From Publishers Weekly
Rich food, especially chocolate confections, receive extensive and loving descriptions in Mallery's latest contemporary romance (Wife in Disguise, etc.). Ali Thomas, owner of a chocolate shop in a small California town, takes in strays of every sort. Unfortunately these have included the unsavory men of her past who never remain in Santa Magdelana long and who have repeatedly betrayed her trust. When handsome but taciturn Matt Baker shows up to renovate Ali's storeroom, the brooding workman becomes the target of her mothering instincts. Although she suspects that her ever-reclusive employee is keeping several dark secrets about his past from her, Ali can't help feeling drawn to him. Likewise, Matt, who has spent a year roaming from place to place and avoiding any sort of personal entanglement, finds himself unable to move on as Ali's warmth begins to help him heal. This slight plot is bolstered by witty dialogue, plenty of romantic tension and delicious characters Ali's mother is a legendary movie star who devotes more time to her ailing pet pig than to her daughter. Fans of Jennifer Crusie, Susan Andersen and the Harlequin Duets line will savor this sugary tale. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.


Book Description
Bestselling author Susan Mallery awakens the senses -- and fills the heart with warmth and laughter -- in this tantalizing novel of love's richest rewards. The free-spirited owner of a booming chocolate emporium in Santa Magdelana, California, Allison Thomas is out to save the world -- one truffle at a time. Everyone adores Ali -- who wouldn't love a lady who sneaks midnight chocolate deliveries to the local health spa? And even if a string of crumbled relationships have put romance on hold, Ali's perfectly content with her life and her high-flying career. That is, until the mysterious Matt Baker stirs up her world....New to town, Matt quickly gets under her skin and leads her into temptation. But neither love nor chocolate seems to melt Matt's icy heart. Now, in a unique setting where luscious desserts, sweet wine, and fresh ocean breezes intoxicate the soul, it may prove impossible for either of them to resist this seductive recipe for a wondrously indulgent passion!

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Bestselling author Susan Mallery awakens the senses -- and fills the heart with warmth and laughter -- in this tantalizing novel of love's richest rewards.

The free-spirited owner of a booming chocolate emporium in Santa Magdelana, California, Allison Thomas is out to save the world -- one truffle at a time. Everyone adores Ali -- who wouldn't love a lady who sneaks midnight chocolate deliveries to the local health spa? And even if a string of crumbled relationships have put romance on hold, Ali's perfectly content with her life and her high-flying career. That is, until the mysterious Matt Baker stirs up her world....New to town, Matt quickly gets under her skin and leads her into temptation. But neither love nor chocolate seems to melt Matt's icy heart. Now, in a unique setting where luscious desserts, sweet wine, and fresh ocean breezes intoxicate the soul, it may prove impossible for either of them to resist this seductive recipe for a wondrously indulgent passion!

FROM THE CRITICS

Publishers Weekly