If you’re a Sawyer Bennett fan, I’m sure you’re already aware this is not her usual classification of story. But rest assured, her ability to suck you into the book and fall in love with her characters (even the grouchy ones) is on point.

You may notice I categorize this book as a “paranormal fantasy” with no mention of romance. This is the first book in a saga, meaning the tale of Finley is woven through the whole series, not just this one book. And since this book is a lot of world building and character development, there isn’t really any romance…yet. Definitely some heated looks and longing, and Finley has more than one option out there. Of course, we’re all probably rooting for the same ornery cuss to let his soft side shine through. I tell you this only because, again, it’s not what this author’s fans will expect. I’m not worried though, I know Carrick will end up a swoon-worthy hero by the end.

Finley will win your loyalty from the start. She’s not conventionally successful. But she has wonderful friends, a job she loves, a roof over her head, a boss she can trust, and an overall positive outlook on life. While it would be great to not worry about paying the bills, she’s happy and thankful for the things she has. There were problems in Finley’s past. Things that put her under a doctor’s care and make her twin sister worry about her to no end. While Finley is laid back and comfortable, her sister Fallon is a go-getter. Glitzy apartment, rich fiancé, designer shoes, all the finest things. Although she doesn’t seem to look down on Finley for living a more down to earth life, she does worry that working in a coffee shop is not enough for her sister. Plus, she worries about her mental health. So, things are strained between the twins. You know they love each other, but they don’t really understand each other.

Like I said, there’s a lot of world building and character development in this book. I know that’s not for everyone (while other people love those things), but the author does a beautiful job of weaving between both so you never feel like there’s too much telling without any showing. I was fascinated with Finley’s abilities and, just as she’s curious, I am enjoying trying to puzzle out how she fits into this world she knew nothing about.

Carrick is Finley’s guide, so to speak, into her knew reality. He’s doesn’t like her much, which is something he makes no secret of throughout this story. But there’s that saying about protesting too much. It’s obvious Carrick is drawn to Finley. There may be a reason he doesn’t like what she stands for (the reader isn’t fully privy on his mindset as of yet), but the attraction and the bit of possessiveness he has for her is obvious. With the heat brewing between these two when there hasn’t been so much as a hug, I cannot wait to watch the fireworks.

I’m really intrigued to see where this series goes and how it all plays out. I really enjoyed this new side to Sawyer Bennett and wait somewhat impatiently for the next book to come out. The last chapter of this one was bananas!

You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.

What an ending! What a cliffhanger. The book itself was kind of slow and drawn out. But it ended with a huge WTF moment and now I definitely have to get to book 2. On another note, things between Carrick and Finley are disappointingly slow burn. Almost non existent at this point. But, they do have a world to save. So there is that. And I still lowkey don’t really like him that much.