Roxanne St. Claire never fails to create interesting characters then surround them with intriguing stories that engage both my heart and my mind.
While Brock and Jenna both have lives very different from my own, I was able to relate to each of them and the challenges they faced. I adored Brock, especially when he threw off his corporate persona, donned his glasses (I do love a man in glasses), and let his hair down. I liked that St. Claire made him strong, but vulnerable. I loved his chemistry with Jenna. I also loved his gut-deep belief in the Blackthorne family's good reputation but it was his sense of fairness in uncovering the truth, even if that was at his family's expense, that really won me over. Yes, there was that moment of male stupidity but he redeemed himself nicely. If Jenna could forgive him, so could I. ;-)
In less talented hands, Jenna could have come off as a villainous character but St. Claire gave her texture, depth, and a moral core that, rather than making her repellent, endeared her to me even more. I fully understood the dilemma she faced, given her background, especially as she came to know both Brock and his family better, and I was fully confident that she would do the right thing for both them and for her.
And speaking of Brock's family, I fell head over heels in love with Nana. I mean, who wouldn't love a sprightly senior citizen who creates serene gardens, protects her family with the ferocity of a tiger, and can drink most of them under the table. Forget loving her. I want to be her!
While this is the fifth book in the multi-author, 7 Brides for 7 Blackthornes series, it's the first I've read and stands well on its own. Several characters from earlier books have page time, enough to make me want to read their stories without stealing the focus from Brock and Jenna. And, while there appears to be a mystery regarding Brock's aunt that carries across the series, the mystery of the Blackthorne whisky recipe is solved in this book, bringing Brock and Jenna's romantic journey to a well-deserved, happy ending. From beginning to end, it's a journey I enthusiastically recommend.
4.5 stars