"Emotionally compelling - beautifully crafted!"

After the death of his father, eight year old Will Stoner was left to care for a brother, Mark, just three years younger than him while their mother worked two jobs and struggled to make ends meet. That was a long time ago. Today, Will is a millionaire with a successful real estate business and a flair for making lots of money. His only regret is that he feels he didn't do a good job of raising Mark, for his brother has spent the last thirty years jumping in and out of trouble. Will is glad, though, that he doesn't have to care for anyone anymore since he's so lousy at it. Then, right out of the blue, life throws him a curve ball. He finds out he has an eight year old son he never knew about. Suddenly his calm, content life is nothing but a swirling mass of chaos and Will is convinced he's a failure as a dad.

Dena Foster was once married to a wealthy man who treated her like a piece of property. When she left him, she walked away with just the clothes on her back. She now earns a living as a nanny, hoping to earn enough money to go back to college and acquire her degree in child psychology. When she lands a job as nanny to Will Stoner's son, Harry, she believes things are finally looking up for her in light of the generous salary offered. However, it only takes a couple of hours for Dena to realize her job won't be as easy as she may have hoped. Will and his son are totally estranged and she's been assigned the role of mediator. The fact that Harry's vulnerability shoots an arrow straight for her heart while Will's dark and sexy looks leave her blood singing and pulses pounding doesn't help her situation much.

FATHER OF THE YEAR is a beautifully crafted tale about three vulnerable souls who definitely deserve to be loved. Amazingly talented author, Ann Roth, excels in penning an emotionally stimulating novel that will have readers hooked from the moment Will finds out about Harry.

Harry is a dear lovable child, angry with the world for taking his mother away, hurt because he feels unloved and unwanted by a father he can't seem to communicate with, and adorable simply because of his impish ways.

Dena's personality portrays a woman of great strength and character. I enjoyed meeting her and watching her develop a bond with Harry. The attraction between Will and Dena is strong enough to ignite sparks and it was a treat to see these two cautious souls find their way into each other's arms.

Will Stoner, now here's a tough guy. Poor Will carries years of guilt on his broad shoulders, convinced he is a failure as a father before giving himself even half a chance. Thank goodness Dena Foster came along. If anyone needed somone, it was Will Stoner - and Dena was his perfect match!

Ann Roth's FATHER OF THE YEAR is a story about family and strong bonds, about love and forgiveness. Warm characters beautifully portrayed, surrounded by deeply compelling emotions and vivid descriptions, all add up to make this a highly recommended romance!

Reviewed by Leena Hyat
Posted December 6, 2001