Crazy Little Thing Called Love

Love and secrets are cooking in Cannon’s down-home follow-up to Ain’t Misbehaving. Etta Green is a Chicago chef with a chip on her shoulder. Donny Joe Ledbetter is a boy from “the wrong side of the creek” who made good. Thanks to Etta’s grandmother’s final request, Etta and Donny Joe wind up co-owners of a bed and breakfast in Donny Joe’s small Texas town. They must learn to work together to navigate the business, family, and a grumpy old tomcat named Gabe. Past secrets, odd friends, and an unexpected custody arrangement help the initially weak characterization and plot to warm up. The artificial and somewhat tepid romance goes to a full boil with only the most cursory nod to passion and spark. The predictable twist provides a glimmering bright spot, but is quickly overshadowed by Cannon’s inability to decide whether she’s writing sexy romance, suspense, or a heartwarming smalltown story. Agent: Kim Lionetti, BookEnds Literary. (July)