WHEN LIGHTNING STRIKES has a truly strong central female character that embodies all the traits of an independent woman who doesn't compromise her femininity which is a standard in Novak stories. This is an engrossing story about relationships and self-discovery.

Gail DeMarco's PR business is doomed and this is no exaggeration. If something doesn't happen quickly it will be gasping its last breath. PR companies rely on their reputation and client list to stay successful and with her client list dwindling Gail is barely afloat. Clients were literally jumping ship and all because of something she said about one of her clients, a remark she regrets but in the interest of fairness it is the truth.

Simon O'Neal uses their feud as a weapon against Big Hit PR. It doesn't seem to matter that Simon is on the road to self destruction -- he is a beloved star to his many fans. And he has enormous clout in show business. When he leaves Gail's company he takes everyone with him.

Big Hit isn't just Gail's business it is her entire life. Ambitious women often have to make difficult choices in their pursuit of a successful career and Gail is no exception. Her only real friends are back home in Whiskey Creek. The closest thing to friends she has in LA are the very employees she will now have to let go.

Simon hasn't fully realized the damage his manager Ian is out to do to Gail and her company. Her remarks have cut deep and he is surprised that in some way he actually cares what she thinks about him. His life is spiraling out of control but even he doesn't consider himself so low as to destroy someone else on his way down.

Neither Gail nor Simon could ever imagine how circumstances will almost take on a life of their own. Forced to present a unified front to correct wrongs, rectify mistakes, nullify destructive reputations and mend seemingly irreparable damages Gail and Simon are going to have to join forces by becoming the one thing that publicly and privately is almost unimaginable -- a couple.

Gail's goal is to repair her corporate image and get her PR firm back on top. Simon's is more personal -- he wants a chance with his son Ty. As a womanizing drunk this seems unattainable but with luck, perseverance and a good woman there could be a chance for his life to turn around. In their search to mend fences their own relationship will become something very special. Wouldn't it be great to have a happy ending to a story that began so horribly?

Nobody does it better than Brenda Novak who manages to dig deep into her characters and find something worthwhile to save and to love. If you are looking for the most amazing love story look no further than Gail & Simon in WHEN LIGHTNING STRIKES.

Book Summary