Blackberry Summer (Hope's Crossing)
Thayne's series starter introduces the Colorado town of Hope's Crossing in what can best be described as a cozy romance. Hope's Crossing's new police chief, Riley McKnight, sees earnest single mom Claire Bradford as a nosy do-gooder, though Claire secretly wishes she could be as willing to take risks on her own behalf—such as approaching Riley, who sets her body sizzling—as she is to help others. Back in town after 15 years away, Riley has a very respectable law enforcement résumé, but some residents can't let go of bitter memories of his adolescent bad boy antics. He's also Claire's best friend's baby brother, and thinks of Claire as family rather than as someone to romance. Miscues aplenty ultimately resolve themselves in this gentle, easy read. (June)