Murphy's Law
Damaged Heroes Book 1

Professional Reviews

Romance Writers of America's 2007 Heart of the Rockies Finalist, 2007 Golden Gateway Finalist, and 2007 Golden Rose Finalist

5 HEARTS - Reviewer Top Pick: "Ms. James wrote a thoroughly entertaining story within these pages. I have to admit that it took me quite some time to warm up to Seth. Even though he was extremely sexy and good looking, his flippant playboy attitude turned me completely off to him. I instantly fell in love with pretty, hard working Katie though. She clearly was no match for carefree, irresponsible Seth. I had every doubt in the world that Seth wasn't going to make it to the end of one racing season as stipulated by his father's will. I noticed this to be the first book in a series and I look forward to seeing what else can come about in other Damaged Heroes stories. I would definitely recommend this book to other readers and I'd love to read more work done by Ms. James in the near future." -- Diana Coyle, Night Owl Romance

5 BOOKS: "Murphy's Law starts off just plain intriguing. While Seth might seem, at outset, the stereotypical playboy, it's easy to identify with his motivations, and understand his pursuit of freedom. He is unlikable for some things. He has a wildness we all might wish for�and Katie knows about that kind of yearning. She knows how to channel the drive. Eminently practical, she just might prove to have a wild side. James does an exceptional job presenting her characters, and developing them throughout the work. The setting, largely in a busy Standardbred Racing Stable, contributes to an overall sense of achievements. The track environs, the horses, patrons, trainers, groom and drivers all become the community that Seth gets to know, feel part of, and quite unexpectedly, is contributing to. Yet, even as things improve in some ways, Seth's options are still limited by a hand from the past. Beautifully written, engaging, and hard to predict, Murphy's Law was a pleasure from start to finish." -- Snapdragon, Long and Short Reviews

You Gotta Read: "Ms. James has written an outstanding piece of work that was packed with one thrill after another. The action scenes blew me away and the romance had such sexual tension, I was cheering for Katie and Seth the entire story long. Murphy's Law is not a book you want to miss, trust me. It has all the elements of a superb novel that will tug at your heartstrings one minute and want to destroy someone the next. I highly recommend Murphy's Law and watch out for Ms. James, she is on her way to the top." -- Val, You Gotta Read Reviews

5 STARS: "The plot line was magnificent and I gained knowledge of how a real race track works. I was able to see the horses' personalities through Seth and Katie and I actually walked away wanting to ride a horse and know more about them. I always hope that books have epilogues so that I can see how the main characters are doing a little bit into the future. This epilogue was explosive! Ms. James has outdone herself on Murphy's Law. It truly is one of the best developed and engaging books I have ever read. With action, rejection, animosity, suspense and a stimulating love relationship, Murphy's Law is certain to grip your emotions and do flip flops with your heart. I highly recommend Murphy's Law; it is a well crafted page turner. Ms. James is an extremely talented writer that I will continue to follow in the future." -- Val, Manic Readers

5 HEARTS: "I have been impressed with what I've previously read by Ms. Sandy James. This book, however, gave more depth to her characters. This proved her abilities to delve into a plot and create a masterpiece. The main characters were, of course, attracted to each other (it's a romance). They were so opposite that it was amusing. The entire cast of her characters was realistic, endearing (or aggravating) and so believable I was totally absorbed in her story-telling. There were many individuals in this book which could have been confusing. It wasn't! James' writing ability was exemplified through the basic storyline as well as several "side" actions going on. I love her ability to make readers (me!) forget everything except what is happening at the time. There was a sensual undertone but the sexual activity was minimal. I loved how the book flowed and I did not see how the book would bring about its happily-ever-after. The tension and happenings were surprising. I cannot imagine a better conclusion. I highly recommend this book to anyone whether or not you love horses and racing. Finding out at the end that there is a sequel was an added bonus. Ms. James has found a place on my must-read list." -- Brenda Talley, The Romance Studio

4.5 BLUE RIBBONS: "Murphy's Law, the first book in Sandy James' Damaged Heroes series, is a touching, uplifting romance that you will not soon forget. Seth acted out, destroying cars, trying to get his father's attention. But all too soon, his father passed away before they had a chance to attain the closeness that both of them wanted. Unbeknownst to Seth, his father Sterling had changed his will. Now Seth must prove himself before he can inherit his father's wealth. Sterling loved horses and watching Katie work with horses, he greatly admired her. So, in his will, he stipulated that Katie was to train Seth as she trained her horses. This book grabbed me from the first page and held me right up to the end. I could not put the book down since my curiosity got the best of me and I had to know whether Seth chose Katie or the money. Brimming with witty dialogue, charming characters, an interesting plot and an inside look at harness racing; this story is a winner. I recommend Murphy's Law to anyone looking for a terrific read." -- Dottie, Romance Junkies

