phyllish
Written on Jul 26, 2020
My rating is 4.5 stars
Carrying scars that no one could see, Tori gave the illusion that all was well in her life. Yet the need for full-time security for herself and her best friends grated on her enough to make her want to run away. I'm not sure why "fake engagement" stories are so much fun but they are and I love reading them. Add a stalker and a handsome bodyguard and you have a winning combination!
I loved Tori's strength and vulnerability. While I knew about her stalker and the fear he had put into her and her friends from The Trouble with Love, the fact she had been damaged in the past was new. As the details began to unfold, my heart went out to her. Especially due to the blame she put on herself - quite unnecessarily.
I also knew about Fox, her security guard and could tell there was something sparking beneath the surface between the two of them. Well, plus I read the synopsis of this story which confirmed things. :-) Though the story was only told from Tori's point of view, it was clear where Fox's heart was, at least to me - Tori was oh-so-blissfully ignorant of this.
I hadn't expected to know the identity of the stalker but realized partway through that I did . It was quite subtle and while I was sad to be right, it was fitting. I was surprised, though, to discover the identity of the accomplice!
As always with Toni Shiloh's stories, the romance was sweet and the faith element was strong. Tori struggled with the concept of trusting the God who allowed bad things to happen and those who are evil to go unpunished. I loved the way the author used Miss Etta to share eternal truths with her and especially the reminder that Jesus addressed this very question in one of His parables. The truth from the Scriptures was shared accurately and beautifully to make this a romance not only between a man and a woman but revealing the deep love of our God to Tori.
If you enjoy romance that incorporates faith, you will want to be sure to read this delightful story!
Read my full review at Among the Reads