The Ballplayer, second in the series, starts 10 years previously to show a one-time affair with a young woman just turning 18 and a baseball player who would go on to find bigger and better things. Lizzie Barton, the sister of the deputy sheriff, had a little boy named Mike, aged almost 10 who comes face-to-face with the retired, because of injury, ballplayer, Mikey's father, Cole Ryan. Not only did her parents not know who their grandchild's father was, neither did Cole know he was a father.

Finally, The Deputy, completes the trilogy. This story involves Bobby Barton, brother to Lizzie, and best friend to Jared. The production crew assistant (to Mandy) is Christy Dunne who, along with her cameraman, shadows Bobby during his work and play schedule. Of course, Christy is attracted to Bobby, but it takes longer for Bobby to realize just to what he has access.

These related stories portray small towns accurately and show the humor that we who actually live in such a place must look for in order to survive the day-to-day. These three stories, though different, all are related in one way or another. That is also quite true of small towns. Everybody knows what is going on; gossip is a constant pastime, and those who do thrive must maintain a sense of humor! I absolutely loved this book and recommend it to anyone!

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Mildly sensual

Reviewer: Brenda Talley
November 23, 2006