The Russians are coming! The Russians are coming! Actually no - they're here -- well in a little town in Minnesota called Coots Lake. This should give you a little insight into a fabulous, sexy, international crime story with lots of humor thrown in just for fun. I truly enjoy finding an author that has escaped my attention. ONCE AND ALWAYS opened my eyes to Elizabeth Hoyt written as Julia Harper in an engaging run for your life romp through a cold, snowy, frigid town that has its very own connection to the Russian Mafia. Elizabeth Hoyt is well known for her historical romances and ONCE AND ALWAYS is her wonderful foray into contemporary sensual romances.

It seems that Maisa Bradley's uncle has settled in this small community. Not that he is mister social but Coots Lake kind of provides a cloak to hide behind. Sure everyone knows him but talk of the town is that there is something about George that is perhaps better left unsaid. But all good secrets come out and when some Russians come to visit there is going to be hell to pay.

Small town cop Sam West wants to stay just that -- a cop with limited responsibilities most especially in the field of leadership. Been there, done that in Afghanistan and he hasn't been able to put those memories behind him. Sam loves his job and little town. He is determined to keep his little hamlet safe. But no one ever expected a Russian Mafia chief with a very violent reputation to come to this little part of the world.

Maisa has been coming to Coots Lake monthly to visit her uncle and after one small indiscretion with Sam has done her best to stay out of his way. But Sam has Maisa in his sights. She has captured his attention and perhaps even a bit more even though no one would ever put them together as a couple. And that doesn't bother Sam one bit. He is totally not concerned with being conventional -- not when it comes to this attraction that is new and special.

Of course it all comes down to a matter of trust which is not one of Maisa's strong suits. Maisa has always thought that because of her family's dubious ties to the Russian mafia her choices are limited. But Sam doesn't seem to care about her family -- he cares about her. Maisa is used to running away from emotional commitments but Sam seems to be right on her tail. If he has to Sam is going to give Maisa the chase of her life. No matter how fast or far -- this cop is on the job.

If you are looking for a great summer, beach, vacation read ONCE AND ALWAYS by Elizabeth Hoyt/Julia Harper should be at the top of your list. So much sassiness, sexiness, mixed in with fabulously humorous dialog and unforgettable characters make ONCE AND ALWAYS a winner. Might want to bring along a fan -- some of the pages are scorching hot.