MAKE IT SWEET is a standalone novel by Kristen Callihan, but it includes a wedding with the main characters from a previous book – DEAR ENEMY. Actress Emma Maron – known mostly to her fans as Princess Anya on the TV show Dark Castle – is looking for a soft place to glad after finding out her role is getting cut and her boyfriend was cheating on her. Surprisingly, of the two blows, losing her longtime acting gig hurt worse. Likewise, former pro hockey ace Lucian Osmond has been recuperating at his beloved grandmother’s somewhat isolated yet extremely beautiful California estate. Rosemont has become Lucian refuge after getting one too many concussions and is taking a time out to recover and recalibrate his life. As I started reading MAKE IT SWEET, it seemed like a spin on the classic film ENCHANTED APRIL – but without the nauseating makeups with jerk spouses. With her contemporary romances, Kristen Callihan does a superb job of fleshing out characters and making the reader empathize with her characters and MAKE IT SWEET is no exception.

In a slow “getting-to-know-you” phase, Lucian and Emma come to realize how much they have in common. Both were at high points in their careers when they were knocked down. At the same time their careers had a downturn, their personal lives took an unexpected hit. While Emma caught her ex cheating, Lucian’s ex dumped him when his career wasn’t on the fast track anymore because of his injuries. Rather than be bitter over those personal losses, it had the effect of making them a bit more introspective and makes them appreciate genuine affection when they eventually find it with each other. Thankfully, this story is told from alternating perspectives since the main characters are slow to reveal their true feelings. While it’s obvious they are both physically attracted to each other, Lucian and Emma keep their deeper feelings closer to their vests. The flirtation and sexual tension is terrific and Lucian’s baking skills are one more thing that make him such a hottie.

MAKE IT SWEET has lush settings, authentic characters, and a transfixing romance. There’s a tiny bit of angst in this story, but not enough to be obnoxious or take away from the engaging romance. There’s just enough drama to keep you on tenterhooks for a few minutes but it’s mixed in with amusing dialogue and steamy scenes for a well-balanced novel. I wouldn’t mind reading about Lucian’s friend or sister in the future, or Emma’s buddy. I love Kristen Callihan’s books and eagerly await her next one.