Hot and Bothered by Dianne Castell
Brava Contemporary Romance 2008
Rating – Great
Book blurb – Savannah, Georgia: city of history, mystery, and more than a few ghosts, as well as four best friends who have never fit in anywhere except with each other. But everything is about to change as an unsolved murder from decades ago draws them close—and closer still—to four sexy bachelors with secrets of their own...
Savannah When It Sizzles
In the “new” old south, pedigree and money still mean plenty...especially when you have neither. P.I. Charlotte deShawn and her friends Prissy, BrieAnna, and Bebe know all too well what it's like to be on the outside looking in, having grown up with more questions than answers about the parents they each lost at an early age. For Charlotte, enduring condescending looks and whispers only made her more determined to ignore social standing. So why should it be a problem when wealthy hotel owner Griff Parish wants to hire her to find the missing heir to his family fortune? Just because their chemistry is hotter than Georgia in August doesn't mean she can't be a pro about this. After all, they travel in completely different circles—or they did until now... Griff's always had a thing for Charlotte, with her long red hair, big green eyes, and wild streak. Even the hefty chip on her shoulder only reminds him of how strong she is. Still, nothing's ever come of the attraction. Now, however, the temptation Charlotte represents is too close to ignore. True, Griff got himself into this fix. He could have hired a different detective agency—but that wouldn't have served his ends. He has damn good reason to keep Charlotte deShawn close, and it has nothing to do with her keen mind or her gorgeous body. Yeah, right. Falling hard for Charlotte wasn't part of the plan, but in Savannah, what you expect is just about never what you get...
My thoughts – This is such an entertaining read! Castell managed to keep a smile on my face throughout the book with phrases like ‘doughnut shrapnel’ and ‘dust bunny mutiny’. I lost count of the number of times I laughed out loud.
I loved the little tidbits of history that was given to us pertaining to the couple. The attraction with them is steamy but both Charlotte and Griff have been unsure how to act on the draw that is between them. The relationship with Charlotte and Griff that we see evolve was a long time in the making and I was so happy to see them finally get together after many stumbles along the way.
The mystery of the missing girl is enough to keep a reader turning the pages. I know I didn’t want to put my copy down. And let’s not forget a missing necklace. There are hints of paranormal activity that adds just a touch of suspense too.
There is a wealth of secondary characters that keep the book moving along nicely. I look forward to the following books in this series. I highly recommend this book to anyone, but especially to those who enjoy a plot with mystery, humor and some southern charm!
I would like to extend a special thanks to Alison Kent for sending me this copy of “Hot and Bothered”. For anyone who has not checked out her site you should take the time to click on over. She always seems to have a contest running offering books. And the adorable pictures of her grandbaby are not to be missed.
And also a special thank you to Dianne Castell for writing such a wonderful book. I first read your O’Fallon series when it was released and have been a fan ever since. I will happily buy every book you offer. I look forward to meeting you this September in Huntington West Virginia.
