Gritty intrigue
This story continues the group's designs against the organized crime of which Elle was a victim and the settling of Elle and south side Rebel, Marcus' "River's," romance. In this journey, a number characters, both family members and friends alike, are introduced and unite in reconnaissance and retribution. Expect some push and pull in the romance department, some jealousy, new characters, darkness, and loving camaraderie within the group. Elle is fierce while the boys show huge devotion.
Still a great storyline with grittiness and mystery, power dominance on their venture of revenge with characters distinct in personality. The characters from the guys to the family were likable, diverse, alpha, and devoted: Marcus, the hero; Jace, the pretty boy; Linc, superman; and one of my favorites, Asher, the dark prince / psycho to Elle's parents and brothers, Zack and Logan, the latter another favorite.
The book had significant editing / grammatical issues that were distracting. Also, the story read rather long as some details absolutely did not add to the plot line, either from restatement in different points of view or over descriptive transitions scenes / tasks. Additionally, a bit of heroine fawning from all the characters, which made the book seem like an unconventional reverse harem rather than a balance of focus on the main characters, though the main characters had their time. A lot of juicy sexual tension, build up, and jealousy, but no steam until more than halfway through the book, especially after the clean romance of book 1. This wasn’t a well-written slow burn; it was just drawn out. When the steam finally took off, though, it was explosive, including the off-the-charts MM scene.
Overall, great intrigue, but unwarranted slow to the plot of losing interest. I could have better enjoyed the plot line since I liked the characters, but the writing quality left much to be desired. Lots of filler. The outcome of the cliffhanger was expected.