Stealing Taffy

In this entertaining but too-neat third entry in the Bigler, N.C., contemporary series (following 2012’s I Want Candy), Tanyalee Newberry, aka Taffy, knows that it’s time to make amends. She’s a breathtakingly beautiful southern belle and also a felon on probation and a master manipulator. Returning from a stint in rehab for her compulsive spending, kleptomania, and love addiction, she goes on a mission to seek forgiveness from everyone she’s hurt. Taffy meets Dante Cabrera, a special agent with the DEA, and they spend an anonymous, passionate night together. Dante, who’s trying to get transferred out of Bigler, can’t get Taffy out of his mind. So when they unexpectedly meet again, sparks fly, though they both have their reservations. The plot wraps up a little too easily and some parts feel a bit forced, but a cast of relatable secondary characters, plus some red-hot chemistry and drug cartel intrigue, round out a hopeful and fun tale. Agent: Irene Goodman, Irene Goodman Literary. (Sept.)