Review: KAPOW! GREAT DEBUT BY WHITNEY BARBETTI
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 27, 2014
Holy Moly, from the very start I was gripped by an edge-of-my-seat intensity in this storyline that continued until the very end. Put romance + suspense together and more times than not it will = my favorite kind of story.In her debut book, Whitney Barbetti has done a remarkable job keeping the momentum going in the impressive and alluring undercurrent of danger that flows through to the end. This is romantic suspense at its best -- and you’ll shiver with delight!Barbetti has created characters that both capture and hold a reader’s attention. There’s an intense and enduring soul-deep connection between Andra and Julian from their first meeting that make this story so unforgettable. Definitely you’ll see the insta-lust between the two, but it’s the slow build to the actual relationship filled with intense chemistry, passion, and fun-to-read “dates” including laughter and so much more that will absolutely satisfy a romance reader's demands. It’s all done in a believable and realistic manner. There's a confidence shown by both Andra and Julian in how they dealt with some “tough stuff” subject matter that will touch your heart.This author’s voice places such an impact on how real the raw and painful edge of Andra’s hurt is reflected. Her choice of words literally brings the emotions to life and sends chills running down your spine. The inventive use of the “Befores” and “Afters” in relating to Cora/Andra’s life is interesting and unique and pushes the inquisitive mind to turn the pages a bit faster.The strong cast of secondary characters also adds to the memorable characters’ list in this tension-filled mystery. Andra is able to escape and find freedom from the Monster with the help of family friend and brother-like figure, Six who is keeping secrets of his own. And there’s the ranch owner, Rosa, in whom Andra finds a best friend, confidante and mother figure. And then, of course, there’s the “Monster” – a cruel rapist and hideously abusive excuse for a man. Readers don’t get a lot of background on him or Six’s character in this installment. I’m yearning to know the secrets behind these two characters that will have readers glued to the pages seeking answers.Beware there is a cliffhanger-type ending, but readers will share my excitement to learn that there will be a second book in September, where I’m hoping the questions and loose ends that remain will be answered.I freaking loved this book and I don’t have one single reservation in highly recommending it – especially to those readers who are always searching for their next fix in the romantic suspense genre. Whitney Barbetti has taken this reader on a journey through both the beautiful and ugly sides of life in an amazing read. She’s definitely an author you’ll want to keep your eye on. There’s no doubt you’ll want more from her after reading “He Found Me.”It’s definitely that good – don't wait - read it sooner than later!