Shadow Force International operative Jaxon (Jax) Sloan finds himself assigned to a case that pairs him with CIA AgOriginally posted on
Shadow Force International operative Jaxon (Jax) Sloan finds himself assigned to a case that pairs him with CIA Agent Ruby McKellen, the woman who stole his heart during a mission in Morroco and derailed his career as a Navy SEAL. It also didn't do her career any favors as she's now on probation. Both are now trying to find her former partner who's escaped from jail. She's trying to prove his innocence, Jax...not so much as he was responsible for putting him there.
This was a real puzzler of a case as there's so much subterfuge and duplicity you never know who's telling the truth or whom to believe. It was often exciting and tension filled with one disaster after another. I was truly off balance throughout and gave up trying to figure out the true villains so I could just enjoy the ride.
I enjoyed Jax and Ruby's relationship, particularly her being the one setting the rules and pace. Their encounters were off-the-charts steamy, almost combustible. However, they often got in the way of the story as it was tough to suspend my belief system for the timing of these interludes. When they should have been on mission, they were getting hot and heavy. It just wasn't professional.
Despite my issues with the romance, this still was an exciting story with many twists, turns and adventures. It's a staple of the series and I'm enjoying the stories. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
Merged review:
Originally posted on
Shadow Force International operative Jaxon (Jax) Sloan finds himself assigned to a case that pairs him with CIA Agent Ruby McKellen, the woman who stole his heart during a mission in Morroco and derailed his career as a Navy SEAL. It also didn't do her career any favors as she's now on probation. Both are now trying to find her former partner who's escaped from jail. She's trying to prove his innocence, Jax...not so much as he was responsible for putting him there.
This was a real puzzler of a case as there's so much subterfuge and duplicity you never know who's telling the truth or whom to believe. It was often exciting and tension filled with one disaster after another. I was truly off balance throughout and gave up trying to figure out the true villains so I could just enjoy the ride.
I enjoyed Jax and Ruby's relationship, particularly her being the one setting the rules and pace. Their encounters were off-the-charts steamy, almost combustible. However, they often got in the way of the story as it was tough to suspend my belief system for the timing of these interludes. When they should have been on mission, they were getting hot and heavy. It just wasn't professional.
Despite my issues with the romance, this still was an exciting story with many twists, turns and adventures. It's a staple of the series and I'm enjoying the stories. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
Connor and Karen Donovan, Drake and Lucy's parents, have been estranged for the last three years. Just as Karen thinks there might be a thaw in their Connor and Karen Donovan, Drake and Lucy's parents, have been estranged for the last three years. Just as Karen thinks there might be a thaw in their relationship, he retreats. However, a man who Connor was responsible for bringing to justice now threatens not only his future with Karen but her very life.
This short story wastes no time in ratcheting up the tension and packs a wallop. It brings closure to the Donovan family though an odd ending to an enjoyable series.
Merged review:
Connor and Karen Donovan, Drake and Lucy's parents, have been estranged for the last three years. Just as Karen thinks there might be a thaw in their relationship, he retreats. However, a man who Connor was responsible for bringing to justice now threatens not only his future with Karen but her very life.
This short story wastes no time in ratcheting up the tension and packs a wallop. It brings closure to the Donovan family though an odd ending to an enjoyable series....more
Photojournalist Lucy O'Brien returns to Dare Valley from the Congo following a devastating injury. While she's recOriginally posted on
Photojournalist Lucy O'Brien returns to Dare Valley from the Congo following a devastating injury. While she's recovered from most of them, her optic nerve was damaged and her vision in her right (dominant) eye is still an issue. She's not told anyone the details for various reasons (some better than others) but her best friend, widower Andy Hale, doesn't waste time getting her to fess up. To complicate matters, she's been asked by her mother to photograph a risqu茅 calendar featuring too many people she knows to fundraise for cancer research and she's not sure she can see well enough to do the project justice.
This is quite a lovely story with some very emotional themes. It's not your typical friends-to-lovers romance either as there aren't any secret conflicts between the two and their deepening feelings are a surprise to both, handled maturely and with forthright. Their new relationship developed beautifully. However, Lucy's entire identity is tied up in her career; she doesn't know who she is without the ability to express herself through her photography. And, her relationship with her mother is fraught with tension as she struggles to assert her independence. Again, the mother-daughter issues are not your normal ones and you'll be drawn to both sides.
