Review: Twists, turns, and a happy ending
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 20, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review."Lab Rat's Love" by Ana J. Phoenix is a book with many twists and turns. The main characters, Nex and Kane, had great chemistry and compatibility. Set in the near future, the story begins with the death of Nex's twin brother, Styx, who was working with Kane on a brain chip for their company. The chip is meant to enhance sexual experiences, but the prototype was designed for Styx's genetic code, and after Styx died, Nex is the only viable candidate for testing the product. Nex and Kane both struggle with their complicated feelings about Styx and what it means for their future as working partners or perhaps something more.One of the things that pushed me to keep reading the story was a wish to learn more about how and why Styx had set up the elaborate scenario for Kane and Nex to meet. Styx's presence in the minds and hearts of the characters lent a spooky feel to the story, and I was relieved when Nex and Kane each found ways to move forward with their lives and break free of Styx's manipulations.I was somewhat confused by the secondary character of Melinda. Melinda was Kane's housekeeper, and Nex didn't fully trust her, which seemed important because one of Nex's character traits is his ability to read people and figure out their intentions. As the reader, I agreed with Nex that Melinda seemed untrustworthy, but there was never a resolution to the instinct that something wasn't quite right there. The character called for the doctor when Kane asked her to, and then disappeared from the story without an explanation. Given Nex's distrust of her, part of me hopes that she is no longer the housekeeper, since that seems like her presence could impede Nex's recuperation and sense of safety and well-being.The elements of Nex's and Kane's relationship in the story were compelling and believable. Kane's desire to care for Nex and help him through both the enjoyable times and the difficult times meshed well with Nex's need for someone to believe in him enough to help him succeed. As Kane says to Nex, in life you need to make good things happen, and both men take that advice to heart, making important steps to improve their lives. Both men grow during the course of the story, and the epilogue shows a well-earned HEA.I look forward to reading more by Ana J. Phoenix. I recommend "Lab Rat's Love."