This is the second book in C.F. White’s London Lies trilogy. While it is a full and truly enjoyable story – it doesn’t really stand on it’s own. You’ll want to listen to Fade to Blank first. As such, this review may contain spoilers to the first book.
While the first book was very much mystery/suspense with the anticipation of romance – White flips things a bit and gives us a slow-burn romance, several steamy scenes, and some serious push/pull during Jackson & Fletcher’s escape in Ireland. At first, it felt a little slow, but I’ve learned that White has a reason for everything.
The descriptions of Ireland, the Doherty farm, the pub, and more truly immerse the reader. Fletcher is very much the prodigal son and Jackson is left trying to guess at the family dynamic. Jackson’s struggles with simultaneously wanting to share his story with the fact that lifelong lessons have taught him that no one is to be trusted. Fletcher wants to remain impartial but can’t deny his attraction to Jackson.
Fans of the suspense/action/mystery aspect will definitely love the second half of the book. I like that White kept Tallulah, her murder, and how this all began a constant thread throughout. Despite thinking I knew what was going to happen, there were definitely some surprises. I couldn’t stop listening and stayed up really late last night so I could find out what happens next. I won’t spoil it – but the revelations about the couple’s first meeting… wow! Some things are resolved, Jackson & Fletcher’s relationship enters more solid footing, but there is now a bigger fight ahead of them.
The final book, Bring to Light, is set to release on December 10th – I’m hoping the audio is quick to follow! As much as I’d love the conclusion to Jax & Fletch’s story as soon as possible, there is no way I’m experiencing it without Piers Ryman in my ears.
Speaking of which, Ryman continues with a fantastic narration. And whew! That Irish accent… if you were teased by it in Fade to Blank, you’ll be in heaven listening to Hide to Seek. He does a wonderful job with an expanding cast of characters using a variety of accents and registers consistently throughout both books.