Things We Never Got Over was one of my favorite books of last year, and while it’s still in a league of its own, Things We Hide From the Light is highThings We Never Got Over was one of my favorite books of last year, and while it’s still in a league of its own, Things We Hide From the Light is highly enjoyable.
Gosh darn that Lucy Score! She really knows how to pluck my heartstrings. I always want to pack up and move to a small town whenever I finish reading one of her books. The towns she creates are charming, and the residents are eccentric and endearing. Her main characters have depth and are lovable despite their flaws. The same is true for Nash and Lina.
Chief Nash Morgan is recovering from a murder attempt that has left him emotionally and physically scarred. His depression is so deep that he is numb to life and lacks the confidence or will to serve Knockemout, the small town that he loves. The only time he feels alive is when he is with Lina Solavita. Unfortunately, Lina has secrets she’s hiding, and she doesn’t plan on sticking around town long.
Nash peels away Lina’s badass exterior to uncover the vulnerable woman within. Lina awakens Nash’s desire to live life to the fullest again, which is a joy to witness. Nash’s openness and his desire for a commitment gave me a case of the feels. That man! *sigh* I even enjoyed the push-pull between Lina and Nash because they understand and accept each other’s fears and weaknesses. When one tries to push the other away, they can’t get too far.
The mystery and hunt for the bad guys drags on a bit, but it takes the backseat to the romance. The characters from the previous book are heavily featured. I didn’t realize how much I missed them—even Naomi’s despicable twin. It was like being reunited with old friends. They add a great deal of warmth, balance, and humor to the story. I’m super excited for Sloane and Lucian’s story.
Recommended for fans of: Small towns Police officers Mystery
Aly Martinez is my go-to author when I’m looking for romantic suspense with lots of twists. In a departure from her signature duets and trilogies, FroAly Martinez is my go-to author when I’m looking for romantic suspense with lots of twists. In a departure from her signature duets and trilogies, From the Embers is a standalone.
What a unique premise, and the plot unfolds in such an addictive way that I couldn’t read it fast enough. The story effectively conveys the anguish that Eason and Bree experience as the only survivors of a horrific fire in which they each lost their spouse. Although they have known each other for ages, they have never gotten along. It makes the story all the more interesting because they become two single parents who are forced to rely on each other to cope with life in the wake of the tragedy.
I loved every inch of Eason—his selflessness, his tendency to diffuse awkward situations with humor, his devotion to his family. The burden of guilt he bears almost broke my heart, and I hated the lack of faith others have in him.
Bree is a force of nature—always in control, supportive, fiercely protective, and a wonderful mother. I enjoyed how her perception of Eason changes over time and the bond of friendship they form. Together, they make an unbeatable couple.
The kids almost steal the show. Bree’s six-year-old son is wise and funny, and I loved the easy rapport Eason has with him. Bree’s daughter and Eason’s daughter are close in age, and the toddlers couldn’t be more adorable. Bree, Eason, and their children make a heartwarming family.
It wouldn’t be an Aly Martinez novel without some surprise revelations, and the fact that I guessed a couple of them didn’t dampen my enjoyment at all. This was so close to being a five-star read for me, but things fall apart toward the end. It’s too rushed, illogical, and feels incongruous with the rest of the story.
The epilogue is to die for, though. I read it three times. All in all, From the Embers is an emotional and impressive story.
Recommended for fans of: Suspense Single parents Red M&M’s
I was so excited to finally get my hands on The Difference Between Someday and Forever. I had big expectations for the conclusion to the grip3.5 stars
I was so excited to finally get my hands on The Difference Between Someday and Forever. I had big expectations for the conclusion to the gripping Difference Trilogy. Perhaps too big.
The second book ends on a heart-stopping cliffhanger, and the story picks up moments after. The situation is resolved very quickly, which leaves the rest of the book to find reasons for Remi and Bowen to not be together.
