All Rhodes lead here A novel

Zapata (Wait For It) lights a long fuse and lets it burn slowly in this tasty if somewhat overlong small-town romance, originally self-published. Nashville songwriter Aurora "Ora" De La Torre lands in her hometown of Pagosa Springs, Colo., following the devastating end of a 14-year relationship with a famous musician. She wants to get back to the simple life after years of being hidden away by her partner, while also hiking the trails her mother, who died during Ora's childhood, once adored. Unfortunately, her plan hits a bump when she learns that the man who rented her the garage apartment she hopes to move into is not actually the property's owner but his teenage son, Amos--and Amos's father, wildlife officer Tobias Rhodes, is furious. He lets Ora stay only reluctantly, and Zapata takes her time allowing their contentious relationship to evolve into a trusted friendship and then maybe something more. Less compelling are Ora's repetitive interior monologues, scenes at her new retail job, and challenging hikes, which feel like padding. Still, there's strong chemistry between Ora and Tobias, and they make a sweet family with Amos. Zapata should win some new fans with this. Agent: Jane Dystel, Dystel, Goderich & Bourret. (Jan.)