Breathe the Sky

Hazen (Unbreak Me) sets this extraordinary tale of unexpected love in California’s Mojave Desert. Biologist Mari Tucker lives in her truck following a messy divorce from her physically abusive ex and finds work as a biological monitor on construction sites, protecting the desert’s endangered animals from the linemen’s trucks. Mari is less than thrilled to be assigned to work with Jack Wyatt and his crew. Jack has a reputation as a grouch, but Mari can’t afford to turn down the job. In truth, Jack’s rough demeanor is the result of his hard childhood, and his grumpiness belies his desire to keep his team safe. Mari’s calming presence, tactfulness, and mouthwatering brownies entice Jack and his team to follow her rules. Though Mari and Jack are both very guarded, they slowly learn to trust each other and form an easy friendship—with sexual tension building just beneath the surface. Jack’s hardened exterior houses a tender heart, while Mari’s soft exterior conceals surprising strength, and their mutual desire to protect both the animals and each other strengthens their bond. The slow-burning romance and Hazen’s vivid descriptions of the desert keep the pages turning. This sweet, sensual contemporary is sure to tug at readers’ heartstrings. Agent: Naomi Davis, BookEnds Literary. (Aug.)