DEAL OF A LIFETIME - Barbara Huffert
Ellora’s Cave - www.ellorascave.com
ISBN: 978-1-4199-0964-1
March 2007
Erotic Contemporary Romance
Rated E-rotic

New York City, New York & Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Present Day

Just as her sister’s comments about Annette Phelps’s tardy boyfriend turn ugly, Rich arrives to save the day.  The group at the table couldn’t be more surprised: Candace, because Rich takes her to task for her comments, and Annette, because Rich is a figment of her imagination.  To spare herself from another of Candace’s lectures, Annette invented a boyfriend, and planned to “break up” with him after he missed this latest chance to meet her family.  Just who is this strange man who not only claims to be Rich, but also knows so much about her?

Michael “Rich” Richards is furious over the woman’s audacity and her obvious (to him at least) connection to his soon-to-be ex-wife.  He’s not sure what Annette and his ex could have cooked up, but Rich has every intention of finding out what it is.  As the evening wears on, he does his best to embarrass her into a confession, and plans even better ways to convince her to talk once they’re alone.  Even then though, Annette maintains her innocence, and Rich’s fury only rises as he begins to realize that this sensual woman is someone he could truly care about.  If only she weren’t scheming with his ex.  Will he be able to find out the truth before it’s too late?

DEAL OF A LIFETIME is an extremely sensual tale, filled with plenty of hot scenes.  However, Rich isn’t a very likable character.  During the night they spend together, he refuses to believe a single word Annette says, so sure is he that she’s conspiring with his ex against him, his comments and actions are at times downright cruel.  Annette is attracted to him when they first meet, and the way he defends her to her sister endears him to Annette.  So, even though he doesn’t treat her well, she sticks around, and starts to fall for him.

After they call a truce, Rich and Annette enjoy a night of pure sexual decadence.  While the characters definitely have a few flaws, their chemistry sizzles and DEAL OF A LIFETIME is a very erotic, and enjoyable book.

Jennifer Bishop