Review: Nicely Done!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 3, 2012
There's a lot to like about Valerie Douglas' novel "Lucky Charm."  There were two things that immediately drew me into the story.  The first was the heroine, Ariel.  Having sat through enough IT training sessions, I identified with Ariel as a software installer/trainer on assignment.  Ms. Douglas paints a vivid picture of Ariel's daily life and for me, it succeeded in making Ariel a real person.  Except for her initial encounter with hero, Matt, she is not one to rush into danger blindly.  She is cautious and always very aware - of her surroundings, of the risks, and of the consequences of actions.  It was refreshing to read a romance novel in which the heroine didn't own her own wedding planning business, floral shop, interior design studio, etc.  She hesitated to become involved because she didn't want to lose her job.  She never has one of those "too stupid to live" moments like so many other romantic suspense heroines.The second thing that drew me in was one of the most sensual love scenes I've read in a long time.  It happens very early in the book, but didn't feel contrived or smutty.  In lesser hands, the scene would have been nothing more than a description of a physical act.  Ms. Douglas' style is decadent in that every touch and kiss is exquisitely detailed.  You can feel the caresses and hear the sighs.  And yes, it's HOT.Although I liked hero, Matt I didn't love him as much as Ariel.  His single-minded determination to uncover who was responsible for the death of his best friend, Bill was intended to portray him as tireless and focused.  At some point, his countless internal reminders to "not forget about Bill" made him appear unable to multitask.I have a few minor quibbles otherwise this book would get a 5 star rating.  There are few minor grammatical mistakes but more troubling were the repetitive descriptions.  We are reminded ad nauseum of their green eyes, blue eyes, ebony hair, and ivory skin.  I didn't need the constant reminder of their physical traits.  I was also jarred momentarily out of the story by a continuity error related to a piece of clothing which is violently torn away only to appear minutes later intact.  Yes, I was paying that close of attention because the description of the violent event had me on the edge of my seat!Overall this is a very enjoyable romantic suspense novel because of Ms. Douglas' skill in creating intelligent characters who react intelligently to the circumstances they encounter.  Bravo!  This was my first Valerie Douglas novel and it won't be my last.