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tayahmarie's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
inspiring
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Misogyny, Miscarriage, Kidnapping, Alcoholism, and Hate crime
now_booking's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
I’m in total awe that this was Beverly Jenkins’ first published book. Not only is it 27 years old at the time I’m reading it, it stands up well to modern historical romances written now, and even is better than most in terms of historical accuracy, originality, diverse narratives, an empowered heroine who though not rich has agency, an alpha hero who listens and is respectful. Yes, there are a couple of scenes of dubious consent, but this novel does so much incredibly well.
The premise of this is that independent school teacher Cara, has had a lifetime taking care of herself and standing up for what she believes in, which is why she’s not quite sure what to make off the incredibly hot, incredibly sexy soldier, Chase, who comes to the small town where she’s a teacher. Sparks fly in a way that change both their lives forever, especially when a despicable criminal becomes obsessed with Cara.
This romance will be beloved by anyone who loves an alpha heroine especially one who is competent, independent, will save the day but is also willing to be vulnerable to love. I loved that love for Cara did not make her any less herself or make her give up her pride of her independence which were such significant parts of her identity as a character. I loved that when Cara and Chase fought, they were mature about it, never dirty or resorting to harsh words that couldn’t be taken back. This has a tinge of the secret baby trope to it but I think anyone who has a problem with this trope will love the way it is dealt with here. I think for once the father’s feelings are given space on the page and the emotions of men who are put in that position and the mothers who feel the need to hide paternity, are explored. I enjoyed the second wind of intrigue this story got about two-thirds of the way in with the danger and mystery and equally loved the resolution.
I picked up this book because I committed to reading Beverly Jenkins’ entire backlist in order of publication (skipping the ones I’ve already read) and this makes me excited about what is to come.
The premise of this is that independent school teacher Cara, has had a lifetime taking care of herself and standing up for what she believes in, which is why she’s not quite sure what to make off the incredibly hot, incredibly sexy soldier, Chase, who comes to the small town where she’s a teacher. Sparks fly in a way that change both their lives forever, especially when a despicable criminal becomes obsessed with Cara.
This romance will be beloved by anyone who loves an alpha heroine especially one who is competent, independent, will save the day but is also willing to be vulnerable to love. I loved that love for Cara did not make her any less herself or make her give up her pride of her independence which were such significant parts of her identity as a character. I loved that when Cara and Chase fought, they were mature about it, never dirty or resorting to harsh words that couldn’t be taken back. This has a tinge of the secret baby trope to it but I think anyone who has a problem with this trope will love the way it is dealt with here. I think for once the father’s feelings are given space on the page and the emotions of men who are put in that position and the mothers who feel the need to hide paternity, are explored. I enjoyed the second wind of intrigue this story got about two-thirds of the way in with the danger and mystery and equally loved the resolution.
I picked up this book because I committed to reading Beverly Jenkins’ entire backlist in order of publication (skipping the ones I’ve already read) and this makes me excited about what is to come.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Miscarriage, Kidnapping, Death of parent, Gun violence, Hate crime, Domestic abuse, and Racism
Minor: Rape
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