Ready to Run: I Do, I Don’t, Book 1

Layne (I Knew You Were Trouble) gives a nod to Runaway Bride and The Bachelor with this clever romance set in Lucky Hollow, Mont. Fireman Luke Elliott likes the small-town life; people all know one another’s business but everyone is polite and respectful. He’s outraged when a city slicker barges in, digs into the reasons for his three failed engagements, and tries to convince him to be on a reality show called Jilted. Associate producer Jordan Carpenter is hungry for a promotion, and she thinks getting Luke to do the show is the key; with the help of her stellar BFF, Simon, she hatches her plan. Luke guards his heart as well as he does his secrets, but his defenses are no match for Jordan’s charm. His generosity and loyalty win her heart, and gradually he learns she’s not the “vulture in high heels” he took her for. When her boss starts to push Jordan to reveal Luke’s hidden past, she has a tough decision to make. Luke’s secrets create just enough suspense, the revelations are smooth, and the characters and setting are delightful. Agent: Nicole Resciniti, Seymour Agency. (Aug.)