The Spinster's Scandalous Affair - Sophia James (HH #1581 - June 2021)

A sensible spinster...
Shall go to the ball!
 
Euphemia Denniston has accepted her quiet life as servant to her stepmother's family. Until cynical, wealthy Augustus Rushworth offers her an unusual arrangement: accompanying him around town to ward off husband-hunting debutantes! She knows their supposed affair is temporary, but she's cautiously thrilled to escape her lonely life and be the belle of the ball. And when desire grows between her and Augustus, she might just grab her last chance to experience passion, too...
 
Very good story about two people who form an unlikely alliance that changes their lives. Euphemia is a thirty-year-old spinster who lives with her stepmother and stepsister, not quite a servant but not really family either. Euphemia briefly came out in society when she was seventeen, but she withdrew for many years after being attacked by a man. She only re-entered society as a chaperon for her stepsister, dressing and behaving in a way to avoid attention. On a cold winter day, she and her family encounter Augustus Rushworth, who recently returned from ten years in India.
 
August isn't particularly happy to be back in England, but he couldn't stay in India after the death of his beloved daughter. When his father died, August's grandfather sent for him to come home and take up his duties as heir. August has no interest in dancing to his grandfather's tune and has plans of his own. While he waits on the dock for a carriage to take him into town, August sees Euphemia dealing with her stepmother while trying to find transportation. Struck by her beauty, he offers his carriage to them.
 
I loved that first encounter as the sparks leapt between Euphemia and August. Neither expected to see the other again. But when Euphemia in her drab gown saw him enter the ballroom the next night, all she could think of was avoiding him. August came to the ball to reconnect with his friends and was dismayed to be swarmed by debutantes determined to snag him for themselves. When he spotted Euphemia hiding among the plants, he couldn't resist going to her. I loved how he saw past her surface to her hidden beauty and convinced her to dance with him. A flashback to her past caused an embarrassing collapse, and Euphemia fled the ball as soon as possible.
 
A few days later, Euphemia and August encountered each other on an early morning walk. August, who wants to get to know Euphemia better, proposed a partnership. If she attends various functions with him, pretending to be a couple to discourage unwanted advances, he will help her become more popular. With her stepmother and stepsister out of town, it's a chance to experience something outside her lonely life.
 
I liked watching the relationship between Euphemia and August develop. Neither wants a committed relationship. August is still coming to terms with his losses and wants a chance to readjust to life in England before looking for a wife. Euphemia has no interest in marriage after her experience all those years earlier. But neither can deny the passion that flares between them. I loved their connection and how easily they could talk to each other. As their attraction exploded, Euphemia couldn't resist the temptation to take that attraction further, knowing that it was likely her only chance to experience that closeness. The scene was an excellent combination of sweet and steamy.
 
An attack of guilty conscience followed as August's honor got into the act. But instead of talking to Euphemia about his thoughts, he made the boneheaded move of backing off while making some decisions. Feeling rejected, Euphemia is at a low point when her stepmother and stepsister return early, having heard the gossip surrounding her. After an awful confrontation with them and an unproductive stop at August's townhouse, Euphemia disappeared. I ached for August, who was desperate to find her. I loved how his friends were there to help and support him.
 
I loved the twist that gave Euphemia something she's yearned for all her life. The love, acceptance, and support she received made a huge difference in her life. With that support came the confidence to make her own choices about her future, which was vital when August finally tracked her down. I loved his big moment as he confessed his feelings and made his plea. I liked that Euphemia doesn't play games, instead standing up for her needs and wants. The epilogue was terrific, showing how love healed them both and gave them a future neither expected.

I liked August's friends and their wives, and wonder if they also have stories.

 

The Trap - Carol Ericson (HI #2008 - July 2021)

Series: Kyra and Jake Investigation (Book 4)

Can they outplay The Player?
 
When a fourth copycat killer strikes, Detective Jake McAllister and Kyra Chase race to find the mastermind behind LA's serial murders. Now there's a new lead, but to protect the woman he loves, Jake must reveal a crucial secret about Kyra's past -- the real reason The Player wants her dead. Exposing the truth could turn this investigation on its head…and force this notorious criminal to make one final move.
 
Terrific conclusion to the series. The book opens as yet another copycat killer strikes. This time, the killer left a witness, something against The Player's rules. Jake, Kyra, and the rest of the task force are determined to put an end to his reign of terror. The tension increased with each book as they pursued not just the copycat but the one pulling the strings. In this book, we can feel that they are finally drawing close.
 
Throughout the series, Jake and Kyra's relationship grows closer and stronger. Both learned to trust each other on and off the job. At the same time, their attraction deepened to love. But to have a future together, Jake must keep Kyra alive. When Quinn's death exposes a long-concealed secret, Jake understands the depth of Kyra's peril. I understood Quinn's need to protect Kyra, but I also agreed with Jake that she deserved to know the truth. I loved that his innate need to be honest with her overcame his protectiveness and that he trusted her to be able to handle the news. I ached for Kyra's heartbreak and loved her determination to do something with the information. I loved Jake's support for whatever she wanted to do with it.
 
The further the investigation goes, the more Jake suspects that the truth is closer than anyone knew. I thought I had it figured out in the previous book, but I couldn't have been more wrong. An unexpected twist in Quinn's autopsy sends the investigation down a new path. At the same time, Kyra's search for the truth brings the Player out of hiding. The final confrontation was a nail-biter as the Player attempted to finish what he started twenty years earlier. I loved Kyra's presence of mind when she figured it out and her part in the outcome. Jake's arrival was edge-of-the-seat close and led to a great conclusion.
 
I liked the epilogue, with Jake, Kyra, and Jake's daughter Fiona discussing what happened before the subject changed to Jake and Kyra's relationship. I laughed out loud at Fiona's request and Jake's reaction.

Hit Me with Your Best Scot - Suzanne Enoch (St. Martin's - Feb 2021)

Series: Wild Wicked Highlanders (Book 3)

The MacTaggert brothers have one task:
Find English brides or lose their land!
 
Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, is a big, brawny Highlander who doesn't like being told what to do-not even by his exasperated English mother who is determined to see her eldest son wedded and bedded. However, when he comes to the rescue of an irresistibly beautiful woman, Coll discovers that he may have found his perfect match.
 
The challenge isn't that Persephone Jones is famous, wealthy, independent, and smarter than anyone he knows. The problem is that she isn't interested in marrying any man---especially not a hot-headed Scot-even if he is the only man who seems to understand who she really is even when she's not sure herself. When Coll learns that Persephone is actually a lady-in-hiding and someone is willing to kill her for what she stands to inherit, well, Coll has never been one to turn down a fight. When hearts are involved, nothing comes between a Highlander and his lady.
 
