Michelle recs 'The Perfect Hope,' 'The Husband List'

Join me every week as I share a few shout-outs on romance author goings-on, related events and recommended reads.

This past week millions suffered the wrath of Hurricane Sandy. The aftermath and suffering are still felt by those who are homeless, without power, and who have lost loved ones. My heart and prayers extend to you. As a Maryland resident, I also experienced a bit of Mother Nature's power and might. Please know that we, here at USA TODAY's HEA blog, support you and invite our readers to donate to the various charities on your behalf. On to this week's recommendations …

The Perfect Hope, Nora Roberts

Book three in the Inn BoonsBoro trilogy, an aptly named story, ushers in the last romance of the Montgomery brothers, while gently closing the curtain on this small town in Maryland. Good news, though: You can head to the real Boonsboro, Md., and follow the map provided in the book to enjoy the various attractions.

Nothing like the season of real-world politics to make voting difficult for the best story in the series. Call me a swing voter who can't decide which story is my favorite. Luckily I don't have to because they all more than meet the standards for a good romance and memorable pull to Main Street USA. Each installment builds on the other with a sentimental romance mystery around the Civil War era juxtaposed with the fresh wave of present-day romance in the same town.

Roberts' love for Inn Boonsboro shines through from the first line on the first page. The historic building is pivotal in the lives of the Montgomery brothers, who took on the massive renovation of this town's centerpiece. Then, in walks Hope Beaumont, the new innkeeper, to launch the inn, help a ghost find her lost love and nab for herself, Ryder, the last bachelor in the Montgomery family. Ryder accuses Hope of being "snooty" and she accuses him of being "snotty," establishing the battleground between these two vibrant and lovable characters. There's a little give-and-take, acknowledging that compromises need to be made, but also each quite firmly has a handle on what's important: love and humor. For Hope, she wants "love, a home, a family that comes from me and the man I love. And, of course, I want my job, good muscle tone, and a fabulous collection of shoes." Hear, hear, Hope.

The plot (courtesy of publisher Berkley):

Ryder is the hardest Montgomery brother to figure out — with a tough-as-nails outside and possibly nothing too soft underneath. He's surly and unsociable, but when he straps on a tool belt, no woman can resist his sexy swagger. Except apparently Hope Beaumont, the innkeeper of his own Inn BoonsBoro.

As the former manager of a D.C. hotel, Hope is used to excitement and glamour, but that doesn't mean she can't appreciate the joys of small-town living. She's where she wants to be — except for in her love life. Her only interaction with the opposite sex has been sparring with the infuriating Ryder, who always seems to get under her skin. Still, no one can deny the electricity that crackles between them … a spark that ignited with a New Year's Eve kiss.

While the Inn is running smoothly, thanks to Hope's experience and unerring instincts, her big-city past is about to make an unwelcome — and embarrassing — appearance. Seeing Hope vulnerable stirs up Ryder's emotions and makes him realize that while Hope may not be perfect, she just might be perfect for him.

The Husband List, Janet Evanovich and Dorien Kelly

Remember Love in a Nutshell, the first book by Janet Evanovich and Dorien Kelly? Well, The Husband List is a follow-up — well, not quite a follow-up, since it is based on the family from Love in a Nutshell but set in the late 1800s gilded age.

The "dynamic duo" have brought their A-game to share a story that is wonderfully rich with historical details, romance and mystery, and reader appeal. Opposites of class and culture clash with wit and humor. A mother's expectation battles the will of her daughter like a scene from Downton Abbey. And a hero who goes against the grain, making him that much more deliciously attractive, knows who he wants at his side and goes after his woman. Here's a rich romance ready for the Hollywood touch.

The plot (courtesy of publisher St. Martin's Press):

From The New York Times best-selling writing duo Janet Evanovich and Dorien Kelly, comes the story of a young woman's search for true love. Caroline Maxwell would like nothing more than to join her brother, Eddie, and his friend, Jack Culhane, on their adventures. While Jack and Eddie are off seeing the world, buying up businesses and building wildly successful careers, Caroline's stuck at home frightening off the men her mother hopes will ask for her hand in marriage. When her mother sets her sights on the questionable Lord Bremerton as a possible suitor, Caroline struggles with her instincts and the true nature of her heart. She longs for adventure, passion, love, and most of all … Jack Culhane, an unconventional Irish-American bachelor with new money and no title. A completely unacceptable suitor in the eyes of Caroline's mother. But Caroline's dark hair, brilliant eyes and quick wit have Jack understanding just why it is people fall in love and get married.

Set in New York City in 1894, The Husband List is an American gilded age romantic mystery. It evokes memories of the lavish lifestyles and social expectations of the Vanderbilts and Rockefellers — a time when new money from the Americas married Old World social prestige and privilege. Dresses by Worth, transcontinental ocean voyages, lavish parties, a little intrigue, and a lot of romance await in The Husband List.

Michelle Monkou is a best-selling romance author who lives by the motto "live, love, and laugh." Her website is MichelleMonkou.com.