Limecello’s review of One Night, Two Babies by Kathie DeNosky
Contemporary romance released by Silhouette Desire on 8 Sep 09
I have to say, I had no interest in this book at first because of the title. I know the author often doesn’t get a say with titles, especially at Harlequin. But, yes, I admit it. I’m a title discriminator. I try not to be, but certain ones, I cannot overlook. Nevertheless, I got One Night, Two Babies because I’d read a previous book by Kathie DeNosky, and enjoyed it very much. Obviously I also choose books based on the author, and a number of other factors. One Night, Two Babies is the second in Ms. DeNosky’s Illegitimate Heirs series. The first in the series is actually Bossman Billionaire, which is also part of Silhouette Desire’s Man of the Month line.
Arielle Garnier is a likable and interesting heroine. She’s got a special spin in that Arielle experiences her Cinderella story before the book begins. She’s discovered she’s an heiress, and is making changes in her life. I like that Arielle is steady in her character, and does her best to be reasonable, and rational. She’s determined to learn from her lessons – Zachary has burned her before, and she’s determined to not let him do it again. At the same time, Arielle doesn’t let her pride or stubbornness sabotage her chances at happiness. I like that she’s her own person and generally remains strong and true to herself.
Zach Forsythe is a charmer, and an entertaining hero. He’s a bit entitled, but I suppose his life and circumstances make it allowable, if not necessary. Zach pretty much always gets his way, and with good reason. If people aren’t willing to cater to him, he’ll make things happen. Zach has a fun, slightly wicked sense of humor. I like that Zach has a number of his own issues to deal with throughout the book, and that Ms. DeNosky details his emotional growth.
The interaction between Arielle and Zach is perfectly pitched. Both characters act and react in a very realistic and expected, yet entertaining, manner. I will say things seem just a tad too easy for Zach; but then again, it is a romance, right? Additionally, while the premise of the story is rather fantastic, I enjoyed it very much.
I liked that Arielle and Zach’s initial contact plays a major part throughout the book. It helped lay the foundation for Arielle and Zach’s relationship, but also allowed for insight and necessary depth to each character. The secondary characters were also entertaining, and provided just the right amount of interest needed to move the plot along, not distract from it. However, the baggage that both Zach and Arielle have does get a bit old, as that is the reason for conflict, and dictates so much of how they act, until the happy ending strikes.
Another minor criticism I have, is that while Emerald Larson’s existence makes the story possible, she’s rather extraneous. Nevertheless, that’s a very minor detail. (It’s simply that if I think about it the fact that such a major factor is a rather minor component of the book seems incongruous.) Otherwise, I’m not entirely happy with how easily Arielle gets over being upset with Zach and agreeing to marry him, but that’s a commonplace sentiment for me.
I’m very much enjoying Ms. DeNosky’s books, and definitely plan on reading the last book in this series. I also hope to get my hands on her back list as well. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes the Silhouette Desire category line.
Grade: B-
Summary:
.
Heiress Arielle Garnier was pregnant and the father-to-be was nowhere in sight—until he barged into her office. Zach Forsythe, billionaire resort owner, was the same man she’d had a week-long affair with. How could she trust Zach when he’d lied about his name and left her without a word?
.
He hadn’t forgotten the auburn-haired siren who’d given him seven days of bliss. Though finding her again…expecting his twins…was a surprise. As was her refusal of his marriage proposal. It seemed Arielle wanted love with her wedding ring.
.
Read an excerpt here.
