Stealing Justice

by Misty Evans and Adrienne Giordano

[kimbacaffeinate]

Caffeinated Aspects:
• The case involving the Lion and the murders had intense moments, twists and danger. As Sydney went undercover and they searched for evidence I found myself caught up in the action.
• Cupcakes! Sydney’s obsession with cupcakes made me giggle and I began craving them in the worse way.
• The romance that built between Grey and Sydney while bordering on insta-love had some hilarious moments, heat and touching scenes as these two flawed characters opened up and shared. I felt they made each other stronger. As a team, they worked well together. Sydney reacts and Grey plans giving balance to their investigation.
• The political world of DC and privilege made for an intriguing read. Navigating these shark infested waters increased the tension.
• The characters were complex and far from perfect. Grey is honorable and has his own code. Good or bad he stands by it. I would call him old-fashion, and his reaction to Sydney was fun to watch. Sydney is wacky, damaged, aggressive and at times hilarious. She is also protective, caring and insightful. The banter between them was fun and I felt their connection.
• The romance moved a little fast which is often the case in romantic suspense. Despite some issues, I rooted for them. Frenzied sex following tense situations made for some hot scenes, wicked banter and snark.
• The tale wrapped up nicely following a climatic, nail biting scene and wrapped thing up with a touching moment.

Decaffeinated Aspects:
• Foreshadowing and clues revealed things to me as a reader and by 40% I knew how the murder would be solved. I loved the clues, but some were mentioned more than once through the course of the investigation. I felt Grey should have made the connection sooner, and the second mention probably made more readers aware who normally might have enjoyed guessing longer.
• Sometimes conversations between Grey and Sydney felt a little forced especially when they opened up about their past.
• Grey’s ex-partner just kind of appeared, and I would have liked more details about him. I felt their camaraderie and liked the way they interacted. I am hoping we see more of him in future books.
• The cupcakes were fun, and certainly made me laugh. The final scene with them was delightful, but I feel there was some overkill. I love cupcakes, but Sydney should be the size of a house for all the times she mentions them and wants them.

Stealing Justice was a fast paced, action packed romantic suspense, and I enjoyed the ride. I am looking forward to the next installment of the Justice Team.