Plot Summary
Twin Bonds and First Impressions
Carson Wilder, a rising hockey star, and his twin sister McKenna are inseparable, their lives intertwined by love, loss, and shared responsibility. When McKenna hires Dakota Meyer as a nanny for her daughter Cadence, Carson is instantly captivated by Dakota's warmth, intelligence, and beauty. But Dakota is married, and Carson's playful flirtation is checked by the boundaries of her status. The household is a haven for healing—McKenna, still grieving her best friend's death and single motherhood, and Carson, shouldering anxiety and the pressure of his career. Dakota's arrival brings a spark of hope and comfort, but also the first stirrings of forbidden longing that will shape all their lives.
Dream Girl, Off Limits
As Dakota settles into her role, Carson's infatuation deepens, but he's determined to respect her marriage. Their chemistry is undeniable, manifesting in teasing banter and stolen glances. Dakota, meanwhile, is quietly suffocating in a controlling, emotionally abusive marriage to Aaron. She finds solace in the Wilder home, where genuine affection and laughter are abundant. Carson's kindness and the family's warmth contrast sharply with her own life, making her question what she deserves. The tension between what is right and what is wanted simmers, setting the stage for emotional upheaval.
Secrets Behind Closed Doors
Dakota's marriage is a prison of subtle and overt control—Aaron dictates her appearance, tracks her movements, and isolates her from friends and family. She hides her job, her bank account, and even her birth control. Dakota's internal monologue is a battle between rationalizing Aaron's behavior and the growing realization that she must escape. Her only hope is to save enough money to leave, refusing to burden her brother Brody or the Wilders with her truth. The contrast between her public composure and private suffering is stark, and the cracks in her facade begin to show.
Boundaries and Growing Attachments
Carson and Dakota's friendship deepens as they share more time together, especially during family events and holidays. Carson's nurturing nature and Dakota's gentle presence create a sense of home neither realized they were missing. The boundaries between them blur—Carson's protectiveness grows, and Dakota finds herself longing for the safety and affection he offers. McKenna and Griffin, her ex, begin to reconcile, showing that healing and forgiveness are possible. The Wilder home becomes a sanctuary, but the threat of Dakota's marriage looms, and the risk of discovery intensifies.
Haunted by the Past
The characters are haunted by past losses—McKenna's best friend's death, Griffin's addiction and absence, Carson's anxiety, and Dakota's abusive marriage. These traumas shape their choices and relationships. Carson's anxiety manifests in panic attacks, and Dakota's nightmares and flashbacks reveal the depth of her suffering. The family's support is unwavering, but each character must confront their own pain to move forward. The past is both a shadow and a catalyst, pushing them toward change and, ultimately, toward each other.
Cracks in the Facade
Carson's hockey career flourishes, and Dakota becomes an integral part of the Wilder family. Yet, beneath the surface, Dakota's bruises and anxiety grow harder to hide. Carson suspects something is wrong, but Dakota deflects, terrified of the consequences if Aaron discovers her secret life. The tension between public appearances and private reality escalates, culminating in a violent confrontation that forces Dakota to flee. The cost of survival is high, and the illusion of control shatters.
The Truth About Pain
After a brutal assault by Aaron, Dakota escapes to Carson's doorstep, battered and broken. Carson's horror and rage are matched only by his determination to protect her. The hospital becomes a place of reckoning—Dakota confesses the truth, and Carson's father, a lawyer, ensures Aaron is prosecuted and fired. The trauma is raw, but for the first time, Dakota is surrounded by unconditional support. The process of healing begins, but the scars—physical and emotional—run deep.
Breaking Points and Rescue
With Aaron facing charges and a restraining order in place, Dakota moves in with Carson. Their friendship becomes a lifeline, and the boundaries of their relationship shift. Therapy, family, and the safety of the Wilder home allow Dakota to begin reclaiming her sense of self. Carson's care is steadfast, but he is careful not to rush her. The slow burn of their connection intensifies, and the possibility of love emerges from the ashes of Dakota's old life.
