Didi's Reviews > Mr. Perfect

~~~~ 4 STARS OR 7.5-8/10 ~~~~

Despite being released years ago, the books I've read by Linda Howard are so evocative and sexy that some newer books honestly can't compete. This is the third book by LH I've read so far but after the first, she became one of my favourite authors. Romantic suspense when written well is fantastic.
I loved the suspense here, it had me stumped till past half way through when I realized I was making a grave error in my assumptions.

The disturbing nature of the crimes committed were riveting and I was horrified by the inner workings of the killers mind. We get several pov's here, with the majority being Janie's, the heroine. Reading this was like solving an intelligent puzzle and I really enjoyed it.
The romance was sweet but the sensuality was RAW. It's hard to write like that when tackling love scenes. But instead of drawn out sex scenes and verbal catalysts, LH zeroes in on the sexual sensuality between people. Her sexy time is short but packs an intensity no lengthy and drawn out sex scene can ever accomplish.
I know I've mentioned this in previous reviews of her books, but when it's that good it deserves mentioning all over again. I loved how laid back and confident Sam was. With the Mr. Perfect list causing a huge controversy for men all over, Sam seemed to find the whole thing amusing and not at all demeaning. That's a man in charge of himself and confident in his abilities!

There was a scene early on when Jaine catches Sam in his kitchen, naked, chugging back a container of milk. Instead of being embarrassed or scandalized, he relished in the ability to shock her and advertise exactly what she's been missing. Honestly, it was hot, and from then on I developed a respect for him and his security in being a real man.

The only thing I found puzzling was the speed in which Sam and Jaine progressed in their relationship. It felt too insta love-ish. But even considering that, I loved their interaction and enjoyed the story very much.
The ending was edge-on-your-seat good, with the killer finally reaching a desperate precipice. I loved it. If you haven't read LH before, start now!! My fave remains to be 'After The Night'.