Review & Giveaway - - Pitcher Perfect

Pitcher Perfect

by Tessa Bailey

Big Shots - Book 4

Publisher: Avon

Release Date: September 9, 2025

Reviewed by PJ

Boston Bearcats rookie Robbie Corrigan is living the dream. He’s made it to the NHL, his best friend/teammate and fellow “orgasm donor” is his roomie—and the women of Boston love them both. Life is sweet. That is, until he meets Skylar Paige, division 1 softball pitcher, girl least likely to take anyone’s bull…and the one member of the opposite sex immune to his charms. Robbie might be dazzled by the badass pitcher, but Skylar pegs him as a filthy player and wants nothing to do with him.

When he discovers she’s carrying a serious torch for her brother’s best friend, Robbie knows he should just go back to clubbing and whipped cream bikini parties, but he can’t seem to leave Skylar to flounder on her romantic quest to land another man. Nor can he miss out on the opportunity to spend time with her and hopefully redeem himself. Before Robbie knows it, he’s agreed to be Skylar’s fake boyfriend/love coach at an upcoming family wilderness competition where her crush will be in attendance. What could go wrong?

Through a series of contests that require them to trust each other, Robbie and Skylar grow closer and closer until their fake relationship starts to feel like the realest thing they’ve ever known and the sizzling lessons in sensuality burn out of control.

But it’s all just pretend…right?

PJ's Thoughts:

Full disclosure: I've read three Tessa Bailey books. The first two were a struggle. I didn't connect with the characters or their journeys and was at the point where I was ready to admit I just wasn't the right demographic for her writing. I mean, thousands of readers love her so it had to be me, right? But, then along came Pitcher Perfect and a heroine Bailey said was partially inspired by (U.S. Rugby player) Ilona Maher. Once I read that, I had to give her one more try. Holy wow, am I glad I did!

Pitcher Perfect is one of those unicorn books that flowed like hot maple syrup over a stack of yummy pancake perfection. It grabbed my attention from the first page, never lagged, never wavered, and kept me happily flipping pages until the final word. There's enemies-to-lovers romance, fake dating, forced proximity, unexpected vulnerability, family wilderness games (with accompanying snort laughter and tears), banter for days, thought-provoking family dysfunction (but also love and humor), self discovery, surprising twists, and sigh-worthy words - and actions - of respect, admiration, and love. Basically, everything that makes my reader's heart happy. 

I couldn't read this book fast enough while also wanting it to never end. Robbie and Skylar are one of my favorite couples I've read in a long time. Pitcher Perfect is my favorite romcom of 2025. It's a book, and a couple, I want to revisit time and time again. Pitcher Perfect has my highest, Top Dish, do not miss this book, recommendation. Seriously, buy it now. It's that good. 

Note: For those of you who say you don't read "sports" romance, know that while hockey and softball are integral facets of Robbie's and Skylar's lives, the main focus of this book is the personal relationships that bring challenges, growth, self-realization, and love to the characters within. 

Have you read Tessa Bailey?

Does knowing the identity of real people who inspire characters impact how you view the fictional characters while reading?

I love the fake dating trope (especially as it plays out in this book). How about you?

One randomly chosen person who posts a comment before 11:00 PM, September 14 will receive a print copy of Pitcher Perfect. 

*U.S. only

*Must be 18

Review & Giveaway - - The Honeycrisp Orchard Inn

The Honeycrisp Orchard Inn

by Valerie Bowman

Honeycrisp Orchard Romance - Book 1

Publisher: Avon

Release Date: September 9, 2025

Reviewed by PJ

Ellie Lawson’s city life was treating her just fine until a sour turn of events knocks her out in one fell swoop. Dumped by her boyfriend and fired from her event planning job, she is left with no choice but to return to her parents’ idyllic inn, nestled within a picturesque Honeycrisp orchard on Long Island. Anticipating a quiet hiatus in the attic apartment, she is instead met with Aiden, the stubborn, attractive son of the orchard owner who is currently occupying her planned refuge.

Forced together by circumstance, they find themselves not only roommates but also coworkers, when they’re put in charge by their parents of the orchard’s vital Harvest Festival, a lifeline for both the struggling orchard and the inn. Amidst the enchanting disorder of small-town life, Ellie and Aiden grapple with their conflicting values, burgeoning feelings, and an electrifying tension.

