Limecello’s review of Under the Influence by Nancy Warren
Contemporary romance released by Harlequin Blaze on 1 Feb 09

I have really enjoyed Nancy Warren’s books, so I knew I wanted to read Under the Influence. While I was a bit leery of the story line, I felt that it was very well written, and I was pleasantly surprised. (Romances in the resort setting with the straight laced heroine finally letting go can oftentimes be really hokey.) Not surprising, actually, considering the previous books I’ve read by Ms. Warren. I also loved that each chapter had a different drink recipe. I even tried two out, and both were very good.

I actually liked Natalie Fanshaw a lot more than I thought I would. Faint praise, it seems, but that’s not so. She’s quite likable and human, but is quite stiff in the beginning. I think the fact that she’s so not personable is supposed to help highlight the transformation Natalie undergoes throughout the book. She begins as a really uptight workaholic – one so involved with her job that she never takes a break, and doesn’t even realize it is Valentines Day.

Nevertheless, once Natalie decides to let loose and live a little while on location, she becomes much more personable. I like that she was so sensible, and didn’t expect more than was reasonable from Johnny, or her situation. I also felt that her concern with Johnny’s lifestyle was realistic, and a valid concern. I liked how that is a genuine concern people have, and one that Natalie had to deal with as well. And I even understand why it was kept a “secret” for so long. I don’t think Natalie is at all mercenary, she just honestly wants everyone to be the best that he or she can be.

Johnny Santini, aka “Hot Johnny” is a fantastic character. He appears to be very static, or appears to be at first glance, but Johnny is a perfect example of “still waters run deep.” Johnny is happy with his life, he’s satisfied with what he’s got, and isn’t very much into material things. While it seems that Johnny is adrift with no future as a 30-something year old bar tender, that’s not the case. He simply doesn’t think his job, or belongings, define who he is, and that’s very refreshing in today’s world, but especially in a romance where the tycoon hero is king.

I liked that Johnny was a casual guy through and through – even including how he treated his interpersonal relationships. It was nice, however, to see him change throughout the book, as that was the basis of Johnny and Natalie’s relationship. While Johnny has never lacked for female companionship, he’s not someone who is always looking to score, or acts smarmy – he’s genuinely likable, and liked by everyone.

I thought it was very interesting that Ms. Warren put Natalie and Johnny together originally as a one night stand. One that didn’t actually happen, but both characters had been planning on just one night, and didn’t expect any real interaction after it. Considering Natalie’s personality, I felt that Ms. Warren was very true to her characters by having Natalie back off. The way Natalie and Johnny’s relationship develops is very natural, and realistic. Of course, it’s also fun as the setting is a resort and both of them find ample time to play.

I really liked how Natalie was the power player, as the character with the high power, successful career. It was nice that Natalie had a life of her own, and didn’t need Johnny. She also didn’t need him to take care of her. I also felt it was very important that each character was willing to move for the other, and change his or her lifestyle. While not something outrageous, both Johnny and Natalie made a “grand gesture” to the other, declaring their intentions and love for the other person. I also really liked that when it was revealed that Johnny had a lot of money, it didn’t become some outrageous conflict.

This is a really cute story that’s a fast read with interesting characters. It also had a great secondary romance, and I’m quite happy that I bought it. I wasn’t blown away by the book, but I think it’s a perfect “fun read” for a sunny afternoon, or when you’re looking for a good story that you can relax to. Nothing was too intense in this book, the characters are well written and enjoyable – nothing over the top in terms of drama, yet all still very interesting. I definitely recommend this book to all of Ms. Warren’s fans, as well as those of you who like books from the Harlequin Blaze line. And while you’re at it, try one or two of the drinks listed in the book. 😉

Grade: B

Summary:
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Sexy bartender Johnny Santini mixes one wicked martini. Or so efficiency expert Natalie Fanshaw discovers when she takes a seat at his beachfront bar one lonely night. It’s Valentine’s Day, and they’re the only single people in the heart-strewn place!
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Natalie knows she spends too much time with her spreadsheets—she’s forgotten what it’s like to be between the sheets. Johnny is such a charmer, mixing his signature cocktails while making her feel s-o-o-o very special. And when he asks her to help him create a fab new drink for the town’s upcoming martini contest, Natalie can’t say no.
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A fantasy fling with Johnny could be a recipe for disaster. But hey, she could always claim to be under the influence!
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Read an excerpt (scroll down).