Once burned twice shy. The expression never gets old and so frequently describes the issue quite perfectly, as in the case of SUMMER NIGHTS WITH THE MAVERICK by Christine Rimmer. The two lead characters have suffered at the hands of love and romance. Now both Everlee and Wes are kind of circling each other. Leery as all get-go, but with this gnawing attraction that is simmering.

What’s a guy to do. Wes knows this attraction to Evy is ill-advised. Heck, she has a four-year-old daughter. And Wes, well he is known for being light on commitment. Fun guy meets gal with responsibility. Not much in common here. But when lightning strikes there isn’t usually a plan.

Evy was torn between following her heart and head. With Lola to consider Evy didn’t have the luxury of spending time with a happy-go-lucky guy like Wes. The only man in Lola’s life, thus far, was Evy’s dad. But she could see how fast and easily Lola was becoming fond of Wes.

So just how wrong would it be to have some fun. Both Evy and Wes seem to be at the same place in their lives. Neither looking for commitment nor relationship, just having a good time with someone they like. Reluctant to engage their heart. If they can keep that goal, it would be so nice to have such a wonderful friend.

Sometimes you have to take a chance. People change, lives alter, friendships can evolve. Why turn your back on having a good man in your life. Even if it’s temporary. Even if it’s not happily ever after. Evy is too smart and grounded to wish for that right now.

Christine Rimmer brings an earthy real feeling to her stories. A true sense of reality when it comes to developing relationships between her characters. Her characters remain true and honest. Christine Rimmer obviously doesn’t suffer fools and therefore neither do her characters. I personally love her inclusion of furry characters. Our four-legged friends certainly become valued, loved members of the family. And let’s not forget the importance of children. Lola is a perfect concoction of warmth and silliness. When Lola totes her library books with her, for a piece of quiet, well that made me laugh out loud. SUMMER NIGHTS WITH THE MAVERICK is about following your heart after listening to your mind and acknowledging your strengths. All three need to be engaged. And they are in SUMMER NIGHTS WITH THE MAVERICK.