Lauren remembers Harley with bitterness. He took her father's money before disappearing from their lives. His departure seemed to have provoked the downward spiral that her sister became enmeshed in, ending in her alcohol related death six months ago. Before dying, her sister had entrusted her parents with custody of nine year old Brandon. Although she lacks a legal status, Lauren has always provided care and support to Brandon. In fact, she has built her life around the child. Now with Harley arrival, she fears her status will go from favored aunt to absent aunt. Worse, her growing attraction to Harley only adds more emotional complications.
Brenda Novak's skill for creating an intriguing blend of strengths and weaknesses shines in SHOOTING THE MOON. The sharp contrast between wealth and poverty highlights Harley's desire to prove himself on his personal merits rather than the improved status of his checkbook. Lauren's devotion to her nephew and her character growth likewise makes her appealing. As her sister's journals provides powerful insight into the past, the reader also comes to respect Lauren for her reevaluation of the past and her decision to stand behind her convictions whatever the cost. Secondary characters are likewise memorable, including the nine year old who wants to know his birth father. While the grandparents can be harsh and judgmental, the reader never doubts their genuine love and concern for their deceased daughter and beloved grandson. A remarkable achievement with rich characterizations, clashing emotions, and a captivating plot, SHOOTING THE MOON earns the WordWeaving Award for Excellence.
Harley made Lauren nervous, her heart beat, and her breath catch just when he was near. Too bad Lauren was born in the wrong family, at least as far as Harley was concerned but then she was known as the Ice Queen anyway. Slowly as the book progressed, so did their attraction and the heat that simmered between them. Their lives grew more and more complicated as Lauren's parents came into the picture especially since it was her father that had started it all those years ago.
Lauren is strong but has vulnerabilities just as Harley has a tough front but a soft center. Sometimes he reminds you of a teddy bear but others as the devil incarnate. Together they are real and lively.
SHOOTING THE MOON is interesting as it is sweet and special. Ms. Novak as done a fabulous job!
Romance At Its Best
Harley made Lauren nervous, her heart beat, and her breath catch just when he was near. Too bad Lauren was born in the wrong family, at least as far as Harley was concerned, but then she was known as the Ice Queen anyway. Slowly as the book progressed, so did their attraction and the heat that simmered between them. Their lives grew more and more complicated as Lauren's parents came into the picture... especially since it was her father that had started it all those years ago.
But Harley isn't quite the way he's been portrayed. He's concerned, he cares, and he forces Lauren to reexamine her long held beliefs about him. Of no small concern is his devastating charm. Before long Lauren finds herself falling in love with the man who can rob her of the thing that makes her happiest. Lauren battles with her understanding of Harley's right to his son and her own emotional attachment to the boy.
Wonderfully developed secondary characters provide an excellent supporting cast. Shooting the Moon is about romance and caring, love and money, challenging one's belief system, and acceptance. You'll cheer at the outcome, maybe shed a few happy tears as I did. But I guarantee you won't forget this wonderful book by Brenda Novak, a master at creating intense emotional conflict. Do yourself a favor and buy this book. Very highly recommended.