Hodges (Let's Get It On
) delivers a sizzling romance between sharp, demanding New Orleans hotel owner Winfred “Freddie” Barker and arrogant firefighter and confirmed bachelor Cleveland Alexander. After they meet at the wedding of their best friends, their champagne-fueled one-night stand turns into a tumultuous affair. Freddie's certain that Cleveland is commitment-phobic like her father, an unreliable ex-con, while Cleveland seethes at Freddie's explosive temper and scornful attitude. Various subplots, including Cleveland's difficulties at work and Freddie's frequent sparring with her friend Lillian, interrupt the swift pacing, but the sensual love scenes are plentiful and vividly executed, and the believable, three-dimensional characters keep things moving. (Feb.)
