cover image One Thing I Know

One Thing I Know

Kara Isaac. Howard, $16 trade paper (384p) ISBN 978-1-9821-0335-4

Isaac (Then There Was You) offers romance with a slice of deception in this entertaining story of a relationship expert. Rachel Somers is the ghostwriter (and brains) for her aunt, Dr. Donna Somerville, a bestselling author lauded as the top relationship adviser in America. Rachel has even learned to mimic Donna’s voice so she can impersonate her for radio call-ins. Lucas Grant is a rising radio star. He wants to talk football, but his producer insists he take calls from women who want relationship advice. When Donna wants Rachel to do a “Football and Feelings” tour featuring her (or Rachel’s impersonation of her) and Lucas, he reluctantly participates. As Rachel and Lucas work on the project together and romantic sparks fly, Rachel remains reluctant to get close to anyone due to her secret enterprise. But both have alcoholic fathers and feel connected by their stress over money. Both also feel overwhelmed and begin to reconsider their rejection of God. Despite her best efforts to resist, Rachel falls hard for Lucas and shares her secrets, only to discover he disapproves of her lies. However, with the truth finally in the open, Rachel and Lucas can finally get to know each other without impersonation or deception. Isaac’s tale of redemptive duplicity pleases with realistic characters and a surprising finale. (Feb.)