Mostly Sunny

Pope (Love Blooms) brings an unlikely pair together in her marvelous latest contemporary romance. Social worker Sunny Gibson and attorney Julian King have nothing in common but their trust issues. Abandoned as a child, Sunny’s dedicated herself to foster children. She covers insecurity with a charming and upbeat attitude but holds herself apart. After a career-ending injury, sports star Julian reinvented himself as one of the best lawyers in New York City. Julian works unceasingly to prove he truly belongs among his firm’s elite and isn’t just there for his fame and contacts, and he’s deliberately built a life where love plays no part. When a young girl’s mother reappears in a manner that mirrors events in Sunny’s own past, a determined Sunny coaxes a reluctant Julian into helping and opening his heart. Pope’s sexy humor and lively dialogue create emotionally available characters who develop a fascinating relationship. Sunny and Julian are increasingly likable; even their missteps will keep romance readers invested and rooting for them straight through to the last word. Agent: Emmanuelle Morgen, Stonesong Literary. (Oct.)