Sandy M’s review of Wrapped Up in You (Heartbreaker Bay, Book 8) by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary Romance published by Avon 24 Sep 19
Jill Shalvis always makes me smile and laugh while reading her books. She also tugs – very forcefully – on my heartstrings, and this story about Ivy and Kel is no different. Two people who have had letdowns (and that’s a mild term for it) find each other, enjoy one another, but are still afraid to let their pasts go, even for a wonderful future.
Ivy has been in San Francisco for a while now, hanging out with the heroines of previous books. So we know her a bit, but as we learn about her childhood and how she’s never been able to light in one place all her life until now, you’re sure to root for Kel to sweep her away. Of course, he’s got his issues too, one of which is he’s only visiting his cousin Spence and is due to head home in a few weeks. He’d like a good time with Ivy, but long-term just isn’t for him after his last relationship.
But as these two are put in each other’s path, from casual get-togethers with friends Ivy never thought she’d have to Kel helping her out when her taco truck is broken into, their chemistry is palpable. They, of course, don’t see it, but you and their friends feel it every time they’re on the page together. There are some terrific scenes as they share their inner turmoil with each other, building each other up as they go along, just as you know it would work for them if they’d only give love a chance.
I really like Ivy’s realization that family of the heart is sometimes, and definitely in her case, more reliable than blood. Kel’s trust is the one thing he can’t give, but when it comes to Ivy, it’s almost like he has no choice. These two are fun and charming, and when you add in all the previous characters from the series who have their own fun and charm, Ms. Shalvis has once again given readers the perfect story of love and friendship.
Grade: A
Summary:
It’s love. Trust me.
After a lifetime on the move, Ivy Snow is an expert in all things temporary—schools, friends, and way too many Mr. Wrongs. Now that she owns a successful taco truck in San Francisco and an apartment to call home, Ivy’s reinvented life is on solid ground. And she’s guarded against anything that can rock it. Like the realities of a past she’s worked hard to cover up. And especially Kel O’Donnell. Too hot not to set off alarms, he screams temporary. If only his whispers weren’t so delightfully naughty and irresistible.
Kel, an Idaho sheriff and ranch owner, is on vacay, but Ivy’s a spicy reason to give his short-term plans a second thought. Best of all, she’s a tonic for his untrusting heart, burned once and still in repair. But when Ivy’s past intrudes on a perfect romance, Kel fears that everything she’s told him has been a perfect lie. Now, if only Ivy’s willing to share, Kel will fight for a true love story.
No excerpt available.
