All I Want is Forever
Author:  Lynn Emery
Avon/Harper Collins
3 + Stars
Reviewed by Renee Motley

Behind the pretty face and businesslike persona, D.C. lobbyist and political consultant Talia Marchand lay "a past as thick as swamp mud." Unfortunately, Talia is forced to confront her former life when a new client turns out to be her long-lost first love, Derrick Guillory, now an investigator for the DA's office from their tiny hometown of Rougon, La. 

During an extended trip home, Talia reluctantly reunites with her incarcerated mother, Monette, who is serving a 40-year sentence she is trying to appeal. While Talia and Derrick look into the circumstances surrounding Monette's conviction, they uncover a trail of corruption leading to a high political official who is determined to keep Monette behind bars. The political intrigue subplot adds a smidgen of suspense, and Talia's interactions with her mother, a little much at times, inject the narrative with warmth and depth of character. 

Talia and Derrick's story was typical Emery flavor.  She still manages to place the reader firmly in her Southern setting and we see Louisiana through her eyes.  This novel has the right amount of mystery and romance to keep you reading.  The characters are interesting and will keep you turning the pages to see how the story ends.  I'm a fan of Ms. Emery and thoroughly enjoyed this novel and I am sure you will too.