Review: fabulous romance full of drama, tears, highs, smiles and emotion.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 16, 2013
Right Now. Moments Series, Book 2. Marie Hall.ARC supplied by Netgalley.When I started this book there were bits that reminded me of something else, then seeing it was book two I looked up book one - to find I'd got it as a free one recently and it was on my TBR list. I'd read sample and that's why things seemed to click in my mind. Anyway I decided I'd read book one first ( and loved it!! Its called A Moment) then get on to this one. Knowing the past history added to the enjoyment of this book, although both are standalone stories and there's no necessity to read both (apart from the fact you'll miss two great books!!).Anyway this time it's Alex' turn to find love. Ryan finally conquered most of his demons but Alex, his cousin, is still traumatised by the event that hurt them both as children. He has focussed so much on helping Ryan, and keeping him alive in the past that now Ryan can cope it's as if he's let his control go, and he's struggling. He's seeing the same doctor that helped Ryan, but he still won't admit his inner trauma, and he feels so guilty that he didn't stand up and its made him react in strange ways in the past - then he meets Zoe, and he wants to change from the man-whore he's been and focus on her, but can he do it? Things from the past keep creeping in, and he is still trying to hide it all from Zoe and it affects their relationship badly.I loved the first book, and felt equally affected by this one. It's a romance and a tribute to how much love affects us and wants us to be a better person for ourselves and for the other one. Its well written, slow burn start and then - bam - it hots up. Zoe too has problems, with her Asian background and family she's not willing to fit the mould they want, and they know Alex' public background and don't feel he's suitable for their daughter. Its tough for both of them, and they have some hard work ahead if they are to have a successful relationship. They're both great characters, feel very real, and I understood both of them, even though I wanted to shout at them at times for being sooo obtuse, for not doing what they needed (but of course that would be the end of the story so I'm glad they didn't!!) It was great too seeing more of Ryan. Lili and Javi, and seeing that they were still together and working hard at keeping their partnership going.A great book. Sensual sex and real depth in the people. They were flawed and like so many of us, had background problems that affected them. I like characters that I can relate to in some way, those whose lives aren't just sweet happy ever after, but who need to work at it. It's written from Alex' POV so it feels as if we're thinking with him, and that helps understand his actions. I enjoy anything with psychological aspects and this was great - the doc (forgot her name ) was brilliant. Her advice perfect and tempered with humour.Overall a great read for romance lovers who want more than just boy meets girl and they live happy ever after. It's a romance that makes you feel, with happy bits that bring a smile and sad parts that have you on the edge of tears....Stars: well, almost a five :) four and a half.