ALL IT TAKES is the second book in Kristen Proby’s “Romancing Manhattan” series. Quinn Cavanaugh and Sienna Hendricks are lawyers that are on opposite sides of a legal battle after her grandfather dies and an item in his will is disputed. Happily for me, this was never really an enemies-to-lovers romance, as I thought it might be. Although Quinn and Sienna are technically on opposite sides, once the judge orders them to work together within the first few chapters of this book, they quickly give in to the attraction they feel. In ALL IT TAKES, NYC is a glittering sophisticated playground and a perfect place to fall in love.

There are so many things to adore about ALL IT TAKES. I love the way Quinn and Sienna grow to genuinely care about each other as they work together on their legal case. The chemistry and fun rapport between these two main characters makes this romance so sublime. I also go crazy over a story in which the hero pursues the heroine, and Quinn is the perfect combination of sweet, smart, and sexy. I like how Sienna is principled but, at the end of the day, pragmatic and sympathetic. Quinn and Sienna complement each other terrifically and enjoy spending time together just hanging out, as well as enjoying encounters of the more erotic variety. The focus in this story is primarily on the main characters and the romance, but gradually Kristen Proby injects a little bit of unease which gives the reader a definite sense of foreboding. In ALL IT TAKES, family is a huge source of conflict for this couple, as well as a valuable support system. Initially Sienna is unexpectedly intimidated by Quinn’s wealth, but he reassures her that money may be something he worked hard for over the years, but it doesn’t define him as a person. The different family dynamics test this burgeoning relationship, and act as an interesting contrast to liven things up a little.

ALL IT TAKES is a story to swoon over and relish each moment. Kristen Proby always does a stellar job of telling a character-driven story, and ALL IT TAKES is yet another perfect example. I can’t wait to read the next installment in Kristen Proby’s “Romancing Manhattan” series!