Wanting it All

The second book in Barth's Naked Men contemporary romance series (after Risking it All) sparkles with friendships, a touch of humor, and a fresh, bright voice. Intelligent, ambitious, forthright Madison came from Alaska to Washington, D.C., for three things: her wonderful new job at the Library of Congress, a family, and the half-brother she never knew existed. Knox overcame a hardscrabble childhood and tragedy in his teen years, thanks to his brains and the loyalty of his best friends. The hard times taught him to take everything life has to offer and not miss a moment. When Madison nearly follows her selfie stick into rush-hour traffic, he seizes the moment by seizing the woman. They hit it off immediately, but she won't tolerate a womanizer. He has to find a way to overcome his infamous love of variety while remaining true to himself and the promises made in his youth. The usual pretense in relationships is stripped away faster than the protagonists' clothes, allowing friendship and passion to shine. The standard male/female dynamic is certainly at play, but the less traditional aspects of the story, including both characters' refreshing forthrightness and Knox's purely delightful group of buddies, create multi-layered richness that readers will savor. Agent: Deidre Knight, Knight Agency. (Aug.)