Anyone who has ever salivated over a sports pro or mooned after a movie star will relish this fanciful romance between brainy Seattle Times
columnist Jane Alcott and hockey player Luc Martineau. Luc, nicknamed Lucky for his ability to score with women and keep his opponents from scoring on the ice, is less than thrilled to hear that Jane will be reporting on the team's games and digging into his unsavory past. Still, he can't help feeling attracted to the pint-sized writer, despite her drab clothes and unfortunate profession. For Jane, the assignment is the perfect opportunity to stop writing fluff and break into serious reporting. But following the progression of the puck turns out to be less challenging than getting the players to talk, particularly Luc, whose lusty looks make her want to ditch her black clothes and wear red. The two eventually wind up in bed together, but Luc's fear of commitment and Jane's fear of abandonment may keep them from taking the next step. Readers will find themselves cheering for the charming couple with the fervor of frenzied hockey fans. Like most fairy tales, this one involves an unlikely transformation (a red dress turns plain Jane into a seductress), but the minor contrivance won't dim readers' enjoyment of this witty, warm-hearted tale. (Feb.)
Forecast:A vibrant cover featuring a pair of smooch-worthy lips should attract browsers, and praise from Elizabeth Lowell, Jayne Ann Krentz and Karen Robards will seal the deal. Gibson has garnered much critical acclaim and has a large fan base, so expect ample sales.