Let's not forget Andy who loved his wife deeply and is still recovering, two years later, with her death from breast cancer. His relationship with their five-year old son will warm your heart as he tries to explain loss in ways he can digest and understand. And, Lucy and his wife were good friends so there's that to contend with as they both grieve and love each other differently.
The issues and the developing relationship are told with eloquence and dignity, despite some moments of comic relief. The resolutions aren't easy and I loved how they weren't wrapped neatly in a bow. I can always count on Ava to inspire and this one definitely lifted my spirits. I hope this series never ends.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
Merged review:
Originally posted on
Photojournalist Lucy O'Brien returns to Dare Valley from the Congo following a devastating injury. While she's recovered from most of them, her optic nerve was damaged and her vision in her right (dominant) eye is still an issue. She's not told anyone the details for various reasons (some better than others) but her best friend, widower Andy Hale, doesn't waste time getting her to fess up. To complicate matters, she's been asked by her mother to photograph a risqu茅 calendar featuring too many people she knows to fundraise for cancer research and she's not sure she can see well enough to do the project justice.
This is quite a lovely story with some very emotional themes. It's not your typical friends-to-lovers romance either as there aren't any secret conflicts between the two and their deepening feelings are a surprise to both, handled maturely and with forthright. Their new relationship developed beautifully. However, Lucy's entire identity is tied up in her career; she doesn't know who she is without the ability to express herself through her photography. And, her relationship with her mother is fraught with tension as she struggles to assert her independence. Again, the mother-daughter issues are not your normal ones and you'll be drawn to both sides.
Let's not forget Andy who loved his wife deeply and is still recovering, two years later, with her death from breast cancer. His relationship with their five-year old son will warm your heart as he tries to explain loss in ways he can digest and understand. And, Lucy and his wife were good friends so there's that to contend with as they both grieve and love each other differently.
The issues and the developing relationship are told with eloquence and dignity, despite some moments of comic relief. The resolutions aren't easy and I loved how they weren't wrapped neatly in a bow. I can always count on Ava to inspire and this one definitely lifted my spirits. I hope this series never ends.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
Lissy Charteris and Will Fraser live together and are getting married in two weeks. She challenges them to abstain until the wedding and even establisLissy Charteris and Will Fraser live together and are getting married in two weeks. She challenges them to abstain until the wedding and even establishes a wager.
What happens to the two of them during the two weeks alternates between erotica, humor and frustration. It's a fun story rooted in some serious themes. Short but an interesting story where, unusual for a novella, the two characters are pretty well developed and captured.
Merged review:
Lissy Charteris and Will Fraser live together and are getting married in two weeks. She challenges them to abstain until the wedding and even establishes a wager.
What happens to the two of them during the two weeks alternates between erotica, humor and frustration. It's a fun story rooted in some serious themes. Short but an interesting story where, unusual for a novella, the two characters are pretty well developed and captured....more
Part 2 of the story has Tristan and Kat struggling to come to grips with the dilemma of their parents' engagement. Both must confront the fact that, iPart 2 of the story has Tristan and Kat struggling to come to grips with the dilemma of their parents' engagement. Both must confront the fact that, in a very short time, their feelings have deepened and stepping away cannot be the only solution.
Fortunately, the issues that plagued me in the first story weren't quite as prevalent here, though I did a fair amount of skimming over repetitious ruminating, past and present. I enjoyed getting more about the personalities of these two, still remaining a bit cool about the playboy Tristan who can be overbearing at times.
Looking forward to the final conclusion.
Merged review:
Part 2 of the story has Tristan and Kat struggling to come to grips with the dilemma of their parents' engagement. Both must confront the fact that, in a very short time, their feelings have deepened and stepping away cannot be the only solution.
Fortunately, the issues that plagued me in the first story weren't quite as prevalent here, though I did a fair amount of skimming over repetitious ruminating, past and present. I enjoyed getting more about the personalities of these two, still remaining a bit cool about the playboy Tristan who can be overbearing at times.
