Too Hot to Handle by Robin Kaye

This extensive excerpt from the novel, "Too Hot to Handle" by Robin Kaye, follows the complicated romance between Annabelle Ronaldi and Dr. Mike Flynn, starting with the aftermath of their impulsive one-night stand. Their relationship quickly intensifies as they navigate Annabelle’s previous grief over her late fiancé, Chip, Mike's turbulent career situation, and the unexpected revelation of Mike's wealthy, estranged family, who are also connected to Annabelle's past. The narrative focuses heavily on the couple’s passionate physical connection, their emotional struggles with commitment and family drama—particularly Annabelle's fear of interfering with Mike's newfound relationship with his biological family and his trust fund—and ultimately culminates in Mike's rejection of his inheritance for Annabelle and a marriage proposal, which is accepted. The text is rich with dialogue and internal monologue, detailing the challenges they face, including a proposal from Annabelle's boss, Ben, and the surprising discovery that Mike is the half-brother of Annabelle’s best friend, Becca, and is a near-double of her deceased fiancé.