BELIEVE is Book three in this author's True Believers series. I always look forward to books in this series. The characters are always so well-developed, the dialogue is witty and rings true, and the sexiness is always there. The series follows the life and loves of the Mann brothers. They have been knocked around quite a bit in life. However, in spite of everything they've been through, their commitment and loyalty to each other never waivers.

The hero of BELIEVE -- Phoenix -- is a cousin of the Mann siblings. He is currently staying with them after doing a five month stint in jail. Phoenix is not a bad guy. He was protecting a loved one, but just happened to land on the wrong side of the law while doing it. It's while at his cousins' house that he is introduced to Robin. She is good friends with his cousins' girlfriends.

In spite of their very different family backgrounds, they end up being a perfect match. They are both at a point in their lives when neither of them feels particularly good about themselves. Phoenix feels bad about having been to jail and Robin deeply regrets her actions during one alcohol-fueled evening. They both need a friend to confide in.

I really liked how the two were able to talk and connect on a friendship level before they became intimate physically. I love how organic their relationship began. They both feel free to be themselves around each other without worrying about being judged. They encourage and support each other in a very positive and healthy way. Phoenix supports Robin's choice to be alcohol-free. He was already drug and alcohol free before meeting her. It's a sensitive issue for him because of his mother and aunt's addictions.

There is a lot of sexiness in BELIEVE, but I love the completely adorable way Phoenix obsesses over Robin. Like with the other books in this series, the character-driven story has a huge emotional pull. You can't help but care about the characters and what happens to them. Erin McCarthy did a great job of balancing the drama with the romance and light moments. I eagerly await the next book in this series.