Black Hills

There's nothing sweeter than a childhood-sweetheart love story. And who better to write them if not Roberts herself? But you do not expect the normal boy-meets-girl kinda story from this great author. No, you don't. You will expect drama, suspense, mystery, romance and those things that made a great novel.

Sets in Black Hills, South Dakota, The Black Hills tells the story of childhood sweetheart, Lil and Cooper. Lil is the country girl who has the fondness for the wilds. Her dream is to build a safe haven for wild animals, a refuge. While Cooper is the Yankee-loving city boy who is forever trying to get his father's approval and attention, but ended up living with his grandparents' affection.

They met, fell in love and they went their separate ways. Lil's heart was broken into pieces. And she works hard to realize her dream of building a refuge. But someone is bend to destroy whatever she builds with her blood, tears and sweat. Even if it means to kill. Lil's life is threatened.

And that is when Cooper steps in. He has to protect Lil, with his own life if needed be. He loved her back then, when they were young and foolish. He loves her even more now. But before he could declare his undying love, he needs to proof himself to the world. He needs to show that he, too, could be someone. And he needs to convince Lil that this time, he's not going anywhere.

I just love the way Roberts tell her story. Rich with details, I feel like I was a part of the story right at the beginning. I understand Lil's pain, I understand Coop's reservation. It's so believable. And I'm simply in awe with the relationship Lil has with her animals, especially with a cougar affectionately known as Baby.

A very nice read, indeed.