The Tender Heart — Marcia Miller

Brooke had made a career of comforting others. Now her own world was coming apart and betrayed by those she had loved most, who could she turn to?

Dear Nell...

Brooke Kirkland's understanding and compassion made her the perfect choice for handling the popular advice column "Tell Nell." Unfortunately, in her personal life, Brooke couldn't see half so clearly. Her glamorous stepsister, Eve, for instance, could do no wrong as far as Brooke was concerned. And Brooke fell in love -- at first sight with charming young Dr. Wayne Stevens. When Wayne jilted her for Eve, Brooke was grateful for the special assignment that took her to Mexico -- especially after she met novelist Paul Chandler there. She didn't know her editor had dreamed up the trip to shield her from another shock: someone had gotten hold of one of her correspondent's letters, had recognized the anonymous writer -- a famous actress -- and tried blackmail. When Brooke learned the truth, she knew she had to go back and face the victim, though going back would mean leaving Paul, perhaps forever...

Reflections on a Kiss...
When they reached her door, Wayne bent his head and gently kissed Brooke on the mouth. "I don't need to tell you I'll be calling, Brooke dear?"
Inside the apartment, she walked around in a daze. She could still feel his lips on hers, and she stared wonderingly at the flushed girl in the mirror with the shining hazel eyes. Was she really in love? If so, did he love her? Suddenly, that seemed much more important. Her mind spun back over the short time she had known Wayne Stevens. The flowers, constant calls, dates--surely, he wouldn't have spent so much of his time with her if he didn't feel something...

Hero: Paul Chandler
Heroine: Brooke Kirkland