I understand why Remi would feel betrayed by the lies Bowen, her friends, and family fed her. Her journey of self-discovery seems a little extreme, though. She lost 9 months of memories, not her entire life. Never having had amnesia myself it’s hard to say, but I think I would have a pretty good understanding of my likes and dislikes and would know who I was in general, even if an accident erased a year’s worth of my memories. Remi also reserves the bulk of her resentment for Bowen, who is nothing but patient and unconditionally devoted. I could also have done without the rather contrived twist at the end.
Fortunately, there is still an air of playfulness and flirtation when Remi and Bowen are together, as well as an electric connection. It’s what made me fall in love with this couple to begin with. It’s those moments and Bowen’s sacrificial love that are the highest points in the book and what makes this a truly epic romance.
I enjoyed Memories of a Life far more than the first book, where my issues with the main character overshadowed my appreciation of the story.
Josie haI enjoyed Memories of a Life far more than the first book, where my issues with the main character overshadowed my appreciation of the story.
Josie has matured, and her goal is to live a normal existence and build a future with Colten. She truly won the lottery when it comes to finding a best friend and soulmate. Colten is a ride or die boyfriend, and my heart ached for him as he tries to help Josie battle the ghosts of the past that threaten their happy ending.
Call me a glutton for punishment, but when I’m reading an angsty story, I enjoy being emotionally devastated. Jewel E. Ann brings out the dark, suspenseful, morally questionable, and heartbreaking sides of the story, and I ate it up. This emotional book was a good way to wrap up the duet.
Recommended for fans of: Romantic suspense Paranormal Second chance romance
*I received an early copy. This does not affect the content of my review.*
This hurts. I don’t think I’ve ever rated a Jewel E. Ann book less than four stars. After all, she is probably my favorite author. I love how3.5 stars
This hurts. I don’t think I’ve ever rated a Jewel E. Ann book less than four stars. After all, she is probably my favorite author. I love how she mixes humor with gut-wrenching emotions. Pieces of a Life isn’t bad, but it is missing Jewel E. Ann’s signature sparkle.
Josie and Colten were best friends growing up, but they also “dated” on and off again. They broke up and made up so many times I lost count. Just before high school graduation, Colten broke Josie's heart, and they didn’t see or speak to each other for the next seventeen years. Eventually, Josie, now a forensic pathologist, and Colten, a homicide detective, cross paths over a murder case.
The story is told from both points of view and there are flashbacks scattered throughout. I’m not a fan of flashbacks—especially here when the time jumps aren’t chronological. It’s confusing and makes the flow of the story choppy.
I can put that aside, but fundamentally I don’t vibe with Josie. She’s prickly with a frustrating push and pull nature and a tendency towards mind games. She holds a grudge longer than anyone I know, and I grew impatient with her unwillingness to (cue Elsa from “Frozen”) let it go. For some reason, Colten thinks the sun rises and sets on Josie. While I didn’t always like her behavior, I will say I respected Josie’s strength and intelligence. She’s a complex puzzle that I’m still interested in putting together.
Josie starts having creepy nightmares towards the end of the book. That’s when I got really hooked on the story. Jewel E. Ann does mind-bending romantic suspense very well, so I’m hopeful that Memories of a Life will build on that thrilling momentum.
Pieces of a Life is book 1 in Josie and Colten’s duet, which is a standalone story in the Life series.
Recommended for fans of: Romantic suspense Second chance romance Paranormal mysteries
*I received an early copy. This does not affect the content of my review.*
The Ravenhood series was only intended to be a duet. I devoured Flock and Exodus. The plot is unique, riveting, and twisted, but they are not easy reaThe Ravenhood series was only intended to be a duet. I devoured Flock and Exodus. The plot is unique, riveting, and twisted, but they are not easy reads. I managed to keep my sanity intact, however, with the help of some Tums, screamed obscenities, wine, and therapy sessions courtesy of Facebook spoiler groups. The Finish Line was going to be an extended epilogue but it turned into a full-length novel. Some epilogues are simply a nice bonus, but this book? I had no idea just how much I needed to read it.