Terrific conclusion to the series. Coll is the oldest son and the most resistant to his mother's demand that her three sons marry or risk losing the funds needed to support their Scottish estate. In the first book, It's Getting Scot in Here, she ambushed Coll with the woman she'd picked out for him. It did not go well, as Coll walked out and refused to have anything to do with her choice. A few weeks later and Lady Aldriss hasn't learned her lesson and does it again. This time, when Coll walks out, he only goes as far as the theater's backstage, where he encounters a very intriguing woman.
 
Persephone is wealthy, independent, and intelligent. She is also the theater troupe's lead actress and one of the most popular in London. She is frequently surrounded by men who want to be her protector, whether she agrees or not. The big Highlander who appears backstage one night intrigues her, especially after he rescues her from an overeager protector wannabe and clears a path for her to leave the theater that night. She's grateful but doesn't expect it to go any further.
 
I enjoyed the first meeting between Persephone and Coll. Their banter was fun, and their connection was immediate. Coll found himself back at the theater the next day instead of looking for a woman to court. Once again, the banter between them was lively, but Persephone made it clear she wasn't interested in anything more and sent him on his way. But when a suspicious accident nearly kills her, Persephone offers to help him find the right woman if he serves as a bodyguard of sorts. Coll is more than happy to spend time with her. He also takes the opportunity to make a point with his mother - he will find his own wife and tells her he has set his sights on Persephone.  Of course, he knows he can't marry an actress, but he enjoys his mother's reaction.
 
I loved watching the relationship develop between Persephone and Coll. Neither one intends anything serious. Coll knows where his duty lies, and Persephone has no interest in marriage. However, neither can deny the sparks that fly between them. When it becomes evident that someone really is out to kill Persephone, Coll's protective instincts kick in, and nothing will stop him from keeping her safe. The more time they spend together, the deeper their connection becomes. Persephone can't help falling for the man who sees her for the woman she is, not just the roles she plays. On the other side, Persephone sees more than the giant, growly Highlander; she sees a man who cares about his people and his family. I thought they were well-matched in intelligence, and I loved their conversations.
 
As the attacks on Persephone intensified, Coll's determination to get to the source did too. I liked seeing Coll earn Persephone's trust so that she would share her past with him. Her history did not surprise me, but her strength and resilience were amazing. I loved seeing Coll involve first his brothers, then the rest of the family in protecting Persephone. I loved how the whole family, even Lady Aldriss, get involved in the final confrontation. I was on the edge of my seat until it was all over and the culprit vanquished.
 
The follow-on scenes were great as they wrapped up Coll and Persephone's story and the loose ends of the series. I loved seeing Persephone face her parents and set them straight on their place in her life. I also liked seeing Coll's parents own up to their mistakes. I would love to see a novella showing what happens next with them. 

Decoding a Criminal - Barb Han (HI #2014 - Aug 2021)

Series: Behavioral Analysis Unit (Book 2)

He needs her to solve a crime.
He wants her for so much more.
 
Dashiell West's sister is in trouble. Big trouble. And recruiting computer whiz Raina Andress to work with him in cybercrimes at the Behavioral Analysis Unit is his only hope. Raina knows her friend would never embezzle millions. But join forces with the sexy agent from her past and risk her heart again? Dangerous. Tracking a deadly mastermind willing to sacrifice them all for his nefarious plan? Deadly.
 
Good edge-of-the-seat story. Dash's sister Layla has been arrested for embezzling two million dollars from the company where she works. He knows she is innocent but lacks the proof. Luckily his team at the Behavioral Analysis Unit wants to help. Dash just needs one more person to assist - Layla's best friend, Raina. The problem is, he and Raina have a history, one he hasn't been able to forget.
 
Raina knows Layla would never steal that money and will do anything to help prove her friend's innocence. But working with Dash will take every ounce of self-control she has to keep from risking her heart again.
 
This book had a good mix of romance and suspense. Dash doesn't do relationships, but his one night with Raina stayed with him long past those with other women. He also knows that Raina has the skills to help him find the real criminal, so he'll try to put that history behind him. Raina has a more challenging time of it. I loved how when he showed up at her company, she hid rather than talk to him. Not that it stopped Dash, who knew right where to find her. Their conversation was borderline antagonistic as Dash worked to convince Raina to pool their resources and work with him. And underneath that antagonism, their continued attraction simmered. Raina agrees because she'll do anything to help her friend, even work with Dash.
 
I loved seeing how well Raina and Dash work together. Their methods mesh well, especially when they can ignore their attraction. But ignoring the sparks gets more difficult the more time they spend together. Both try to ignore their growing feelings for each other. Besides knowing that Dash doesn't do relationships, Raina must deal with her fears of loving someone with a dangerous job. Her military father died in action when she was a child, and seeing the effect on her mother influenced Raina's view of relationships. Both Raina and Dash also worry about Layla's reaction to them being together. After nearly losing Raina, Dash realizes that she is the one woman he can't walk away from and finally acknowledges his feelings for her. I loved his big moment at the end and the hint of vulnerability as he waited for her response. I enjoyed the surprise he had for her and the effect it had on her answer. The epilogue was good, too.
 
The suspense and action kept me reading late into the night. Dash is mostly confident that Layla is innocent of the embezzlement, though he feels a small amount of doubt. The BAU's involvement means that they have to proceed on the assumption that she may be guilty. The suspense picks up immediately when Dash interviews Layla's boss and learns some worrisome things about his sister. The tension increases when A motorcycle-riding gunman attacks Dash and Raina. The question is: is this related to the case, or was the attack personal to Dash? I enjoyed seeing the methods used by Dash and Raina as they tried to trace the embezzlement back to its source while at the same time looking into those who might have a grudge against Layla. The identification of several possible suspects made the search more complex. The final confrontation was a nail-biter, with an unexpected twist. 

Texas Sheriff's Deadly Mission - Karen Whiddon (HRS #2145 - Aug 2021)

Can fear of repeating past mistakes hinder a sheriff's search for a serial killer?
 
Rayna Coombs has enough on her plate, juggling single motherhood and working as a sheriff. So she's determined to resist the white-hot desire she feels for Parker Norton. But when Parker enlists Rayna's help to find a missing friend, she can't ignore the sparks flying between them. As passion flares, though, bodies start turning up. Can Rayna and Parker track a lethal killer while guarding their own hearts?
 
Excellent combination of romance and suspense. Rayna is the sheriff of the small town of Getaway, Texas. She, her daughter, and her mother moved to Getaway for a fresh start after Rayna fell for the wrong man. Encouraged by her mentor Sam, the current sheriff, she ran for sheriff when he retired and won. When Sam's nephew, Parker, arrives in town asking Rayna to revisit a missing persons case, she reluctantly agrees. They investigated once and found nothing, but they'll give it another go.
 
