From Publishers Weekly
An upscale woman from Washington, D.C., falls hopelessly in love with an oafish Appalachian farmer in veteran author Martin's engaging romantic fairy tale, which begins when 30-year-old Katherine Renault retreats to her rich fiance's backwoods cottage to escape the pressures of urban life. She gets more than she bargained for when she encounters a farmer named David Long, known by the locals as Bear, trying to help a couple of villagers save a dying cow. Smitten by Long's strength and sense of compassion, Renault drifts toward a friendship with the odd, reclusive farmer, with some help from the local veterinarian who sets up a series of animal rescues for the two that eventually lead to the formation of a shelter. Renault ignores the belief of many villagers that the farmer is retarded and dangerous, and their love is sorely tested when Renault is beaten up by the two rednecks who mistreated the cow that brought the couple together. But Renault focuses on Long's sensitive, loving nature as their deep-seated chemistry quickly moves them toward a permanent union. Martin keeps the narrative clipping along at a sprightly pace, and he never misses a chance to tug at the heartstrings with his cast of heroic animals. The sappy moments are balanced by the author's obvious compassion, but what makes this book work is Martin's portrayal of Long, whose depth, passion and clumsy emotionality become quite endearing. Martin goes a bit over the top with an out-of-nowhere ending involving Bear's brother and Renault, but this novel has plenty of winning moments for readers seeking a warm, fuzzy romantic journey with plenty of critters along for the ride. Agent, Bob Datilla.
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Bear is a lonely Appalachian farmer who raises cattle, shoots groundhogs, and traps mice. His greatest fear is that no one will come to his funeral. When Kate Renault walks into his life on a mission to rescue abused animals, "crazy love" is born. Kate is a city girl on temporary leave from her usual life. She enlists Bear's help with her mission, and he goes anywhere she leads without question. Then animals begin to talk to Bear, and he changes his attitude as his relationship with them, and with Kate, develops. As crazy love spreads, it touches unexpected people and changes their lives, too. This charming love story is emotionally evocative but unsentimental, and the characters are well rounded and believable. Martin (The Crying Heart Tattoo) delivers a package readers will eagerly unwrap. Joanna M. Burkhardt, Univ. of Rhode Island Lib., Providence
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
