Calling on Quinn

Starred review from November 18, 2019
Saffire (Doctor Feel Good) opens her Blackhart Brothers’ series with this unputdownable interracial romance. The four close-knit, Irish Blackhart brothers run a private investigation and security firm. After their sister, Erin, and her husband, Cal, are the targets of a shooting, the brothers set out to find the culprit. Eldest brother Quinn’s investigation leads him to Alicia Rhodes, his niece’s African-American driving instructor, and his instant attraction to her threatens to distract him entirely from his mission. Alicia is still recovering from an emotionally abusive relationship, and despite Quinn’s good looks and swoon-worthy accent, she’s determined to resist his charm, even as Quinn desperately tries to woo her. When Alicia’s friendship with Erin puts Alicia in danger, the Blackhart brothers must band together to protect both women against the mysterious criminals still pursuing Erin. Quinn and Alicia’s cultural differences are just as well rendered as their sizzling chemistry, and Quinn’s feisty family and Alicia’s loyal roommates add depth and charm. A cliff-hanger ending, thrilling action, and plenty of heat are sure to have readers hooked. Agent: Jill Marsal, Marsal Lyon Literary.

January 1, 2020

A year has passed since Alicia Rhodes's bad breakup, and she still feels unsure about romance. But when she meets the uncle of one of her students, she finds herself reconsidering. PI Quinn Blackhart likes to be in control and fiercely protects his loved ones. After a case threatens his family, he has to find a way to keep everyone safe, including Alicia. From the author of the "Brothers Black" series, this first in a new series seems to swing between contemporary romance and romantic suspense with tonal shifts between very serious and lighthearted. Quinn is almost instantly possessive of Alicia after their first meeting, and there are moments where Alicia seems to push back against his lack of respect for her boundaries. Yet her attraction to him manages to outweigh very valid concerns about his behavior. VERDICT Fans of romances featuring possessive alpha heroes may be the right audience for this one.--Amanda Turk, Corvallis-Benton Cty. P.L., OR

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