Parker came to Getaway looking for his best friend's younger sister, hoping to find her before John succumbs to cancer. Since leaving the service, Parker has drifted from place to place doing various jobs but dropped everything to help his friend.
 
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Parker and Rayna. Between the motorcycle and the bad-boy vibes he exudes, Parker hits all the points that stir Rayna's attraction. But she's been burned before and wants nothing to do with him. Parker feels the same sparks, but his focus needs to be on finding Nicole. However, the sparks fly fast and hot between them and quickly become too much to resist. As the search for Nicole turns into the hunt for a serial killer, Parker and Rayna spend a lot of time together.
 
I loved how Parker respected Rayna's position as sheriff at the same time he wanted to get closer to her as a woman. Rayna spends some time fighting her growing feelings for Parker, worried that history is repeating itself. I liked seeing her slowly let go of her fears and accept those feelings. But when her trust is tested, Rayna allows those fears to surface again. I ached for Parker and his feelings of hurt and betrayal. I was glad to see that Rayna quickly realized her mistake and apologized, but there were consequences to her actions. I liked seeing them work to repair their relationship and strengthen their bond. When everything was all over, both had decisions to make. I loved Parker's big moment at the end, and the advice he received that made it possible.
 
The suspense of the story kept me hooked from beginning to end. Though skeptical of Parker's belief that Nicole disappeared in Getaway, Rayna did the right thing by reopening the investigation. The tension ramped up when they found a body, and they had to wait to see if it was Nicole's. Rayna knew that whether it was or not, she had a killer loose in her town. When they found a second body, it went from murderer to serial killer, and the stakes increased. When the FBI provided Rayna with a profile of the killer, and someone tried to set up Parker to take the fall, I thought I figured out the killer's identity. After a local girl turned up missing, Parker stepped up to help despite the trouble that came with it. A lucky break led to the identification of the killer and a confrontation that had me on the edge of my seat until it was all over. 

The Surgeon and the Princess - Karin Baine (HMED #1169 - Apr 2021)

A wounded princess, an off-limits surgeon
 
Can they heal each other?
 
Adjusting to life as an amputee, independent medic Princess Georgiana refuses help from anyone. Yet using surgeon Edward Lawrence's state-of-the-art clinic would speed her recovery and escape from the palace for good… Rehabilitation with the gorgeous -- and off-limits -- Ed means letting her guard down, something Georgiana finds hard… But can Ed make her see just how strong her scars make her and how much she has to offer?
 
Very good book. Georgiana is a combat medic, wounded in action, and an amputee because of it. She is also a princess and heir to the throne of a small country. As a result of her injury, she lost her work as a medic and now struggles to adjust to her new life. When the book opens, we see Georgiana doing her intense physical workout, determined to return to her previous physical condition. She dislikes being the object of pity and distances herself from the people around her, including her parents. Worry over Georgiana leads her mother to ask Dr. Edward Lawrence to look in on her. The encounter does not begin well as Georgiana resents his intrusion. While Georgiana treats Edward quite rudely, Edward maintains his calm and convinces her that using his clinic would help her recovery.
 
Edward and his business partner run a rehab clinic that serves everyone but specializes in working with amputees. As if the clinic weren't enough to keep him busy, he is also setting up a charity to help child amputees and spends the rest of his spare time caring for his elderly parents. The last thing he has time for is a relationship, but something about Georgiana draws him to her.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Georgiana and Edward. I liked how Edward gave her the space and privacy she wanted for her workouts but didn't let her push him entirely away. He quickly saw through the attitude to the insecurities she tried to hide. The loss of her leg and subsequent job loss left Georgiana feeling useless and unattractive, while Edward sees the inner strength that drives her. As they spend time together, they become friends. I liked how Georgiana saw the benefits of Edward's charity idea and offered to help. And when an emergency gave Georgiana the chance to use her medical skills, she realized she wasn't so useless after all. I loved how her joy at that encouraged Edward to ask for her help with a very young patient of his. The scene with Georgiana and young Hannah was terrific. I loved seeing the effect helping Hannah had on Georgiana, showing her how much more she had to give.
 
The more time Edward and Georgiana spent together, the more the simmering attraction between them grew. I loved how Edward's attention increased Georgiana's belief in herself to the point where she was ready to face the public again. I loved how she revealed her "cosmetic surgery" and used it to help others. I enjoyed seeing the sparks between Georgiana and Edward build during that gala and how they finally gave in to them. Their happiness was evident, as were their dreams for the future. But when Georgiana received disturbing medical news, she pushed Edward away rather than becoming another burden for him to find time for. I ached for Edward, who 1was blindsided by her withdrawal. Advice to both of them came from an unexpected source, giving each something to think about. I loved Edward's big moment as he showed her how important she was to him. The epilogue was a terrific conclusion and peek into their future. 

 

Safeguarding the Surrogate - Delores Fossen (HI #2007 - July 2021)

Series: Mercy Ridge Lawmen (Book 2)

She'd brought him his greatest joy. Now he must save her life…
 
Rancher Kara Holland's hot on the trail of a murderer who's been killing surrogates -- like she was for her ill sister. But when Kara's trap goes terribly wrong, she's thrust headlong into the killer's crosshairs…along with her sister's widower, Deputy Daniel Logan. And as she and Daniel stay one frantic step ahead of a deadly foe, the sparks igniting between them rival the danger they face.
 
Good book that started with a bang and didn't let up the tension until the end. Kara is a woman on a mission. Two surrogates from the same clinic she used have turned up dead. Kara believes they were murdered and that she is a target also, having acted as a surrogate for her late sister and her husband. She set a trap for the killer and waited in the barn to see if he took the bait. Instead, she gets her widower brother-in-law Deputy Daniel Logan, who arrived to check on her and read her the riot act for putting herself in danger. That danger becomes evident when they discover another dead surrogate left in Kara's house. Daniel has endured enough heartache and doesn't want to lose Kara too. Convincing the headstrong woman to leave the investigation to the police gets nowhere, so Daniel plans to stay close.
 
The suspense of this story kept me glued to the pages all the way through, while the romance added an extra layer of tension. Kara always had feelings for Daniel, but he was married to her sister, so she buried them deep. She was happy to help them by carrying their baby and heartbroken when Maryanne lost her battle with cancer before little Sadie was born. Meanwhile, Daniel starts to see Kara as more than his sister-in-law.
 
