JESSE'S GIRL

Two old friends go from playing house to truly making a home together in this contemporary romance.

One day, Gwen Gallo-Clark gets an unexpected knock at her door: It’s a swarm of reporters asking her about allegations against her Texas congressman husband, Jesse Clark. The rapid-fire questions about embezzlement and an affair with an intern deeply trouble her, although she manages to put on a brave face for the press. Shortly afterward, however, Gwen finds out that Jesse remortgaged their home and withdrew their savings before running off with his mistress, leaving almost nothing for her and their young daughter, Maddie. It’s only due to the kindness of Jesse’s longtime friend attorney Reade Walker that Gwen and Maddie have a place to stay until the end of Maddie’s school year. While spending time with Reade, Gwen begins to remember just how much she enjoys his company—and how attractive he is. Reade, meanwhile, has loved Gwen almost since the first day they met, but he never acted on his feelings. Now that Jesse’s gone, he wants to be there for her. However, the road to happily-ever-after is paved with speed bumps—because Jesse isn’t done ruining Gwen’s life just yet. September (From Florida With Love, 2018) delivers a charming tale of two old friends finally getting their chance at happiness. It’s not the usual setup for a friends-to-lovers story, but fans of this age-old trope will surely enjoy Reade and Gwen’s history and chemistry. The book is on the short side, coming in at fewer than 150 pages, but there’s enough here to interest and amuse those who usually prefer more fleshed-out narratives. A surprising twist at the end, and a bit of spicy political drama, will leave readers satisfied.

A short but sweet tale about taking a shot at true love.