everything to the surface and they can’t run from their feelings for long (pun intended).
I loved how we watched not only their romance/relationship develop, but also Jensen’s growth and development solo as well. Garrett also worked through some healing, but as this was single POV we got a more up close look into Jensen’s.
March 11, 2026
Garrett and Jensen
A great story between a visually impaired MFC, and a brother’s best friend MMC.
It’s not quiet emotional, but it does put you in the feels on occasion.
She’s passed over repeatedly, the one that is kept on the string while no one else ‘better’ is available, and oh my… I hurt for her.
He’s a widower, and frankly, I did struggle with him. He did wave a couple of green flags on occasion, but for quite a bit of the story, he was red flags all the way. I didn’t like how he dealt with her, and treated her… and the information that was drip fed throughout, and the big reveal at the end kind of paints him in a worse light.
I mean, slight spoiler here, but the whole ‘I’m into you, but will sleep with others while treating you like c.rap’ trope is not a great one.
I adored the ‘lady bonding’… the female characters in this story were the winners… I could have left the males and been pretty happy!
A great story between a visually impaired MFC, and a brother’s best friend MMC.
It’s not quiet emotional, but it does put you in the feels on occasion.
She’s passed over repeatedly, the one that is kept on the string while no one else ‘better’ is available, and oh my… I hurt for her.
He’s a widower, and frankly, I did struggle with him. He did wave a couple of green flags on occasion, but for quite a bit of the story, he was red flags all the way. I didn’t like how he dealt with her, and treated her… and the information that was drip fed throughout, and the big reveal at the end kind of paints him in a worse light.
I mean, slight spoiler here, but the whole ‘I’m into you, but will sleep with others while treating you like c.rap’ trope is not a great one.
I adored the ‘lady bonding’… the female characters in this story were the winners… I could have left the males and been pretty happy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐2🌶️ ARC Single POV First Person 356pgs
Jensen and Garrett
I loved their banter, and how even though it appeared as if Garrett wasn't Jensen's biggest fan he still made sure to use verbal cues (like a normal thing, not a hardship) and that she was always taken care of/safe.
MMC needed time to grieve and work out his own issues before he could be open to someone new.
Others words or actions made FMC feel like was either "too much" or not enough, some both at the same time, but she worked though it and learned that wasn't true, and to never settle for less than she deserved.
Nothing like reading a story about a legally blind person, written by a legally blind person, to realize how many phrases/terms are based on sight. I love that this author writes stories with FMCs with the disability she has. Hers are the only ones I know of that have an MC that is legally blind, not just a side character, or used in a superficial way.
Jensen and Garrett
I loved their banter, and how even though it appeared as if Garrett wasn't Jensen's biggest fan he still made sure to use verbal cues (like a normal thing, not a hardship) and that she was always taken care of/safe.
MMC needed time to grieve and work out his own issues before he could be open to someone new.
Others words or actions made FMC feel like was either "too much" or not enough, some both at the same time, but she worked though it and learned that wasn't true, and to never settle for less than she deserved.
Nothing like reading a story about a legally blind person, written by a legally blind person, to realize how many phrases/terms are based on sight. I love that this author writes stories with FMCs with the disability she has. Hers are the only ones I know of that have an MC that is legally blind, not just a side character, or used in a superficial way.
March 4, 2026
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for the advanced copy.
What to Expect:
Brother’s Best Friend
Disability Rep (Legally Blind FMC)
Opposites Attract
Stern Brunch (Cat) Daddy
CW: Ableism and Loss/Grief
I need more people reading Melissa Whitney books ASAP. This book was just TOO good - I couldn’t put it down. I loved journeying along with Jensen as she overcomes her self doubt, not only with training for a marathon but also in her relationships. Garrett is a tender soul who wants to protect everyone, and he also goes through some growing and healing throughout the story as well. Jensen has some incredible friends in her life and has so much to offer, once she allows herself to trust herself after being burnt by ill-intentioned people in her past. This low key made me want to go run a race (which, tbh, I’m good lol) – add this one to your TBR ASAP!!!!
What to Expect:
Brother’s Best Friend
Disability Rep (Legally Blind FMC)
Opposites Attract
Stern Brunch (Cat) Daddy
CW: Ableism and Loss/Grief
I need more people reading Melissa Whitney books ASAP. This book was just TOO good - I couldn’t put it down. I loved journeying along with Jensen as she overcomes her self doubt, not only with training for a marathon but also in her relationships. Garrett is a tender soul who wants to protect everyone, and he also goes through some growing and healing throughout the story as well. Jensen has some incredible friends in her life and has so much to offer, once she allows herself to trust herself after being burnt by ill-intentioned people in her past. This low key made me want to go run a race (which, tbh, I’m good lol) – add this one to your TBR ASAP!!!!
