Layla

Bestseller Hoover (Regretting You) explores the power of love in the face of tragedy in this engaging contemporary romance with a supernatural twist. Aspiring singer-songwriter Leeds Gabriel happens to meet Layla on the night of Layla’s sister’s wedding, and immediately knows that they’re meant for each other. The pair embark on a whirlwind romance, but Leeds is left reeling when his obsessive ex-girlfriend, Sable, attacks and almost kills Layla. Layla recovers physically weeks later, but the incident leaves her emotionally and mentally scarred. Desperate to salvage their relationship, Leeds surprises Layla with a trip back to the bed and breakfast where they first met. But Layla’s behavior takes an erratic shift once they arrive, followed by a string of strange events, including displaced objects and a piano that plays itself. Feeling disconnected from Layla, Leeds finds relief from his loneliness in the mysterious Willow, another guest at the B&B—but Willow is more than she appears and her connection with Leeds puts Layla at risk. Though the ending is slightly rushed, the unusual twist on a typical love triangle plot adds intrigue. Surprising and emotionally tense, this paranormal romance is sure to entertain. Agent: Jane Dystel, Dystel, Goderich, and Bourret. (Dec.)