Flora’s Wish

Fans of post-Civil War stories set in the South will find much to enjoy in Y’Barbo’s first in the Secret Lives of Will Tucker series. “Fatal Flora,” called such because of the deaths of four of her fiancés, is eager to marry Will Tucker when she meets up with him in Eureka Springs, Ark. Instead she discovers Lucas McMinn, a Pinkerton agent also searching for Tucker. Their initial meeting results in Flora Brimm of the Natchez Brimms in handcuffs and trying to explain to her proper and formidable grandmother what’s going on. Flora and Lucas seem destined to work together on the case, with Lucas vowing Tucker is guilty and Flora saying he isn’t. As they get to know each other, Lucas discovers Flora is more than a spoiled Southern belle and she discovers Lucas is more than a stubborn Pinkerton. But will Flora marry Tucker to save her inheritance? Historical romance fans will adore this charming story. Agent: Wendy Lawton, Books & Such Literary Agency. (Feb.)