Whippoorwill

by Meg Carter

Fourteen years ago, Ryan left a girl barely alive on the side of the road. He never knew her name or if she even survived. Now she’s standing in front of him, and he doesn’t recognize her.

Jane comes to Virginia determined to start over after a failed marriage, not to fall for her mom’s ridiculously attractive “lawn boy.” He’s charming, honorable, and far too easy to fall for. The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the pull between them, or how alive he makes her feel.

When Ryan realizes who Jane is, everything shifts. Every look, every touch, every moment they share is haunted by the secret he carries. If Jane ever finds out what happened fourteen years ago, it won’t just end their relationship, it will destroy it.

In a quiet mountain town, this slow-burn, dual-POV romance blends heat, humor, and a lingering mystery, asking one question:

How far can love go before the past catches up?

318 pages, ebook

First published January 31, 2026

About the author

Meg Carter dreams of the big world but usually prefers the warmest spot on the couch, a book in one hand, and a cup of tea in the other. Raised in New England, she now calls the mountains of southwest Virginia home, where she’s busy laying down roots… and dodging laundry. When she’s not working as a low-voltage engineer, Meg is running, reading, writing, or bringing her two daughters to their never-ending sporting events. Family—and her two dogs—always come first, with lots of laughs, high fives, and chasing dreams.

Whippoorwill is Meg's debut novel, but she now has the writing itch, so look for more in the future.

Reviews

[Susan Archambault · Rating 5 out of 5]

The narrative of this story moves smoothly between the two main characters, Ryan and Jane, compelling the reader to discover the resolution of a secret. With a backdrop of a picturesque Virginia mountain, Meg Carter weaves friendship that has stood the test of time, a mother-daughter relationship based on support, a betrayal of enormous weight, and a romance that flourishes because it was meant to be. Humor is sprinkled throughout with Ryan often the instigator and Jane being a willing participant. Come spend some time with Ryan and Jane. You won't be disappointed.

[Jessica DeTello · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. Whippoorwill has a perfect mix of drama, mystery, and non-cheesy romance. The twist at the end was totally unexpected and had my jaw on the floor for the final chapters. Really excellent and well-written.

[Penny Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartfelt and sexy romantic story with a twist that I was not expecting. Awesome MMC!

[Clara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally LOVE this book! Definitely should read💗. I love the characters and storyline. I loved this book SO MUCH!

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly such a good read. Not everyday you get to read a beautiful work of fiction set in your hometown!! Romantic but with a twist :)

[Emmie Roark · Rating 4 out of 5]

sweet story ❤️