Author: Molly O'Keefe
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group (June 26, 2012)
Length: 368 pages
Format: ARC paperback
Source: Goodreads First Reads Program
Description from Goodreads:
A girl from the wrong side of the tracks, Tara Jean Sweet knows that opportunity will never knock; she’ll have to seize it. Elderly Texas rancher Lyle Baker has a dying request: He will give Tara Jean a stake in his leather business in exchange for a little family subterfuge. All Tara Jean has to do is play the part of a gold-digging fiancée to lure Lyle’s estranged children home. The mission is soon accomplished.
Now Lyle’s gone—and his ridiculously handsome son, Luc, an ice hockey superstar sidelined by injuries, is the new owner of Crooked Creek ranch. He’s also Tara Jean’s boss. But being so close to sinfully sweet Tara Jean does crazy things to Luc’s priorities, like make him want to pry her deepest secrets from those irresistible lips. But when Tara Jean’s past demands a dirty showdown, will Luc stay and fight?
My Thoughts:
Molly O'Keefe creates characters whom many readers will connect to. Tara Jean Sweet, the heroine of the story, comes from a troubled past. She has decided to change her ways, but in the process does a complete 180. Tara is afraid to show her true self for fear of rejection and is on the run from her past. Although many of her past actions are extreme readers will be able to sympathize with the regret she feels for having wronged so many people. Luc is a man who needs help. After a horrible and abusive childhood he finally made something of himself only to be told he has to give it up. His character is hard headed and stubborn at times, but it is his way of protecting those he cares about the most.
As for the plot and setting of the story...I loved it. Who wouldn't admire an author who can combine, Canada, Texas, ranching, leather fashion, a sexy hockey player, and a bad girl? The romance/sexual tension in this book is not only HOT, but also believable. This is something I often find missing in many romance novels. Molly O'Keefe adds the perfect combination of action, stumbling blocks, and one dastardly villain who will have readers wanting to punch him in the face sprinkled between the romance. Can't Buy Me Love is more than just a romance novel. This is a book about a woman who comes to terms with the mistakes of her past and learns that even though she made mistakes she is worthy of a future and worthy of being loved.
**I received this book through the Goodreads First Reads program in exchange for my honest review(less)
