Ex, Why, and Me
Susanna Carr
Brava, Jul 2006, $14.00, ISBN: 0758210833
reviewed by Harriet Klausner

In Chicago Michelle Nelson feels she owes her hometown of Carbon Hill as the locals helped her attend college and obtain a career as a pastry chef after she won the Miss Horseradish title five years ago. She agrees to return to help her town promote their cash crop at the upcoming Horseradish Festival.

However, if Michelle knew beforehand that she would be paired on a scavenger hunt with Ryan Slater, employed at his family owned Pins and Pints bowling alley, she would have said no thanks. Mortified she remembers that with her tiara on her head, they were making love for the first time, but her enthusiasm "killed" his head; she vows never again. Meanwhile he blames himself for their failure and welcomes a second chance.

This lighthearted romantic romp is a fun somewhat second chance at love starring likable protagonists and eccentric support cast. The story line focuses on taking chances on love as Michelle fears another try while Ryan needs to prove more himself that he can do it with her. Soon their feelings of inadequacy changes to love, but will that prove enough to overcome the teary teen trauma that taunts them.