Cindy Davis has built a great story of one woman's character built from the ashes, so to speak. Paige has no interests except shopping and living the good life before she starts to run. She has so little compassion she fires a gardener for letting one weed grow. Running scared and meeting the great people who make this country what it is, helps her develop some backbone and then branch out into a caring, compassionate friend as she's exposed to people who care no matter what the risk.

Characters like Chris, the truck driver she can't forget, even after running from him, afraid he may really be sent by the mob, are excellent. Shamus teaches her about rare books and helps her develop a lifelong passion for searching for that rare treasure in other people's leavings. Joy Danson and others help her find a love of quilting. With Max she starts to give back part of what has been given to her. In Vermont she starts to take a stand and build a life. Every character, even a couple of the bad guys, add something special to the theme of the story.

Not only is this an excellent suspense and romance, it's a well-told tale of America and the people who keep it great with their compassion. Ms. Davis has done a superb job building this story into a real treasure.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Very sensual

Reviewer: Dee Dailey
August 5, 2008