I usually like this author. I really liked the short story that preceded this book. This book just did not work for me. I think I had trouble connecting with the characters. It happens sometimes, not every book appeals to everyone.

Sam has a lot of baggage, which makes him more contentious to the heroine. Maddy is meant to be independent, but really she makes stupid decisions. She does things to be willful, which makes her seem more immature. The situation she was in at the beginning of the book was noble, she should have fought harder to get the SEALS to help. I was also really upset the SEALS did nothing to help the young girls in the school, knowing what would happen to them. The actions of this first mission totally soured my feeling towards them, it kept popping into my mind the whole book. There was no reason they could not have done something to help the schoolgirls.

Moving forward in the book, they story is all over the place. There is so much going on and so many twists, I could have used a chart to help follow all the intrigue. If you are looking for a plot to keep you on your toes, this will fit the bill.

It is a mixed narrative, going between the two leads POV. This helps you understand Sam better but Maddy is more than a touch annoying. Sorry, she just has some serious TSTL moments.

This is a smexy read, although things happen really quickly. I am willing to accept a certain amount of instant attraction/chemistry, but they do not even seem to like each other most of the time.

I listened to the audiobook narrated by David Brenin, who is always delightful. I love his tone on smexy reads, he has this delicious rumble that I can not get enough of hearing. He has a great pace that really helps move the story when the action drags. I will admit, his read kept me listening well after I had lost interest in the story. He is a very engaging narrator and a compliment to the read.

This was not the book for me, but I am sure there are others out there who will adore this drama-fest. Plenty of people like characters like Maddy and will love her. I am just not one of them. While I adore other books from Ms Melton, this series might not be my cup of tea.

*** I hope this review was useful to you and helped your decision to read or not read this book. I love reading and sharing my opinions with other readers. I listen at double speed; all my impressions of the narration are from that setting. Thanks for taking the time to read my review! You can see more audiobook reviews on my blog Eargasms Audiobook Reviews ***