Dare to Love Again by Julie Lessman

Book Description:

Spunky Allison McClare is determined to be a fearless, independent woman, resorting to a mammoth hat pin for protection on her way to and from the school where she teaches. But when she takes a notion to explore the wild Barbary Coast she quickly discovers she is no match for rum-soaked brute strength.

Detective Nick Barone would rather do almost anything than teach this petite socialite jiu-jitsu, but it seems he has little choice in the matter. Sparks fly every time the two meet until a grudging friendship develops into something deeper. But when Nick suddenly leaves town, Allison realizes he’s a fraud just like all the rest of the men she’s cared for. Does she dare love again?

My Thoughts:
Refreshing historical romance!  Allison has been hurt several times and doesn't have rose colored glasses when it comes to love.  She is independent and smart, not to mention well-to-do.  Nick is a detective and has been hired to teach Allison self defense.  He has issues with the wealthy but he and Allison develop a friendship and more.
I adore Allison.  She was just spunky and the kind of person you want for a friend.  The banter between her and Nick was laugh out loud funny.  I liked catching up with the rest of the family and the little side stories that developed along the way.  Nick was very realistic and awesome once you get past the rough exterior.  Heart of gold!  I cannot wait to see what happens in the third book in this series.
I rate this a 5/5.  It is the second in the series and can stand alone but you will want to meet this family and get to know them all!

Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book.  I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.