The Love Connection

A pet groomer and a risk assessor turned romance novelist take an apprehensive approach to love in this laugh-out-loud novella from Williams (The Fastest Way to Fall). Olivia Wright took a risk opening her pet grooming service in Atlanta’s airport, catering to pet owners on layovers, but she’s unwilling to take similar risks for love. Watching frequent flyer Bennett Baker from afar is all the romance Olivia’s willing to indulge in for fear of being hurt. Then Pepper, a dog client, breaks loose in the middle of a bath and Bennett captures her, forcing Olivia to finally talk to him. Bennett’s been struggling with writer’s block, but meeting Olivia inspires him, and they come to a mutual agreement: whenever Bennett is in town, Olivia will act as Bennett’s muse so he can complete his novel, and she’ll get to practice dating without commitment. Of course, their whirlwind of romantic dates leads to real feelings, but the shaky foundation of their relationship, their conflicting work schedules, and Olivia’s insecurities may threaten their romance before it can begin. With both heat and humor, this sweet rom-com uses its tentative heroine to ask what one should be willing to put on the line for love. Agent: Sharon Pelletier, Dystel, Goderich & Bourret. (May)