I enjoyed seeing the development of the relationship between Kara and Daniel. They already know each other well because of his marriage to her sister, but it has been as friends only. But with Kara's determined involvement in the deaths of the surrogates, Daniel finds himself feeling extra protective of her. The stirrings of attraction he feels are even more surprising, and the similar stirrings he sees in her eyes. Because of the intensifying attacks on them, Kara and Daniel try to put those feelings aside as they attempt to discover the truth and stay alive. I loved how protective they were of each other, with Daniel getting a bit frustrated with Kara's tendency to rush into danger. That danger brings the knowledge that life can be short and uncertain into focus and makes them realize they don't want to waste any of it.
 
The suspense of the story is excellent. From the first pages to the last, I couldn't wait to see how it ended. Convinced that the deaths had something to do with the fertility clinic, Kara tried investigating on her own. Though skeptical at first, Daniel became a believer when a dead surrogate turned up in Kara's house. When he and Kara were shot at, the question was whether it was related to those deaths, or is it someone who has a beef with Daniel? Neighboring rancher, Rizzo, makes no secret of his dislike of Daniel, who is investigating his connection with a militia group. There is also a man who made many threats against the clinic and surrogates because of the death of his daughter. He has the means and motivation to commit the murders. Joining the list of suspects, Kara's ex-boyfriend accuses Daniel of putting her in danger. Every time one of those men would move to the top of my suspect list, something would change my mind. I loved following the efforts of the Mercy Ridge Sheriff's Department to unravel the truth. The final confrontation was a nail-biter as Daniel and Kara faced off against the killer. The ending was great.
 
As a long-time reader of the author's books, I loved seeing Mason Ryland from the Lawmen of Silver Creek series get a brief mention. It's always fun for me when there are series crossovers. I also liked seeing more of Daniel's brother Barrett from the first book (Her Child to Protect) and getting to know his other brother, Leo, a little. I look forward to reading his book. 

 

The Trouble with Bad Boys - Katherine Garbera (HD #2803 - June 2021)

Series: Texas Cattleman's Club: Heir Apparent (Book 4)

A playboy who's all about the likes…
 
Is about to get a lesson in love!
 
Notorious social media influencer Zach Benning is happy to swoop into Royal, Texas, promote the Soiree on the Bay and leave with a fat paycheck. While he's at it, he'll give plain-Jane event planner Lila Jones a makeover, online and off. The last thing he expects is to fall for his ravishing creation! But is he really seeing the captivating woman underneath all the newfound hype?
 
This is the fourth book in the series, and the Soiree on the Bay is beginning to come together. The venues are built; now they need the acts to fill them and the publicity to sell the tickets and bring the customers. The ticket sales aren't where they should be, which worries Lila, who works the event for the Chamber of Commerce.
 
Lila is a born-and-bred Royal resident. Everyone who knows her likes her, but nothing about her stands out. She's sweet and smart and determined to do her part to make the Soiree a success. She gets the idea to ask social influencer Zach Benning to mention the event and hopefully get some buzz going. She never expected him to show up in person.
 
Lila's message arrived at the perfect time for Zach. He unknowingly crossed a line with one of his women and needs to let the scandal die down. When he arrived in Royal, he didn't expect his instant attraction to Lila. The quiet, girl-next-door woman is nothing like the women he usually dates. In addition to promoting Soiree on the Bay, he decides to give Lila a personal and social media makeover. If he can turn her into the kind of woman he usually dates, he can sleep with her without feeling guilty.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Lila and Zach. Both of them are more than what they appear on the surface. Lila looks like a quiet, unassuming woman, content to stay in the background. In reality, she is a vibrant, passionate woman who simply lacks the confidence to stand out. Under Zach's tutelage, Lila changes the way she dresses, gaining confidence from the positive feedback. She also learns how to use social media for herself and her job. As for Zach, in the beginning, he appears to be all flash and no substance. Everything he does is staged for maximum public display and to put himself in the limelight. But it isn't long before we see a vulnerable side to him.
 
I loved seeing them spend time together. While Lila really gets into the whole lifestyle, there is still a part of her that sees its superficiality. When she spends a few days in LA with Zach, deep down, she misses Royal. She knows she is falling for him but can't see him giving up the fast pace of LA for the quiet of small-town Texas. Zach has it a little rougher. Spending time with Lila stirs up emotions that he has spent his life avoiding. When he realizes the depth of his feelings, Zach freaks out and pushes her away. It takes some straight talk from an unexpected source for him to accept the changes in himself and see what he needs to do. His big moment was terrific, and I loved seeing his plan for the future.
 
Near the end of the book, during a Soiree on the Bay committee meeting, head organizer Rusty Edmonds drops a bombshell that could derail the event. Since the start, one character has rubbed me the wrong way, and I suspect this person is involved. I can't wait to see if I'm right. 

 

Unlocking the Doctor's Secrets - Carol Marinelli (HMED #1195 - Sept 2021)

A secret to break them……or make them?
 
Paramedic Lina Edwards feels instant sparks with deliciously brooding consultant Garth Hughes -- only, she's learned not to trust her instincts. Yet Garth makes her feel seen in a way she's never been before. The sadness in his eyes shows he has secrets, but when Lina discovers that, shockingly, she's bound up in his past, she must decide: Is their passionate connection too good to be true, or too good to let go?
 
Good book. Lina is a paramedic and a nurse. She occasionally pulls a nursing shift at a local hospital. As the book opens, Lina starts one of those shifts and is nearly late for the staff meeting. One of the first people she sees is Garth, an ER doctor she's never worked with before. There's something about him that immediately draws her and also flusters her. Garth is new at the hospital. After working several years in temporary positions, he feels ready to put down some roots. He notices Lina right away and feels an unexpected attraction to her.
 
I liked watching the relationship between Lina and Garth develop. They clashed a little that first night they worked together, but it opened up the opportunity for Garth to take Lina to breakfast to apologize. I loved how they connected so quickly and how easy they found it to talk to each other. Not only that, the sparks between them led to some intense kisses and the promise of a date before they parted ways. I laughed at their date, as Garth is a jazz fan, and Lina is not, but she handled it well. Getting caught in a downpour led to a stop at Garth's apartment and sparks that no amount of rain could douse.
 
Since she met him, Lina felt she'd met Garth before, but she couldn't figure out where. Laying in bed beside him that night and catching his profile lit by moonlight, she finally remembered. Horrified by the memory and feeling guilty about the things she knows because of it, Lina pulls away. She's not sure how to tell him or what his reaction will be. I ached for them both when she 'fessed up. The memories stirred up old pain for Garth, and he needed time to deal with it. Lina ached at what she saw as the end of a promising relationship.
 
