Hummingbird Lake

This heartquake of a contemporary romance easily persuades readers that fictitious Eternity Springs, Colo., has mystical healing powers. Sage Anderson, a young doctor, witnessed terrible violence and tragedy while volunteering in central Africa. As she recovers in peaceful Eternity Springs, Sage is comforted by her friends (including characters familiar from Angel's Rest), her passion for painting, and woodcarver Colt Rafferty, whose very touch is like a balm on her troubled soul. March is a master of delightful banter, especially among her empowered female characters, and her light and playful sex scenes ("If a Hall of Fame for penises existed, surely he'd qualify for membership") have a spark that sets her novels apart. By the story's end, readers will be fairly panting for the next novel in this delightful series. (Apr.)