Painting Stars

by Bea Teal

FBT review:

In Bea Teal's heartfelt debut novel, "Painting Stars," a security expert finds unexpected solace in her childhood home after a devastating loss. When forced to choose between family loyalty and her own integrity, she becomes estranged from her loved ones. Now, she returns to her small Michigan town to confront her past, only to discover a surprise: a six-year-old nephew she never knew existed. With the support of her first love, Noah, and his caring parents, she navigates the challenges of caring for her nephew while dealing with her own tangled emotions. As she turns to Noah for help, their unresolved feelings resurface, but will their hearts find a way back to each other? With warmth, wit, and a sprinkle of romance, "Painting Stars" is a captivating tale of love, loss, and the bonds we create.

Publisher Description:

WHEN A SECURITY EXPERT RETURNS TO HER CHILDHOOD HOME AFTER A TRAGEDY, SHE FINDS SAFETY WHERE SHE LEAST EXPECTS IN BEA TEAL’S WARM AND WITTY DEBUT NOVEL ABOUT LOVE, LOSS, AND THE FAMILY WE CREATE.

I was raised to steal. But when I was forced to choose between family and betraying the man I admired most, I was left estranged from my parents and sister. Now, I work to ensure that everyone has the kind of safe home I never did.

My sister’s sudden death has me returning to the small Michigan town I ran from. And there’s a surprise waiting for me: Levi, a six-year-old nephew I didn’t even know I had, who is now my responsibility. Thankfully—or not—my childhood neighbor and first love, Noah, and his caring parents are around to support me.

He’s a capable and uber-honest mechanic, an unconventional soccer coach, and even more charming than I remember. He’s the guy with raven hair, Bambi eyes, and dimples who makes it too easy to fall in love. Which I did—before he married someone else.

When a client’s foolish scheme lands me in jail and Levi’s future is threatened, the only person I can turn to for help is the man who broke my heart. But help from Noah comes with strings attached…