From Ashes by Molly McAdams

When Cassidy Jameson's best friend Tyler took her to Texas with him when he left for college, she was expecting his cousin, their new roommate, to be a Stetson-wearing cowboy since his family owned a ranch; not this incredibly gorgeous guy with a husky Southern drawl that seemed to make the world stop whenever she looked at him. Because of her past, she's only ever trusted two men in her life, Tyler and her dad whom passed away when she was six. But there's something about Gage that draws her to him in a way she can't explain, only problem? He's always telling Tyler that he doesn't want Cassidy living there and sees her as nothing more than his little sister.

Gage Carson was excited his cousin Tyler was coming to live with, and go to college with him. When he'd called to ask if he could bring his friend Cassi with him, Gage didn't care. Gage had heard about this mysterious friend since they were kids and felt like he already knew her. Nothing would prepare him for watching her jump out of Ty's Jeep though. Not only was Cassi the most beautiful girl he'd ever seen, but there was something about her that within seconds of meeting her, made Gage want to protect her, and make her his. Too bad Tyler made it a point to remind Gage on a daily basis that he was dating her and she was completely off limits.

For a year and a half, Gage and Cassidy dance around their feelings for each other as Tyler continues to keep them apart; until one day Tyler unknowingly pushes her right into Gage's arms. With Tyler unable to keep lying to them, they finally start a relationship both have been craving since their first meeting. But when an accident and disaster sends her back to Tyler and California, will Cassidy be able to come face to face with the demons from her past to live a life she and Gage deserve; or will the fact that she once again ran to Tyler be the final push that ends Cassidy and Gage for good?

Recommended for ages 17+ due to sexual situations and language.

3 Stars
I received a copy of From Ashes courtesy of the publisher in exchange of a review.

Cassidy has a screwed up home life, and wouldn't be able to function had it not been for her best friend and life line Tyler. He has saved her in more ways than he probably knows, and decides to take her to Texas with him, when he goes to college. They end up moving in with Gage, and the sparks between Cassi and Gage are instantaneous. The problem? Tyler is in love with Cassidy, and is waiting for her to see that she feels the same towards him.

I really liked From Ashes, but often times felt the story was a little unbelievable. Not that I'm an expert on child abuse, but the extreme levels that Cassidy experienced, even coming into contact with a doctor and teachers, I just can't believe she made it as long as she did in her house, and didn't turn out completely inept with dealing in reality. That aside, the romance was spicy between Cassidy and Gage! I couldn't get enough of him, maybe because he was a true southern boy, or just because he was so hot! The main flaw he had, communication issues, seems to be a general thing between males and females. At the end of the day tho, we ended up with a happy ending, and I do love a fairy tale romance.

~Mandy