Family Passions

Rating:
Summary: The 2nd novel is Chances Are, not The Stud as listed above
Review: The Family Way:

Pru is a very courageous woman, with strong values, and a diplomatic tactful way with even the most difficult people. If there were more people like Pru in the real world, it would certainly be a better place to live! Throughout most of the story, I couldn't understand how someone like her could be in love with an arrogant, stubborn, bully of man like McCord. But once she uncovered the secrets and traumas of his past, and used her diplomacy to help him heal and move forward, it was quite obvious that McCord was worthy of being the love of Pru's life!

Chances Are:

I kept checking the top of the page to verify that Barbara Delinsky was indeed listed as the author, because this story doesn't come close to the quality and outstanding style she is known for and fans like me have come to expect from her. Donovan's come-ons were far from subtle and the teasing went way beyond humorous - it was pushy almost to the extent of stalking or forcing himself on Liz. And the painful secret that has Liz scared to death of any sexual intimacy is so obvious to the reader, and it should have been to Donovan too. The first 100-125 pages were a struggle to get through. However, the story did improve by leaps and bounds once Liz revealed her secret to Donovan, and he became patient, tender and understanding. He changed his approach to expressing his love for Liz and getting her to accept that she is worthy/capable of being loved, and to admit that she loves him in return. The ending was redeeming and heartwarming.

Presumed Guilty:

This was more of a murder mystery than a romance novel, which was pleasantly surprising! The story was very suspenseful, the search for clues riviting. My interest was held throughout - I keep changing my mind trying to decide who-did-it. The romance part was sweet and much more predictiable than solving the crime!