Almost Forever

YES, Sorry there is a But!First, For the most part, I loved this story. Max was "just doing his job" but in doing it he devastates Claire. She (of course) is in love with him. He's lied to her and in the beginning she handles his presence (after finding out who he really is) with professional coolness. He deserves it and she does it well. BUT (yes, here's the But) when she moves, he MOVES right into her life again and SHE LETS HIM. Now You and I both know if a guy did what he did (unless you have very little self worth) there is no way you would go out with him OR to bed with him (at least so SOON after the initial hurt and without A LOT OF CONVERSATION). And he just figured he could get her to see that what he did was JUST HIS JOB. Ugh. This is the only aspect of this book that I had a problem with. Just my opinion.I even liked how the story continues in England when you find out more about Max that was never mentioned before. I know it may not sound like it but this is one of my favorite Linda Howard books (next to After the Night--this one will burn your fingers and Kill and Tell). Its worth reading.

More than a decade has passed but the intensity of Linda Howard's classic romance has not declined one iota. The timelessness of her latest reissue Almost Forever is a testament to her mastery at blending heart-melting passion with searing poignancy. Claire Westbrook, an introverted recluse and secretary to the alloy-researcher wiz Sam Bronson falls prey to the charms of Max Conroy. He is sent by Spencer-Nyle's enterprises to tap for information pertinent to their acquisition bid for the Bronson's company. Max finds it hard to concentrate on his mission when he is distracted by Claire's self-decprecating nature and vulnerability. His protective streak is powered by Claire's miscarriage and defenses around men including him. The seething betrayal and Claire's inferior nature makes their romance all the more out of reach. Her insecurity makes Max a knight errant - and their passion soars with exquisite tenderness. Ms. Howard's trademark alpha male and damsel-in-distress romance mixes intricately fairy-tale charm and burning emotions that garners her work acclaimed popularity that seems to last almost forever.

This was by far one of the best books i've ever read. Claire is a representative character for all those shy, introvert, reserved girls out there with a low self-esteem. So its somewhat of a dream come true when she gets the prince charming to come after her. This story is a realistic fairy tale. linda howard's greatest quality is the way she intermingles fairy tales and reality. Almost Forever has a fairy tale story but it also depicts reality: there are women like Claire out there in the world who are not confident about their own individuality and who eventually, with some help, find true happiness in their private lives. I think this was a great book worth reading. Good job, howard!! I hope you write more books like this and Sarah's child. For those of you who haven't read Sarah's child and this book, i sincerely suggest that you go buy it!!

You met the gorgeous Max in "Sarah's Child." He is wonderful as usual. Clair is shy and unassuming (having a beautiful sister). But Max brings the beautiful, shy flower to full bloom. There is far more to Clair than even she believes herself. But our hero sees! Before Max can claim our heroine, he has to regain her confidence, which he has destroyed with his betrayal. Leave it to Max, however, to not give up! It is against his nature to not get whatever he wants. And he wants Clair! The world sees Max as debonair, jovial and not at all the real barbarian he is truly. But, Clair sees all this and more. Max and Clair are made for each other, but it takes all of Max's efforts to seduce, enthrall and coax Clair into again trusting him. The love scenes are great. You will meet some old friends in this book and it will keep you totally captivated from cover to cover.