Healing in Safe Spaces
As Dakota heals, she and Carson fall into a comfortable routine—fireside chats, shared meals, and late-night confessions. Their friendship is laced with flirtation, but both are cautious, aware of the fragility of Dakota's recovery. Carson's own struggles with anxiety come to the fore, and Dakota supports him in seeking therapy. The mutual care and respect between them deepen their bond, and the line between friendship and romance becomes increasingly blurred.
Friendship, Flirtation, and Fire
The chemistry between Carson and Dakota becomes impossible to ignore. Playful banter gives way to moments of vulnerability and longing. They share secrets, dreams, and fears, and their emotional intimacy grows. When they finally cross the line into physical intimacy, it is both healing and electric—a reclamation of pleasure and trust for Dakota, and a fulfillment of longing for Carson. Their love is built on friendship, respect, and the shared experience of survival.
Family, Forgiveness, and New Beginnings
The Wilder family expands as McKenna and Griffin reconcile and marry, creating a blended family of love and forgiveness. Carson and Dakota's relationship is embraced by those around them, and Dakota finds a sense of belonging she never thought possible. The past is not forgotten, but it is no longer a prison. Together, they build new traditions and support each other's dreams—Carson's on the ice, Dakota's as an aspiring writer. The future is uncertain, but hope is stronger than fear.
Italy: Escape and Discovery
Carson and Dakota travel to Italy with McKenna and Griffin, turning a family trip into a romantic escape. The beauty of Italy becomes a backdrop for self-discovery and deepening love. Dakota finds inspiration for her writing, and Carson's thoughtful gestures—planning, supporting, and encouraging her—show the depth of his devotion. Their relationship flourishes in the freedom of a new place, and they finally allow themselves to fully fall for each other, unburdened by the past.
Falling in Love Abroad
In Italy, Carson and Dakota's love story reaches new heights. They explore, laugh, and make love with abandon, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Carson's affirmations and Dakota's growing confidence transform their relationship into a partnership of equals. They dream aloud about the future—marriage, children, and a home filled with books and laughter. The trip is a turning point, solidifying their commitment and showing them what love should be.
Coming Home, Coming Undone
Returning home, Carson surprises Dakota with a home library—a symbol of his love and belief in her dreams. They settle into domestic bliss, but the shadow of Aaron's threats lingers. Dakota receives blackmail messages and explicit threats, forcing her to make an impossible choice. To protect Carson's reputation and safety, she leaves, breaking both their hearts. The cost of love is sacrifice, and Dakota's departure is an act of selfless protection.
Threats, Sacrifice, and Separation
Aaron's manipulation and threats force Dakota to abandon her new life. Carson is devastated, unable to understand her sudden departure. Both are left adrift—Dakota in Texas, Carson in Minnesota—each mourning the loss of their soulmate. The pain of separation is acute, but the love between them endures, even in absence. The threat of exposure and violence hangs over them, and the future is uncertain.
The Cost of Protection
Aaron's obsession escalates, culminating in a break-in at Carson's home. Carson and his father confront Aaron, who is arrested after a violent altercation. The truth about Aaron's blackmail and the car accident is revealed, and the threat is finally neutralized. Carson is injured but survives, and the ordeal brings clarity—love is worth fighting for, and safety is found in honesty and partnership.
Reunion and Reckoning
With Aaron in jail, Carson travels to Texas to bring Dakota home. Their reunion is emotional and cathartic—tears, confessions, and promises for the future. They confront the pain of the past and forgive themselves and each other. The scars remain, but they are no longer defined by them. Together, they choose love, healing, and a shared life, vowing never to let fear or secrets come between them again.
What Love Should Be
Carson proposes to Dakota on the ice, surrounded by family and friends. Their love is celebrated as a triumph over adversity—a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the power of chosen family. Dakota's writing career blossoms, and Carson's hockey dreams continue. They build a home filled with books, laughter, and love, creating new traditions and memories. Their story is a reminder that love is not perfect, but it is always worth fighting for.
