While this was a well-written and entertaining story, it was a tough one for me to get hooked into and stay involved in until about half way through. While I liked both main characters, I just never really connected to either of them the way I normally would have expected/hoped. I can't pinpoint exactly what it was because I enjoyed the plot line and there was lots to love about both Tait and Mellie (and the kids), so maybe it was just the timing of reading it. The last half—most especially the last big "event"—is what saved this book for me and made me glad I kept pushing through.
Tait and Mellie both had some pretty horrific pasts and heavy burdens they were carrying, both afraid to fully trust in what they got in each other and grasp hold of something good. I could feel Tait's struggle especially. I appreciated after the big reveal of Mellie's secret that after the dust from the explosion settled, there was a maturity to how they interacted with each other - even though I wished it would have played out a bit differently.
The last part of the book where everything built to it's ultimate climax kept me at the edge of my seat watching how all the threads weaved together. I adored the strength and love shown through actions (in all the relationships, not just between Tait and Mellie), the bonds made, the way everything worked out.
Readers who enjoy some laughter mixed in with drama (almost angsty)-fueled secrets and a good bit of old-fashioned shoot-'em-up action will enjoy this story.
