Until We Touch by Susan Mallery

• Title:  Until We Touch
• Series:  Fool’s Gold # 15
• Author:  Susan Mallery
• Genre:  Contemporary Romance; series
• Published:  June 2014 – Harlequin HQN
• Source:  Publisher

Synopsis:  After a family tragedy, former football hero Jack McGarry keeps the world at arm’s length—a challenge now that his PR firm has moved to neighborly Fool’s Gold, California. 
Larissa Owens knows where she stands—Jack sees her as just another one of the guys. No matter what her heart wishes, Jack’s her boss, not her boyfriend. But then Larissa’s big secret is revealed…by her mother! 
When Jack discovers the truth about Larissa’s feelings, her touch suddenly becomes tantalizing, and he’s not sure he wants to resist. But if he gives in to desire, heartache is sure to follow. Friendship or true love—will Jack go for the ultimate play?  (publisher)

My take:  Jack McGarry has been operating on autopilot for most of his life – ever since his twin brother died when they were teens. He’s a self-described shell of a man who financially backs the causes of his friend and assistant Larissa. When the two become romantically involved everything is great – until it isn’t. Pressure from unexpected sources throw Jack into a tail-spin and he lashes out at everyone near and dear to him.

I really wanted to love this addition to the Fool’s Gold series but ended up liking it. The actions of Jack toward those he loved most were explained but, I don’t know, I just didn’t buy it. Regardless, Susan Mallery wrote an emotional ending that was sweet (although rather abrupt).

Despite that I found Until We Touch not as strong as others in the series, I’m a fan of the Fool’s Gold series and look forward to the next book.