Yours, Unexpectedly

Merilee’s sisters have had such over-the-top whirlwind romances that now Merilee’s steady, long-term relationship with boy-next-door Matt seems boring in comparison. A health scare prematurely leads them to get engaged, but Matt’s not the type to make grand gestures, so Merilee begins to doubt their love and calls off the wedding. Matt, however, refuses to give up and attempts to win Merilee back by persuading her to take their honeymoon as friends. Their cruise trip is enlivened by sexual tension and uncertainty, and as the novel progresses, true love invariably takes its course. Underneath an abundance of ridiculous froth are two worthy morals: romance is no substitute for self-identity, and one should never take a loved one for granted. The sum is a light but satisfying firelight read. (Dec.)