Review: Suspense-Mystery-Romance Done Well
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 10 16, 2013
I'd like to thank the author, Shelley K. Wall, for providing me with a free copy of her latest book, "Flood, Flash, and Pheromones" in exchange for my honest review.With respect to the few novels I've read of Shelley K. Wall ("Wall"), I have to say that this is my favorite as I absolutely loved it. It's part romance-suspense-mystery with some action thrown in. Wall grabs your attention right from the start as Greg saves Cassie during a flash flood. His heroic rescue is captured by a tv news cameraman hovering above in a helicopter, the end result thrusting both Greg and Cassie into the public limelight, only to be surrounded and inundated with adoring fans every which way they turn.I loved the two protagonists, especially Cassie. She's strong, bright, caring, and courageous; someone you'd like to be friends with. We also get to witness her vulnerable side at times which makes her even more endearing. She's not the usual over-the-top sarcastic and/or bitchy heroine that irritates you, or creates havoc. I loved how Greg caught onto Cassie's feelings for him - getting flustered each time they're together - from the simple gesture of her pinching her nose.Greg is not only good-looking and sexy, he's also strong and courageous. Include his witty and charming personality and you've got yourself one hot male specimen that you'd be shoving into dark closets every chance you got. The chemistry between Greg and Cassie is palpable from the moment they first look at each other under the wet teepee waiting to be rescued.The author does a terrific job weaving an intriguing story of murder and suspense with sizzling romance. Kudos to the author for not following the formulaic spiels of "I love you" and "Let's get married" at the end. That being said, I have to say I was quite surprised as to how the story ended, and where the epilogue picked up. The direction both Greg and Cassie decided to move forward in their relationship was not only refreshing, but also a mature decision making them and their relationship more believable. The cherry on top is that "Flood, Flash, and Pheromones" can be read as a stand-alone novel - no sequels! However, - and please don't jump down my throat - the way the novel ended could be considered a great intro to book 2 if the author decided to go that route and explore their relationship. I'm just saying...In the end a terrific read that I highly recommend to all lovers of this genre.Once again, thank you Ms. Wall for providing me with a free copy of your novel in consideration for my honest review.