Jennifer Crawford, the youngest sister, is trapped in an abusive relationship with a man, Jeffrey Rothchild, who iOriginally posted on
Jennifer Crawford, the youngest sister, is trapped in an abusive relationship with a man, Jeffrey Rothchild, who is determined to force her into marriage. Jennifer doesn't want to create a scandal for her family and suffers in silence. Zebidiah Moran, her brother-in-law's chief of staff, is determined to intervene and provide safe harbor.
As awful as modern-day domestic violence is it has to have been even more horrific in an era when wives were deemed to be their husbands' property. Jennifer's struggle was heartbreaking, made more so by her dysfunctional and unsupportive parents. Her desire to manage the situation on her own while remaining steadfast in her refusal to marry Jeffrey was admirable. Jennifer's relationship with Zeb developed slowly as a result but that just made it more compelling.
I wasn't as eager for this story because Jennifer hadn't seemed that interesting in the earlier books. That's what I get for assuming because I literally couldn't put this book down, finishing it in a day. Though the subject matter is disturbing, Jennifer's triumph is uplifting. And, it's handled sensitively and in keeping with the historical period. It is a fitting and satisfying end to a wonderful series.
(I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review)
Merged review:
Originally posted on
Jennifer Crawford, the youngest sister, is trapped in an abusive relationship with a man, Jeffrey Rothchild, who is determined to force her into marriage. Jennifer doesn't want to create a scandal for her family and suffers in silence. Zebidiah Moran, her brother-in-law's chief of staff, is determined to intervene and provide safe harbor.
As awful as modern-day domestic violence is it has to have been even more horrific in an era when wives were deemed to be their husbands' property. Jennifer's struggle was heartbreaking, made more so by her dysfunctional and unsupportive parents. Her desire to manage the situation on her own while remaining steadfast in her refusal to marry Jeffrey was admirable. Jennifer's relationship with Zeb developed slowly as a result but that just made it more compelling.
I wasn't as eager for this story because Jennifer hadn't seemed that interesting in the earlier books. That's what I get for assuming because I literally couldn't put this book down, finishing it in a day. Though the subject matter is disturbing, Jennifer's triumph is uplifting. And, it's handled sensitively and in keeping with the historical period. It is a fitting and satisfying end to a wonderful series.
(I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review)...more
Serena Talbot has only had eyes and heart for golden boy Paul Garside as far back as she can remember. Now that she's twenty-one, he's finally paying Serena Talbot has only had eyes and heart for golden boy Paul Garside as far back as she can remember. Now that she's twenty-one, he's finally paying her the attention she's always wanted but the dark and broody Giles Farraday is distracting her from the man who's ready to marry her...in person and in her dreams.
Serena's grown up with both men as they were her brother's friends since childhood so she's knows them well, or so she thinks. The sprig of mistletoe she placed under her pillow brought the romantic dreams she was hoping for but not of the man she imagined.
I really liked this story, especially Serena. She's bright, resourceful and witty, easily someone that you can imagine both men finding appealing. She now sees the focus of her childhood affections through adult eyes and he's not so shiny. Her change in perspective made this feel like a modern story though it was very much a regency period piece in vernacular and setting. The banter between Giles and Serena was well written and pithy, the real heart of this tale of unrequited love that gets life. And, the spirit of the Christmas season was an important part of the story since everyone was under one roof for the holidays. That made for some very interesting interludes.
Short and lovely, this was a delightful story for the holiday season.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
Laura Blacklock is a travel journalist who luckily finds herself booked aboard a special voyage of the Aurora, a new luxury cruise liner. She's replacLaura Blacklock is a travel journalist who luckily finds herself booked aboard a special voyage of the Aurora, a new luxury cruise liner. She's replacing her co-worker who couldn't make the trip. All goes well until one night when she's awakened by a scream, followed by a splash from the adjacent cabin #10. Problem is, the woman she'd seen earlier occupying that stateroom wasn't booked as a passenger or crew on the ship nor does anyone else appear to be missing.
This story took quite a bit of time to develop and seemed to meander at will. Laura (Lo) had a lot of issues that contributed to her not being taken seriously by many when her story couldn't be validated. But then, the story took a turn and things got tense as we are put in the position of believing her account. Of course, I guessed wrong (probably missed a few clues when my mind wandered) and the clever little twist at the end elevated my rating.
