"Small-town beach community is setting for humorous battle of the sexes."

TJ McCloud, a forensic anthropologist, is hiding out in a small South Carolina coastal town when a woman from his past comes back and stirs up painful memories. The last time he'd seen his ex-girlfriend, Patsy Amara Simonetti, now Mara Simon, was at the funeral of his best friend, Mara's brother. Seventeen years ago, tragedy and misunderstanding had torn him apart from the girl adored.

Now, after a second failed marriage, Mara is part owner of a Hollywood production company that's arrived in the backwater coastal town to film a movie. As part of her divorce settlement, Mara intends to use the profits from the movie to buy out her ex-husband and save the company. But from the outset, her project seems doomed.

The only access road to the beach where Mara's movie is set is blocked by an archaeological dig site, operated by none other than TJ McCloud. A hurricane has uncovered skeletal remains of two possible homicide victims, and TJ refuses to allow Mara access until his investigation of the site is complete. But Mara must bring the film in under budget if she's to have any chance to finally make something of herself. Immediately the two become adversaries.

TJ has established a brilliant career in the past 17 years at the expense of any lasting relationship. But Mara is the one girl he can't ignore and hope will go away. As the saying goes: All is fair in love and war. And Mara and TJ go all out in this humorous, age-old battle of the sexes.

Ms. Rice is a wonderful storyteller, and this small-town beach community springs to life as a colorful backdrop for the characters as her story unfolds. She's beautifully woven together the hero and heroine into a cohesive whole, as the two struggle to overcome their emotions and conflicting situations.

Reviewed by Angela Johnson
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted February 13, 2003

Summary

The irresistible force meets the immovable object:

TJ McCloud, a media-wary forensic anthropologist attempting to avoid a national security scandal crosses the path of a publicity hungry old flame, Mara Simon, who intends to save her film production company by promoting the secluded island that has secured TJ's privacy-until now.

Together, as natural enemies and lovers, they must question the loyalties that have directed their lives, delve into secrets hidden in the past, and forge new ties before they can find the love and happiness they lost long ago.