Practice Makes Perfect

An introverted florist and a “hot, dangerous” bodyguard dance around their feelings for each other in Adams’s fluffy sequel to When in Rome. Rome, Ken., flower shop owner Annie Walker has always enjoyed her quiet and solitary life, but seeing her brother and future sister-in-law, pop star Amelia Rose, prepare for their lavish wedding has Annie aching for a love of her own. Unfortunately, dating proves difficult in a small town where everyone knows everyone and Annie’s staid reputation precedes her. Enter Will Griffin, Amelia’s former bodyguard and Annie’s longtime crush. Amelia tasks Will with becoming Annie’s “dating coach,” to help her master her “First Date Anxiety” and become more outgoing. The pair grow close over increasingly steamy dating lessons, with Annie learning that Will’s standoffish facade hides a heart of gold and Will realizing that he doesn’t actually want Annie to change a thing about her approach to dating or to life. Though slow-burning, the pair’s chemistry is off the charts, relayed in playful banter and plenty of charged moments. Returning readers will not be disappointed. Agent: Kim Lionetti, BookEnds Literary. (May)