cover image When Lightning Strikes

When Lightning Strikes

Brenda Novak. Mira, $7.99 mass market (448p) ISBN 978-0-7783-1351-9

Gail DeMarco is handling the biggest PR campaign of her career: rehabilitate the reputation of one Simon O’Neal, the biggest movie star in the U.S. Simon has been on a downward spiral since his divorce, getting into fights, womanizing, and drinking heavily. He hits rock bottom when a judge rules him morally corrupt and bars him from visiting his son. The publicity stunt for Simon to marry a woman with a wholesome image was Gail’s idea, but she didn’t expect to be cast in the starring role. She’s even more surprised to fall in love with the sensitive man he hides beneath the dissolute facade. Simon originally dislikes Gail, but when she takes him to Whiskey Creek, Calif., a small town far away from Hollywood’s temptations, he discovers her passion, loyalty, and sweetness. Their heartwarming romance develops slowly and sweetly. The sex is fantastic, but the best part is how Simon and Gail tease and laugh as they grow closer. Agent: Dan Raines, Creative Trust Literary Group. (Sept.)