Review of advance copy
I really liked The Recovery Run! I thought the marathon training aspect made it feel different from a typical romance and added more depth to the story. I loved that it focused not just on the relationship, but also on Jensen pushing herself outside of her comfort zone and growing throughout the book.
Jensen and Garrett’s dynamic was definitely my favorite part. Watching their relationship slowly build while they worked through their own past struggles made everything feel really natural instead of rushed. I also appreciated how much the story highlighted trust and independence along the way.
I’d definitely recommend it if you like emotional, slow-burn romances with a little extra character growth mixed in!
Jensen and Garrett’s dynamic was definitely my favorite part. Watching their relationship slowly build while they worked through their own past struggles made everything feel really natural instead of rushed. I also appreciated how much the story highlighted trust and independence along the way.
I’d definitely recommend it if you like emotional, slow-burn romances with a little extra character growth mixed in!
March 4, 2026
“She’s ready to run towards what she wants” is the perfect line that sums up this novel. Jensen is a legally blind woman ready to change things for the better…in her life, friendships, love. She enlists the help of a guide runner and her brother’s best friend, Garrett, to complete her goal or running a marathon. As she makes strides for the better, Garrett learns to open up again with the help of Jensen. Their mutual respect, care, and courage leads to a beautiful romance. I adore when stories showcase substantial growth and self-discovey in both main characters, and this closed-door contemporary romance did that with compassion and humor.
Thanks to the author and Happily Booked Pr for the eARC
Thanks to the author and Happily Booked Pr for the eARC
March 2, 2026
Ughhh I think this might be my new favourite by Melissa!!!
Jensen was sooo sassy and lovable!! But I felt so sad for her feeling like she deserved dickheads like Miles. She is a prize!!!!
And GARRETT *swoon* the way that man takes care of her so easily, he learned everything she needs and just does it like second nature. The pineapple wine incident 🥹 get you a man that treats you like a queen and definitely not like adapting to you is a chore
I was so proud of her! Running a marathon sounds absolutely awful but she stuck to it. It was such a heartwarming story!
I’m eager to see if Anker gets a story, or maybe Kayla!
Jensen was sooo sassy and lovable!! But I felt so sad for her feeling like she deserved dickheads like Miles. She is a prize!!!!
And GARRETT *swoon* the way that man takes care of her so easily, he learned everything she needs and just does it like second nature. The pineapple wine incident 🥹 get you a man that treats you like a queen and definitely not like adapting to you is a chore
I was so proud of her! Running a marathon sounds absolutely awful but she stuck to it. It was such a heartwarming story!
I’m eager to see if Anker gets a story, or maybe Kayla!
Review of advance copy
Another great read from Melissa Whitney. I loved Jensen, she was an amazing fmc. She was strong and still was dealing with some mental health concerns from her past but the book was so open about it. Garrett was the perfect amount of broody and protective. He was also dealing with his own trauma from his past. Their chemistry and banter was so good. Garrett supported Jensen so strongly, from understanding her blindness to training for a marathon. Jensen showed him that he could be open and honest and learn to love again.
February 27, 2026
Could not put this book down! Loved every second and I was hooked from the start. Melissa Whitney’s writing is so beautiful, charming and humorous! Jenson is so relatable, living with a disability myself? I could so relate to the emotions she went through of not feeling worthy or good enough for real love and friendships! And hello Garrett, where can I find him in real life! I loved how Jenson and Garrett interacted with each other it felt very natural and their time together flowed effortlessly! This is a must read! Thank you Melissa Whitney for this arc!
March 10, 2026
A Fantastic Slow Burn Romance
This was a love story 5 years in the making, especially for Garrett. Jensen had no idea how he felt until one night while they were out at a bar. She is visually impaired and decides to run a marathon with her brother for her 30th birthday after he gets hurt tripping over some random loose corgis. Garrett is her running buddy to get her ready and help train her, until her brother gets back on his feet. He has apparently had a thing for her the entire time. He is her brothers best friend. Such a fantastic build up to a perfect end!
This was a love story 5 years in the making, especially for Garrett. Jensen had no idea how he felt until one night while they were out at a bar. She is visually impaired and decides to run a marathon with her brother for her 30th birthday after he gets hurt tripping over some random loose corgis. Garrett is her running buddy to get her ready and help train her, until her brother gets back on his feet. He has apparently had a thing for her the entire time. He is her brothers best friend. Such a fantastic build up to a perfect end!
