MacDougal Meets His Match [Mass Market Paperback]

Brendan loved kids, and although he came from an obscenely wealthy family, he chose to spend his time as chairman of a charity that raises money for children's causes. His cause du jour is an expansion of the pediatric wing of the hospital Dr. Doeber works for. His reputation has been severely tarnished, however, because he had trusted a woman who had absconded with millions. Now even his most favorable donors are weary of donating their money to his charity, and Brendan needs someone to help him regain their trust. Once he discovers that Rose isn't perfect, however, can he think of a future with her?

This book was pretty good, and those who love medical romances will certainly like this book, as a good portion of the book occurs in a hospital. I found the subplots to be interesting and kept the book moving. Every time I would come to the end of a chapter, I just HAD to read "one more chapter," which ended up me staying up most of the night so I could finish the book!

The time frame of this book was completely unrealistic. I think it spans about two weeks of their lives...I'm sorry, but how can you KNOW someone well enough to REALLY marry them in that space of time? I just don't think it could happen. Brendan's past is virtually ignored, and I doubt that Rose would know more about him than the reader, and marrying a virtual stranger just gives me the creeps.

I really liked the character of Rose and I can completely relate to her. Brendan's character never really clicked with me, though. I don't know what it was...perhaps it was because he was so sketchy, not much was ever really told about him. The focus was always on Rose, and though I didn't mind that, it definitely prevented Brendan's character from standing out. Nevertheless, the book was a good read, and I liked it.

He wants to use little Dylan as a poster child co-starring with his famous racing car driver to advertise the pediatric wing. Rose fears that Dylan's dad will react by interpreting publicity to mean more money. She wants the child safe. The playboy plans to seduce the doctor into agreement, but suddenly, Brendan finds he needs Rose like he has never needed any other woman. He suffers a disease of the heart with the only cure a lifetime with Rose.

MCDOUGAL MEETS HIS MATCH is a fine contemporary romance starring a charming lead duet and supported by strong secondary characters especially Dylan. Fans' hearts will go out to the intrepid child who copes with whatever grenades life tosses at him. Readers will also appreciate the changing relationship between Brendan and Rose, as both start off wary, but gradually change into needing the other. A subplot involving who Rose really is adds tension, but also takes away from the prime theme that the medical romance audience will find provides the perfect remedy to warm the heart on a cold January night.

Harriet Klausner