cover image It's Always Been You

It's Always Been You

Victoria Dahl. Kensington/Zebra, $6.99 mass market (352p) ISBN 978-1-4201-0484-4

This tender Victorian tale of second chances reunites businessman Aidan York with his former paramour, Katie Tremont, whom he had believed dead. After 10 years of family betrayals and foolish decisions, Aidan and Katie are refreshingly aware of their rekindled love and passion, but both hide a host of mistakes and regrets. Dahl paints a poignant picture of a young and na%C3%AFve affair gone sour, while Aidan and Katie learn to accept that both have changed since that distant day when they fell in love. Their path to reconciliation emphasizes taking responsibility for one's choices and working hard to become a better person. A side plot briefly introduces a villain, but the protagonists are their own worst enemies. Though not especially memorable, this tale of love lost and regained is enjoyable and refreshingly honest. (Aug.)