The Sweetest Thing is the second book of the Lucky Harbor series. In the first book, Simply Irresistible, we are introduced to three estranged sisters: Maddie, Tara and Chloe. And three hot local hunks: Jax, Ford and Sawyer. Throughout Simply Irresistible, there were hints of a steamy past between Ford and Tara. I instantly fell in love with Ford around page 40 of the first book. I knew that book 2, The Sweetest Thing, would not disappoint.Tara had no intention of staying in Lucky Harbor long. But 6 months later, she's still there, helping her sister Maddie remodel and open The Lucky Harbor Inn. The sisters have gotten closer, thanks to Maddie's insistence and their relationship has blossomed. They still bicker, argue and push each other's buttons but it's done with sisterly love. Tara is known as the Steel Magnolia. She's uptight, bossy and controlling. She doesn't let go easily and it is a bone of contention with her sisters. Nothing ruffles the feathers of the Steel Magnolia except for one thing - person: Ford. Ford and Tara had a steamy summer affair when they were teenagers; an affair that changed both of their lives forever. Ford wants to pick up where they left off 17 years ago. Tara doesn't want to go down that road again even though her attraction to Ford is more intense than ever.I wasn't sure if I was going to like Tara. She is a type-A personality. She's not as warm and open and fun as her sisters. I liked Tara from beginning to end. It's hard not to like her. Tara is used to being in control; of living her life a certain way. Her sisters and now Ford, have completely turned her world upside down and she's trying to deal with it the best way she knows how. Add in her ex-husband Logan coming to town to win her back and what's a girl to do?Ford is a man on a mission. His pursuit of Tara is sexy, single-minded and purposeful. When Logan comes to town, it's game on and may the best man win. Ford doesn't appreciate Logan arriving and throwing a wrench in his plans. It becomes a true competition when the townsfolk get involved and there's a Facebook page where you can vote on which guy you want Tara to end up with.Like Simply Irresistible, The Sweetest Thing is filled with humor, romance and sexual chemistry that is through the rough. Jill Shalvis knows how to write characters that you fall in love with and root for. Logan, Tara's ex, could have easily been portrayed as the bad guy. But he wasn't. I loved Logan, felt sorry for him at times and hope that he'll eventually find his HEA. Baby sister Chloe almost stole the show with her snarky comments and great one-liners. I can't wait for her book; she's going to give Sawyer a run for his money!The Sweetest Thing did not disappoint. You know a book is good when you have a big, cheesy grin on your face the entire time while reading it. I finished Ford and Tara's story feeling satisfied and happy. A definite read for any romance lover. Every woman should have a Ford in their life. He's just so.....dreamy. *sigh*
