Tuesday, June 16, 2020

June 16, 2020 - Staff Reviews


Free Fall
By Catherine Mann
Release Date: March 5, 2013
*Ebook Review Available from WV Reads*


2 Stars! - This military romance novel has more detail on the military than the romance. First chapter starts out with action but that fades too soon. There are flashbacks, exotic settings, and a thread of mystery. I was new to the author and series. While I wasn’t lost I don’t see myself picking up another.

New to Catherine Mann, I was intrigued by the African Adventure aspect of the plot. She’s usually recommended for fans of Lori Foster and Suzanne Brockman but I didn’t enjoy her style as much. The story is mostly told through inner monologue of the hero and heroine in a rough third person viewpoint. I say rough because of some unusual perceptions and word choices. The hero Jose “Cuervo” doesn’t have much personality. He’s a reformed alcoholic pining over his lost love, our heroine. Stella is more fun, sassy and smart and slightly less introspective. However, it’s incredibly unsatisfying to read them thinking about how they love each other but can’t ever be together while side by side. Not all was lost though, fast paced and twisty, it can be a quick adrenaline rush read.

The suspense angle after the first 20% or so feels manufactured in a bad way. Jose wonders what Stella was forced to endure while captured. Stella refuses to say for a long time. Their company in the deserted African plains is his teammate Bubbles and college boy Sutton. I think they were supposed to offer some rapport and comedic relief but they fall flat. Suddenly, characters start popping out of the wood work. Other possible couples appear. But if you like a romance with a lot going on other than the star couple, this is a good choice. But if you prefer more of heartfelt or steamy romance with your suspense, this is probably one to skip. The end couldn’t make up for the dissatisfaction I was feeling reading this one.

(NS)

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