Wrapped in You

Bennett sets up a formidable array of obstacles for two reunited lovers in this solid contemporary. When Zach Monroe and his brothers are summoned to Sophie Allen’s realty office to discuss options for their sister’s estate, Zach is forced to confront demons from his past, including his past relationship with Sophie. Zach’s guilt when he sees Sophie’s limp is aggravated by frustration and anger as he argues with his brothers and local officials, hoping to maintain ownership of his sister’s property in Haven, Ga., and make her dream come true. But Zach’s real battle is against his charged emotions for Sophie, which are fanned by her own still-smoldering attraction to him. He believes that if he succumbs to his decade-long desire for her, he’ll further tarnish her life The narrative is heavy-handed at times, reiterating obstacles rather than letting them come up naturally in dialogue and action, but shifting perspectives and plot developments keep the pace flowing steadily. Bennett also effectively creates heat between Zach and Sophie with sensual but non-explicit descriptions. Agent: Elaine Spencer, Knight Agency. (Apr.)