cover image Beauty and the Wiener: Rescue Dog Romance, Book 2

Beauty and the Wiener: Rescue Dog Romance, Book 2

Casey Griffin. St. Martin’s, $7.99 mass market (400p) ISBN 978-1-250-08468-2

Griffin’s fun sequel to Must Love Wieners is a screwball contemporary romance with detective filling that fans of cozy mystery might also enjoy. Quirky secondary characters and their dogs contribute to the intimate small-town atmosphere of the San Francisco dog show world. A case of dognapping threatens to destroy the business of canine stylist Addison Turner, catapulting her into amateur investigation and bantering, flirtatious encounters with insightful bartender Felix Vaughn. When Felix also becomes a suspect, the case grows more urgent for both. Addison must juggle attraction to Felix with her considerable fears of financial failure and romantic commitment as they work together to solve the mystery. Past tragedy leaves Addison unwilling to trust in Felix’s honest, frequently stated admiration for her; she sees rivals at every turn and struggles to communicate honestly. A high-stakes final confrontation resolves into a heartwarming conclusion. Agent: Pooja Menon, Kimberley Cameron & Associates. (Feb.)