I got my hands on a brand new contemporary romance novel for review the other day. This particular story combines multiple tropes that provided an in-depth story.
Published yesterday, this novel is available immediately. Read on for my thoughts and full review.
When the Smoke Clears by C. Chilove
ASIN : B09187VR9L
Publisher : Entangled: Amara
Publication date : April 19, 2021
ABOUT:
Lieutenant Colonel Brenden Jasper lives a life of secrets, danger, and clandestine missions. As commander of the most elite Black Ops unit in the world, nothing is more important to him than protecting the country he loves. But there’s a reason only the toughest, battle-tested, alpha men can call themselves members of the Black 2131 brotherhood. None but those in the highest realms of government even know of its existence, and it’s Brenden’s job to avoid emotional entanglements so he can keep it that way.
Dr. Paige Nichols has spent her life ruled by logic and reason, teaching and analyzing art history, so nothing could have prepared her for the completely overwhelming attraction-at-first-sight when she sets eyes on Brenden. Their chance encounter at a party opens her up to a tantalizing dark side she never knew she had—and leaves her wanting so much more. But a man with a dark side often comes with way too many secrets…ones that could put her life in danger.
Though their chemistry burns hotter than ever, when danger comes knocking on Paige’s door, Brenden will have to walk a fine line between duty, honor, and love.
When the Smoke Clears by C. Chilove Review
I really enjoyed the concept of the story. The author, whom I have not read before, combined romance with military action and suspense, along with a lot of problems the characters went through.
What I loved was the start of the book. It captures your attention and the sparks were just flying off these two characters.
Soon we segued into issues and a lot of very deep, dark, and sometimes disturbing content that focused on military maneuvers, PTSD, murder, race issues, manipulation, miscarriage, and a lot more.
I think the author was trying to include a lot of key features into this one story and it involved a lot of issues for the couple. The female character whined a lot, even though she knew what she was getting into, which I didn’t think was cool. Plus, we know who the culprits are by mid to three-quarters through.
Overall, the story is well written and it flows great. I love the connection between the two characters and Chilove hits the steam factor connection just right. I just wish the author hadn’t tried to dump so many issues into one story. I wanted to see more of the happy times and not quite so many issues to overcome.
But the great news is we get a happily ever after and that always makes a lot of things right.
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.