Limecello’s review of The Billionaire’s Unexpected Heir by Kathie DeNosky
Contemporary romance published by Silhouette Desire on 13 Oct 2009

Kathie DeNosky is one of my more newly discovered harlequin authors, but she’s quickly becoming a favorite. I look for her Silhouette Desire books, and haven’t been disappointed yet. The Billionaire’s Unexpected Heir is basically the end to the Garnier trilogy, and it is a very satisfying end. There’s enough focus on the hero and heroine and it manages to tie the arc together neatly and close it. Impressive.

Heather McGwire is a great heroine. She’s so very real, and a smart lady too. She knows she’s suspectible to Jake, but holds her own – not stupidly or just to be stubborn, but because she’s trying to learn from her mistakes. I liked how real Heather is, and that she tries to do what is right, not what is easiest.

Jake Garnier is an interesting hero. In some ways I felt that he changed just a little bit too easily. Granted Ms. DeNosky wrote that Jake was starting to feel the need to settle down – but it seemed just a tiny bit too pat for me. Nevertheless it’s clear he’s a good man – and cares for family and friends, he just never considered having a family of his own. The bad example his father left him does help explain some of that, and I did find it reasonable.

I loved the development of an emotional relationship between Jake and Heather. Also the fact that Heather was willing to go toe to toe with him, and wasn’t willing to take any of his crap. I liked that Jake admitted he made mistakes, and admitted it. The fact that Jake acted so maturely did help, and supports his decision and ability to change into a doting family man.

There were these little moments – minor things, but they really helped bring the romance together for me. For example, Jake forces Heather to attend events and parties with him – but more than that, he notices when she’s snubbed by the “upper crust” and doesn’t appreciate it. His awareness and concern for Heather are very endearing.

It seems that all the Garniers had secret babies… but I guess considering their upbringing, they need that major catalyst to kickstart the romance and make them willing to chance a relationship. Also, Jake’s grovelling and declaration of love at the end – they’re really great.

I also loved how the family – the entire extended family was there, pulled together, and arranged a wedding for Heather and Jake. Even more perfectly, the book didn’t end there, but finally allowed Emerald, their “fairy godmother” to have her happy ending as well.

I definitely recommend this book to readers who like Silhouette Desires, Ms. Denosky’s books, and also the other two in this trilogy. I plan on checking on whether or not the original three “Emerald meddles” books are availalbe- I’d love to get my hands on those.

Grade: B-

Becoming the new owner of Hickory Hills Thoroughbred farm was not in billionaire Jake Garnier’s plans. Becoming a father was even more unimaginable. For his new business came with one Heather McGwire, ranch manager…and mother to Jake’s secret child.

After barely surviving his own father’s desertion, Jake knew he couldn’t walk away from his responsibilities. Marriage seemed the only solution. Yet Heather wouldn’t settle for simple sweet talk and seduction. If Jake wanted a real family, he’d have to saddle up for the long ride.

Read an excerpt here. (Yes, there actually is one on the amazon page – just scroll down a bit)