March 16, 2026
Ohhh!! I absolutely loved this book. Jenson is a visually impaired woman who is about to turn 30. She is scared to go for what she wants in life and has dealt with let down after let down. She decides to run a marathon, but needs the help of a guide runner, which means having to put her full trust into someone. It doesnt help that she has a huge crush on her new guide runner, Garrett! The banter between them is everything. I laughed so much. I loved that they not only were training for a marathon, but having to rely on each other to run helped heal things they were both struggling with. It was a really heartwarming story. A true show of determination and resilience. I highly recommend!
March 16, 2026
Loved Jensen and Garrett. I loved that fact that she wanted to run a marathon so she could run it with her brother. But being blind, she’d need some assistance with this. Enter Garrett. He’d run marathons before and knows how to work with Jensen to get her ready. Neither of them were looking for a connection, but that’s exactly what happened with the two of them. I loved seeing them with together while deeper things blossomed between them. This was a really sweet, with a bit of spice, story and I had a great time reading this one.
Review of advance copy
Recovery Run
When Jensen's brother Anker falls and ends up in the hospital the day before their flight for the NYC marathon, Jensen decides that she's going to run a marathon to help prolong their family's myth, that during their 30th year that they will find themselves, for Anker. Mind you that Jensen has never run a marathon, let alone a 5k, and is legally blind.
Garrett, Anker's best friend, has offered to train Jensen for said marathon and be her human guide up until Anker can get back to training.
But Jensen needs to learn to trust people again and Garrett needs to learn to let go of his past guilt.
This was such a cute slow burn.
The banter and chemistry between Jensen and Garrett is hot and funny.
Melissa has brought another great story with struggles and journeys that brings all the feels.
I absolutely love reading stories in which the main characters are not considered normal.
Watching the struggles that Jensen has as a woman with limited vision literally opens the readers eyes.
Oh and you gotta love a tuxedo cat that brings cuddles.
When Jensen's brother Anker falls and ends up in the hospital the day before their flight for the NYC marathon, Jensen decides that she's going to run a marathon to help prolong their family's myth, that during their 30th year that they will find themselves, for Anker. Mind you that Jensen has never run a marathon, let alone a 5k, and is legally blind.
Garrett, Anker's best friend, has offered to train Jensen for said marathon and be her human guide up until Anker can get back to training.
But Jensen needs to learn to trust people again and Garrett needs to learn to let go of his past guilt.
This was such a cute slow burn.
The banter and chemistry between Jensen and Garrett is hot and funny.
Melissa has brought another great story with struggles and journeys that brings all the feels.
I absolutely love reading stories in which the main characters are not considered normal.
Watching the struggles that Jensen has as a woman with limited vision literally opens the readers eyes.
Oh and you gotta love a tuxedo cat that brings cuddles.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
4.5/5⭐️
This was more than the usual romance story. Jensen doesn’t just find “the one” but also discovers how to overcome her past traumas even as she learns to open up and trust her found family.
Besides the amazing chemistry between Jensen and Garrett, I also loved the close friendship between Jensen and Catherine. We all need our “family”, someone to go through with us the difficult and happy moments in life.
This was more than the usual romance story. Jensen doesn’t just find “the one” but also discovers how to overcome her past traumas even as she learns to open up and trust her found family.
Besides the amazing chemistry between Jensen and Garrett, I also loved the close friendship between Jensen and Catherine. We all need our “family”, someone to go through with us the difficult and happy moments in life.
Review of advance copy
Running for Family
When a family tradition takes a turn, Jensen is determined to help out by running for her brother. Needing a guide her brother's best friend Garrett not only trains her but guides her. That alone peaked my interest but it was their entire journey that kept it. Their chemistry was off-the-charts and the way they supported each other was quite beautiful. I loved these two together and how it led to great book.
I am voluntarily leaving this review.
When a family tradition takes a turn, Jensen is determined to help out by running for her brother. Needing a guide her brother's best friend Garrett not only trains her but guides her. That alone peaked my interest but it was their entire journey that kept it. Their chemistry was off-the-charts and the way they supported each other was quite beautiful. I loved these two together and how it led to great book.
I am voluntarily leaving this review.
March 8, 2026
This was a unique story and not something I knew a lot about. A runner and a runner's guide for folks with eyesight issues. Jensen is legally blind and is a spitfire! She stands up for herself and has wrapped herself up so no one can hurt her. Garrett, her brother's best friend, offers to be her guide for a race. There is chemistry between them but they fight it for quite a while. This was a good read.
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