4 CUPS: "The intense drama that played out between Seth and Katie was beautiful to watch. I especially liked how Katie guides Seth throughout the story, showing him that a true person cannot get away with using his looks or his money to live his life. Watching the blooming romance grow between them was great, and seeing how Katie came to trust Seth helped make the story all the better. Overall, this reverse Cinderella story is a nice way to make a modern-day fairy tale; it shows that sometimes that little extra push is all Prince Charming needs to find his true love." -- Danielle, Coffee Time Romance & More

4 KISSES: "Sandy James has a sweet romantic novel with Murphy's Law. I loved the character of Katie. She is tough, yet soft. She doesn't let Seth get away with anything, and can be the most vulnerable too at times. She needs Seth as much as Seth needs her. Seth is very self absorbed. He has a long way to fall to learn that things you work for are twice as sweet. He does learn that money will never be able to buy him the happiness he craves. But will he choose the money or Katie? Read Murphy's Law when you want to smile and believe in true love again." -- Tina, Two Lips Reviews

Excerpt

Katie picked up a discarded program, her eyes scanning a page as her finger traced the entries. She suddenly gave the program a hard tap. "This one is easy. Brian's going to take it."

"Show me how to read that thing," Seth begged, looking at the pages of jumbled names and numbers. After a few minutes of instruction, Seth caught on. "Boss, can you float me...? What's the minimum bet around here?"

"Two dollars," Katie replied as she wiggled to reach for her wallet. "But that's all I'm staking you. You lose it, you're out of luck."

"I won't lose it," he promised, taking the bills in hand and sprinting toward the betting windows before the race went to post.

"That's what they all say," she commented loudly, eliciting laughter from several close spectators.

Seth returned with his red and white ticket, but he refused to divulge his wager to Katie. The race was close, but as Katie predicted, Brian's long-shot horse managed to win the mile.

Seth checked his ticket several times to be sure he was seeing it correctly, waiting with baited breath to see the results of the race posted.

"Official" illuminated on the infield tote board, and Seth watched as the payoffs were displayed. Just to be contrary, he made a somber face and shook his head.

Katie must have noticed his expression when she offered a conciliatory comment. "Most people lose. Don't feel bad."

"Oh, I don't feel bad at all. Hell, I just wish I'd bet more."

She appeared confused, which made Seth extremely happy. For once, she was off balance.

"I don't understand," Katie said, knitting her brows.

Seth tossed her a smug grin. "If I'd had four bucks on them, I'd be in four figures."

"Them?" He savored her puzzled expression, the small tilt of her head, the sudden dawning of understanding. "Let me see that ticket!" She grabbed for the betting slip.

Seth began a teasing game of "keep away" as she leaned over her seat to try to snatch it from his hand. The more she struggled, the harder he tried to keep it out of her grasp.

Katie jumped up, obviously frustrated and way too stubborn to ever admit defeat, and faced Seth as she leaned against him, bracing herself on his chest with her left hand. Her right reached for the betting slip he continued to keep as far behind his head as he could manage even as he realized his actions were nothing more than an adolescent ploy to draw her closer.

Standing on tiptoe, Katie finally caught the paper. She opened her mouth, probably preparing for a victorious comment, and then suddenly snapped it shut. Her face flushed a deep shade of red. Not only was Katie practically in his lap, but her chest pressed into Seth's face. "I'm sorry," she mumbled as she tried to get her balance.

"Oh, you're quite forgiven," he replied with a chuckle. Settling his hands around her waist to steady her, he hoped to keep her near for a moment longer. The whole episode had been the best thing that happened to him in a very long time--winning the bet included. As she moved away, awkward and apologetic, he could still make out the lingering sweet flowery scent of her. A subtle smell that eclipsed even the finest of perfumes. For the first time, Seth seriously wondered if any sort of loophole existed in the ridiculous "all business" clause of his father's will. Perhaps he wasn't entirely barred from pursuing her.

What the hell are you thinking, Remington? The instructions had been clear enough, and his inheritance was obviously more important than any fleeting attraction. Even if it was an extraordinarily strong one.

Taking a good look at the betting slip she now held in her hand, Katie's eyes went wide. "You bet a trifecta?"

"Sure did. First, second, third in correct order. All long shots too. That two dollars you floated me just turned into five-hundred and eighty," he arrogantly replied, plucking the ticket from her fingers.

"Beginner's luck," she reasoned as she crossed her arms over her breasts.

Seth laughed as he patted her shoulder. "Hell, with the way things have been going lately, I'll take any luck I can get. You want your two bucks back?"

"I'll take it out of your pay." Katie checked her wristwatch. "It's after ten, and we've got an early morning. I'm exhausted, so I'm heading for home. Think you can find your way back to the dorm, Rookie?"

"Oh, I think I can manage." He waved the ticket in her face. "With this I might just call a limo." The stunned look on Katie's face told him she thought he was serious. "Don't worry, Boss. Old habits die hard. But let me walk you to your truck. You never know what kind of shady characters are hanging around a racetrack." He winked at her.

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