Both Garth and Lina had to face their pasts before they could hope to have a future together. Garth had been running from his by taking temporary positions and keeping people at a distance. Lina was the first person to break through those walls in six years, and the feelings she stirred up scared him a bit. But the thought of losing her in his life made him want to change. Lina's past unsuccessful relationships made it hard for her to believe that this would be any different. She also had some trust issues because of her father's actions and needed to let go of that past before she could trust in the future.
 
I loved the ending. Garth unexpectedly showing up on Lina's vacation was a terrific idea. I love how he opened up about what happened, the effect on him, and how he's changed. Likewise, Lina shared her past. I loved their honesty and determination that no more secrets would come between them. I loved their big moment and the surprise that waited for them afterward. The epilogue was also terrific, with a peek into their lives a year down the road. 

A Delicious Dilemma - Sera Taino (HSE #2860 - Sept 2021)

It's hard to remain enemies when you've broken bread together
 
Val Navarro's first mistake: going out dancing after a bad breakup when the chef should be focused on her family business. Her second mistake? Thinking the handsome, sensitive stranger she meets could be more than a rebound -- until she discovers he's Philip Wagner of Wagner Developments. His father's company could shut down her Puerto Rican restaurant and unravel her tight-knit neighborhood. When Philip takes over negotiations, Val wants to believe he has good intentions. But is following her heart a recipe for disaster?
 
Terrific book. Val is a chef and co-owner of her family's Puerto Rican restaurant. She is also active in her neighborhood's fight against the development company attempting to gentrify the area. As the book opens, Val agreed to go out dancing with her friends for the first time since a public and humiliating breakup. Less than enthusiastic about being there, Val's evening improves when she meets Philip. They connect immediately, finding it easy to talk and flirt with each other. Sparks fly and plans are made to see each other again.
 
But Philip hasn't been entirely upfront with her. He picked up on Val's dislike of the development company and kept his involvement to himself so he could see her again. Telling her that Wagner Development belongs to his family, and he designed the plans she hates won't make a good impression. Keeping it secret isn't an option if he wants to keep seeing her.
 
I loved seeing Val and Philip's relationship develop. Their first two encounters highlighted their connection and the things they had in common. I especially enjoyed seeing them bond over Star Wars and music. Things progress nicely between them until Philip drops the bomb about who he is. Val reacts exactly as Philip feared - with anger, a feeling of betrayal, and obvious hurt. But Philip isn't about to give up. When Val and her neighborhood coalition show up to protest at the company headquarters, Philip becomes the bridge between them and his father. Val opens Philip's eyes to the personal effects of his plans on the neighborhood's people during an excellent tour of the area. An invitation to accompany him to one of his mother's fundraisers allows Val to get through to Philip's father. Philip and Val also grow closer, their chemistry becoming stronger each day.
 
But while Philip falls hard for Val, she holds part of herself back. Thanks to her previous relationship, trust doesn't come easily, and part of Val remains suspicious. When her plans for the restaurant building fall through, she blames Philip. I ached for Philip, who was blindsided by the accusations. His hurt over her distrust was understandable, as was his fury over what he believed happened. It took Val some time and an epiphany of sorts to realize how wrong she was. I loved her "aha" moment, helped along by an unexpected source of advice, and her need to make things right. Their conversation in the restaurant was heartfelt and honest. The epilogue was fantastic. I loved how it showed realistic progress to their relationship and the deepening of their feelings for each other.
 
I loved the setting of the story with its focus on the contributions of immigrants. I especially enjoyed that it also touched on the Wagner family history and how Philip used that history to deal with his father. The descriptions of the food and the neighborhood made the story come alive. The background of the conflicts between the residents and the developer informed without preaching and showed the importance of respect and compromise. I look forward to reading more books from this author. 

Shot Through the Heart - Nicole Helm (HI #2005 - June 2021)

Series: North Star (Book 2)

She's spent her life concealing her identity.
Now she must trust an undercover agent to survive.
 
Willa Zimmerman grew up as the daughter of spies, so she's always known her life could be in danger. That's why, when North Star undercover operative Holden Parker follows her to her home, seeking a lead on a hit man, she captures him. But soon they learn they're actually on the same side -- and they're being pursued by the same relentless foe. Together, can they stop a deadly hunter before they end up as the next victims?
 
Fast-paced book full of action and suspense, with a bit of romance. The North Star Group learns of two hitmen with specialized weapons that must be stopped. Holden goes to Evening, Nebraska, after one of them. He follows Willa to her home, believing she either is the hitman or knows who he is. Willa grew up as the daughter of operatives and was always prepared for trouble. When she spots Holden following her shortly after receiving a warning of danger from her parents, she takes steps to protect herself.
 
I had to laugh when Holden found himself chained hand and foot to an old iron bed in a barn. He's not used to coming up on the short end of a confrontation. His frustration increases when faced with a young woman whose resistance to questions matches his own. Their back-and-forth demands were fun to watch, as neither got any satisfaction. One unsuccessful escape attempt leaves Holden biding his time. Meanwhile, Willa isn't quite sure what to do with her captive, especially without further guidance from her parents. Things go from bad to worse when Willa awakens to find a free Holden searching her house, just before someone takes a shot at them. Suddenly finding themselves on the same side, Holden and Willa need to find a way to work together.
 
The pace of the action increases dramatically as Willa and Holden dodge attackers at every turn. It doesn't help that Willa resists telling Holden everything, leaving him at a disadvantage. It helps when she finally reveals all, but Holden's gut feeling is that something is off. The feeling intensifies when the team he left at Willa's farm comes under attack. The final confrontation is a nail-biter with a twist I never saw coming.
 
The relationship between Holden and Willa develops as quickly as the action does. Neither expects it. After watching a fellow operative fall in love and leave the company, Holden is adamant that it will never happen to him. With his background, love has never been in the cards for him. For Willa, the secrets she has and the constant threat of danger make it impossible for her to trust anyone enough for a real relationship. Willa quickly gets under Holden's skin, as he admires her as much as he is frustrated by her. At the same time, Willa finds herself wanting to trust Holden and struggling to maintain her distance. Neither of them wants to acknowledge their growing feelings for each other. When the final confrontation comes, Holden's sudden realization that he has someone to go back to terrifies him with the intensity of his desire to do so. Willa knows she loves Holden, but their lives are so different she doesn't think it possible. I loved Holden's nervousness at the end as he made his case to Willa and the brilliance of the plan put forward by his boss. 

The Princess and the Pediatrician - Annie O'Neil (HMED #1189 - Aug 2021)

Series: Island Clinic (Book 3)

One Caribbean night together
 
One pregnant princess!
 
When Dr. Lia Trelleburg -- aka Princess Amelia of Karolinska -- meets hot pediatrician Oliver Bainbridge at a fundraiser, she decides to break the habit of a carefully controlled lifetime and indulge in a breathtaking night of passion. Only, Lia falls pregnant, and Oliver stuns her by agreeing with palace protocol -- yes, they must marry! Despite the odds, could they really find the happiness they desire together…as a family?
 
