Heartbreaker
Set in the ranch lands of Florida, Linda Howard tells the story of a privileged and pampered “princess” falling for a rough-and-tumble cowboy.
They’ve met before. Michelle Cabot was quite young, raised on her father’s ranch that neighbored the handsome and aloof John Rafferty’s lands. She’d fallen hard and though he didn’t know it, never forgot her first crush even though her life took a different trajectory. After years married to a spiteful, abusive, and possessive man, Michelle finally found a way out.
She returns to the ranch she’s inherited, seeking a haven from his wrath.
Surprised by the mountain of overdue bills and the distressful condition of the property, she is faced with a choice—return to New York or restore the ranch to its once-thriving condition. But this means leveling the extensive debt her father owed to John Rafferty.
This is an enjoyable read.
True to the expectations of Linda Howard’s fans, it weaves suspense artfully with romance. It also does the author’s style justice by turning a timid protagonist into a fighter. She also softens John (but not too much). Struggling with his own ARC, eventually, they meet in the middle, leveling the stance. I appreciate that. And kudos on the unique setting—Florida ranch and timberlands.
To fans of medium-heat romances and moderate suspense, it’s one to add to your reading list.
Source: Gifted
Image Courtesy of Avon Impulse.
