Linda Barrett, Houseful of Strangers

Houseful of Strangers

Linda Barrett

Harlequin SuperRomance, Mar 2007, $5.50

ISBN: 0373714092

When veterinarian Dr. Eric Mitchell broke his arm, he advertised for help. Alison Truesdale applies and though he thinks she is too fragile-looking, he hires her. He quickly sees she has a deep sadness to her; unbeknownst to him she mourns the deaths of her spouse of fourteen years and their young son with the wisdom that surviving stinks.

Initially he felt sorry for her, but soon becomes attracted to his capable assistant. She, in turn, begins to feel for the first time since the tragedy, especially with his son though he also reminds her of what she lost. However, it is a young runaway hiding from an abusive parent in Eric's barn who teaches the two adults what trouble truly is.

HOUSEFUL OF STRANGERS is a delightful, contemporary romance that showcases how relative problems are through the four prime characters, especially the two females who have entered Eric's life. The storyline is fast-paced as Alison grieves until she falls in love with her employer but feels some guilt for doing so while also recognizing that the teen has the deeper issue to confront. Fans of deep character studies will want to read Linda Barrett's fine tale of love's healing power.

Harriet Klausner