Sandy M’s review of Still the One (Animal Magnetism, Book 6) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Berkley 07 Apr 15
Another series I’m a bit behind on, but when it’s Jill Shalvis, well, suffice it to say it doesn’t matter when you read any of her books, you’ll have the best time with her characters and you won’t put the book down until you’ve read it completely. Her Animal Magnetism is one of my favorite series, and it’s always fun revisiting Sunshine, Idaho.
Darcy and AJ are typical Shalvis characters – charming and likable to the bone. Darcy still has some chronic residual effects from a near-fatal car accident. AJ was her physical therapist, and he knows how to push a patient for maximum effect. Darcy still has issues over perceived rejections in her past, including from that sexy physical therapist. AJ has his own issues when it comes to love, a breakup bad enough to make any guy skittish. Darcy will do anything for the funds necessary for her service dogs. AJ is the one who can help with those funds. She just has to pretend they’re together and getting married. Don’t think for a minute AJ will have it easy during this little jaunt. He’s as knee-deep into feelings as Darcy is.
Because of their issues, both are prickly pears about life, but mostly to each other. Even as things get better between them along the way, it’s the little things that pop up that keep it interesting before any lovin’ happens. But it’s fun, fun, fun in the meantime. Then there’s the animals that are always present in this series. Ms. Shalvis has a terrific knack for writing wonderful scenes between human and animal. We also get caught up with a few of the previous characters in the series, all as lovable as ever.
Usually by Book 6 in a series, I’m beginning to have my doubts I’ll continue because things have gotten stale. Hasn’t happened in this series yet, and I doubt it ever will. In fact, I doubt Jill Shalvis could even write a stale character or story line. Just isn’t in her DNA.
Grade: A
Summary:
Darcy Stone is game for anything—except sexy Navy vet and physical therapist AJ Colten, the guy who’d rejected her when she’d needed him most. Now the shoe is on the other foot and he needs her to play nice and help him secure grants for his patients. Unfortunately Darcy can’t refuse. She needs the money to fund her passion project: rescuing S&R dogs and placing them with emotionally wounded soldiers.
AJ admits it—Darcy is irresistible. But he’s already been battle-scarred by a strong-willed, vivacious, adventurous woman like Darcy, and he’s not making the same mistake twice—until he and Darcy are forced to fake a relationship. Growing closer than they’d ever imagined possible, Darcy and AJ have to ask themselves: how much between them is pretend? What’s the real thing? And where does it go from here?
Read an excerpt.
Other books in this series:
