Barefoot in the Sun

In this fun and engaging third installment of the Barefoot Bay contemporary quartet (after Barefoot in the Rain), an upright, forthright oncologist and a frightened woman in hiding get a second chance at love. Zoe Tamarin has spent her whole life running, guided by her “great-aunt” Pasha, a neighbor who rescued Zoe from her abusive childhood home. They settled briefly in Illinois, where Zoe revealed everything to her beloved, Dr. Oliver Bradbury. But when he reacted badly, she ran from him too. Nine years later, in Barefoot Bay, Fla., Zoe seeks out Oliver again because Pasha needs his medical help, and they realize the chemistry and love they once shared is as strong as ever. While Zoe’s friends and Oliver try to convince her that planting roots will finally make her happy, the voice in her head still whispers, “Run, Zoe, run”—especially when Pasha’s hidden history comes to light. The plot is somewhat farfetched, but readers will appreciate the resilient heroine and her journey. (May)