Limecello’s review of Layover by Megan Hart
Contemporary erotic romance short story eBook released by Harlequin Spice Briefs on 1 Dec 08

I read some Harlequin Spice books, but mostly I mean I read Megan Hart’s writing. (Well, and a few others, but she’s my target Spice author.) If you haven’t read anything by Ms. Hart, you have to. I recommend Dirty, Broken, or Tempted. But now, I have something else to recommend. I’ve said it before, and I mean it now. This is my favorite story by Megan Hart.

I was excited about Layover when I first heard about it a few months ago. I’ve had a few hit or miss experiences with Spice briefs, but I know Ms. Hart is a great writer, so I was expecting something good.

I’m not disappointed.

Julia Radman is quite likeable. She’s a bit aloof but personable at the same time. What I love about Ms. Hart’s writing is that she doesn’t say much, while saying everything at same time. The words, setting, and characterizations hold subtle nuances and descriptions that convey so much more than the simple definitions. Ms. Hart gives the reader a satisfying amount of information, but doesn’t create a sense that she’s pandering to you. I also like that oftentimes, Ms. Hart pushes the reader’s comfort zones, without becoming vulgar or sensationalist.

The initial male character is quite comical – and I can definitely sympathize with the opening, having spent no less than ten hours in various airports (not planes) a few weeks ago. It was nice to read a Spice brief where the author takes times to create a setting and develop characters. Now the hero, Graham Tremaine, is fantastic. He’s sweet, smart, strong, and sexy. He’s also the type of guy every woman wants. (And Texan. Hook ‘em Horns 😉 .)

Layover has real plot, as well as a genuine emotional connection between the characters. Ms. Hart does quite well with this short story. There are a few perfect one-liners, but I won’t quote them here. I want you to read them for yourself in context.

This story was hot and sexy, as well as engaging. And cute. It’s sweet, but not saccharine. I felt warm and fuzzy and happy – and impressed all at the same time. I don’t say these words often – but go buy this spice brief. Now.

Grade: A+

Summary:

The first time she’d met him, he’d been blindfolded and at her mercy. Partnered in a trust exercise, Graham had been enticed by the allure of Julia’s voice, and eagerly followed her direction to navigate a maze. But as a warm friendship developed between them, their mutual attraction remained unacknowledged. And in the long-distance e-mail relationship that followed, their reticence persisted. Until the day a cancelled flight stranded Julia in Graham’s home town.

Both tried to play it cool, though each had approached their dinner date with intense anticipation. But the minute they stepped into Julia’s hotel room, the flood gates opened and their unfettered passion exploded. What really excited Julia, though, was that as in the trust exercise, Graham was great at taking direction. Because what really excited Graham was pleasuring Julia as no one else ever had.

Read an excerpt.