Pleasant but forgettable

Julie James is an author I always enjoy, but never rave about.  I picked this one up on sale a while ago, and it probably would have languished on my TBR longer, but Ms. James was speaking at a local bookshop, so I wanted a fresh book in my mind.  By the time I’m writing this review, it’s been a couple of weeks since I finished the book and I know why I never rave – the book was totally enjoyable AND completely forgettable.

This is part of her FBI/US Attorney series, and I read it out of order.  I am told that the hero, Vaughan Roberts, an FBI agent, makes an appearance in earlier books and was sequel bait.  Vaughan takes his work seriously and his relationships not so much.  He’s very confident in his abilities and appeal, but easy going enough that he’s still likeable as a character.  He sees Sidney Sinclair in a coffee shop as a date goes badly for her, and then decides to go and ask her out himself.  Sidney rebuffs him because she knows his type (and she’s not at all wrong about her assessment).  She has just recently started dating again after breaking up with a cheating fiance, and she wants someone who wants a serious relationship.  They part ways only to meet up again half an hour later as they learn that Sidney’s sister is now engaged to Vaughan’s brother.  They spend a lot of time together as they help their siblings plan the wedding.

There is not a lot of story here.  Vaughan and Sidney deeply dislike each other while also being physically attracted to each other.  They have to spend time together planning the wedding.  They snipe at each other and then kiss.  Sidney decides to have a little fun for a bit, not expecting anything of Vaughan.  Vaughan finds himself in the line of fire at work and decides maybe he is ready for something serious.  That’s about it.  But, they have great chemistry along the way, and I was in the mood for some easy reading.  This book hit the spot.

So, Beth Ellen and I did go and hear her speak and meet Ms. James, and she was utterly lovely and gracious.  I have three more of her books lined up, so those reviews will be forthcoming.  I expect the same of all of them – nothing wildly amazing, but an enjoyable few hours nonetheless.