WHEN SPARKS FLY

Two friends become something more after a terrifying car accident puts things into perspective for both of them.

Avery Spark and Declan McCormick have been best friends since college and now live together in a Colorado Springs condo. Avery runs Spark House, an event hotel started by her grandparents, while Declan is a successful financial adviser. Avery is heading to their alma mater for a meeting about hosting events, and Declan is going to drive there with her and watch a soccer game, but after a night of heavy drinking and a one-night stand that hasn't ended by Sunday morning, Declan bails, leaving Avery to make the trip herself. Unfortunately, the forecast calls for heavy rain, and Avery has been an anxious driver since her own parents died in a car accident when she and her sisters were young. History (almost) repeats itself, and Avery is in an accident; she winds up hospitalized, and Declan is wracked with grief. He promises to make it up to her by looking after her recovery once she's released. As Declan cares for Avery, who's healing from many broken bones and bruises, their yearslong friendship gives way to steamy attraction. Things should have ended here, as there is enough material for an emotional and satisfying romantic arc, but Hunting jumps the shark by adding a viral scandal. High on pot brownies, Avery posts a social media rant that jeopardizes Spark House's standing with the public, its sponsors, and its vendors. This wholly unnecessary plot addition weakens Declan and Avery's romantic journey with a large dose of secondhand embarrassment. Still, the cast is lovely; Hunting knows how to throw together a fun group of characters and lay the foundation for potential sequels. Declan is a self-assured man who can admit when he's really messed up. Avery is a wonderful older sister and leader, making those around her feel at ease. The supporting characters—Avery's two sisters and her and Declan's group of friends—make the romance richer. If only the plot were as nuanced.

Unnecessary plot twists sink this promising romance.