A Beautiful Stranger (A Family Forever Series, Book 1)

This is truly the best kind of story. It's got a realistic scenario, a continual buildup of the romance, and great character development. The result of all this is a new twist on the marriage of convenience theme. Sean Hudson is overseas trying to complete an international adoption. He was told by everyone in America that being a bachelor would not be a problem. However, now that he's ready to claim his daughter, he's told that the rules have been changed and that the government expects him to be married. Well, considering that he's convinced that he's a bad candidate for a husband, he's determined to stay single. However, he desperately wants to adopt little Sona. Nicki Willis teaches English overseas. However, due to the disruption in the local government, she suddenly finds herself without a job. Until she can find another teaching job, she's got to find something to help put food on her table. In a chance encounter with Sean, she proposes that she fill in for a wife. Then, after everything is settled, they quietly get an annulment. This arrangement works well in theory. However, the reality is that both are attracted to each other and what follows is a sweet tale of each of them working through that attraction. I also loved how they were each able to help the other work through past heartaches. As the reader, I was moved by the sad events that each of the main characters had endured as well as encouraged by their efforts to move beyond them. Romance - PG - some kisses and slightly steamy thoughts Language - PG - mild curse word used My rating - 5 stars.

Every now and then a book comes along that touches one's heart and makes you smile. In a marriage of convenience, A Beautiful Stranger tells the story of two people who have needs that can be taken care of by marriage. In days gone by, most marriages were arranged and couples had very little say over the outcome. With today's high divorce rate and multiple marriages one wonders whether there wasn't some wisdom in the practice. Sean and Nicki made a short term commitment and love grew out of the relationship, despite their well-meaning promises to the contrary. With baby Sona as the glue in the relationship, Sean and Nicki begin to depend on one another, seeking out that which was best for each other. Although the story line is slow moving, my interest was held all the way through and I was rooting for both Sean and Nicki, hoping that they would come to their senses. It is also refreshing to read a clean book, although there was nothing lacking in the romance department. I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.

Another wonderful book from Donna Fasano that tugs at the heartstrings and keeps you believing in the power of love. Both Sean and Nicki have issues from their pasts that have put them on their current paths, and when fate has them crossing paths and ultimately finds them entering into a marriage of convenience it's not long before they both begin to realize just how much they might really need each other. It was hard watching these two struggle through their issues, but watching them help each other begin the healing process was wonderful - even if it means that it may ruin the chances of a happy ever after! One of the things I enjoy about a Donna Fasano book is that you get to really understand the emotions behind the actions of her characters. She is able to create a story that connects you to each character while enveloping you in the overall story. And I don't think I have read another author that is able to use a child's character as effectively - the behaviors and actions of the child are age appropriate, the response from the adults and realistic, and the child truly adds to the story rather than just being another plot point. The quality of the writing was top-notch and the pacing of this slow-developing love story was spot-on for the story being told. Although the heat level in this book was very low, the intensity of the romance was still there and you could feel the sizzle between Sean and Nicki. Another must-read!