I enjoyed the narrator, Imogen Church, who really captured Lo's character. Be forewarned that her interpretation of an American accent will make you chuckle. I'm glad I decided to listen to the story because she made the slow start more interesting. While this wasn't the most original plot, it was entertaining. Just hang in there until things get going. 3.5 stars...more
Julia Bailey left Shadow Creek five years ago following tragic circumstances. She's returning for the holidays for the first time since she left and hJulia Bailey left Shadow Creek five years ago following tragic circumstances. She's returning for the holidays for the first time since she left and her emotions are running strong. Chase Donovan was her rock when she needed him and now he's ready for a much deeper relationship.
This was sweet on the surface but, typical of a Victoria James story, some very tough issues roiled beneath. I loved the idyllic Christmas setting and how it juxtaposed against both Julia's and Chase's personal circumstances. His seven-year old daughter added comic relief and some very poignant moments.
It's a lovely story with a real emotional punch of both kinds. I'm looking forward to more stories in this series.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
TV news anchor Carol Penny returns to her family's ranch in Eden Rock, Texas after losing her job. Though they've found a buyer, she and her sister haTV news anchor Carol Penny returns to her family's ranch in Eden Rock, Texas after losing her job. Though they've found a buyer, she and her sister have second thoughts after finding out some unsettling information about the buyer. Carol's ex-boyfriend, Clay Hudson has also recently moved back home and they find that their feelings for each haven't changed.
We get to revisit the Lost and Found, Inc. team when Clay contacts Nate Wolfe, his former Navy buddy, for help because of his well-founded suspicions about the ranch buyer. I enjoyed the suspense element that is the trademark of this series and the heightened tension that builds steadily throughout the story. The rekindled romance between Carol and Clay was sweet but steamy.
It was nice getting updates about the team members and their new families and relationships. This short story covered a lot of ground was just enough to whet my appetite as I wait for the next book in the series, nicely wrapped in a lovely holiday bow.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
It's Halloween and this day is a challenge for both Annalyse Reynolds and Holt Miller but for different reasons. She's emerging from a 5-year hibernatIt's Halloween and this day is a challenge for both Annalyse Reynolds and Holt Miller but for different reasons. She's emerging from a 5-year hibernation following a personal tragedy and he's still a bit stuck following his. Their chance encounter has seismic results.
I won't tell you any of the details of this story because the journey and discoveries are frankly delicious. This isn't a predictable story by any measure and that kept me eagerly turning the pages. I loved their relationship, which begins tentatively and cautiously for very good reasons. Annalyse's blog posts are deftly interspersed throughout, creating a perfect emotional pitch and communication crutch that made the story even more interesting. Holt's gradual growth was realistic and authentic.
There are strong themes and messages that resonated both in my head and heart. The story is thoughtful and sincere in its honesty. I loved both Annalyse and Holt, even when they behaved poorly. The secondary characters were well developed and supportive without being overwhelming. I was really sorry when I reached the end as I enjoyed everything about the book. 4.5 stars
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
Samantha Anderson leaves the comfort of her life in Dallas for a journey to Los Angeles where she has to deal wOriginally published on
Samantha Anderson leaves the comfort of her life in Dallas for a journey to Los Angeles where she has to deal with the estate of Charlie Pearson, a grandfather she never knew existed. FBI Agent Linc Hawkins, on leave and recuperating from devastating injuries he received during his last case, was like a son to Charlie and offers Samantha his help in navigating her new world. He believes Charlie was murdered and didn't commit suicide as it was ruled. Linc's suspicions seem to be confirmed when Samantha experiences some close calls soon after her arrival.
I was really happy this was Linc's story as he was seriously injured in the last story and we didn't know much about him. He's a wonderful character with a strong sense of loyalty and honor, even though he was pretty commitment phobic. Samantha was a little more uneven, running hot and cold but behaving characteristically for someone whose life was turned upside down.
I liked how the story began, with a prologue setting the tone for the tension and suspense to come. The mystery and the romance are slow boils that roil over the course of the story, allowing relationships to form, develop and grow on me by the end and then get threatened. I very much enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in the series.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an unbiased review)...more
The story resumes where the first book left off and the tension never ceases!
