Short Synopsis
Nina High presents Book 1 in the Teachers of Hardwood High series. Contains mature themes.

Full Synopsis
Essence Knox never thought she'd be starting over at her age. After two decades of teaching math at Hardwood High, raising her daughters, and keeping everything together, she's faced with a quiet house and tough decisions. Selling the family home seems like the right move, but letting go of the past and the pain that comes with it is easier said than done. Little did she know, her fresh start would come in the form of a new colleague. Enter Xavier Sharpe, the retired military man turned high school teacher. With a calm and charming demeanor, he's the last person Essence expected to encounter in her downsizing journey. But as they work together, their undeniable chemistry becomes harder to ignore. However, Essence has been burned before and is wary of opening her heart again.

As they navigate their feelings for each other, Essence must decide if she's ready to take a chance on love and let Xavier in. But with both of them carrying their own baggage, building a real relationship won't be easy. In this later in life romance, Essence and Xavier must confront their pasts and decide if they have room in their hearts for something new. But will they be able to overcome their own obstacles to find happiness together?

Contains mature themes.