Terrific book. Lia isn't just a talented neurosurgeon at the Island Clinic; she is also Princess Amelia of Karolinska, a small Scandinavian country. Growing up as a princess was a lonely endeavor. Sent to boarding school after her parents' divorce and hemmed in by the strictures and protocols of royal life, Lia's life was anything but a fairy-tale. Even her first choice of medical specialty (combat medicine) was denied her. Fortunately, her interest in neurosurgery proved acceptable, and as soon as possible, she moved as far from her homeland as she could. She loves her work at the Island Clinic, even if she has to dust off the tiara now and then to help with fundraising.
 
As the book opens, Lia and her tiara stand ready to make small talk with the wealthy donors who help support the Clinic and the island's hospital. She admits her loneliness to herself and decides to indulge in one night of passion. I loved her first meeting with Oliver, who is drop-dead handsome, sweet, and fun-loving. I loved how he brought out a light-hearted and flirty side of Lia that she didn't know she had. Their banter during the evening was fun, and I loved how Oliver snagged the first dance with her. The sparks between them flew, making their night together almost inevitable. They both agreed that it was a one-time thing, as neither wants a relationship.
 
Fate has something else in mind, and when Lia becomes pregnant, she knows her life is about to change. Palace protocol demands that they marry, but Lia doesn't want a forced marriage. Oliver stuns her when he agrees to the marriage. Oliver hasn't been able to forget his night with Lia, and when he finds out about the pregnancy, he is thrilled. Like Lia, his childhood consisted of boarding school and distant parents. Unlike her, Oliver loved boarding school because the other students felt more like his family than his own did. A betrayal in his past took the choice of fatherhood from him, and he's ready for this second chance.
 
I loved the development of the relationship between Lia and Oliver. Both want what is best for their baby - a normal childhood rather than one bound by rules and loneliness. They take the time to learn about each other, knowing that will make their future together easier. The more time that they spend together, the more that their friendship begins to grow and change. But both Lia and Oliver have baggage that holds them back from opening up fully and embracing their future. But when Oliver's past runs up against Lia's fears, it drives a wedge between them. Fortunately, thanks to their friend Grace, whose gentle guidance helps get them truly talking to each other, it doesn't last long. Once they finally open up about everything, they can face the future as a team.
 
 I loved how their support for each other enabled them to stand up for the lives they want to lead. Oliver's parents provided an unexpected twist, both in their attitudes and reactions to Oliver and Lia's plans. While Lia's reunion with her father wasn't quite so effusive, I enjoyed it. I liked his support for their wedding plans and laughed out loud at his comment about Lia's grandmother. The epilogue was fantastic. Not only did I love the wedding, Oliver's little patient Elodie was adorable, and I loved the twist about her future.
 
Each book of this series appears to feature a different aspect of the island of St. Victoria. This one included a heart-pounding crisis in the mangroves and a romantic night walk on the beach. I also loved the description of Oliver's unique home.

Innocent Hostage - Juno Rushdan (HI #1999 - May 2021)

Series: Hard Core Justice Thriller (Book 4)

They'll do anything to save their son's life…
 
Even work together.
 
Their marriage is nearly over. But then Deputy US Marshal Allison Chen-Boyd and FBI hostage negotiator Henry Boyd learn their eight-year-old son has been kidnapped. They'll work together -- temporarily, of course -- to capture the dangerous cartel hell-bent on vengeance. But as danger mounts and bombs lurk around every corner, they'll have to learn to trust each other again to save their embattled family.
 
Good book that sucked me in from the beginning and kept me hooked to the last page. As part of the joint task force working to stop a drug cartel, both Allison and Henry appeared in earlier books in the series. Even then, the tension between them is evident, and here we have their story. As this book opens, Allie and Henry have been separated for six months and are in the middle of a contentious divorce. When their eight-year-old son is kidnapped, they must put aside their differences and work together to get him back.
 
Allison is a deputy US Marshal who played a big part in separating the cartel leader from his daughter, and he vowed revenge. He demands the impossible, and Allie and Henry must find a way to save Ben. The suspense and action took place over just a few days, keeping the intensity high throughout. Not only did we get the good guys' point of view, but the villains also received enough page time to maintain the tension as the reader sees their plans. As Allie and Henry run into obstacles thrown up by their own side (especially Allie's - I really do not like her boss!), they realize their best bet is to depend on each other. Some of the chances they took risked everything but paid off in the end. Henry's coworkers seemed much more reasonable and provided critical help in finding Ben. Their methods fascinated me, and I loved seeing the process. The final confrontation with the kidnappers was a nail-biter, with an unexpected twist in the resolution. I liked the lead-in to the next book.
 
I enjoyed seeing Allie and Henry find their way past the issues that drove them apart. Miscommunications, misunderstandings, and misconceptions created conflict that they could have resolved if they'd swallowed their pride and talked to each other. Henry's inability to express his emotions about a tragic event in their past led to Allie thinking he didn't care. Add in a coworker of Henry's that ran up against Allie's insecurities, and you have a recipe for misery. Henry doesn't want a divorce. He loves his wife and son and will do whatever is necessary to make them happy. Allie still loves Henry, but her trust took a hit. As they put aside their differences to save Ben, they also began to talk about what went wrong. I liked that both of them admitted fault rather than one taking all of the blame. As they let go of their past hurts, the love they shared had a chance to resurface. Some great scenes showed them at their professional best, made possible by their rekindled trust. The ending was terrific as they found a compromise that worked for both of them.
 
The secondary characters were well done also. The cartel leader continues to show his ruthless side and makes it easy to root for his downfall. The kidnappers were more than cookie-cutter villains and had well-developed characters. I especially ached for Lourdes, torn between her love for her brother and her horror of his actions. I liked how she cared for Ben. She earned major points for her actions at the end. Her brother, Javier, was a scary guy from the get-go, with only his love for his sister giving him any humanity. I still don't like Allie's boss, who I find obnoxiously self-centered, more concerned with his advancement than being an effective leader. I liked Henry's boss and coworkers and seeing them go all-out to help one of their own. My favorite was Ben. He was a quick thinker for a kid and showed it early on. Thanks to his memory and observation skills, he also played a big part in the lead-in to the next book. 

Before Summer Ends - Susan Mallery (HSE #2833 - May 2021)

A long, hot summer with her secret crush…
What could possibly go wrong?
 
Nissa Lang knows Desmond Stilling is out of her league. He's a CEO, she's a teacher. He's gorgeous, she's…not. So when her house-sitting gig falls through and Desmond offers her a place to stay for the summer, she vows not to reveal how she's felt about him since their first -- and only -- kiss.
 
