Skin Deep

All of the elements were there! The initial unwillingness to believe in the need for protection regardless of the fear, the abrasive directness of the protector, the unwillingness of the stalked to submit to total "protection". I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It will become a permanent part of my library.

Nora Roberts shares with the reader a realistic glimpse into film making and the acting profession. Acting is actually a strenuous profession, both physically and psychologically, not easy and self indulgent as most people assume stardom to be. [This is one of the "O'Hurley Series" about a theatrical family.] Chantal O'Hurley is a well-known film star who is wise, strong and beautiful. She has known her whole life what she wants to accomplish and has gone for her goals with clear and realistic expectations. She is aware of her impact on her audience and those with whom she associates, working diligently to have a reputation as a responsible and cooperative actress, and is well aware that she is only part of the movie-making team. She understands the personal vulnerability she has as a star, but has never anticipated that anyone close to her could and would consider stalking her. At the recommendation of her agent, Chantal hires Quinn Dolan, private investigator for her personal security. Quinn and Chantal try to maintain a businesslike relationship, but as time goes along, Quinn becomes aware that Chantal's beauty is more than skin deep. It comes from her innermost being (which is the source she draws upon for her acting talent); a deep appreciation of life. Chantal, on her side, comes to know that Quinn is more than the tough guy persona seen at first glance. He is perceptive and compassionate, and draws this strength from within himself as well. Nora Roberts has done her homework here. She puts the reader right into the environment. The details of filmaking, acting and the theatre world ring true. I found myself "right there" on the soundstage, as if I was by the camera (if not in front of it). I have found that I better not start reading one of Roberts' novels if I plan on reading myself to sleep, because I get so involved that I can't stop myself from turning the pages, reading "just one more chapter" until I'm finished, often into the very early morning! This book is just one more example of the power and intensity of her writing.

She is one of the best authors I have read and she keeps my interest up in all the books and keeps me in suspense.

When Chantell O'Hurley is Frightened by what she fears is an obsessed fan she hires a very expensive,outspoken and sometimes rude privite investigator they fall in love and another O'Hurley finds happiness once again you get a glimpse of the rest of the O'Hurley clan This leaves you hungry to read about of them