After missing out on a long over due promotion; being dumped by her longtime boyfriend; and losing her dignity by confiding in a stranger she meets in an elevator, what else could happen to a retiring, nondescript middle management non-profit worker?

How about receiving an invitation to join the Black Stockings Society?

That's exactly what happens to Mary Reyland. And her life is never the same. As with a world-class amusement park ride, the dips and twirls keep coming in Dara Girard's POWER PLAY, fast and unexpectedly, even though one should know better once he or she straps in for the ride.

Ms. Girard weaves a fine tale of two characters, each of whom appear emotionally buttoned up, if for very different reasons. Mary, unaccustomed to taking control, does just that while Edmund Davis, used to be in charge, has to relinquish the reins.

POWER PLAY is a quick yet endearing romantic read. And the best part might be what's not in the story, i.e. the answers to all the questions planted about the Black Stockings Society. Readers who enjoy this book will be sure to keep reading this new series in order to get them.