PJ's Thoughts:

Are you ready to turn the page to autumn? In the mood for crisper days, leaves changing color, hot cider, caramel apples, and small-town festivals? If so, do I have a book for you! 

Valerie Bowman's The Honeycrisp Orchard Inn is a feel-good, reunion romance brimming over with cozy fall vibes. Think Hallmark movie with spice. There's the city girl who couldn't get away from her small town fast enough, now returned home but not planning to stay, the boy next door who never wanted to leave and also never owned up to the crush he's been nurturing since they were kids, and the simmering attraction between them threatening to burst into flame. Think forced proximity, sparkling banter, awakening attraction, a bit of steam, and a deep, enduring, emotional payoff.  

Bowman surrounds the main couple with a terrific cast of supporting characters, building a community of citizens who offer up humor, teasing, and the unsolicited advice that comes from people who have known you your whole life. We also meet friends and family members who not only contribute to the progression of this story but also set up future books in the series with intriguing pairings and characters I can't wait to learn more about. 

And then there are the four-legged characters. How could I possibly resist Argos, Aiden's donut stealing Lab, Miss Guin, Ellie's parents' overly enthusiastic goat, or Pumpkin, her family's laid-back, orange pajama wearing Pug? All three pretty much steal every scene they're in. 

If you're looking for a warm hug of a book to take you from summer into fall with humor, heart, and happy endings, pick up a copy of The Honeycrisp Orchard Inn by Valerie Bowman. I highly recommend it. 

What are your favorite things about autumn? 

Are you an all things apple person (like I am) or do you have other seasonal foods that make your taste buds dance?

Have you read any books by Valerie Bowman yet?

One randomly chosen person who posts a comment before 11:00 PM, September 11 will receive a print copy of The Honeycrisp Orchard Inn.

*U.S. only

*Must be 18

Review - - The Sea Witch

The Sea Witch

by Eva Leigh

Salt & Sorcery - Book 1

Publisher: Canary Street Press

Release Date: August 26, 2025

Reviewed by PJ

 

Condemned as a witch, sentenced to die, Alys Tanner uses her innate magical power to flee Puritanical New England. Stealing a ship, Alys becomes captain of The Sea Witch, leading its all-female, sorcery-wielding pirate crew. But the colonial British navy is in hot pursuit. The navy fights for a choke hold on the Caribbean and will destroy anything they cannot control, especially witches.

When Ben Priestley, a headstrong naval navigator, is inadvertently captured by the lady pirates, dangerous truths are revealed. A quest that could turn the tides against the navy’s might ignites a reluctant partnership between the by-the-books prisoner and the fierce witch pirate captain. While they brave backstabbing pirates, perilous tropical islands and monster-filled seas, Alys and Ben’s mistrust grows into unexpected desire as they battle an enemy that will stop at nothing to rule the waves.

PJ's Thoughts:

Lady pirates sailing the Caribbean? Yes, please. Lady pirates who are also witches? Oh, heck yes! 

This book was everything I didn't know I needed: lady witch pirates, high-seas adventure, magical realism, forced proximity, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance, and twists I never saw coming. The characters drew me in from the get-go, immersing me in their cut-throat world of piracy. If that wasn't enough, Leigh also added in witches, mages, and super-powered sea creatures bound to England's naval ships and bent on destruction. Fantastical? Yes. And yet, Leigh makes it all seem plausible and real. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough while at the same time wanting to slow down and absorb every minute detail. I read the entire book in one day, staying awake way past my bedtime and relishing every impeccably presented detail. 

The characters were multi-layered, nuanced, and fully developed. I loved the evolution of Alys and Ben, both individually and as an eventual couple. But I also enjoyed the relationships among the all-women crew on Alys's ship. While not the lead couple, they are intrinsically important to the overall story and I appreciated the time and care devoted to their individual characters and stories. I'm hopeful that we will continue to learn more about them as the series continues. 

The relationship between Alys and Ben was not easy, as one would expect between a pirate witch captain and her upright British naval navigator captive. I loved that she held the power but also appreciated the eventual ebb and flow of that dynamic as their characters and relationship grew. Their interactions felt authentic and their slowly changing opinions, organic. I was fully immersed in their quest, in their relationship, in their chaotic world. I was pulling so hard for their improbable happy ending. And, yes, I actually gasped when I reached the end of the book. Cliffhanger!

