In the Cards

Beck’s contemporary romance debut travels well-worn paths, but it’s infused with enough fresh detail to keep the reader engaged. Levi Hardy and Lindsey Hilliard first meet at a Florida resort, where older Levi embarrasses teenage Lindsey by refusing to serve her alcohol and questioning much of what she takes for granted. When they meet again seven years later as neighbors in Malibu, Lindsey has left her sheltered New York home in search of meaning and happiness, while freewheeling Levi is entirely content with his emotionally detached lifestyle. A car accident forces Levi to rely on his new neighbor, and they find that, despite their wildly divergent backgrounds, they have many things to learn from—and love about—each other. Many of the characters, particularly those in supporting roles, are more archetypes than people, but Lindsey and Levi are written with tremendous affection. Between the sweetness of the relationship and the summery beach setting, romance fans will find this a warming winter read. (Dec.)