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Book Loons Review
Sheriff Leigh Mitchell gives in to a sudden and very uncharacteristic impulse when she agrees to ride the Ferris wheel with a complete stranger. There was just something about Will Scott that begged further investigation -- he was a dark and mysterious temptation she just couldn't resist. After the ride is over he asks her to join him for a beer and again Leigh finds herself unable to say no. Then Will asks her to dance -- and what a dance it is. It leaves the whole town buzzing and wondering what got into their smart and sensible sheriff. Leigh knows exactly what's gotten into her -- she's thirty years old, stuck in a rut and tired of proving herself as just as capable at her job as a man. It's time for a change and the arrival of Will Scott might just be enough to nudge her toward her new path in her stagnant life...
Newcomer Susan Crandall has written a rich, character driven story in Back Roads. The immediate attraction between Leigh and Will is palpable and wonderfully sustained throughout the story. It might seem that Crandall keeps readers in the dark about Will's past for a few too many chapters, but once his secrets are revealed, it becomes very clear that his silence was to protect the woman he loves. Back Roads is an accomplished and very satisfying first novel. Add Susan Crandall to your list of authors to watch.
- Martina Bexte
Heartstrings Review
Back Roads is an accomplished, assured debut novel and will pave the way for Ms. Crandall's rise to fame. Will is a good guy and Leigh knows it, but it will take some convincing to modify this reluctant hero's perception of himself. It will take very little convincing for this reviewer to read Ms. Crandall's next release, however, or to put her on my author-to-watch list.
- C.L. Jefferies
Romance Reviews Today (RomRevToday.com)
BACK ROADS introduces an extremely talented new voice to romantic suspense, and suspense is the key word here. The mystery of Brittany's disappearance is enough to keep tension high, but the gradual unfolding of Will's story, the loosening of Leigh's self restrictions, and the blossoming of their seemingly doomed relationship add even more intensity to make a complex, thoroughly gripping tale.
Susan Crandall builds her characters with care. Will intrigues as much by his personality as by the shadows in his past, while Leigh elicits instant sympathy for her loneliness. She commands the respect of the town, but she suspects that's only a reflection of her brother's popularity and the office she holds. The town of Glens Crossing and its varied inhabitants come to life with deft strokes and will provide the setting for THE ROAD HOME, coming in 2004.
Jam-packed with action and liberally dosed with passion and tenderness, BACK ROADS is a definite all-nighter. Very highly recommended.
- Jane Bowers
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