All That I Desire (Grayson Friends, #10)

by Francis Ray

[Cocktails and Books]

4.5 Stars

This is the tenth novel in the Grayson friends series. This novel is romantic suspense at its best. The storyline moved a little slow and was repetitive because there were characters from previous novels. This novel can definitely be read as a standalone. I didn't read any of the other novels, and I had no trouble following the storyline.

Again, I'm sure the author knew readers might skip or only read this book and that's why the beginning is a little slow and repetitive. I loved having a woman take charge and pursue the man. I cheered Skylar all the way through the book. After the initial slow start things pick up nicely. Skylar and Rio work together to thwart someone that is trying to take her life. The author does a great job of allowing the reader to see into Rio and understand how he develops a connection with Skylar. I didn't see the why Skylar was initially attracted to Rio, but by the end of the novel I was willing to be her fiercest competitor.

This installment features Skylar Dupree. Skylar bucked the family trend and expectations by leaving law school to pursue a career as an event director at the prestigious Navarone Resorts. Skylar has had her eye on Rio Sanchez. Rio is tall, dark, handsome, and brooding man. Skylar longs to find out why Rio ignores her and make him see that she is the woman for him. And what Skylar wants...Skylar gets.

I liked Skylar. She had a bold, brash attitude with a heart of pure gold. She was no wilting violet or helpless handmaiden. When Rio refused her invitations to dinner she went alone, and she could literally kick his butt. Skylar is every woman. Rio was the strong, silent type. I loved that he was very protective, and my heart broke once I knew the story of his past. Initially I thought...why would Skylar want Rio. However, as the storyline unfolded I was able to see that Rio was like any other person..he had past and his personality was the result of those scars. Very special people can look past the scars and coal dust to find the diamond underneath and Skylar was his very special person.

I enjoyed this book, but I am saddened that Francis Ray is no longer here to read this review.

Reviewed by Michelle for Cocktails and Books