Caught in a FAB Romance (@TheLoveJunkee)

Keely McKay is the youngest child and only daughter in a family of boys. She knows she’s loved, but sometimes she feels…suffocated. Known as the resident “wild child”, she’s got a secret – she recently bought an old building and is planning to renovate it and start a physical therapy clinic. She’s been working for other doctors, but wants a place that’s all her own. Now, the only thing standing in her way is the approval of the local historical board.Jack Donohue has worked hard at building his career, and has had to overcome personal and professional tragedy, but a new project he’s bidding for will finally turn things around. The only problem is that they’re a company with “traditional” values and are looking for someone who is married.Jack and Keely have spent years arguing back and forth and driving each other crazy. The one time they almost got together ended…badly. But they both have something the other needs; can they put aside their differences for a few short weeks to achieve their goals?__________________First, a confession: I am one of those people who has to read a series in order. It drives me nuts to flit around randomly in a series. Lorelei James’ Rough Riders series is an exception to that rule. I don’t know why, but I haven’t been able to manage to read this series in order. Basically, what this means is that I’m not up on all the characters and their histories.I loved Keely and Jack! These two both had strong personalities and when they got together it was like trying to mix oil and water, which we all know is impossible – until you add a third ingredient (in this case, sex. Hot, hot sex.). (Okay, that’s enough science today, lol) There is a history between them that is hinted at, but we don’t find out until later in the story why Keely is so mad at Jack. One of the things I loved about the story is that as we read along, Keely and Jack uncover little bits about each other and they begin to view each other in a different light and a genuine relationship develops. That’s not to say there aren’t any bumps, or that their personalities don’t clash, because they do:“Aw. And I so give a flying fuck what kind of bad day you’ve had when I’ve been here alone for the last three goddamn days, fielding questions about our supposed relationship.”“For Christsake, it wasn’t like I was on vacation. I’ve been in Iowa. In cornfield hell.”“Did you say you got cornholed in Iowa?”Jack actually growled.She grinned. Keely one; Jack zero. (page 85)The dichotomy between Keely’s folksy, country lifestyle and Jack’s driven, professional one was interesting to read. Keely certainly had her hands full trying to mingle in Jack’s world, and Jack had quite a few “WTF” moments dealing with Keely’s people. The way these two characters support each other without losing themselves is a trick not all authors can accomplish, but Ms. James does it well. I’ve read about five of the Rough Riders books, and I have to say, this one is my favorite so far.