Desmond should've known better than to bring temptation into his house. He decided long ago that his best friend's sister was too sweet, too good, for him. She deserves a guy who can give his heart. For her sake, he's stayed away. But as her laughter breathes life into his lonely mansion, he's not sure how long he'll be able to resist.
 
Terrific friends to lovers story. Nissa is a teacher who takes temporary jobs during the summer to earn money for her dream trip to Italy. This summer, she accepts a house-sitting job, then sublets her condo for the summer for extra income. When the house-sitting job falls through, she has no place to stay. Since Nissa can't stay with her brother, he suggests staying with his best friend Desmond in his huge house. Nissa is reluctant because she's had a crush on Desmond since he stepped in to take her to prom when she was seventeen. Desmond remains a friend to their entire family, so she has buried her feelings for years.
 
Desmond became friends with Nissa's brother Shane when they attended the same boarding school. Desmond was tutored at home until he was sent away to school, so though he was book smart, his social skills were nonexistent. He was raised by parents whose marriage was more business merger than marriage and actively discouraged expressing emotions. Shane immediately befriended Desmond and absorbed him into his family, showing Desmond what a loving family looked like. Shane's family treated him as one of their own, and there is nothing Desmond wouldn't do for them. Inviting Nissa to stay with him is a no-brainer, but it also makes his life more difficult. He's never forgotten their goodnight kiss, but she deserves better than him.
 
I loved watching the relationship between Nissa and Desmond develop. Their friendship is strong already, thanks to knowing each other for so long. I loved how easily they talked and laughed and teased. But underneath the comfortable friendship, the sparks of attraction simmer and grow. Nissa believes that if Desmond had been interested in her all those years ago, he would have done something about it. So she keeps her unrequited feelings buried. Besides the fact that, at the time, Desmond felt he was too old for her, Nissa's brother made it clear it was hands-off his little sister. Having Nissa there now stirs up feelings Desmond doesn't know what to do with.
 
There are many sweet scenes of the two together, and it's easy to see that they get closer. I ached for Desmond as he shared his family life with Nissa and his conviction that, like his parents, he has no heart. He truly believes that he is incapable of love. No matter what she said, Nissa could not convince him otherwise. And yet, his obvious care for Nissa's friend Marisol and her daughters on their boat trip showed that there was more to him than he knew.
 
Desmond and Nissa's relationship undergoes a considerable change when she slips and confesses her attraction to him. I loved seeing how Nissa's frustrated rant led Desmond to prove that he was just as attracted, and things snowballed from there. The connection between them burned hot until interrupted by an emergency call from Marisol. I loved the effect that seeing Nissa drop everything for her friend had on Desmond. Though he's always been someone who supported charities and good causes, always ready with his checkbook, this is the first time Desmond experiences helping first-hand. He warmed my heart with how he brought Marisol's daughters to his house for Nissa to take care of them. He's so good with them, yet he can't see that it's because of his big heart. Even better, he involved himself even more deeply in their lives, planning a massive surprise for Marisol.
 
But when Nissa can no longer hide her feelings and tells Desmond of her love, Desmond panics and sends her away. His conviction that he has no heart and is incapable of love is too firm for Nissa to overcome. I ached for Nissa as she tried to deal with her broken heart. I also hurt for Desmond, who couldn't understand why he was so miserable. An unexpected call from his mother spurred Desmond's "aha" moment and a call to Nissa's father. I loved that conversation and the one in person a few hours later. Because Nissa's dad was almost a father to Desmond, too, he gave some fantastic advice. I especially loved the bit about groveling. Desmond's big moment was terrific. I liked the ring's description and would love to see a picture of the author's inspiration for it. 

The Bait - Carol Ericson (HI #2002 - June 2021)

Series: Kyra and Jake Investigation (Book 3)

They're after a vicious serial killer.
And this time it's personal.
 
Decades after The Player's infamous murder spree, a third copycat killer terrorizes LA. Detective Jake McAllister and victim advocate Kyra Chase launch a risky dark web investigation -- complicating their relationship and exposing their troubled pasts. But when the copycat kidnaps Jake's daughter, Kyra defies her partner to lay her life on the line. Just one chilling question remains: Is The Player back?
 
The tension continues to mount in this, the third book of the series. No sooner had Jake, Kyra, and the rest of the task force put a stop to Copycat 2.0 than another killer stepped up to take his place. In the previous book, The Decoy, the task force found a dark web connection between the first two copycats. Further investigation leads them to believe that Copycat Three is also linked and that all of them dance to the tune of a master manipulator. The question is, who pulls the strings? Jake and Kyra both suspect that the original Player is behind it all.
 
This case becomes very personal to Jake. Copycat Three takes to leaving taunting messages for Jake with the bodies of his victims. For Kyra, her determination never wavers. Convinced the original Player is behind it all, catching the man responsible for her mother's murder is at the top of Kyra's wishlist. Watching Jake, Kyra, and the rest of the task force dig through what few clues there were kept me glued to the pages. The swizzle stick clue proved to be vital, and I loved seeing how it played out. The intensity shot through the roof when the killer kidnapped Jake's daughter Fiona. I ached for Jake and his fear for her as he desperately searched for any clue to the killer's whereabouts. But it was Kyra, playing a hunch and putting herself at risk, that became the deciding factor. That confrontation was a nail-biter. But the question remains, is The Player back? I have my suspicions about who it is, and I can't wait to read the next book and see if I'm right. This book ends with an unexpected twist, leaving me wondering if foul play was involved.
 
I also enjoyed seeing the progression of Jake and Kyra's relationship. Professionally, their respect for each other continues to grow. Jake overcame his distrust of Kyra as a victim's advocate and fully included her in the task force's activities. Kyra finds it much easier to trust Jake now, though she still tends to rush into danger without telling him what she's up to. In this book, it nearly gets her killed. Personally, their relationship is moving forward, slowly but steadily. That progression becomes complicated when Jake's fourteen-year-old daughter shows up unexpectedly. Though Fiona may have her dad fooled, Kyra has the girl's number from the get-go. I enjoyed watching Kyra help Jake through the rough patches. I also liked how Jake still managed to find alone time with Kyra. Jake won my heart even more with his support of Kyra when her past became public knowledge. Just knowing he stood behind her gave Kyra the strength to deal with the fallout. After surviving the confrontation with Copycat Three, both Jake and Kyra are ready to admit their feelings for each other and see where it goes.

