Review: Spicy contemporary romance
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 02 7, 2012
4 1/2 stars."Indulgent Pleasures" by Karen Erickson is a sensual modern romance story that tells of the blossoming relationship between a magazine writer, Stephanie Shaw, and a reluctantly retired baseball player, Justin Hawkins.  Stephanie has an assignment to write about female sexual fantasies and a serendipitous encounter with the charismatic athlete encourages her to start working through the list of fantasies that she is researching.  The mutual attraction propels them into a intense and carnal relationship but neither is quite sure what to do about the insecurities that make them hide critical information from one another.  The gradual increase in sexual exploits make it easier for Stephanie to write her articles but enhances the depth of their attraction enough for each to contemplate a more serious relationship.  The fear of betrayal that each harbors makes it difficult to reveal their innermost concerns until matters come to the inevitable critical point and each must decide whether actions speak louder than words.The story is a bit predictable, media-shy athlete unknowingly gets involved with a member of the media who is documenting their exploits to sell magazines.  A train wreck waiting to happen.  Fortunately, Ms Erickson is talented at depicting sensuous passionate encounters and engaging characters which elevate the story into a refreshing romance with plenty of spice.  The gradual ratcheting up of the love story in counterpoint to the frenzied intimate encounters provides provides a romantic and entertaining tale.