There’s one tough part about reviewing and reading a lot of books and that is when you come upon a sequel. It takes a bit to refresh and get back in the groove of the story. Most of the time the author does a great job catching you up. But sometimes you really need to read the prior book before.
This upcoming release is a sequel of sorts, but it can be a standalone if you are able to read between the lines. However, in my opinion, you really want to read the prior book before diving into this one for the full experience. Check out my thoughts below
River Justice by B.J. Daniels
Series: Power River
Publisher: Canary Street Press; Original edition (July 23, 2024)
ISBN-13: 978-1335508157
OVERVIEW:
Brand Stafford has long felt he didn’t quite fit in with his siblings. Now he has the DNA evidence to prove his real father is the Staffords’ ranching rival, Holden McKenna. That secret does more than complicate his family—it’s also made him the prime suspect in a kidnapping. His unlikely ally in clearing his name is Birdie Malone, newly arrived in Powder Crossing in search of answers of her own.
Impetuous and stubborn, Birdie has a knack for pulling Brand out of his comfort zone. Suddenly this rule-following cowboy is determined to do what he knows is right, whether that’s tracking down a kidnapper or finally giving away his heart. Even if he has to put everything on the line to do it…
A Powder River Novel:
Book 1: Dark Side of the River
Book 2: River Strong
River Justice by B.J. Daniels
After I read a few chapters of this story, I recognized some of the characters and went back and reviewed the prior book to refresh my memory. That did help get into the story, especially when keeping characters straight.
The series is not just a cowboy romance. It also includes some suspense and crime aspects as the main plot. The romance feels somewhat secondary in these stories.
I enjoy reading this author because she incorporates so many different levels and twists to the story that you do get caught up and it makes for a fabulous read.
One thing to note in River Justice is that there are quite a number of characters and it’s very easy to get lost in which character belongs to which family since they are so intertwined in the story. I have to say I did get lost a few times, and that kind of distracted me because I had to go back and figure it out.
But overall the story is rich with who did it, the crime, and the family ties. The main characters are strong although the female lead, Piper, was really quite an overbearing character and there were many times she rubbed me the wrong way.
This story offers a great plot with lots of twists but some weird time jumps and it got a bit tough keeping track of all of the characters. Read the previous book first!
Daniels always nails it with her well-developed plot that definitely keeps you on your toes. Not to mention the wonderful HEA and closure of the story.
4 STARS!!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.