January 2, 2017
In the third Body Shop Bad Boys contemporary (after Roadside Assistance), Harte once again unites a hunky, emotionally damaged garage jockey with a chill, capable woman. Seattle masseuse Ivy Stephens’s firm no-more-men rule is threatened when a stray dog she calls Cookie brings Sam Hamilton into her life. Sam is big, he’s tattooed from here to there, and he’s got serious mommy issues. Luckily he’s had other positive influences in life, so though he’s built like a pickup truck, on the inside he’s soft as Italian leather upholstery. Cookie brings his tender aspects to the fore, and Ivy all but swoons at Sam’s slightest touch. There’s a definite spark between the two and neither one tries to resist ignition. Their characters possess a few requisite and superficial complexities, and love eventually and unsurprisingly ensues. By far the most fascinating character is Sam’s elderly friend Willie, a foster “parent” of stray animals, whose salty language, naked figurines, and interesting bedroom gear steal the show.