The Hills, or at least the Outer Banks, are alive in this romantic tale of a young librarian who takes a temporary position as a nanny in a wealthy resort owner’s home. Reine Jonson has never been rich, but lately she’s struggling more than usual. Her ancient car needs repairs, and she’s trying to save up to begin a graduate program in the fall, so when Stephen Morley offers to hire her, she’s glad to have the money. What she doesn’t count on is Stephen. Mr. Morley never smiles. He doesn’t joke or laugh, either, making him an awkward surrogate parent for his late brother and sister-in-law’s three children. Each one is a rambunctious troublemaker under the age of ten: there are snakes on the tea trays, sticky fingers on the tablecloths, and small voices often raised in piercing childish mirth. Grieving, busy Mr. Morley is vexed to discover that none of the nannies he hires wish to stay for more than a week. Reine arrives on his porch just as the latest in a long line of au pairs is making her dramatic exit, and the children take to the reserved, understanding librarian immediately. Despite her misgivings about his demeanor, Reine is more than a little moved by the handsome Stephen’s dark eyes–but what, if anything, does he feel for her behind his grim mask?
There are few places more beautiful than the sea-swept shores of North Carolina, and readers will find themselves transported there by the description of the scenery as well as Reine and Stephen’s breathless romance. For an even better experience, slip this book into your beach tote and take it with you on your sandy, salty vacation!
Check this title’s availability in the UNC-Chapel Hill Library catalog.