We learn much more about the inner workings of The Light as Jacob and SaThe story resumes where the first book left off and the tension never ceases!
We learn much more about the inner workings of The Light as Jacob and Sara try to navigate their way out of potentially dangerous situations. There are so many plot twists and revelations it was hard to find stopping points.
Whatever I thought I knew and understood about cult organizations was severely challenged and tested. Even though mind altering substances were used to initially control many of the women, it was still the conditioning that remained and kept them under control long after the drug use ceased. It was psychologically fascinating and it made me wonder how I would have fared.
This was an excellent two-book series, though the epilogue suggests the story hasn't ended. I hope not as this was a very interesting subject matter with much more that could be explored. For those who like to read out of order...don't. You'll be utterly confused so do yourself a favor and start with the first book. I liked how things ended for Jacob and Sara but am intrigued about the future possibilities.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Amy Mowbray is a 25-year old widow who's content with her country farming life than London's social scene, especially as she's a recognized expert in Amy Mowbray is a 25-year old widow who's content with her country farming life than London's social scene, especially as she's a recognized expert in the field. She agrees to accompany her widowed sister-in-law, Morwenna, and best friend (also a widow) to the city for the current season to help lift Morwenna's spirits. But, it's Amy who experiences the transformation, especially when her teen crush, the suave and gorgeous Lord Gervais Pascal, makes her the focal point of his interest.
I loved this story! While Amy may have lived an unconventional life for a woman, it didn't mean she was a shrinking violet. She was witty, intelligent and went toe-to-toe with Pascal in every way. He's used to women falling at his feet, not having to work too hard at conquests. Amy's pursuit of him wasn't traditional as she turned the tables on him, requiring him to step up and work for her. I liked both of them quite a bit, especially as Pascal turned out to be a man of substance once given the chance to be himself.
I thought this series ended with the last three widows so I'm delighted that we have three more interesting women added. Amy was certainly intriguing given her vocation and sort of sad backstory and I liked that she reunited with her first, unrequited love. It was a delightful story with wonderful dialogue. Everything about it worked.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
This book has nine stories about troubled relationships from the perspectives of the women in each. The first, Paris for One, is the length of a novelThis book has nine stories about troubled relationships from the perspectives of the women in each. The first, Paris for One, is the length of a novella while the others are all short stories. I liked some more than others but really enjoyed them collectively. The narration performances were outstanding and contributed greatly to my overall reading experience. Below are short summaries of each with my reactions.
Paris for One Nell and her boyfriend Pete are off for a weekend in Paris, or so she thinks. Pete turns out to be a no-show and Nell decides to stay and experience the city of lights on her own.
I actually loved this meandering and delightful story. Nell is such a straight arrow who steps outside of herself and turns a potentially crummy set of circumstances into a wonderful adventure. I enjoyed this immensely.
Between the Tweets This story about a PR nightmare has just the right touch of irony. Short but it hit the right notes.
Love in the Afternoon A woman's husband surprises her with a getaway vacation but it can't conjure up a bygone romance. This was so realistic it almost hurt but I loved the ending.
A Bird in the Hand A married woman encounters her former secret lover at a party and both have regrets they didn't even know they had. While this was not one of my favorites, it still was pretty interesting.
Crocodile Shoes A weary working mother and neglected wife has a pair of fantastic shoes transform her life overnight. This is one of my favorites, full of humor with a perfect ending.
Holdups A woman working at a jewelry store has an encounter with one of the robbers of the place while it is in progress. This was my least favorite as it was a bit far fetched. Still, it was interesting.
Last Year's Coat A married, working mother needs a new coat but the one she really wants is out of reach as they're struggling to make ends meet. It has a lovely and pertinent ending.
Thirteen Days with John C. A neglected married woman finds a cell phone and gets caught up in a texting relationship with a twist. This was touching and a bit sad though I got hooked through the end.
The Christmas List A woman in a cold, dispassionate marriage is struggling to find the items on a Christmas list created by her husband for his mother. A fortunate ride in a taxi made this a really special story. Loved it.