I don't know when book two of this trilogy is scheduled to be released but what I do know is that I'll be hitting that preorder button the second it becomes available. I am fully involved in these characters now and I cannot wait to discover what Eva Leigh has planned for the next phase of their journey. In the meantime, I'll be rereading The Sea Witch, probably more than once. It's just that immersive. It's just that good. 

Review - - A Waltz on the Wild Side

A Waltz on the Wild Side

by Erica Ridley

The Wild Wynchesters - Book 6

Publisher: Forever

Release Date: August 26, 2025

Reviewed by PJ

Advice columnist Miss Vivian Henry hates how the Wild Wynchesters flaunt so many privileges ordinary people could never emulate. But when her beloved cousin goes missing and the authorities shrug, Viv has no choice but to beg for help from the vigilantes she despises. 
 
Aspiring poet Jacob Wynchester prefers animals to people. He’d rather stay behind the safety of a quill than interact with prickly clients. But when he's appointed lead investigator, Jacob finds he admires Vivian's resourcefulness and intelligence—including the sharp wit he must parry. As they team up to rescue her kidnapped cousin, they discover just how compatible they are.
 
Together, they must not only save the day, but also decide how far they’re willing to go to be who they really are. And determine whether their partnership is a mistake… or the missing piece that completes them.

PJ's Thoughts:

A Waltz on the Wild Side is a solid conclusion to what has been an excellent series. All of the Wynchesters - and their partners - return for this farewell story but it's quiet, gentle Jacob who takes the lead when a young man goes missing and the authorities don't seem to care.

I always enjoy a good enemies-to-lovers story and this one is most definitely that. The Wynchester family is Vivian's absolute last resort when her cousin goes missing. To say she holds them in low regard would be a gross understatement. While her young cousin idolizes these crime-fighting adopted siblings, Vivian is convinced they are too rich, too entitled, and too full of themselves. She has a sharp quill, sharp tongue, and two pets of her own that are enough to scare off every adversary. She will not be easily won over. 

Jacob is a kind soul who is more at home with animals than people, his family being the exception. It was fun to watch him take the lead on a case, especially with the sparks that fly between him and Vivian. These two have more in common than they think. Working together to try to find Vivian's cousin not only deepens feelings but also helps each of them evolve in unexpected ways as they journey toward personal fulfillment and, as a couple, their own happy ending.

As with the earlier books in this series, Ridley brings plenty of adventure, fun, and humor to this one. I enjoy the dynamics among the Wynchester siblings and their chosen partners. There's plenty of teasing but an equal amount of respect and support. And, as always, a few surprises. There are also important social issues addressed in this book, in particular those relating to wealth, race, and gender. I appreciate how Ridley balances the entertainment value of her books with issues important to the time, keeping the characters and their challenges authentic. I'm excited to discover what she plans to bring readers next. 

Review - - Gabriela and His Grace

Gabriela and His Grace

by Liana De la Rosa

The Luna Sisters - Book 3

Publisher: Berkley

Release Date: August 26, 2025

Reviewed by PJ

A scandalous arrangement between a hellion heiress and destitute duke reveals truths that neither can outrun….

As the youngest and most rebellious daughter of the overly protective Luna family, Gabriela Luna Valdés claws after her freedom in any way she can. This time, her hunger for adventure has led her aboard a windswept ship bearing for her homeland, away from a mob of fumbling British suitors. But Gabby can’t escape her father’s expectation that she settle down to find a proper husband—a compromise she’s unwilling to make.

For Sebastian Brooks, Duke of Whitfield, the trip to Mexico is his last chance. His last chance to rectify his family’s estate and refill their dwindling coffers. And his last chance to match wits with the sharp-tongued but deliciously tempting Gabriela.

When Gabby finds herself in need of a hasty escape, Sebastian agrees to assist her…but their close proximity sparks a red-hot passion that could ruin all their plans. With scandal looming, can Sebastian convince Gabby his regard is sincere or will she sail away with his heart?

PJ's Thoughts:

Before I talk about this book, I'd like to pay tribute to the creators of the beautiful cover. The Luna Sisters trilogy has been blessed with covers that are representative of the rich, colorful, Mexican heritage of the main characters as well as the beauty of De la Rosa's writing but they have outdone themselves with the cover of this final book. It. Is. Stunning. 

