A typical suspense scenario receives a fresh spin in Gregory's newest contemporary romantic intrigue (after Thunder Creek
), which gallops out of the starting gate when up-and-coming New York fashion designer Josy Warner gets a frantic call from Ricky Sabatini, her old friend from when they were both in foster care. Having been framed for a crime he didn't commit, Ricky needs Josy to hold on to a package, the contents of which could clear his name. The request is simple enough, until the danger escalates, forcing Josy to flee to Thunder Creek, Wyo., the home of her only living relative, her birth grandmother Ada Scott. The suspense gives way to tension of another sort as Josy becomes involved with Ty Barclay, the recently widowed town sheriff, and tries to figure out how to introduce herself to Ada. Gregory expertly weaves the various plot threads together, creating a tight, well-balanced story that packs an emotional punch. Though the contents of Ricky's package prove worth the wait, the happenings in Thunder Creek steal the show. Indeed, with its sage-scented beauty and down-home friendliness, Thunder Creek stands out as one of the book's most compelling characters. Fortunately for readers, Gregory packs her tale with so many twists and turns that life is never dull in Thunder Creek. Agent, Ellen Levine. (July)
