Rocky Ground centers around a single mom that readers have met in previous books. Her daughter is a precocious young girl who stole everyone's hearts. Tiana, however, is scared and overly protective after what happened (in Fractured Honor). Aiden is interested in Tiana and isn't going to let her prickly exterior push him away. Aiden has been the flirty foreign friend for the past couple books, so it was great to get his story. I have to say, with him being Scottish, I am interested in listening to the audiobook once it releases!
I think it's easy for outsiders to judge when they hear stories like what happened to Tiana and Ella. Tiana's story reminds us all that we can be deceived by the best. Tiana's difficult life has made her bitter and acerbic at best so seeing Aiden try to get through to her is painful. Aiden has his own issues too-his visa has been denied and he might have to leave Crimson Point. There is a lot going on in the story: Brian's upcoming trial or deal, Aiden's visa issues, Ella's father coming back into the picture after 9 years. Throughout all of it, you feel Tiana's overwhelming fear. It almost crushes you as a reader because its so tangible.
While this book might not be my favorite in the series, I think it will resonate with many readers. If you want a story that shows a woman's struggle through some of the most terrifying events a mother faces, Rocky Ground is the book for you.
- POV: 3rd
- Tears: no
- Trope: single mom
- Triggers: Ella was nearly molested by Tiana's exboyfriend, who turns out to be a serial predator
- Series/Standalone: series (since Ella and Tiana's story really starts in book 1, I think its important to read at least book 1 first)
- Cliffhanger: no
- HEA: yes with a very sweet epilogue
Angel by Janie Crouch, Tumble by Adriana Locke, Defending Morgan by Susan Stoker...then you will probably like Rocky Ground!
See full review on The Book Disciple