Briar’s life is out of control. A forced marriage. She can either agree or be sold off to a rich stranger. However, this is nothing compared to the murders that keep happening around her. They clearly have something to do with her. Is someone trying to frame her or get her attention? And is she next?
I have enjoyed this series but this book lost its way. It’s one big plot hole in the middle of an unending sex scene. The author forgot to put the story before the sex. Too much sex is not something I say often but I am saying it now. When it starts to get boring, it’s too much. Plus, it was unhealthy sex. Briar had a traumatic history. Her self-worth was damaged, she felt shame and pain over past events. She should not be with guys who shame and name-call during sex. Anyway, this final book lost all the momentum of the earlier books. The murders, the mysteries, and the reveals were all rushed and superficially mentioned. Really disappointing. Small moments like horseback riding with Katy were ignored. Huge moments like death threats were never addressed. What was Marco’s deal with Travis? What was his uncle’s business? What happened with the engagement? There were never any conversations or resolutions with the parents, the murderer barely got a second mention, and the new siblings might as well have not existed. Honestly, we don’t even know if the puppies survived the story or if they ran away when the house was left open during the final attack. I don’t allow myself to review under 3 stars because of the work I know goes into a book but this was nearly an exception because I know this author can do better. I suggest a move to erotica if she’s no longer interested in storytelling.
Cecily Foster and Alexander Neal did another fantastic job narrating this book. I would love to talk to them and get their opinion about this final book since I think they have to ‘become’ the characters to do such a good job. Were they disappointed with the lack of character growth and story, or are they simply professionals doing their job? Either way, their performances were the bright spots.