All I Want Is You

This light, innocuous romance continues Bodine’s exploration of the complicated love–hate relationship between two Chicago old-money families. Vintage jewelry boutique owner Venus Smith, sister of the heroine of A Black Tie Affair, acquires an antique mermaid brooch stolen long ago from the Clayworth department stores. She decides to use it as leverage to find out why her old crush, Connor Clayworth O’Flynn, ousted her father as treasurer of the company. The two begin a mix of amateur sleuthing and mutual lusting while unraveling bits of history about Connor’s beloved aunt and uncle. Gossip column excerpts feel out of place for the modern setting; all the characters are shallow and inconsistent; and there’s no appeal in either the lackluster mystery plot or Venus and Connor’s abrupt shift from vague disdain to true love. Agent: Browne & Miller Literary Associates. (Jan.)