Back in Service by Isabel Sharpe is actually a novel about two couples finding love from their pasts. Ms. Sharpe writes from more than one point of view, which kept me on my toes and engrossed in the story. It is somewhat comical to believe that tripping over a stray cat could be a catalyst for bringing a couple together.
Sexy Lieutenant Jameson Cartwright is presently an injured airman. He tripped on a stray cat and tore his ACL. He is depressed, in a lot of pain, walks with a limp, and his career with the US Air Force is now in limbo. Luckily, Jameson’s sister Matty, realizes that her brother needs help working through his suffering, so she hires a grief counselor. The counselor just happens to be a former classmate that Jameson tortured relentlessly during childhood.
Counselor Kendra Lonergan has had much success in her professional life. She is recommended constantly because her unique style of therapy works. Kendra lost her parents tragically two years ago and through the help of a counselor, is now living life to the best of her ability. She uses her experiences to help others. Because Kendra is a kind soul, she reluctantly agrees to help Jameson, overlooking their past, in order to make him whole once again.
Real estate agent and aspiring actress Matty Cartwright was unlucky in love six years ago when she found her boyfriend with another woman, who just happened to be one of her good friends. During that time, because she was young and naive, Matty was unable to accept what had actually happened, so she ended the relationship. She was heartbroken and so was her much older boyfriend and professor, Chris Hamilton. Now after so much time has gone by, they meet again after one of Matty’s stellar performances. And the rest they say is history.
The sexual tension between both couples is off the charts and so is the sex. Kendra is able to help Jameson in addition to forgive him before they become romantically involved. Matty finally realizes the truth and welcomes Chris back with open arms. However, lots of emotional baggage and some obstacles must be worked out for both couples to realize any type of future.
I really enjoyed this book. It is nicely written and the four main characters are real, likeable and interesting. The chemistry sizzles between both couples and their sexual encounters are hot and steamy. I especially liked how the friendship between Kendra and Jameson developed, sans their dysfunctional relationship while growing up. In the end, it is Jameson’s counsel that sets Kendra free.
Book Info:
Publisher: Harlequin (October 22, 2013) | Harlequin Blaze (Book 771)
Subject: Lieutenant Jameson Cartwright
Current Status: Out of commission and totally in lust!
It was the cat’s fault. Otherwise Jameson Cartwright wouldn’t have tripped and ruined not only his knee, but also his newly minted air force career and the Cartwright family pride. Now he’s lying low and miserable until the girl he tormented as a kid comes breezing through his door, looking fresh and sexy. This time, it’s his turn to be exquisitely and thoroughly tortured.
Grief counselor Kendra Lonergan isn’t sure she wants to help the (mouthwateringly hot) guy who once put worms in her sandwich. Still he needs her badly. But it’s not long before professional turns into provocative, and the sexual tension is off the charts. And there is only one way to get this scrumptious airman back in service.