Well Traveled

DeLuca returns to the Renaissance Faire circuit a fourth time (after Well Matched) in this charming contemporary romance. Corporate lawyer Louisa “Lulu” Malone heads to the Ren Faire to soak up some precious relaxation time. After her bosses call once too often during what’s supposed to be her time off, she abruptly resigns by tossing her phone into the laundry wenches’ tub. With an unprecedented amount of free time on her hands, she joins the crew of the Dueling Kilts, a band of Scottish musicians on the U.S. Ren Faire circuit. Accustomed to the 24/7 grind of trying (unsuccessfully) to make partner, Lulu quickly makes herself useful, helping several Ren Faire performers become more efficient and making friends along the way. She’s also astute enough to realize that Dueling Kilts guitarist, Dex, has more depth than his easy smile and ladies’ man reputation suggests. For his part, when Dex realizes that Lulu is open to getting to know him, he leaves one-night stands behind in favor of hanging with Lulu in the band’s traveling camper, talking to her over s’mores and beer. DeLuca has a steady hand with this duo’s slow-burning chemistry, making their connection feel entirely earned. Fans and new readers alike will be drawn in. Agent: Taylor Haggerty, Root Literary. (Dec.)