The Fairest of Them All (The Pendletons)

Carly Pendleton doesn't need another overprotective man in her life—she already has seven brothers. So when her old friend Russ Bradford comes courting, she resists. He may be the stuff of feminine fantasies, but he's always been more protective than passionate toward her. And though he's suddenly tempting her to shed her innocence, she's not interested in giving up her hard-won independence—or having her heart broken.

Russ has a well-deserved reputation as a ladies' man, but he's ready to settle down and no one but the beautiful, sexy and kindhearted Carly will do. He's waited to make his move, but can be patient no longer. He's never wanted another woman like this, and so begins an all-out seduction. But can he win her heart?