Dare to Love Again

GIVEAWAY

LESSMAN, JULIE
DARE TO LOVE AGAIN

Spunky Allison McClare is determined to be a fearless, independent woman, resorting to a mammoth hat pin for protection on her way to and from the school where she teaches. But when she takes a notion to explore the wild Barbary Coast she quickly discovers she is no match for rum-soaked brute strength.

Detective Nick Barone would rather do almost anything than teach this petite socialite jiu-jitsu, but it seems he has little choice in the matter. Sparks fly every time the two meet until a grudging friendship develops into something deeper. But when Nick suddenly leaves town, Allison realizes he's a fraud just like all the rest of the men she's cared for. Does she dare love again?

The lushness of the glorious Gilded Age beautifully showcases Lessman's passion as a writer in this engaging love story written with humor and heart. From the glamour of San Francisco's Nob Hill to the seedy gambling dens of the Barbary Coast, Dare to Love Again is a journey to find a love that never fails. Fans will love revisiting the world of the cousins McClare, and new readers will seek more of Julie's passion-filled novels.

My Review:

Another blissful read from a favourite author. Lessman knows how to wrap her readers around her little finger and then makes them squirm! Be prepared for an emotional roller coaster ride from the volatile opening scene to the toe-curling conclusion. This author knows how to develop a romantic plot line with delicious detail but she is also adept at wrenching the rug out from under the young lovers just when the innocent reader thinks the happily ever after ending is imminent. I'm always a bit discombobulated after reaching the end of a Lessman novel. :-)

Loved the vibrant characters -- the McClare family is firmly planted in my heart and I'm anxious to read a multitude of happily ever afters in future novels. I'm hoping this is a long series! Allison is as infuriating as she is endearing. A hot-head tempered by a compassionate heart makes her an interesting mix of sweet and sassy. And Nick is such a complex hero, layers deep and mired by a turbulent past. Their attraction is palpable from their first meeting but riddled with complications. Lessman knows how to draw out her reader's anticipation to a near frenzy point but she always delivers an immensely satisfying romantic conclusion. Put this one on the very top of your TBR pile!

Giveaway Opportunity

If you would like an opportunity to win a copy of Dare to Love Again please leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoreadATyahooDOTca. If you post a comment and add your email address, please use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in the address to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email please remember to put the title in the subject line so that it's easy for me to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Sunday January 5 2014. Offer open to international readers. Good luck!