Thursday, October 24, 2019

Review - - Reckless in Red


Reckless in Red
by Rachael Miles
The Muses' Salon - Book 4
Publisher: Zebra
Release Date: October 29, 2019
Reviewed by PJ
    


Lena Frost is a force to be reckoned with. A woman who has made her way in society without family or fortune, she’s about to realize her first big success as an artist. . . . Until her business partner makes off with her money, leaving her with little more than her hopes—and a dead body in her studio. Now Lena is at the mercy of a strikingly handsome stranger demanding answers she dare not reveal . . .
 
Is it her seductive eyes, or his suspicion that she’s up to no good that have Clive Somerville shadowing Lena’s every move? Either way, his secret investigation for the Home Office has him determined to uncover Lena’s hidden agenda.  But the closer he gets to her, the more he longs to be her protector. Is she a victim of circumstance? Or a dark force in a conspiracy that could destroy everything Clive holds dear?  Discovering the truth could have dire consequences, not only for Lena, but for his heart . . .


My thoughts:

It's been a while since my last Rachael Miles book and I had forgotten how very much I enjoy her writing. Her characters are complex and intriguing, engaging my emotions while ensuring my full investment in their lives and happiness.

In Reckless in Red, Miles returns to the Somerville family for the story of younger brother, Clive, a physician researcher and special agent for the Home Office, and Lena Frost, a gifted artist with a mysterious past. I really enjoyed these two. They are so perfect for one another. Miles gives them many layers that she unravels slowly and skillfully as the story progresses. With each reveal, I found myself caring more deeply for that character; more invested in them. In particular, my heart ached for what Lena had endured and I admired her strength and determination all the more.  

A talented storyteller, Miles also weaves an intricately crafted thread of mystery and danger that binds the couple even tighter together as they work to find Lena's missing partner, solve several mysterious murders, and, most importantly, stay alive themselves. I enjoy mystery mixed with my romance and this series has an enjoyable blend of it.

Another aspect of Miles' writing that I enjoy is her attention to detail. In this book, the technical and historical details relating to both Lena's and Clive's careers add an extra layer of richness to the story. I love finishing a novel, having been  entertained, emotionally engaged, and gaining new knowledge. 

Many of Clive's family members are prominently featured in this book along with some new characters and one persistent villain whose unmasking I am most eagerly anticipating. Fans of the series will enjoy catching up with the Somervilles while those new to Miles' books should have no difficulty jumping in with Reckless in Red.  

8 comments:

  1. Another new-to-me author. Thanks for the blurb and review. Sounds like a story I would like.

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    1. I enjoy her writing. The couples from books 1 - 3 are present in this book but each of the books stands well on its own.

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  2. New to me author. I love mysteries and historical mysteries even better. It is funny when villains are from hundreds of years ago don't seem quite so dangerous. Thanks for the review.

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  3. She's new to me, as well, but now I have incentive to look her up. Thanks, PJ!

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  4. I've read a couple of Rachel's books and enjoyed them. I've put this on my wish list.

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  5. I don't believe I have read any of Rachael Miles' books. These characters are intriguing as is the storyline. Another one to add to my Want To Read List.

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