We experience the events of the first two books through Cecelia’s eyes. The Finish Line adds Tobias’s point of view as well, and it fills in a lot of the missing pieces. It is a cathartic read that really helped me come to terms with the four main characters and their actions — particularly Tobias, who I viewed as a villain. The story is deeply emotional and driven by an urgency and unpredictability that kept me absorbed.
My main take-aways: 1. I freaking love the Frenchman, and that’s something I never thought I’d say. 2. I questioned Cecelia’s decision-making many times in the past, but the woman is an absolute queen now. She’s strong, perceptive, defiant, and knows her worth. 3. I don’t care for the interspersed flashbacks. It interrupts the flow of the story and I found myself frequently confused (also see #4). I would have preferred to have all of Tobias’s history explored in Part 1 and then continue with the rest of the story. 4. You absolutely must read the books in order. I would have benefited from a binge re-read before diving into this book. There are just too many players and events to keep track of.
Stellar writing, passionate characters, and an unpredictable plot combine to make The Finish Line a real gem and a must-read in the series.
Recommended for fans of: Second chance romance Robin Hood Reformed bad boys Suspense Frenchmen
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read.*
“I placed two layers of duct tape over Layla’s mouth before I came downstairs, but I can still hear her muffled screams as the detective takes
“I placed two layers of duct tape over Layla’s mouth before I came downstairs, but I can still hear her muffled screams as the detective takes a seat at the table.”
The very first sentence in Layla had me instantly covered in goosebumps, fully invested in the story. I knew Colleen Hoover had a darker side after reading her phenomenal thriller Verity, and was all too happy to be sucked into her vortex of romantic suspense once again — this time with a paranormal spin.
I fell in love with Leeds and Layla’s romance just as quickly as they fall for each other. When they meet at a bed and breakfast, there is a tangible sizzle between them and an infectious bubble of joy. Hoover is fantastic at setting the tone, and it’s such a stark contrast to the strained and creepy atmosphere that envelops Leeds and Layla when they return months later. Add in another character, Willow, and things only get more strange.
I found myself questioning my sense of right and wrong more than once. While Leeds is someone I immediately connected with, as the story goes on I vacillated between admiring him, loathing him, and feeling sympathetic towards him. I felt fiercely protective of Layla and desperately wanted to relieve her anxiety.
I’m pretty good at solving puzzles, but this mystery kept me guessing. Layla is a gripping paranormal thriller that left me dizzy with plot twists and torn loyalties. More dark Hoover, please.
Recommended for fans of: Thrillers Mysteries Paranormal fiction Romantic suspense Bed and breakfasts
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read.*
I’m trying to find something nice to say but I’ve got nothin’. There’s a whole lot wrong, but I have two main complaints..
1) It’s a classic case of inI’m trying to find something nice to say but I’ve got nothin’. There’s a whole lot wrong, but I have two main complaints..
1) It’s a classic case of insta love, but without any chemistry.
2) The writing is exceedingly repetitive. There isn’t a missed opportunity for Savage to call himself a killer or threaten to kill someone, for Candace to remind Savage that he’s been gone for eight years, for Savage to explain that he left to protect her, and for Savage to reassure her that he’ll never leave her again.
I managed to finish the book only to realize it is the first book in a trilogy. I can’t fathom dragging this story out for two more books.
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I was pleasantly surprised by this romantic suspense. The story sucked me in almost immediately, and fed me a steady diet of 4.5 stars Audiobook Review
I was pleasantly surprised by this romantic suspense. The story sucked me in almost immediately, and fed me a steady diet of yummy intrigue, danger, and sexiness. The mystery involves an investigative reporter and an escaped convicted killer/decorated Army vet/ex DEA agent who team up to find his missing sister and uncover some shady drug dealings in the process.
