Susan F. (scoutmomskf) - , reviewed on 4/10/2018 + 2545 more book reviews

Good book full of love, laughter, and lust, between two people who have a history that has kept them apart for eleven years. Archer and Elle met when he was a rookie cop on the force, and she was a teenager trying to protect her sister. She was in a dangerous situation, and he did what he thought was right, ending his career before it really got started. Archer went on to found his own investigation firm and Elle straightened out her life and is now the building manager for the same building where Archer's office is.

I loved both Archer and Elle. Archer is the quintessential alpha male - strong, silent, protective, honorable, with a surprisingly soft center, at least when it comes to Elle. Elle is strong, determined, independent, and doesn't back down from any confrontation, especially with Archer. Each of them also has some vulnerability that they keep well hidden.

I loved the relationship between Archer and Elle. In the previous books as well as this one, they constantly trade barbs. For both of them, it is a protective reflex. Archer has been attracted to Elle for years but is sure that he represents things she'd rather forget, so he hides what he feels. He also knows that she feels indebted to him, and never wants her to feel obligated to return his interest. Instead, he's channeled his feelings into watching out for her, something she is unaware of. Elle is just as attracted to Archer, but she feels that he wouldn't be able to look at her without remembering everything that she and her family cost him. After all, he had already turned down her one attempt to show her gratitude. One of the things I found most amusing was how the super-confident Archer always seemed to find himself fumbling for words or otherwise being awkward around her, and she never caught on. Unlike all their friends who could easily see that Elle and Archer were perfect for each other. Things became even more hilarious when Elle decided to give up on her attraction to Archer and start dating other men. Suddenly Archer realized that he was going to have to step up if he didn't want to lose her to another man. I about died laughing at his creative attempts to sabotage her dates and Elle's reaction when she figured it out. I loved seeing her confront him and point out that she's no longer a teenager but a grown woman who knows what she wants. When they finally go down that road, the heat between them is amazing. It isn't only physical because what they have is enhanced by the deep connection that they have always had but refused to admit. As trouble from Elle's past shows up in her present, it takes some scary situations for her to realize that being strong doesn't mean that you can't accept help when it's offered. I loved seeing the two of them finally put the past behind them and move toward a future together.

The humor in this book was typical Shalvis - hilarious situations, witty dialog, and terrific character relationships. The camping trip was one of my favorites, with the big tough guys mad about being denied their s'mores and requesting a supply run from the ladies. I loved Elle's undercover work for Archer and his reaction to how she carried it out, as well as the guys' reactions to his reactions. I also loved the conversations, not just between Archer and Elle, but among the others also. I laughed out loud when Spencer had to deal with both Elle and Archer talking about feelings.

There was also a bit of suspense as Elle's sister showed up with trouble on her heels. I ached for Elle, as she had been burned several times before when she tried to help but feels guilty when she tosses Morgan out. It was interesting to see Archer's part in bringing them together. There were some intense moments as Morgan's trouble spills over onto Elle. My heart was in my throat as Elle battled a couple of thugs, holding her own until Archer came bursting in. The final confrontation was intense, with a few surprises along the way. I ached for Elle's fear for Archer and cheered for her actions regarding his father. It will be interesting to see if Morgan gets a story of her own.

I loved the depth of friendship among the group. The teasing and fun among them are always fun to witness. I also love how the support for each other is always there too. It was sweet to see how Elle had her friends that she could confide in and know that her secrets were safe, as well as getting brutally honest advice. It was also fun to see how the always in control Archer could be driven nuts by the actions of the men he worked with yet know that they always had his back. I can't wait to read more of the series.

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