Hello, and welcome back! The cooler weather of fall here is so much nicer than the hot and sticky summer we just suffered through. The bread machine and soup pots are getting a workout. And there are so many new November books hitting bookstore shelves, I don't see how anyone can complain of having nothing to read. Between the review books that have arrived and the books I've picked up at work, my November stack is already a pretty decent size. But I still have a couple of October books to share with you all before we can dig into next month's romances.

This time out, I have the latest from Jill Shalvis, Simply Irresistible (Grand Central, received from publisher), which kicks off a new trilogy. Maddie Moore is on her way from L.A. to Lucky Harbor, Washington after the death of her estranged mother leaves her a co-owner of an inn there. Her two half-sisters Tara and Chloe share ownership, but Maddie is desperate for a fresh start, even if her sisters aren't interested in sticking around Lucky Harbor. Jax Cullen takes on the job of renovating the inn, and he and Maddie can't seem to keep their hands off of one another, even though Maddie isn't looking for a man, let alone a relationship. Still, the sexy Jax is a lot different than the loser-type men she's hooked up with in the past, and he plays for keeps. Even when it looks like Maddie's stay in Lucky Harbor will be temporary after all, he can't help hoping for a different outcome. A permanent, happily-ever-after outcome. And, despite her misgivings, neither can Maddie. Shalvis can always be counted on to deliver a story that will grab your heartstrings and steam up the pages. Jax and Maddie are a perfect pair, both vulnerable in different ways, both with their own strengths. I love this one. Maddie and Jax will make you cry and laugh and eventually sigh in pleasure at the lovely ride to their happy ending. Always a keeper, Shalvis has set a high bar with this one. I can't wait for Tara's story, and am giving this one all five of Cupid's arrows.

Until next time, happy reading!