Building a Future Together
Carson and Dakota marry in an intimate ceremony, surrounded by those who have supported them through every trial. Dakota's writing is published, and they prepare to welcome a child—a symbol of hope and new beginnings. Their home is a sanctuary, a place where love is unconditional and dreams are nurtured. Together, they face the future with courage, knowing that whatever comes, they will face it side by side.
Full Circle: Happily Ever After
Carson and Dakota's journey comes full circle—from strangers to friends, from survivors to soulmates. Their love is a legacy of healing, growth, and unwavering support. They have built a life that honors the past while embracing the future, showing that true love is not about perfection, but about choosing each other every day. Their story is a testament to what love should be—wild, tender, resilient, and forever.
Analysis
A modern romance of healing, resilience, and the redefinition of loveWhat It Should Be is more than a love story—it is a meditation on survival, the courage to leave what harms us, and the transformative power of chosen family. Through Carson and Dakota, the novel explores the psychological aftermath of trauma and the slow, often nonlinear process of healing. The narrative challenges traditional notions of masculinity and femininity, presenting vulnerability, empathy, and mutual support as the foundations of true partnership. The story's structure—alternating perspectives, slow-burn romance, and the interplay of past and present—mirrors the complexity of real-life recovery and connection. The use of home, both literal and metaphorical, underscores the importance of safe spaces in which to grow and love freely. Ultimately, the novel argues that love is not about perfection or rescue, but about showing up, listening, and choosing each other every day. It is a celebration of second chances, the rewriting of old narratives, and the belief that everyone deserves a love that is wild, tender, and exactly what it should be.
Review Summary
What It Should Be is a highly rated contemporary romance novel featuring Carson and Dakota's slow-burn love story. Readers praise the emotional depth, character development, and swoon-worthy moments. The book explores themes of healing, trust, and unconditional love. Many reviewers appreciate the reverse age gap, vacation romance, and mental health representation. The chemistry between the main characters is described as captivating, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Fans of the series enjoy seeing familiar characters and are excited for future installments.
Characters
Carson Wilder
Carson is a professional hockey player whose life revolves around his twin sister McKenna and niece Cadence. Outwardly charming and playful, he is deeply empathetic, carrying the weight of family trauma and personal anxiety. Carson's need to care for others is both his strength and vulnerability—he finds purpose in supporting those he loves, but struggles with his own mental health. His attraction to Dakota is immediate and intense, but he is respectful of her boundaries, waiting patiently for her to heal. Carson's journey is one of learning to accept help, confront his fears, and redefine masculinity through vulnerability and tenderness. His love for Dakota is transformative, teaching him that true strength lies in honesty, patience, and unwavering support.
Dakota Meyer
Dakota is a woman marked by trauma but defined by her courage and kindness. Trapped in an abusive marriage, she hides her pain behind a facade of competence and warmth. Her role as a nanny is both a lifeline and a path to independence, allowing her to rediscover her worth and capacity for joy. Dakota's psychological journey is one of reclaiming agency, learning to trust again, and allowing herself to be loved. Her relationship with Carson is a slow burn—built on friendship, respect, and mutual healing. Dakota's growth is evident in her pursuit of writing, her willingness to seek help, and her eventual embrace of vulnerability. She is a testament to the power of survival, hope, and the possibility of new beginnings.
McKenna Wilder
McKenna is Carson's twin and emotional anchor. Her life has been shaped by loss—her best friend's death, single motherhood, and the betrayal of her child's father, Griffin. Despite her own grief, McKenna is fiercely protective of her family, balancing vulnerability with strength. Her reconciliation with Griffin is a subplot of forgiveness and second chances, mirroring the central themes of the novel. McKenna's support of Dakota is unwavering, and her journey is one of learning to accept love and rebuild trust. She embodies the resilience of chosen family and the healing power of community.
Griffin Turner
Griffin is McKenna's ex and Cadence's father, whose struggle with addiction and grief led to abandonment and regret. His return is fraught with guilt, but his commitment to making amends is genuine. Griffin's arc is one of redemption—he seeks forgiveness, rebuilds relationships, and becomes a devoted partner and father. His friendship with Carson is a source of strength, and his journey parallels Dakota's in learning to forgive oneself and embrace the possibility of happiness after trauma.
