5 stars I edited this book, the first in the series by L Steele, and I was so impressed. I found the characters to be believable, relatable, and Summer is likable. Sinclair isn’t meant to be likable. Both are complex, with deep-seated motivations that color their perceptions of others. Sinclair, in particular, having suffered a trauma as a child, has a tendency to attribute malevolent intentions toward others. Their actions are viewed through his jaundiced perceptions. He is unable to trust anyone, even those who might be considered his friends. The story is told from alternating POVs of Summer and Sinclair, giving the reader an insight into the psychological nature of each character and how it affects their impressions and actions. It was the internal struggles that I found most compelling about this book. Personally, although I grew to like Sinclair, I did not like the way that he acted, particularly in terms of his need for dominance. I did not understand Summer’s acceptance (even desire) for that behavior, but the fact that she consented to it is sufficient for me to allow for it (in terms of character/plot development). It was not extreme, so even though it did not subscribe to my personal preferences, I found it tolerable. What I found most enjoyable is the banter between Summer and Sinclair, which is intelligent and succinct. Their apparent disdain for one another is hard to miss, while the internal dialogue contradicts what they say out loud. It’s fun. In this book, we learn little about the motivations/backstories of peripheral characters, which makes sense since this book isn’t about them, but I found it difficult to like/understand Karma, Summer’s sister. I’m sure the book that focuses on Karma will convince me of her positive attributes. The plot is a bit confusing at times, but in the end, it all makes sense. This is intentional. Human nature is complicated and the things that people do when pushed into a corner don’t always make sense. We may think we’d act differently, and maybe we would, but that doesn’t make others’ reactions suspect. Including reactions that may seem unlikely allows the reader to consider other POVs and how those beliefs influence actions. Hopefully, it teaches us compassion and makes us less likely to judge. July 12, 2020
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Elizabeth J ConnorWriter. Editor. Proofreader. Archives
September 2022
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