I approached this last book in the Luna Sisters trilogy with mixed feelings. Saying goodbye to these characters filled me with sadness but at the same time, I was eager to take this journey with Gabby and Sebastian, the couple whose story I had been eagerly anticipating since book one. I just knew all that snarky banter in books one and two had to be hiding some amazing chemistry. I read their story in one day. They refused to let me set them aside until they had reached their hard-won happily ever after.

De la Rosa sent the series - and our couple - out on a high note with a fast-paced, adventurous, swoony story that made the most of many of my favorite tropes: road romance (on land and sea), forced proximity (only one ship cabin), only one bed (in that cabin), and adversaries to lovers (so many sparks). I loved the development of these characters, individually and as a couple. The author took her time with them, revealing hidden layers that showed the strengths and vulnerabilities of each along with the deep, emotional wounds delivered by members of their families. The growth, healing, and love found between Sebastian and Gabby was a joy to experience. I pulled so hard for these two. 

The Mexican historical and cultural representation in this book - in the entire series - added texture and richness to the stories, making them even more enjoyable and unique. The way De la Rosa weaved historical facts and figures into the fiction created a vibrant and authentic picture of what life might have been for these three Mexican heiresses whose parents sent them to England when their country was occupied. They made their mark across the ocean but the hearts that held their beloved Mexico close never wavered. 

If you enjoy richly textured historical romance with beautifully developed characters, historical accuracy, authentic cultural representation, complicated family dynamics, humor, heart, and happy endings, I highly recommend Gabriela and His Grace, as well as books one and two of this trilogy, Ana Maria and the Fox and Isabel and the Rogue. 

Review - - A Promise of Forever

A Promise of Forever

by Sheryl Lister

Firefly Lake - Book 3

Publisher: Forever

Release Date: August 19, 2025

Reviewed by PJ

 

Terri Rhodes loves her husband—when he’s actually present. Their whirlwind marriage was a steamy fairy tale for about a year. They moved to Firefly Lake, made amazing friends . . . but over time, Jon’s legal practice and Terri’s work as an ER nurse have turned them into ships passing in the night. What she wouldn’t give to connect with Jon the way they used to before the long hours and unexpected tragedy broke both their hearts.

Jon can’t stand to see his beautiful wife in pain—or talk about his own. He couldn’t admit there was a problem until Terri got his attention in the worst way: by walking out. Jon will do anything to get her back, like leaning on their new friends in the Supper Club and taking her on dates that prove their chemistry is as hot as ever. He has to believe it’s not too late to prove to the woman he loves that his heart and ears are open. And that no matter what, he’s not giving up.

PJ's Thoughts:

I have thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in this trilogy. Book three, A Promise of Forever wraps things up with a story that was both charming and deeply emotional. Expect to laugh, cry, and sigh with heartfelt delight.

The four women at the heart of Serenity's Supper Club are friendship goals. I love how they rally for one another, offering support when needed and straight talk when appropriate. They are one another's biggest cheerleaders and Terri needs all of them when her marriage hits the rocks. 

I've also enjoyed how the new husbands from books one and two have formed their own bonds, pulling Jon into their circle in this book. As much as Terri needs her girls, Jon needs the brothers even more. The life-long toxic influence of Jon's father has Jon's marriage teetering on the brink. I love that the author uses strong, confident, happily married Black men to show Jon that being vulnerable,  sharing your feelings, and asking for help doesn't make you weak but, in fact, makes you stronger. 

The progression of Jon's and Terri's marriage from tension to separation to reunion unfolds in a thoughtful, organic, and authentic manner that kept me engaged and involved from beginning to end. The stakes of their actions are realistic and relatable, their love for one another palpable, but the issues between them not easily mended. The hard work they put in - especially Jon - had me celebrating their HEA with smiles and tears. 

If you enjoy charming, heartfelt, small-town romance with relatable, fully-dimensional characters, strong friendships, supportive community, drool-worthy food, emotional heft, and swoon-worthy happy endings, give A Promise of Forever a try. It has my enthusiastic recommendation, as do books one and two, A Table for Two and A Perfect Pairing. 

