We are back in New York catching up with Jimmy McSwain. This time things are more personal, on many levels. We get to know more about Jimmy, about his family and the people around him. Just like with the first book I love how it’s all gradual, the getting to know all the players takes time and effort, and at the end there are still many more layers to uncover.

There are more romantic undertones to this book compared to the first one, there is a love interest for one, and some tentative steps are taking towards something. I wouldn’t go as far as call it a romance, but it’s there and there are prospects for something more. I would say this book is mostly about family. Getting to know Jimmy’s, past and present. And it’s for his family, his sister, that he gets involved with this latest case – trying to prove the innocence of his sister’s ex-boyfriend.

I’m falling hard for Jimmy. His tough as nails and vulnerable at the same time. He’s also stubborn as a mule and will do anything and everything to solve his dad’s case, not matter what obstacles he has to overcome. He has the same give for his family, there’s nothing he wouldn’t do for them. His fierceness and determination is moving.

Joel Leslie once again brought it all to the table. He brought the characters and the story to life. I don’t know, but he has this innate feel of the character and place and he portrays it to the listener and transports the listener to New York walking alongside Jimmy.

A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review for Love Bytes.