Emerald Isle, North Carolina, holds a special place in Kirby's heart. It was here, on this charming island, that Kirby first met the love of her life, Sam Fontaine. When Kirby thinks of the island, she thinks of first love, friendship, and family. In this sequel to Thomas P. Gill's The Bridge, Emerald Isle welcomes Kirby back after a devastating tragedy. Sam, now a Marine pilot, is killed in a test flight gone horribly wrong. Kirby always thought of herself as Sam's "wingman," but now she'll have to soar on her own. She has a teenage son to support, and life can't stop for her grief.Back on the island, Kirby meets two new men who work on breaking her out of her depression. ABS is a young handyman with an irresistible southern drawl. Crutch is a handsome pilot who used to fly with Sam as a marine. Each man offers Kirby something different, and she isn't sure what she wants. At the same time, Kirby's son, Journey, volunteers to monitor turtle nests. His new hobby, however, could lead to unexpected danger. Kirby will have to stand strong during a major catastrophe that could tear her family apart once again.