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)...more
Mia Dennett goes to a bar one evening, planning to meet up with the man she's been seeing. He cancels after she arrives but ends up with Colin ThatcheMia Dennett goes to a bar one evening, planning to meet up with the man she's been seeing. He cancels after she arrives but ends up with Colin Thatcher, a man hired to abduct her. What ensues is a bizarre story told by several narrators.
I found the story interesting, especially its use of multiple characters to tell the story in the past and present. I never found it confusing and it was delivered coherently despite it not being linear storytelling, sort of like lots of asides before you get the whole tale.
Where the story fell flat for me is with the storytelling. Aside from Colin, most of the time the characters were telling the facts instead of allowing us to experience the story. I never connected with any of them except Colin who I connected with emotionally despite my intense dislike of him.
There were three narrators telling the story and one delivering the epilogue. They were all outstanding, especially Colin's who nailed everything about the man. He created a vivid imprint of the character.
I liked the story and enjoyed listening to it for reasons already stated. I really wanted to find out how it ended, even though I figured most things out. I'm rating this 3.5 stars but rounding to 4 because of the audio performances....more
Carly Harrington-Reese works late one night in her soon-to-be-opened boutique when she hears an animal whimpering from the next door unit. She discoveCarly Harrington-Reese works late one night in her soon-to-be-opened boutique when she hears an animal whimpering from the next door unit. She discovers an unconscious Noah Glover and his service dog, Harley, and barely has time to rescue them before the place erupts in fire. Noah is an arson investigator but all evidence points in his direction this time as the perpetrator. And Carly is caught squarely in the middle.
I really liked the mystery/suspense angle of the story, especially the inclusion on the real arsonist's point of view (but we still have to guess his identity). I also appreciated the added diversity as Carly is a former super model who happens to be Black. Unfortunately, the "romance" between Carly and Noah was more a lust-fest and it was difficult to swallow their instant love after only knowing each other a few days. There was a missed opportunity here to develop this relationship, including Noah's role as a single parent.
As with the other books in the series, Harley is the real star of the show, displaying his exceptional skills as an explosives expert while also illustrating his relationship to his handler. I read the series primarily for that education and this book delivered. If that's your main interest and you like mystery and suspense, you'll still enjoy the story despite the flaws in the romance. I'm still a faithful fan and look forward to the next book. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review) ...more
This rating is only for the first story, Into the Evermore.
Beau Gentry rescues Eleanor McManus from an abductor following the tragic loss of her familThis rating is only for the first story, Into the Evermore.
Beau Gentry rescues Eleanor McManus from an abductor following the tragic loss of her family. He was on his way to Winchester, Virginia to claim his recently deceased uncle's property and her family was on their way further to Charleston.
This was a really sweet story of a relationship borne out of Eleanor's dire circumstances. While it may appear to be an instant romance, it is appropriate for the era and societal norms of the time (1842). They are two people who found each other despite what threw them together. It's a perfect story for the holidays and a nice setup for the upcoming series, the Gentry Family. And, it's no secret that Holly Bush is one of my auto-read authors.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
Delta Force operative Bobby Alvarez is recuperating on Emerald Island, Florida following an op-gone-badly, which he can't remember. When Mel MackenzieDelta Force operative Bobby Alvarez is recuperating on Emerald Island, Florida following an op-gone-badly, which he can't remember. When Mel Mackenzie catches his attention while on the beach, that changes the course of their lives forever.
Mel's on the run and disguised because she overheard a confession of murder and now she's fearing for her life. Bobby's got sort of a sixth sense where he can anticipate a threat before it shows up and it comes in handy when he goes all in to help out Mel. There's lots of action and suspense and I liked how their relationship developed. He comes from a large, close family who had significant roles in the story. I loved the family dynamics as they helped shape my sense of the character, who was also suffering from a traumatic brain injury. I learned more about Mel as the details regarding her reasons for fleeing unfolded. Both were well developed characters as a result.
I liked the balance between the suspense and romance with the former tipping the scales slightly, just like I like it. This is the third book in the series and the first for me. I almost never read out of order and even though the connected characters show up here, I was never lost or felt like I was missing something. However, I definitely plan to go back and begin from the beginning. I like these characters and the storytelling. This one really worked for me.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more