I saw a twist or two combing, but what a ride. The story itself is amazing, but the audiobook is on another level. I can’t remember the last time I was this blown away by the narration. Kaleo Griffith, where have you been hiding and can you please narrate more books ASAP? Please and thank you. The story is told in the third person and Kaleo manages to give dozens of characters their own distinct voice. Every. Single. One. He gives a nuanced delivery that is more of a vocal performance than a reading of words. If I closed my eyes I could clearly envision each moment. I can’t believe I haven’t encountered him sooner, but you’d better believe I’ll be looking for more books narrated by him. I’m also interested in reading the other books in the series.
Recommended for fans of: Romantic suspense Reporters Running from the law Steamy sexy times
Jewel E. Ann’s Jack & Jill trilogy remains one of my all-time favorites. It’s unique, suspenseful, funny, tragic, and romantic. While I hated4.5 stars
Jewel E. Ann’s Jack & Jill trilogy remains one of my all-time favorites. It’s unique, suspenseful, funny, tragic, and romantic. While I hated saying goodbye to the characters I’d grown to adore, the ending was so satisfying that I didn’t dare ask for more. When I found out Jewel was writing Out of Love as a spinoff, my first thought was, “Don’t f*ck it up!” And she didn’t.
Out of Love, like most books by Jewel E. Ann, is predictable only in its ability to wring every last ounce of emotion from me. The author gravitates towards messy characters. Their decisions can be controversial and unpopular, which makes them infinitely more interesting. The same is true here. You’ve got to embrace the mess if you’re going to enjoy the ride.
Livy Knight is the free-spirited daughter of Jackson and Ryn Knight. Jackson is the ultimate overprotective dad that you do not want to cross. While enjoying her senior year of college freedom, she encounters Slade Wylder, a mysterious bad boy who instantly intrigues her. Despite Slade’s air of intimidation and his attempts to ignore her, it doesn’t take long for her to get underneath his skin. This is a love story with a slow and dangerous burn.
While it’s true that you can enjoy this as a standalone, it does contain some spoilers from the series. Personally, I think the story was more fulfilling because I already had a deep connection to some of the characters and their history. Even if you choose to read this book first, I highly recommend that you go back and read the original series.
For those who have read the series, you’ll find that there are echoes from the past. Livy is the best possible combination of Jackson, her aunt Jessica, and her mother Ryn. Livy’s response to Slade is very similar to the way her mother was drawn to her father. Even Slade’s German Shepherd, Jericho, reminded me of Ryn’s faithful guard dog. Of course, I expected Jackson to appear in the story, but I was beyond thrilled that Jessica is featured so prominently as well. Aunt Jessica is still a badass with a heart of gold. I only wish we had more insight into Jessica’s current life.
There are parts of the book that had me laughing and others that were dead sexy. Moments when I was furious and times when I was heartbroken. I’ve got several bones to pick with Jewel over the ending. Just when I thought the story was almost wrapped up, I found myself thrown into a tailspin of emotions for nine more chapters! I must have gone through all the stages of grief — except acceptance. I’m still working on that one.
Recommended for fans of: Enemies to lovers Bad boys Protective fathers German Shepherds Mint tea
*I received an early copy. This does not affect my opinions.*
Oh man. Exodus, the conclusion of The Ravenhood Duet, is every bit the dark and twisted rollercoaster it is billed to be. Full disclosure: dark romancOh man. Exodus, the conclusion of The Ravenhood Duet, is every bit the dark and twisted rollercoaster it is billed to be. Full disclosure: dark romances are hit or miss for me. I connect with some more easily than others. This one left me feeling too raw, too mentally and emotionally exhausted — with not enough payoff.
I understood Cecilia’s history and what motivates her to seek love in unhealthy ways. I’ve heard authors complain that female protagonists are held to higher standards of perfection than their male counterparts. I think that is often true, but in this case Cecilia’s flaws amplify her big heart. I didn’t begrudge her chosen path of destruction. I got it. However, the back and forth between her determination to stand up for herself only to easily allow herself to be debased became so repetitive and painful that it eventually robbed me of sympathy. Even the parts that are meant to be joyful I found to be bittersweet.
