Season of Wonder

Veterinarian Dani Capelli, the heroine of Thayne’s sweet holiday romp, is a former foster child who ended up marrying a career criminal. Understandably, this has left her cynical about life, men, and especially police officers. Haven Point deputy Ruben Morales, her next-door neighbor and the son of her mentor, was raised in a loving family in the small town, so he doesn’t know what to make of Dani and her aloof behavior. But his fierce attraction to her makes him want to uncover her secrets, something Dani is determined not to let happen. Ruben turns to winning over her daughters, 13-year-old Silver and six-year-old Mia. When Silver gets in trouble with the law, Ruben steps in and Dani ends up spending a lot of time with the firm but gentle deputy; when his fun-loving family is thrown into the mix, Dani’s walls start to crumble. There’s not much alone time for Dani and Ruben prior to their confessions of love, and it’s hard to see why he keeps chasing someone who constantly rebuffs him, but the anticipation of their union will win fans over. Agent: Karen Solem, Spencerhill Assoc. (Oct.)