Review - - Love is an Open Book

Love is an Open Book

by Chandra Blumberg

Publisher: Canary Street Press

Release Date: August 12 2025

Reviewed by PJ

Blurring the line between fiction and reality...

Mia Brady never imagined her romance novels would become bestsellers, much less inspire a hit TV show. However, after signing a deal to write the final book of the series, she’s struck by a serious case of writer’s block. Her fans are clamoring for a passionate payoff, but Mia’s own experience with heartbreak—and current lack of real-life romance—is getting in the way. Do friends who become lovers ever truly have a happy ending?

Gavin Lane would like to think so. As Mia’s ride-or-die BFF, he’s been by her side through it all and convinced himself his crush on her is a thing of the past. He’s not about to let his feelings ruin their friendship, and never will. But things get complicated when Mia pitches a bold idea to help save her career: testing out tried-and-true love story tropes...together.

From workplace romance to fish-out-of-water, Mia and Gavin embark on a series of “experiments” to spark a little creativity—but they are not prepared for the flame that ignites between them. Does their friendship even stand a chance when pure fantasy suddenly becomes a little too real?

PJ's Thoughts:

Love is an Open Book is a fun, flirty, friends-to-lovers romcom that had me rooting for Gavin and Mia from the get-go. 

Imagine someone meeting the love of her life the same night she's had her heart broken by the good friend turned boyfriend who has just informed her he's in love with her sister. Is it any wonder Mia immediately friend-zoned Gavin and vowed to never risk that friendship by letting it slide into romance? Ten years later, she's still stubbornly clinging to that vow. In truth, she's terrified of changing the parameters of the best friendship (she refuses to call it a relationship) that's she's ever experienced.

Gavin, on the other hand, has been in love with Mia for the past ten years but he's hidden it well. He's not about to do anything to rock the boat of their friendship...until she needs his help figuring out how to navigate her reluctant best-friend fictional characters to a happy ending of their own. Suddenly, there are feelings on both sides but also those are some pretty sturdy walls Mia has built around her heart. Okay, so I'm Team Gavin all the way. Such a good guy! I love that the story unfolded from both Gavin's and Mia's points of view. Understanding his full range of emotions made me even more invested in his character. 

Someone who has held fast to her fear for ten years isn't about to toss it aside easily and the author does a good job of showing that in Mia's progression. Did I become impatient with her push and pull? Yes, but I also understood. She has a significant growth arc which the author illustrates by allowing us into Mia's thoughts as we watch her slowly open herself to new possibilities. 

I loved the supporting cast of friends and family (including adorable kittens!) who provide humor, emotional depth, and help both Gavin and Mia move forward in their relationship. The banter, both between the main couple and among friends, sparkles and kept me entertained. The messy history with certain family members and complications of changing relationship parameters mid-stream adds an emotional depth that gives authenticity and relatability to Gavin's and Mia's evolving relationship, and the HEA had me grinning with heartfelt delight. 

If you like friends-to-lovers contemporary romance with relatable characters, flirty banter, humor, heart, and happy endings, give Love is an Open Book by Chandra Blumberg a try or any of the books written by this author. I've enjoyed them all. 

Review - - The Summer We Kept Secrets

The Summer We Kept Secrets

by Hope Holloway and Cecelia Scott

The Destin Diaries - Book 4

Publisher: Self published

Release Date: August 15, 2025

Reviewed by PJ

Seven summers. Two families. One beach house. And a diary that holds all the secrets.

As the sun beats down on Destin, life at the Summer House takes a dramatic turn—starting with its tiniest new arrival. As Jonah settles into life as a single father of a newborn, he has to imagine a future he never dared to dream. When his seemingly perfect sister shows up with a few secrets of her own, the entire family dynamic is forced to shift.

Tessa is stepping into a new chapter—one that asks her to choose between playing it safe or taking the kind of risk that changes everything. And when Kate returns to Destin to see if her spark with Eli still burns, they face a test that could easily mean the end of this budding romance.

Meanwhile, Maggie must confront her deepest fears as she and Jo Ellen set off on a secret adventure that is equal parts heartstopping and hilarious.

In a season of sunshine and second chances, some secrets are meant to stay buried. But others will come to light and bring these two intertwined families ever closer...and forever changed.