The book is on the long side, but I was nonetheless sucked into this messed up suspenseful tale and found it difficult to put down. There is no denying Kate Stewart’s talent and imagination. Even though it wasn’t as satisfying as I hoped, she has penned a creative and addictive story brought to life by unique characters.
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read.*
Where the Blame Lies is unlike any Mia Sheridan book I’ve read before, and I liked it. I really liked it. There’s enough detail to convey the4.5 stars
Where the Blame Lies is unlike any Mia Sheridan book I’ve read before, and I liked it. I really liked it. There’s enough detail to convey the horror of the victim’s situation, to develop a connection to her and maintain the suspense, but not so gory that it’s unbearably painful to read.
Josie is such a brave fighter and Zach is an immensely compassionate detective. Their romance is fine but it takes a backseat to the mystery—as it should with this particular story. I would actually be just as happy without the romantic element. The dark, emotional plot is quite original and the mystery kept me guessing. I even enjoyed the less than tidy resolution. A satisfying read all around.
About the audiobook: Cassie Dalton and Teddy Hamilton are perfectly cast as Josie and Zach. Their narration is fantastic.
Recommended for fans of: Mysteries Suspense Dark stories Fierce heroines
I really liked this second-chance bodyguard romance, but the audiobook narration took my enjoyment to the next level.
The story strikesAudiobook Review
I really liked this second-chance bodyguard romance, but the audiobook narration took my enjoyment to the next level.
The story strikes a good balance between danger and romance. Kynan is the head of a security firm and Joclyn is the famous singer/actress/ex-girlfriend he is hired to protect from a stalker. Things ended badly between them, but Kynan is an inexcusable tool towards her in the beginning of the book. He can be quick to judge, but once Kynan has time to cool off, he thinks logically. Joclyn was 19 when they first met, and even though it has been over a decade since they last saw each other, the attraction is still there. It’s obvious Joslyn is more mature now, and I was glad to see they’ve gotten better at communicating with each other.
I didn’t buy the necessity of a pretend engagement, but I liked them together as a couple so I didn’t mind any excuse for some PDA. I was sorry that Joclyn isn’t portrayed in her work environment, though, since I enjoy behind-the-scenes celebrity stories.
The narration is stellar. Shane East has a sexy as sin British accent, but he also pulls off an American accent quite well. Imogen Church is a true gem of a vocal performer. Her expressive portrayal of Joclyn is authentic and nuanced, and she also does a fantastic job voicing Kynan. I need to find more of her work ASAP! It can be challenging to find male narrators who can voice female roles—and vice versa—without sounding cartoonish, but East and Church make it sound easy.
Code Name: Genesis is the first book in the Jameson Force Security series, and I’m already intrigued just based on the team Kynan has assembled so far. I’m looking forward to reading more about them.
Recommended for fans of: Bodyguard romances Romantic suspense Second-chance romance
I’m still trying to wrap my brain around what I just read, but what I do know is that The Life That Mattered knocked my socks off. Spoiler-free Review
I’m still trying to wrap my brain around what I just read, but what I do know is that The Life That Mattered knocked my socks off. With painstaking execution, this entirely unique, consuming, passionate, and thought-provoking novel puts Jewel E. Ann’s literary sorcery on full display. Nice to see you again, Book Hangover.
There is a lot to unpack in the synopsis. Olympic skier, fashion designer, chemist, bath shop owner, what sounds like a foursome, love story, tragedy, thriller... Say what? If I’m honest, it had me confused and a bit hesitant to read the book. If other readers are similarly conflicted, here’s all you really need to know: Two main characters fall in love. They are best friends with another couple. The four of them aren’t swingers. Some crazy sh*t happens and it will leave you reeling.