Sandpiper Cove - Irene Hannon (Revell - Apr 2017)

Series: Hope Harbor (Book 3)

Hope Harbor police chief Lexie Graham has plenty on her plate raising her son alone and dealing with a sudden rash of petty theft and vandalism in her coastal Oregon hometown. As a result, she has zero time for extracurricular activities--including romance. Ex-con Adam Stone isn't looking for love either--but how ironic is it that the first woman to catch his eye is a police chief? Yet wishing for things that can never be is foolish.
              
Nevertheless, when Lexie enlists Adam's help to keep a young man from falling into a life of crime, sparks begin to fly. And as they work together, it soon becomes apparent that God may have a different--and better--future planned for them than either could imagine.
 
Terrific book. This was my first trip to Hope Harbor, but it won't be my last. Hope Harbor is a small town on the Oregon coast filled with people who care about each other (and perhaps a few bad apples). It's an excellent place for people who are looking for somewhere to start over. One of those people is Adam Stone, an ex-con who turned his life around while in prison. He has a job with a construction company, a hobby making furniture, and a companion in a stray dog he rescued. He lives in a cabin in the woods, has a few friends, and keeps mostly to himself.
 
Another person who changed her life is Lexie Graham. After several years working for diplomatic security and tragically losing her husband, Lexie and her son moved back to her hometown. They live with her mom, and Lexie became Hope Harbor's police chief. She and her small force are currently dealing with a rash of petty theft and vandalism, which adds to her already busy life.
 
I liked the first meeting between Lexie and Adam. The vandals hit Adam's house twice, but he hasn't bothered to report it. The damage wasn't too bad, and as an ex-con, he tends to avoid interacting with law enforcement. When Lexie hears about it, she visits Adam, hoping to find clues to the vandals' identities. Adam is wary but cooperative, and Lexie realizes that she may be guilty of judging him without knowing him. Neither expected the sparks they felt nor did they want them. When Lexie comes to Adam's aid after his dog, Clyde, is injured by one of the vandals, their connection deepens. It's no surprise that Lexie thinks of Adam when she needs help turning a young teen away from the wrong path.
 
I liked Adam a lot. From a lousy childhood to a youth filled with wrong choices, he had a lot to overcome. Thanks to the help he received, Adam became a kind, compassionate man with a big heart, always ready to help where he's needed. He also has some serious self-worth issues, thanks to his past and his record. Adam tends to believe that people look down on him because of it, so he keeps to himself. He's hesitant to get involved in Lexie's project, but if he can keep a kid from going through what he did, he has to try. I liked his connection with young Brian, and his ability to empathize with the boy went a long way toward helping him.
 
I liked Lexie, too. She's a terrific mother, has a great relationship with her mom, and loves her hometown. I liked her relationships with the various townspeople who like and respect her right back. I liked how Lexie thought outside the box when it came to helping Brian and that she also thought it would help Adam.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Lexie and Adam. Though the sparks are there, both intend to ignore them. Adam can't see anything happening between an ex-con and a police chief, and Lexie isn't interested in risking her heart again. They do agree that they can be friends and partners in helping Brian. But it isn't too long before those sparks begin to intensify, and each of them starts to wonder, "what if..." I loved the scene at their friends' wedding and seeing Lexie and Adam think about possibilities. I especially liked seeing them share their pasts and the support and understanding that followed. But just as the future starts to look bright for them, Adam's past creates problems. A disgruntled parent and troublesome teen threaten to cause problems for Lexie because of her relationship with Adam, and he steels himself to walk away. I loved how Lexie and the people of Hope Harbor showed Adam what he meant to them. The epilogue was terrific and contained an unexpected twist.
 
I loved the secondary characters. One of my favorites was Adam's dog, Clyde. Animals are wonderful judges of nature, and Clyde's devotion to Adam is a terrific indicator of what a good man Adam is. I loved how Clyde bonded with Lexie's son Matt. The two of them were sweet together. I liked the author's portrayal of Matt as a typical four-almost-five-year-old. He wasn't too good, and he wasn't a brat. As a character, Matt showed Adam that he could be a good father even though he had no role model in his own father. I ached for Brian, the reluctant vandal. He and his mother finally escaped his father's abuse, but Brian had to leave everything he knew behind in doing so. It left him vulnerable to being used, even though he knew he was doing wrong. Working with Adam gave Brian the chance to break free, and I loved the changes. So many others, such as the preacher and the priest, Luis, BJ, and Charley, had profound effects on Adam. 

The Exile - Diana Gabaldon (Random House - Sept 2010)

Series: Outlander

After too long an absence, Jamie Fraser is coming home to Scotland -- but not without great trepidation. Though his beloved godfather, Murtagh, promised Jamie's late parents he'd watch over their brash son, making good on that vow will be no easy task. There's already a fat bounty on the young exile's head, courtesy of Captain Black Jack Randall, the sadistic British officer who's crossed paths -- and swords -- with Jamie in the past. And in the court of the mighty MacKenzie clan, Jamie is a pawn in the power struggle between his uncles: aging chieftain Colum, who demands his nephew's loyalty -- or his life -- and Dougal, war chieftain of Clan MacKenzie, who'd sooner see Jamie put to the sword than anointed Colum's heir.
 
And then there is Claire Randall -- mysterious, beautiful, and strong-willed, who appears in Jamie's life to stir his compassion . . . and arouse his desire.
 
But even as Jamie's heart draws him to Claire, Murtagh is certain she's been sent by the Old Ones, and Captain Randall accuses her of being a spy. Claire clearly has something to hide, though Jamie can't believe she could pose him any danger. Still, he knows she is torn between two choices -- a life with him, and whatever it is that draws her thoughts so often elsewhere.
 
I'm a huge Outlander fan, so I couldn't resist this graphic novel. The Exile covers the first third of Outlander, mainly told from Murtagh and Jamie's viewpoints. The first part covers the time when Jamie first returns from France, briefly mentioned in Outlander. Jamie comes across as a bit headstrong though not reckless and is kept on track by his godfather, Murtagh. Murtagh witnesses Claire's arrival through the stones, making him suspicious of her and why she is there. Unlike the original, there is an additional character in Kenneth, another time-traveler and cohort of Geillis. I never quite understood his purpose. The events that occur during their time at Castle Leoch and on the rent collecting journey were well done. The wedding scene was also good.
 
Having read Outlander several times, I never had a problem following the story in this book. The graphic novel format is more condensed, without the signature descriptive prose of the original. I didn't care much for many of the illustrations. The men all looked enough alike that it was sometimes challenging to figure out who was speaking. Claire's portrayal isn't so good either. I thought she looked harsh. I also agree with other reviewers that her proportions were highly exaggerated.
 
Overall, I enjoyed the graphic novel. I think it helps that I'm familiar with the story. I'm not sure that it would be a good introduction to the Outlander world.