Mysterious Stranger

The McKenna Legacy continues in "Mysterious Stranger," Curran McKenna's turn to discover his grandmother's legacy. When Jane Grantham and her prize horse are attacked, Curran comes from Ireland to see if the horse he trained can be saved. He doesn't expect to be drawn to the horse's fiery owner, a woman he instinctively knows is in danger. Jane needs the crazed horse to run in an upcoming race that could save her farm. She doesn't want to admit she needs the mysterious Irishman. She doesn't have a choice when the attacker begins to stalk her again. "Mysterious Stranger" is Rosemoor's best Intrigue since "Cowboy Justice" three years ago. It's not as extraordinary as the first four McKenna books, some of her all time best, but a definite improvement over some recent efforts. While the mystery is somewhat muddled and easy to figure out, there's a good sense of danger lurking around every corner. The romance is very strong. Both characters are well developed with their own reasons for not wanting to get involved and we see them grow and get used to one another over the course of the book. This isn't the kind of story where they're immediately falling into bed. It feels more natural, as we get to see initial attraction lead to something deeper and more meaningful. Jane is no weepy ninny, but a tough woman with a vulnerable side. Fans of Nora Roberts-style Irish heroes or anyone who likes a real Irish charmer should find Curran appealing. Both are thoroughly likable and their romance is charming. The McKenna Legacy is in full effect as Rosemoor delivers a magical tale that will please fans who've been waiting for this story and send newcomers searching for the other books, "See Me in Your Dreams," "Tell Me No Lies," "Touch Me in the Dark," and "Never Cry Wolf."