Born to Be Wilde

Since contemporary romance seems a bit like an endangered species these days, I was delighted to get the chance to review Janelle Denison's latest book, Borne to Be Wilde. Denison is a writer I've enjoyed since her category days--her Harlequin Temptation Private Fantasies is still one of my favorites--so this was even more a treat.

Ex-Marine turned security specialist Joel Wilde thrives on the high-wire thrills that come with his job. And he isn't about to give all that up to settle down--not even with a sexy woman like Lora Marshall. Which means that while he's protecting her from a violent gang, he'll need to set a few ground rules to keep things professional. Good thing he's always been a rule-breaker at heart . . .

The last thing Lora needs is a hard-to-resist man with a history of breaking hearts. Before she knows it, though, she's indulging in a sultry tryst with her hot-blooded bodyguard. But the closer she gets to Wilde, the more she wonders if he'll ever be tamed . . .

I have a soft spot for good contemporary romance, and Born to Be Wilde definitely hit the spot: 4.5 out of 5. A little bit romantic suspense, a little bit sweet, and a whole lot steamy, it kept me turning the pages quickly. Though part of a series, this book stands quite well on its own. Denison offers a glimpse of other characters in the series in a way that doesn't overwhelm the story or feel contrived.

Joel and Lora have an immediate chemistry. Joel is more reluctant to get involved, but it's clear his emotions are engaged from the beginning. I liked Lora's reaction to the knowledge that Joel sought her out because of her brother. This issue doesn't become a big misunderstanding. This book offers great character-driven conflict.

As for the romantic suspense, I like the way it plays out. One development is a little too convenient, but I ultimately appreciated the fact that the resolution is different than I expected.

I'm not usually a fan of secondary romances, but the one in this book is wonderfully sweet. It features Lora's friend Sydney and her daughter's math teacher. Daniel is a little too perfect; however, I loved watching him break through Sydney's shell.

If you've been missing contemporary romance as much as I have, you'll want to pick up Janelle Denison's Born to Be Wilde.