The Sweet Spot

JB and Charla Rae Denny’s marriage was already fraying when the accidental death of their young son left them both grieving and disconnected from one another. They divorced while still running their cattle business together, and JB began dating a much younger woman, while Charla Rae developed an addiction to Valium. JB is coming back to Earth after his girlfriend broke up with him, allowing him to realize the foolishness of his escapist ways, and Charla Rae has kicked her habit, focusing on growing their business and caring for her aging father. Sticklers for strong romantic storylines will be disappointed that much of the novel focuses on JB and Charla Rae’s efforts to work through their grief individually while tending to assorted minor subplots. However, the busy plot and large cast keep things moving along, and lovers of Western settings will enjoy debut author Drake’s detailed descriptions of bull riding and cattle ranching. Agent: Nalini Akolekar, Spencerhill Associates. (June)