Throwback Thursday: Montana Man by Barbara Delinsky

Author: Barbara Delinsky
First published in 1989 by Harlequin

Lily wanted more than the shallow life she'd been leading. So she packed up her baby daughter and without looking back, she headed off to safety and a new start--until a blizzard stopped her and she had to ask a stranger for help. The man in the Stetson was their only chance for survival in the snowbound car. He offered refuge, but would this leave her wanting more?

I swear, I have not been having much luck with my Throwback Thursday books lately.  Montana Man was just OK for me. To be honest neither of the characters were all that interesting, except maybe Nicki the 5 week old baby. Plot wise, not much happens either.  Lily and Quist (what kind of name is that?) get stranded in a blizzard.  They find a cabin which of course causes them to become extremely attracted to each other.  Sex happens.  Then they are rescued.  Oh, there are a few other things in there that happen, but that is the gist.

There were so many things that I could find wrong with this book, but I should probably take the time period it was written into account.  There was potential to make this a romantic suspense with Quist's pursuit of his half sister or maybe even with Lily's ex-brother-in law, but those avenues fizzled out.  Ms. Delinsky has written much better books since this one. I say skip it and try a different book of hers.

Throwback Thursday: Secret of the Stone

Author: Barbara Delinsky
First published in 1995 by Mira Books

Paige Matheson is reputed to be as beautiful as the alabaster sculptures she creates--and just as cold. An intensely private person, she is perfectly happy living by herself, her only passion her work. That is, until drifter Jesse Dallas walks into her life.

I have always enjoyed a book by Barbara Delinsky. This earlier work by her is no exception. Secret of the Stone was interesting because the woman is the stronger of the two. Paige has had a great life growing up and is very comfortable in her skin. Jesse doesn't believe in love or happy ever after. I enjoyed watching Jesse learn how to come to terms with his love for Paige. Their story is very sweet. I was really rooting for them in the end.

The only thing that I didn't agree with was the decision Paige made on the night before Jesse leaves. I thought it was selfish and I didn't blame him for being angry when he find out. Despite all that, I liked how it all worked out in the end. A great early work by Ms. Delinsky!

--Kari