Library Journal Review: Right from the start, it’s clear that Merullo’s latest novel (after In Revere, in Those Days) is about loss and grief, with lighthearted moments: “My year of mourning was over, and I decided to mark the anniversary by treating myself to a doughnut.” This bittersweet love story rises above its overwrought two-hankie potential with compassion for its characters. Jake Entwhistle, a 30-year-old carpenter, risks reentering the dating scene by asking out the woman who smashed his truck outside the doughnut shop. Janet Rossi is 27, beautiful, smart?an aide to the governor?and dying of cystic fibrosis. Despite their individual baggage and Jake’s goofy nervousness, they feel an immediate connection. The novel chronicles the next three months, as Janet’s health declines and every wet, choking breath is an exercise in courage. While it’s improbable that Jake would suffer two tragedies like this, it’s not distracting, and the overall impression is one of great love and intimacy. Recommended for most public libraries.?Christine Perkins, Burlington P.L., WA