Meredith Webber

Good book with a sweeter than expected romance and an intriguing location. Lauren is a pediatric nurse in Australia and a single mom to her adopted son (who is also her nephew). Her parents, brother-in-law, and sister died under suspicious circumstances, and Lauren spent the years since then doing everything possible to protect Nimr. Then an unexpected meeting with Nimr's uncle, Sheikh Malik Madani, shattered Lauren's belief in their safety as he demanded that he be allowed to take Nimr back to his country, which Nimr is destined to rule.

The story drew me in from that point on. Lauren's fear of losing Nimr was palpable, and Malik's initial actions did nothing to alleviate that fear. My first reaction to him was that he was cold and ruthless and would do anything to get his way. However, Lauren is no pushover, and her determination to fight for Nimr's happiness quickly changes Malik's attitude. Instead of buying her off as he originally planned, Malik proposes a marriage in name only to satisfy both their needs. Lauren will continue to raise Nimr and watch out for his happiness, and Malik, as Nimr's regent, can work to bring their country into the 21st century. But it is not going to be as easy as he thinks.

I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Malik and Lauren. It got off to a rough start until both realized that they wanted the same thing - Nimr's safety and happiness. The sparks that flew between them also complicated matters. After they arrive in Madan, Malik spends a great deal of time showing Lauren the beauty of his country and discussing his hopes for its future. As a doctor, one of those dreams is improving the country's medical care. I loved how Malik involved Lauren in the new hospital's world, recognizing the benefits of her knowledge. When a medical crisis hits the country, working together drew Lauren and Malik even closer together. I liked watching the feelings between them grow. There were many scenes of the sweet things that Malik did to illustrate his feelings for her. I also liked how Lauren was attuned to Malik and often sensed when he needed care and support.

However, forces within the country create obstacles to Malik and Lauren's plans to marry, insisting that he marry a Madani woman. I ached for them both, as by this time, they have acknowledged their feelings for each other. Malik fights for his right to marry Lauren, threatening to walk away from it all so that they can be a family. Meanwhile, Lauren feels that the country's needs outweigh her happiness and insists on Malik doing the right thing. Their joint pain was evident, and I wondered how they would overcome their obstacles. The method of resolution was unexpected but deftly portrayed, leaving Malik and Lauren free to pursue their future together.

I enjoyed seeing Lauren immerse herself in her new country. I loved seeing the beauty and life of Madan through her eyes and her connections with the people she met. One of my favorite scenes was near the end, involving Lauren's search for carpets for their new quarters. Her respect won her new friends and allies. I also loved the scene at the wedding involving her "bride price" and Malik's understanding of her feelings about it. His solution was inspired.… (mer)