After enjoying Song of the Sea last year, Alexander has been on my radar. So when a copy of Home fell into my lap, I was happy to give it a read.
Here’s the plot –
After leaving her home town of Portland to pursue her dream job, Rowan finds herself stuck in Texas, away from friends, family, and the comfortable life she knew. While working as a grill chef for a new high scale restaurant, Rowan struggles to accept the change, that is, until she starts seeing Kate, the (literal) beef provider. Kate is left running her father’s ranch after a fall from a horse left him wheelchair bound. The two form an instant connection as Kate tries to warm Rowan to the already blistering hot state of Texas. Ultimately, Rowan has to decide if love is enough to keep her rooted in a new place.
Contemporary romance may not be my favorite genre, but I’ll always enjoy good writing, and I love detailed food descriptions (what better way to ground a scene?). The plot here was a bit quick and predictable, but the writing was solid. I could really place myself in the kitchen, hear the steaks sizzling and feel the heat and sweat from high pressure cooking. Same with the rodeo and ranch. We were given so many excellent details. I also liked how the catalyst to conflict included Rowan not being perfect at something. So often in romance-land do characters lack any flaws. Rowan felt very real and relatable because she made mistakes.
If these hard times are leaving you in need of some happily-ever-afters, Home will warm your heart and leave you hungry.
Follow Jenn Alexander on Twitter: @JennAlexWrites