BOOK REVIEW for "Hope Ignites (Hope, #2)" by Jaci Burton

****(4) out of 5 Stars!

SUMMARY:

When a movie crew asks to film on his cattle ranch, Logan McCormack doesn’t expect Desiree Jenkins, the young, sought-after star, to be so open, so down-to-earth, or so intimately interested in him. But the last thing a loner like Logan needs is a distraction like Des, who wouldn’t understand what it’s like to live peacefully off the land. 

But it’s Logan who doesn’t understand. What Des wants is an escape from paparazzi and gossip columns, and she’s found it at Logan’s ranch. Now it’s up to her to prove that she’s like any other girl looking to be accepted for who she is. And she’s hoping that it’s by this real-life cowboy who has everything it takes — and more — to give her the kind of happily ever after that can’t be found in the movies.

REVIEW:

Another darling installment in the Hope series!  This second novel - about Luke's brother Logan - is just as delightful as Hope Flames.  

It was so enjoyable to see many of the same characters again (including Luke, Emma, and of course Boomer, Daisy and Annie)!  And many of the new characters were just as fun, especially Colt and Tony.

Although it maybe isn't obvious at first, Logan and Des were perfect for one another.  Her bubbly personality is a great counterpoint to his rather taciturn disposition.  The way that they banter and interact in general is so entertaining.  While these two probably wouldn't have gotten involved with each other under normal circumstances, the illusion of a temporary relationship, due to the nature of her presence on the ranch, gives them both the freedom to just enjoy one another and let things develop naturally.

The love scenes are sensual and sexy, frequent enough to keep things hot, but not so constant as to impede the emotional elements of the storyline.  

This author's writing style is just so smooth that even when there isn't much happening in the story itself, you still want to keep reading.

In this instance, it is the guy who is a total idiot at the near-end of the book, all because of his deep-seated fears from childhood.  Luckily, he finally realizes what a fool he is being though, and - with the help of some new friends - is able to patch things up with Des and secure their own happily-ever-after.