Escape to You (Montana Heat, #2)

by Jennifer Ryan

[kimbacaffeinate]

After reading the preview for this novel in the back of PROTECTED BY LOVE, I knew we would be getting an intense story. Beck is at his ranch in Montana recovering both mentally and physically from an undercover assignment that his left him weary and the target of a drug kingpin out for revenge. A snow storm is moving in and when he goes out to tend his horses he discovers someone has been in his barn. Imagine his surprise when he finds a young boy who leads him to a woman. He is shocked when he recognizes the gaunt unconscious young woman. Beck brings them inside and soon realizes these two have been abused. The tale that unfolds places them all in danger even as they build an incredible bond.

Ryan gave us quite the twisted villain and the tale had dark elements as we learn of Ashley Swan and Adam's ordeal. Beck like his brother Cade falls fast and goes into protective mode. Determined to be by Ashley's side he comes out of hiding and exposes his location to the man who wants him dead. Filled with twists, turns, and surprises Ryan had me devouring this in a single sitting.

I have liked Beck since we first met him in the Montana Men series. Cover in tattoos that share a story, his tall, rugged looks, dark clothes and scruff makes him look more like a drug dealer than a DEA agent. As the story progressed we saw him transform and it felt genuine. Like he had once again found a purpose.

Ashley was a strong and fearless character. Ryan did a wonderful job of allowing the reader to feel her emotions and gain a sense of what she endured. The flashbacks to the previous year were chilling and had an air of believability to them that sent shivers down my spine. While I knew Ashley was strong to have survived her year in captivity her kick-ass actions and cleverness made me smile. I appreciated the way Ryan allowed both characters to show their strengths and grow.

This was a dark tale with quite a bit of violence. We even spent time exploring the villain's psyche. Ryan also touched on PTSD as well as media and fan perception. I appreciated these added details and depth.

I think for fans of romance, this tale may feel more like a thriller but I ended up enjoying the ride even if it left me breathless. The romance was touching and despite the initial fast pace, I felt connected. Ryan slowed things down a little, gave us some heat and delivered a satisfying ending that left me smiling. Ryan weaved past threads into the tale and set us up for the next novel, TRUE TO YOU, Dawson Kings' story.

Copy provided by the publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer