Hostage At Crystal Manor (The Finnegan Connection, #1)

by Heather Graham

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

It is a good thing that this is not my first experience with Heather Graham’s work because if it were after reading this book it would be my last. Based on my prior experience, I went into this book with high expectations, but instead, I ended up being sorely disappointed.

What the story is about.
Kody Cameron returned to Florida to finalise business and personal affairs before returning to New York where she makes a living as a live actress. However, she never expected to be taken hostage by masked men searching for decades old treasure hidden by the notorious criminal Anthony Green.
Nick Connolly is seeking to capture career criminal Nathan Appleby. To achieve this goal, he infiltrated the gang that held Kody hostage. He recognises her, from a brief meeting they had in the past, as the girl he wanted to get to know better. Now Nick faces the biggest challenge of his career, taking down the gang while trying to protect Kody, her employees and the mayor’s son.

My Perspective

The Story
Now after reading the above, you must be asking yourselves what problems could I have with such an exciting premise. Well, I know you would expect a fast-paced, edge of your seat read. Unfortunately, this was not my experience and to make matters worse the romance was below average. The story lacked fluidity making it difficult to follow. The suspense took a long time to build up and by the time it did it was over.

The Characters
Kody: Initially I was not sure what to make of her. I know if I had a gun held to my head, I would pray every chance I get, instead of mouthing off to the man behind the gun. I am not sure what to call her action be it bravery or sheer stupidity. Her actions lacked credibility. However, as the story progressed, I came to admire her strength and selflessness during the hostage crisis.

Nick: Throughout the story, he remained a mystery. I knew nothing about him beyond the current situation. He made a great villain given the circumstances. He was the voice of reason in a volatile situation which

The Villains: I was not impressed by the villains especially the supposed career criminal. Some members of the gang were evidently not cut out for a life of crime. It would seem that Appleby did not call the shots in this situation. I am not an expert on hostage negotiations, but I found it strange that he would allow Nick to negotiate on his behalf, giving him the upper hand. Appleby was a big joke, half the time it appeared he had no idea what he was about.

Character development was lacking, and I had difficulty connecting with the characters.

The Romance
Not only did I not connect with the main characters individually I also did not connect with them as a couple. Their romance lacked credibility and left me with a lot of questions. I have no clue how they found the time to fall in love. Most of their interaction took place during the hostage situation and there was no evidence of any spark during this time. They went on one date then the next thing I know they moved in together and looking forward to getting married.

Recommendation
The reviews for this title were mixed. Honestly, I am unable to understand the five-star reviews. I guess the reviews were geared towards the author instead of the book. Personally, I would not recommend this book. However, I am sure there are some readers who would enjoy this title, but it just was not my thing.