Ronin and Evelyn are two people who fall deeply in love very quickly. I abhor instant love in fiction as a general rule, but their connection feels not only authentic but inevitable. Their meet cute is so endearing, and the fierce love they share is evident throughout the entire book.
Unquestionably, Ronin is wonderful man who is devoted to Evelyn, but he’s hiding something. I had my heart in my throat waiting to uncover the complete truth and how it might affect them. Their best friends, Lila and Graham, have a complicated relationship. Their dynamic fascinated me and kept me guessing.
The character development is exceptional. Evelyn is my favorite. I was immediately drawn to her imperfections and easy nature. Her love for her family, friends, and just life in general is contagious. Her joy was my joy; her heartache was my heartache.
The Life That Mattered is the first book in the Life Duet, and it has a cliffhanger that tested my sanity. I love puzzles, though, and this book leaves many pieces to put together. I finished the last sentence and then went back and re-read the prologue and a few other passages at least a half dozen times. I have absolutely no idea where this story is heading, but I can’t wait to get my hands on The Life You Stole to find out.
Recommended for fans of: Romantic suspense Love at first sight Skiing Hot buns (the kind you eat)
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read.*
The conclusion of the Life Duet is every bit as riveting as I anticipated. The story is twisted and dark on a totally different level than book one. IThe conclusion of the Life Duet is every bit as riveting as I anticipated. The story is twisted and dark on a totally different level than book one. I feel like I’ve been emotionally pummeled.
Once again, the story is told from Evelyn and Ronin’s points of view, only this time around Lila and Graham’s perspectives are added to the mix. Between the four of them, we are privy to a variety of tender, heartbreaking, conflicted, and creepy thoughts. Whether you like all the characters or not, the character development is phenomenal. Evelyn is filled with honor and goodness. I loved her most of all.
Jewel E. Ann is such a gifted, bewitching storyteller. Many of her books have pushed the boundaries of what I consider comfortable, normal, or moral. This story is no exception. Much of the book is just plain gut-wrenching, but it is so gripping that I could not put it down. I wore the dark circles under my eyes as a badge of honor.
A minefield of potential triggers makes this a tough read, so proceed with caution—particularly if you are a sensitive reader. Personally, as much as I love an angsty read—and I did relish the many mind-bending, suspenseful aspects—I felt a profound sense of sadness throughout. I think it affected my overall enjoyment of this conclusion, and it took some time to shake off the funk I was in.
When looking at the entire arc of the duet it is clear that it is plotted with precision. The story stayed with me long after “The End”. I had an overwhelming urge to go back and analyze small details and character choices. This complex and haunting story would make a fantastic book club selection.
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read.*
This trilogy started out quite strong so it’s a shame that I’ve enjoyed each book less and less. The struggle to finish The Empire was real. If it hadThis trilogy started out quite strong so it’s a shame that I’ve enjoyed each book less and less. The struggle to finish The Empire was real. If it had been a standalone, I might have thrown in the towel but I invested too much time to quit.
The previous books suffer from repetition, and this book is no exception. It might even be a little worse. The pace is sluggish which caused my attention to wander. Truly, this story could and should have been wrapped up in two books. As it is, the conclusion is anti-climactic. I didn’t even feel like the bad guys got what was coming to them in the end, so I was left feeling unsatisfied all around.
Audiobook Review I was hooked on The Bastard from the first chapter with its fast pace and intense emotions. The story left me eager for more, despite Audiobook Review I was hooked on The Bastard from the first chapter with its fast pace and intense emotions. The story left me eager for more, despite some flaws that would normally have me giving the book a lower rating.
My biggest peeve is that the dialogue is repetitive. It reminded me of the movie Groundhog Day. Eric and Harper hurl accusations at each other only to have the exact same argument minutes later as if for the first time. Eric accuses Harper of being “one of them”—allied with his enemies. Harper is resentful of Eric leaving her and is worried he will walk away from her.
