Wanted by the Marshal

Lute’s pleasant sequel to The Sheriff’s Baby Bargain returns to the charming small town of Angel Point, Ore. Dakota James is on a forced leave of absence from the U.S. Marshals following an emotional meltdown. She takes the opportunity to travel to Angel Point for her sister Taylor’s engagement party, determined to convince Taylor that she’s making a mistake by getting married. There she meets Beckett Leland, whom she initially mistakes for Taylor’s fiancé, leading to confusion and anger when he immediately starts flirting with the wrong sister. Beckett, a former Marine flyboy, plans to start a business rehabilitating military dogs for civilian life. He asks Dakota for help looking at commercial properties around town and soon falls for her, but she doesn’t believe in love or happy endings, having witnessed her parents’ disastrous marriage. Then a sweet, elderly couple turns to Dakota and Beckett for assistance following an accident, and Dakota learns a lesson about lasting love. Trust and self-esteem issues form the emotional core of Lute’s heartfelt love story, while a wonderful supporting cast adds color. This earnest romance is thoroughly enjoyable. (July)