Diana Holquist's Hot to Tame a Modern Rogue (Grand Central) has Sam Carson stumbling into all kinds of trouble when he meets up with an old lady in a horse-drawn carriage. His silly notion of making sure she gets home safely nets him a meeting with the woman's granddaughter, Ally Giordano. Ally is rightly worried about her grandmother, and more so since Ally's about to leave New York City for sunny California and a new job. Now she's going to have to stick around a little while longer, trying to make sure her grandmother gets back to reality, and out of her make believe world of a historical romance novel. Granny Donny thinks Sam is a Duke straight out of a romance, and he's kind enough to play along with her, though he's no gentleman. He's attracted to Ally even though he knows it's not smart. The attraction is mutual and smoking hot, but it can't last, right? Especially since Sam likes his bachelor life, and Ally's determined to start fresh all the way across the country. This one is so much fun to read. Ally, Granny Donny, and Sam are in for one adventure after another. The surrounding cast of characters are also terrific, with Ally's best friend and a mysterious horse and carriage driver who's hired on with Granny Donny playing significant roles. Sam is yummy, and Ally's made a success of her life, despite the past that still wounds her. And watching them work their way through the obstacles between them and their happy ending is a real treat. If you're lucky enough to be heading for the beach to finish off your summer, this one would make an absolutely amazing beach read. I'm borrowing four of Cupid's five arrows for it.
Until next time, happy reading!