That said, there is a ton of juicy suspense surrounding an intriguing mystery. I found myself constantly questioning loyalties and truths. Eric has a brilliant, analytical mind and the sexy confidence one expects from a Navy SEAL. Harper’s devotion to her mom, while irritating, shows just how devoted she is to those she loves. Eric and Harper are magnetic so I wasn’t surprised by the amount of sex, but I think Eric often uses it as a way to distract himself from doubt.
The book ends on a huge cliffhanger, and I can’t wait to dive into book two next.
About the Audiobook Erin Mallon never steers me wrong. I love the passion she brings to this story. Jason Clarke. Le sigh. I’m pretty sure I could get pregnant just by listening to his deep, gravelly voice. I often cringe when I hear males impersonating female voices and vice versa, but these two are enjoyable. I value narrators like Erin Mallon and Jason Clarke who put genuine emotion into storytelling rather than sounding like they are simply reading words on a page.
Recommended for fans of: Romantic suspense Mystery Family drama Rubix Cubes
I had forgotten just how well Jewel E. Ann writes suspenseful fiction. Jersey Six is mind-blowing, nail biting, deliciously complex, and intriguingly I had forgotten just how well Jewel E. Ann writes suspenseful fiction. Jersey Six is mind-blowing, nail biting, deliciously complex, and intriguingly dark. I. Loved. It. That’s saying something because I don’t typically go for dark stories.
I’ll be honest. These people are more than a little bit messed up. Jewel E. Ann excels in character development, and you’d be hard pressed to find more complicated characters than Jersey, Ian, and Chris. I had a unique fondness for each one, even though some of their actions are disturbing. This story had me evaluating my perception of villains and left me conflicted at times.
As a reader who frequently smells a plot twist from a mile away, I was thrilled by the knockout punches this story delivers. The plot is unequivocally unique, unpredictable, and addictive. I finished Jersey Six and almost immediately wanted to go back and re-read it with the benefit of hindsight.
Every chapter will have you on the edge of your seat, so I suggest you have a glass (or three) of wine on hand to sooth your nerves. Trust me; you’ll need it. Hang on tight and enjoy this emotional thrill ride.
I was looking for a book by a “new to me” author and stumbled upon Mercy. It has high ratings, but I was on the fence about reading itAudiobook Review
I was looking for a book by a “new to me” author and stumbled upon Mercy. It has high ratings, but I was on the fence about reading it because I don’t like my romance on the super dark side. Don’t give me a book full of kidnapping and torture and then try to make me fall in love with the victimizer. Zachary Webber and Muffy Newtown narrate the audiobook, though, and I love them hard so I figured it was worth a shot. I was pleasantly surprised. Mercy is actually a heart melting love story with the perfect amount of darkness to shake things up and suck you in.
Nix proves that there really is such a thing as a lovable stalker. He is both an executioner and savior, and his devotion to Becca is intense but understandable. My heart went out to this dangerous, self-loathing man who still carries around the heart of a broken little boy. I just wanted to hug him throughout the entire book. I thoroughly enjoyed his relationship with his “brother”, Animal.
Becca is such a sweetheart with a contradiction of traits—fierce yet vulnerable; perceptive but sometimes naïve. Her acceptance of Nix is a beautiful thing. I only wish she showed the same backbone where her superficial and supremely irritating mother is concerned.
The story never really addresses what Nix does for a living, and it feels like a missing puzzle piece. We know that he has a decent moral compass, but he is dangerous and he kills people. I really wanted to know more of the who, what, why, and when.
Parts of the ending are rushed or glossed over, but I enjoyed Debra Anastasia’s writing style, and this story is very absorbing. I’ll be looking for more work of hers to read.
About the audiobook: I have high expectations when it comes to Zachary Webber and Muffy Newtown audiobooks. Once again, they do not disappoint. Their narration is heartfelt and convincing. More, please!
Recommended for fans of: Vigilantes Daddy issues Tattoos...more
Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog)
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