Angie
Proceed With Caution:
This book contains coercion, violence, and discussions of child abuse.
The Basics:
Tempt Me at Twilight is the third book of the series, and it would be helpful to read the previous two but not totally necessary. This time we're following Poppy, the most "normal" of the Hathaway siblings, and Harry Ruteledge, the mysterious hotel owner. Poppy is actually in love with another man and hopes he'll propose soon, but Harry is going to make sure that she's his at any cost.
My Thoughts:
I had no expectations going into Tempt Me at Twilight. Poppy is the sibling we've gotten to see the least in the previous two books, so I had no thoughts on her. She's described as the normal one, and I suppose that is true compared to her more interesting siblings. However, "normal" in this case seemed to translate to no personality. She's just kind of there, so I couldn't understand Harry's obsession with her.
My biggest issue with Tempt Me at Twilight was Harry. Why does he suddenly want to marry Poppy? I mean, there's nothing wrong with her. She's smart and beautiful and rich, but he goes from zero to IMUSTHAVEHERIMMEDIATELY. He manipulates her and her current beau, stages a compromising scene, and essentially bullies her into marrying him. She won't even kiss him on their wedding night, but she's resigned to do her wifely duties. And Harry has the audacity to be upset that she's not an enthusiastic participant!
I could have enjoyed the hotel staff meddling with Poppy and Harry's relationship if I had believed that these two honestly wanted to be together but were just being stubborn. As it is though, Poppy was furious that Harry came between her and her adoring suitor. And Harry was simply a spoiled child who wanted another kid's toy! There was no love or attraction here. Yet, the two are suddenly in love after she goes to stay with her family for a while. I don't get it? They didn't discuss their issues.
Even by the end, Harry still didn't trust Poppy, ruining a surprise because he demands to know where she is, who she's with, and what she's doing every minute of her day! There's a minor suspense plot introduced at 90% involving Harry's inventions (which I wish there had been more of a focus on!) but it was already too late to salvage this mess. The one shining light was Catherine Marks; she's becoming increasingly more intriguing. I'm glad her book is next.
