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Where There's Smoke:
A Texas Love Story
A slow-burn romance where grief meets healing, and love finds its way home.
About the Book
Mae Whitaker traded her small Texas hometown for the bright lights of New York City years ago—but when her mother’s illness calls her back to Twinsdale, old ties and unexpected feelings begin to surface. As Mae navigates grief, family, and the pull of a life she thought she left behind, she finds herself drawn to Jim Carter—the boy she once knew, now a man rooted in the heart of Texas.
With the quiet strength of her parents, the fierce loyalty of her best friend Jenny, and the warmth of a community that never forgot her, Mae faces a life-changing choice: return to the fast pace she built or embrace the home she never truly left. Where There’s Smoke is a soulful, slow-burn romance filled with heart, hope, and the undeniable magic of finding your way back to where you belong.
Where There's Smoke is also available at these fine online retailers:
Music From The Book
“The Quiet After” is a heartfelt song inspired by Mae’s poem to her mother, brought to life by Jim in the story. Download it now and feel the emotion behind the words for yourself.
Check out the Soundtrack to the book on Spotify. Just click above.
About the Author
Rees Walther writes wholesome, emotionally rich stories rooted in family, community, and the redemptive power of second chances. Drawing inspiration from real-life moments of loss, healing, and unexpected joy, Rees crafts stories that linger long after the final page—stories where love feels earned and home is more than just a place.
Before turning to fiction, Rees spent 27 years serving in the Air National Guard and Reserves, including multiple tours in war zones around the world. He later retired from federal service at the U.S. Department of State. These experiences—marked by resilience, service, and a deep appreciation for human connection—influence the heart and depth found in every story he writes.
When not writing, Rees can often be found behind the smoker at Rocket Ribs & BBQ, perfecting slow-cooked flavors, roasting and smoking small-batch coffee, or sharing life’s quiet magic with family and friends.