PJ's Thoughts:

Each book in this series has taken me on an emotional journey filled with laughter, tears, heartbreak, hope, and love. And, each book in this series has left me eager to return to this beautiful Destin beach house for more time with the Lawson and Wylie families. I have no idea what I'm going to do when I turn the final page of the seventh book. I guess I'll have to go back to book one and read them all again. I love these characters that much. 

The Summer We Kept Secrets continues the evolving relationships that have grown over the course of the first three books while also introducing course changes that will impact all of our characters. The authors have developed these characters to the point where they all feel like friends which, of course, heightens the emotional impact of every shift and obstacle life throws their way. I am so invested in each and every one of them!

One of the facets I love about this series is the attention given to each generation. Whether it's a young child struggling in school, twenty-somethings searching for their life path, middle-age couples testing romantic waters for a second time, seniors setting off on unexpected adventures, or an unexpected reunion that may (or may not) lead to a fifty-something woman finding love for the first time, each generation is given their due. 

In this book, I especially loved the time allotted to the two family matriarchs and their secret adventure. I laughed, cringed, laughed more, and sighed with deep satisfaction as two women (my age) challenged themselves, expanded their horizons, faced their fears, and opened their minds to new possibilities. 

I can't wait to discover what Holloway and Scott have planned for all of their characters in book five.  As each book in this series builds upon on the previous ones, I strongly recommend reading them in order. 

Review - - My Best Friend's Earl

My Best Friend's Earl

by Bethany Bennett

Bluestocking Booksellers - Book 2

Publisher: Forever

Release Date: August 12, 2025

Reviewed by PJ

 

A bold bookseller tries to matchbreak her friend’s engagement to an earl . . . until she finds herself falling for him instead.

The one thing Constance Martin wants most to avoid is a boring life. She walks her cat with a leash in Hyde Park and even called off her wedding at the altar to stop what would have been a monotonous marriage. So when an aristocratic friend comes into the store asking for help throwing over her fiancé, Constance is both sympathetic and eager for the excitement to come. What could be more fun than plotting ways to get a stuffy—but very handsome—earl to break an engagement?

    Oliver Vincent, Earl of Southwyn, likes his orderly life of duty and logic. Everything’s falling into place; all that’s left is marrying the girl next door. Except the girl next door is increasingly reluctant. But marriage is a business deal, after all, and Oliver is determined to keep moving forward with the plan. If only he wasn’t so distracted by her friend—a stunning woman best described as chaos incarnate. She thinks marriage should be an adventure, and he views it as a transaction. But Oliver can’t seem to remember the downsides of falling when Constance is near. . .

PJ's Thoughts:

The first time Constance and Oliver hit the page together in Good Duke Gone Wild (book one), I knew they were meant for one another. Yes, they were both betrothed at the time (to other people) so I had no idea how Bennett would bring it about but I was confident it would happen. And, if it didn't I was going to be very disappointed. Fortunately, my hopes and Ms. Bennett's plans were on the same track. 

I couldn't wait to get my hands on My Best Friend's Earl. I love cross-class romance. I love opposites attract. And, I especially love the concept of a matchbreaker with deliciously devious ideas (feral cats, anyone?) for helping her friend break an unwanted betrothal, never expecting to fall for the uptight (but is he, really?) man herself. 

I loved watching Oliver unravel from a starchy, honor-bound man, resigned to marrying a young woman he doesn't love (who considers him a brother) to a salty, secret cat-loving man enthralled with a woman who crashes into his life with adventure, laughter, and chaos. He's one of the good guys, as illustrated by how he handles the dismantling of the unwanted betrothal and the wellbeing of his betrothed.

Constance is a complex character with what today would be termed ADHD who Bennett (also with ADHD) brings to life with authenticity and care, showing the numerous ways in which her daily life is impacted by it. The details make her a relatable character with whom it is easy to relate, even if the reader has no personal experience with the disorder. I adored her, her family relationships, and, especially, her evolving relationship with Oliver. 

These two had me cheering them on the entire way - even as I had no idea how they would end up together - but Bennett had one more ingenious idea up her sleeve that brought about two happy endings and one totally outsmarted villain. I do so love it when a plan comes together. 

My Best Friend's Earl can be read as a standalone but I enjoyed it much more for having read Good Duke Gone Wild first. I think reading the books in order gives readers a deeper look into Constance, in particular, and a better understanding of her character. Both books have my enthusiastic recommendation.