"Delightfully SEXY book!! A must read!"

Niccolo Dominci is a man of old-fashioned values and traditions and a very strong sense of responsibility. When his best friend's beautiful sister, Maggie Buckner shows up on his doorstep asking for the keys to her parents house, Niccolo refuses to let her go stay there alone, especially since she doesn't seem to be feeling well. He hasn't laid eyes on her since an embarrassing incident ten years ago when she tried to seduce him and he rejected her. Niccolo has always regarded Maggie as a sister, a friend, someone to look out for. So naturally, when he hears the rumors that Maggie's in trouble -- again -- he's determined to find out exactly what problem she's landed herself in this time. He'll do everything he can to make sure she's taken care of -- even if it means marrying her and being a father to her baby.

Maggie Buckner was once wild about Niccolo and tried desperately to get him to notice her. However, things didn't quite work out the way she had hoped. Now she returns home after ten long years, four-months pregnant with no prospective groom in sight. She's not looking forward to meeting Niccolo after all this time or looking forward to his reaction when he finds out she's in trouble again. However, even though she knows she'd entice his wrath when he realizes exactly what her situation is, Maggie never for one moment imagines that he would force her to marry him!

Debut author Jane Porter has made a memorable entrance into the romance industry with her Harlequin Presents novel, THE ITALIAN GROOM. Situated in California's wine country, this tale is sure to charm readers.

Maggie and Niccolo are endearing characters who worm their way into your heart very early in the story. I enjoyed meeting Maggie and could empathize with her feelings of embarrassment years ago over the failed seduction attempt. Yet, it was the sexy, charismatic and intoxicatingly attractive Niccolo who made an impact on my heart. Where oh where are men like Niccolo in our real lives? His protective and ėtake charge' attitude are wonderfully portrayed throughout the tale.

This book is an excellent indication of Ms. Porter's wonderful talent for writing captivating stories and enchanting characters. If you enjoy romances with alpha- heroes who'll sweep you off your feet and set your pulse pounding, you'll definitely want to read THE ITALIAN GROOM. Jane Porter is definitely an author to watch!

Reviewed by Leena Hyat
Courtesy Heart Rate Reviews
Posted July 4, 2001