Review: Holy Moley!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 29, 2013
Okay, I admit it.  I bought this book because of the cover. Mmm.  I expected a typical love story, some hot, steamy scenes (I mean, have you seen the cover?) and a HEA.  Instead, I took a trip to 1960's Alabama, and was a participant of historical accuracy mixed in with a mystery all surrounding life.Patricia Hagan did a remarkable job with the characters--and there were many.  Yet not once was I jarred from the story in confusion.  Lucus was a man, larger than life and with not so savory deeds tucked under that heavenly looking belt.  And Emma Jean, as the female protagonist, was just as flawed.  Yet they were so captivatingly human that there was no way I could just put the book down and say, oh, well, I'll finish it another time.  I actually read it in one day.  (I don't have much of a life...sigh)Regardless, the characters were true to life, flawed and scarred.  The plot was twisted and unfolded just like life does, with some certainty, some surprise, and a lot of allusions.  And Ms. Hagan managed to convey that in her gripping story.  I loved how Lucus made sure those he had a grudge with got their comeuppence and the ending only momentarily startled me, until the dust settled.  Then it all made sense.No contrivances, no weird "what was she thinking" moments.  This was a well put together book and I look forward to reading her other works.