Rules of Engagement, published in 2005

Rules of Engagement is a story that will make you weep and make you smile.

Tess Spencer is devasted by her twin brother's death in Iraq.  She feels he died for nothing.  When the purchase of some items at an auction lead Tess to meet Cole Harrington, a Reservist recently back from Iraq she becomes very conflicted about her views on the war and accepting Cole as a Reservist.   As she comes to know Cole better she refuses to let herself feel for him for fear she will loose him also.

Tess' family owns well known restaurants in Houston and another one in Galveston.  As Tess grieves for the loss of her brother, she tries to keep all the restaurants running for her parents while they also adjust to the fact that David will not be coming home to step into his rightful place in the family business.

Cole is struggling with the possible end of his business as he searches for missing designs.  At first he thinks Tess may have something to do with the fact that they are missing.  After getting to know Tess better and accepting her offer to help his company financially he learns to trust her. 

Being in the Reserves and serving his country is a big part of who Cole is but Tess can't seem to accept that.  Will these two find a way to work out their conflict on military service, does Cole find the culprit that stole his designs, can Tess learn to live with all the changes taking place, can she say yes to a HEA with Cole?

A very well written story about conflict over the war in Iraq, family, changes and learning to live with whatever life deals you.  This is my first book by Bonnie but probably not the last.

Rating: Very Good

Steaminess: Romantic

My Totals:

H/S: 8

Other: 2

Take care, happy reading,
Donna M, Dream Team member