Dare to Love Again by Julie Lessman

Synopsis:~

Spunky Allison McClare is determined to be a fearless, independent woman, resorting to a mammoth hat pin for protection on her way to and from the school where she teaches. But when she takes a notion to explore the wild Barbary Coast she quickly discovers she is no match for rum-soaked brute strength.

Detective Nick Barone would rather do almost anything than teach this petite socialite jiu-jitsu, but it seems he has little choice in the matter. Sparks fly every time the two meet until a grudging friendship develops into something deeper. But when Nick suddenly leaves town, Allison realizes he’s a fraud just like all the rest of the men she’s cared for. Does she dare love again?

My take:~

Julie Lessman returns with her unique brand of historical romance with her second Heart of San Francisco novel, Dare to Love Again, a sassy and engaging tale of two people seeking justice in differing ways. Allison desperately wants to make life better for the children she teaches and Nick has a personal mission that dictates his choices and colours his outlook on life. I really enjoyed these characters – in true Lessman style, their flaws are authentic and frustrating, leading to both funny and entertaining moments. Allison’s feistiness and Nick’s irritability make this couple a favourite of mine, their interactions are never dull and take twists you don’t anticipate. While I struggled with a few elements and characters in Julie’s previous novel, I have no such issues with Dare to Love Again. This book is a winner from start to finish!

With thanks to Revell for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of Love at Any Cost, A Light in the Window, A Love Surrendered, A Hope Revealed,  A Hope Undaunted, A Passion Most Pure, A Passion Redeemed & A Passion Denied
Character spotlights on Sean & Emma, Cluny & Katie, Lizzie & Brady and Marceline, Patrick & Sam
Julie’s FamilyFiction Plus
Interview with Julie
Visit Julie’s website
Buy Dare to Love Again at [amazon_link id=”0800721667″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] or Koorong

Be sure to watch Julie’s Mad Minute video below and then check out my exclusive audio interview with Julie on my Audio & Video page!