A review by women_using_words
Integrity by E.J. Noyes

adventurous mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Noyes never fails to impress me with her talent. She is fearless in her storytelling, never hesitating to flesh it out and let the story take her where it will. Because she does, it feels organic to the reader. Scenes don’t feel forced. They work. Furthermore, they advance the plot. It all works to prove Noyes is a master at producing stories that are pure, indulgent escapism. Readers get so caught up in the narrative that it’s over before they know it and they’re a little disappointed that it has. However, a true Noyes fan always knows that the reread is going to be just as good, if not better than the first time through.

Such is the case with Integrity. Integrity is the first book in Noyes’s new Halcyon Division Series, and it is some top-shelf stuff. It’s a lovely romance infused with a fast-paced mystery, and it all makes for one hair-pulling ride. The romance is central to the fabric of this story, and Noyes weaves it into the framework quite beautifully. Readers will love Lexie and Sophia’s chemistry. They are strong, independent women and perfect for each other. Moreover, they are perfect for this series.

When I first cracked open the pages of this story, I wasn’t sure how Lexie and Sophia’s relationship was going to fit into the big scheme of things. However, Noyes surprised me; she’s quite clever with her romance plotting in Integrity. I thought the story was going to be all espionage/government cover-up/crooked politics. I kept wondering how the romance would matter to the storytelling as a whole. I shouldn’t have questioned Noyes’s intentions though. I should have known she’d reveal all in due time; she’s sneaky that way. In a delightful turn, Noyes uses the romance to strengthen the plot, and it plays out superbly. Readers are hooked by the spy action as much as they are the bedroom eyes being tossed about on the page. It’s lovely, and it’s engaging, and it leaves one wanting more.

Final remarks…

Readers can always count on Noyes for a first rate story and Integritydoes not disappoint! Book one of the Halcyon Division Series is a fantastic beginning; I have no doubt readers are going to enjoy this journey and sign up for more. This is heart-pumping, non-stop, page-flipping fun, and one heck of a ride! My recommendation: don’t miss out!

Strengths…

  • Well-developed plot
  • Thrilling storyline 
  • Likable characters 
  • Exciting and fast paced
  • Engaging romance 
  • Leaves one wanting more