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LONG DISTANT LOVER - Donna Hill Harlequin Kimani/Arabesque June 2006 |
SYNOPSIS: World-class sprinter Jacqueline Maxwell doesn't have time for romance. But when an injury and a doping scandal nearly destroy her career, she turns to the one man who can clear her of the charges--her former coach who is the only man she's ever loved.
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE: |4| Susan Plummer
REVIEW: National bestselling author DONNA HILL definitely delivers in her latest novel LONG DISTANT LOVER. Forever a devotee of Ms. Hill’s work I was immediately caught up in this remarkable love story of trials and triumph.
International track star Kelly Maxwell suffers what could be a
career-ending injury. Her trainer David Livingston however, guarantees
with rehabilitation she will compete again. David does not reveal his
feelings for Kelly but guides her career and guards her secrets. Alex
Hutchinson is Kelly’s new physician and despite having just met her, he
has no problem expressing his feelings. As Kelly opens up to Alex and
their mutual attraction blossoms, David’s realizes he is losing his
power over Kelly. David resorts to illegal measures to regain his
control and it becomes clear he is more interested in having her fortune
than her affection. Kelly is up for any challenge on the field but does
she have what it takes to break free of David and win a chance to live
and love Alex freely?
The backdrop of Atlanta and New York provides a colorful setting for
the story and adds to its overall appeal. Atlanta is known for its wide
open spaces and athletic influences and New York the city that never
sleeps is well known for its top notch rehabilitation facilities. As
memorable characters go, I applauded Kelly for facing and overcoming her
numerous obstacles. She had weaknesses but she was not a weak person.
Likewise, Alex had his demons but he did not let them overwhelm him.
Kelly and Alex are two imperfect people but are perfect for each other.
I enjoyed Kelly and Alex’s story and was somewhat sad to let them go at
the end. There is some feeling of pity for David despite his
manipulative ways. He starts with the best of intentions but lost his
focuses along the way. Despite several other colorful characters, I did
not get the sense another novel would rise from the ashes of this story.
I loved the plot progression with each intimation at more than meets the eye then the startling truths which unfold with each page. These clues kept me hooked wanting to see what would happen next. Ms. Hill’s ability to always create fresh perspectives and interesting and engaging characters is what makes her one of my favorite authors.
Once again, cheers to Ms. Hill for a novel well done.
reviewer@romanceincolor.com |25th June 2006