Mo Daoust
Five years ago, Shannon Nolan left New York City and her husband Brad, settled down in Philadelphia, and hoped to stay under the radar. She’s been working at Jennings Construction; she likes it there, especially Daniel Jennings, the boss’ son. She wishes something could develop between her and Daniel, but her priority is her four year-old son Aiden, and the dark cloud of Brad always casting a giant shadow; what if he found out where she’s hiding? On a Saturday morning, Shannon her fears have become reality: Aiden has been kidnapped from her sitter, while Shannon was at work. Frantic, she rushes home, but Daniel follows her; she’s in no condition to be left alone. Jennings Construction is a sideline for Daniel who is a firefighter. When Shannon tells him what’s happened and that the kidnappers don’t want the police involved, Daniel phones his friends at the Escape Club; they will help. Daniel, while livid at what Shannon is going through and will do everything to protect her and help her find her son, the bright side is that Daniel will get closer to Shannon; he has meant to ask her on a date for a while. Not the ideal scenario, but at least he can make himself useful. Regan Black doesn’t waste any time, and the action starts right off the bat; the tension is palpable as are Shannon’s anxiety and despair. Brad is really a nasty piece of work, which we learn gradually as Shannon tells Daniel, while looking for Aiden. I felt that Aiden bounced back a bit too easily from his ordeal, he barely seemed affected, while Shannon was beside herself with worry. But I suppose it depends on the individual; thankfully, I have no personal experience on the matter. Ms. Black knows how to write great heroes, tailor-made to my taste. Daniel is terrific: protective, he’s a take-charge kind of guy, but not pushy; he wants to help and comfort Shannon, and he is wonderful with Aiden. There is a bit of a lull in the middle, and then it gets REALLY interesting. What did Shannon know that could put them in such peril? And amidst all the action, the romance fell nicely into place without any complications other than the stressful situation, which led to an exciting and satisfying conclusion. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. I give 4 ½ stars