With the devastation of Hurricane Katrina as the backdrop, ARMS OF A STRANGER garners heartfelt understanding of human natureand Mother Nature as well as finding true love. Simone Ladner returns to her hometown of Biloxi, Mississippi to help her family and neighbors rebuild after the affects of Hurricane Katrina. She gives up her half of the restaurant she owned in New York and uses the proceeds to help the people of Biloxi get back on their feet. Little does she know the aftermath also has an effect on wealthy land developer Keithen Knight.

Keithen knew he needed a change in his life. Being wealthy has afforded him a privileged life, but he is missing something substantial in his life. Following his heart, he decides to go to Biloxi to lend a hand to the rebuilding effort and donate his time, money and effort. What he discovers is a young woman who captures his heart. As they work closely together, they build a repertoire and amorous feelings develop. When someone tries to destroy plans to improve Biloxi, will that damage their plans to build a life together as they rebuild Biloxi?

ARMS OF A STRANGER was a sweet love story with a compelling background story of the rebuilding efforts after the devastationof Hurricane Katrina. The characters were well-developed and issues regarding the privilege of the wealthy, Carmichael didn’t allow those issues to take away from the message. Although this was an interracial couple, little emphasis was made on race; this was unadulterated love simple and pure. The pacing in the beginning was a bit slow, but once it hit a speed bump the book was almost impossible to put down. With heated romance, familial love and community awareness, ARMS OF ASTRANGER is more than a mere romance.