Calculated Risk kicks off a new series whose focus will be on the same couple throughout. Bree (aka Bethany) is a girl on the run from a shady organization. She has hid successfully for years until a ghost from her past shows up and throws her world into a tailspin. She takes off again, this time with twin newborns in tow and ends up in Risk Peak Colorado. Here, she meets lots of great people who are willing to help her and one stubborn cop who is sure she is hiding something.
Tanner is a suspicious sort of fella. He can see that Bree is in some kind of trouble. What he doesn't know is what that trouble is: mafia, gambling debt, abusive husband. His fear is that Bree is going to bring trouble right to their tiny town's door and that is not okay with him. He keeps an eye on Bree and soon gets caught up in her life, even though Bree won't tell him what is going on! I liked that Tanner was suspicious. I think that was more realistic than a guy who just sees a woman he has feelings for and assumes she is NOT trouble. Wondering if she did something illegal and that is why she is on the run is realistic to me! Don't assume because she is a woman that she must be a victim.
Bree is brilliant but also VERY naive. I feel like there is a lot more to her story, so I am glad the rest of series continues to focus on these 2 characters. I also loved the nods to other series by Crouch since I have adored all her books. Calculated Risk has no sex at all; the only intimate times involve some kissing. Again, this felt more realistic to me-the slow build of a relationship. So, Calculated Risk is MOM APPROVED!! I do think this series is one my mom would enjoy.
- POV: 3rd
- Tears: no
- Trope: on the run, secret identity, police
- Triggers: Bree's childhood was abusive; it is not explicit but could be upsetting for some readers
- Series/Standalone: stand alone
- Cliffhanger: no
- HEA: HFN-their relationship is really JUST starting
romantic suspense authors like Katie Reus, Nicole Helm, Kaylea Cross...then you will probably like Calculated Risk!
See full review on The Book Disciple