Aaron Ackerman
Aaron is Dakota's husband and the antagonist of the story. His need for control manifests in emotional, verbal, and physical abuse, isolating Dakota and eroding her sense of self. Aaron's psychological profile is one of insecurity masked by dominance—he is threatened by Dakota's independence and lashes out when he feels powerless. His escalation to violence and blackmail is a desperate attempt to maintain control, ultimately leading to his downfall. Aaron represents the dangers of unchecked entitlement and the importance of breaking cycles of abuse.
Brody Meyer
Brody is Dakota's older brother, a professional football player whose love for his sister is fierce but sometimes misguided. He senses Dakota's pain but struggles to break through her silence, fearing his own anger might do more harm than good. Brody's arc is one of learning to balance protection with respect for autonomy, and his eventual support is crucial to Dakota's healing. He is a symbol of family loyalty and the complexities of sibling relationships.
Cadence
Cadence is McKenna and Griffin's daughter, the light around which the family orbits. Her presence is a source of healing and motivation for the adults in her life. Cadence represents innocence, the possibility of new beginnings, and the enduring power of love to overcome loss.
Bennett Wilson
Bennett is Carson's teammate and friend, known for his seriousness and reliability. He is a stabilizing force in the group, offering support and guidance. Bennett's own struggles with vulnerability and connection are hinted at, setting the stage for future stories. He embodies the theme of quiet strength and the importance of community.
Jackson Wilson
Jackson is Bennett's brother and Carson's teammate, providing levity and camaraderie. His playful nature masks his own heartbreak, and his friendship is a source of comfort for Carson. Jackson's presence highlights the importance of laughter and support in the face of adversity.
Liz and Teddy Wilder
Carson and McKenna's parents are pillars of support, offering unconditional love and practical help. Teddy's role as a lawyer is instrumental in protecting Dakota, and Liz's warmth creates a sense of home. They represent the ideal of nurturing, nonjudgmental family and the possibility of generational healing.
Plot Devices
Dual POV and Alternating Timelines
The novel employs a dual point-of-view structure, alternating between Carson and Dakota. This allows readers to experience both the external events and the internal emotional landscapes of the protagonists. The use of flashbacks and present-day scenes deepens the psychological realism, showing how past trauma shapes present choices. The structure builds tension by revealing secrets to the reader before the characters, creating dramatic irony and emotional investment.
Slow Burn Romance and Forbidden Love
The central romance is a slow burn, with attraction simmering beneath the surface for much of the novel. The forbidden nature of their connection—Dakota's marriage, Carson's respect for boundaries—heightens the tension and stakes. The gradual shift from friendship to love is marked by small acts of care, mutual vulnerability, and the healing of old wounds. The payoff is both emotional and physical, emphasizing the importance of trust and consent.
Symbolism of Home and Sanctuary
The Wilder home, the library, and the Italian settings are more than backdrops—they symbolize safety, growth, and the possibility of transformation. The creation of a home library for Dakota is a tangible expression of Carson's love and belief in her dreams. Italy represents escape, discovery, and the freedom to imagine a new future. These spaces contrast with the claustrophobia of Dakota's marriage, underscoring the theme of finding sanctuary in love and chosen family.
Foreshadowing and Suspense
The narrative is laced with foreshadowing—Dakota's hidden bruises, Carson's anxiety, Aaron's escalating threats. These elements build suspense, keeping readers invested in the outcome. The use of affirmations and repeated gestures (like the three squeezes) serve as emotional anchors, signaling connection and continuity even in moments of crisis.
The Power of Affirmation and Repetition
Affirmations, nicknames, and repeated gestures (such as the three squeezes) are woven throughout the story, reinforcing themes of validation, reassurance, and the rewriting of self-worth. These devices are both symbolic and practical, showing how love is built through daily acts of care and intentionality.
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