review: Able-Bodied by Karen Foley

I've drifted away from Harlequin titles. I remember fondly the days when I would look forward to the new month's releases, and devoured stories by favorite authors Nora Roberts, Barbara Delinsky, Vicki Lewis Thompson and Janelle Denison. Since then, I found the storylines were becoming increasingly incredulous and the sexy scenes not particularly sensual. Yes, I know Harlequins can be considered quick, lighter reads but I still wanted a thoughtful romantic story that would stay with me. I recently came across a Harlequin Blaze by Karen Foley. Here's the back cover description:

Subject: Ransom Bennett, Delta Force Operator

Current status: Injured but still hot-blooded!

Mission: Regain crack military reflexes. Prove he's ready for active duty.

Obstacle: Hannah Hartwell. Fascinating. Tantalizing. His new neighbor.

All Ransom wants is to get healthy enough to return to the field. But sexy Hannah is testing his composure. The woman is under his skin...but she's also fleeing a shady past. Damn! Hasn't he learned not to play with fire?

Still, Ransom can't help exposing her secrets...and a lot more! Then it's on to his post-injury mission. The highly clandestine operation will involve delicate negotiations, complex maneuvers and fiery explosions.

And that's just in Hannah's bed!

Actually, if I had gone with my reaction to this synopsis, I may not have read further past the cover pages. It all sounded a bit too frivolous to be a good read. I'm glad I moved past my first impression. I found Able-Bodied a very satisfying and enjoyable story. There were interesting details of Hannah's work as a Reiki/holistic healing practioner (although the power of her skills may stretch some readers' believability scales). There is a sufficiently threatening and unpleasant character in Hannah's past who keeps the story moving, providing the fuel for Ransom and Hannah to share and trust each other, and the opportunity for the hero to get into action to save his lady!

This is a Blaze title I definitely recommend: Ransom and Hannah have such great chemistry, and their interactions are deliciously sensual and delighfully tender and sweet. A very lovely romantic read. Thanks Ms. Foley.