4.5 Stars
You know how you read certain authors, and you just have to read all of their books- they write so well. Ember Casey is one of those authors for me.
Even though I wanted more of Calder and Lily’s story because I love them fiercely, I couldn’t wait to hear the story of the infamous Louisa Cunningham, Calder’s sister.
Back in the States after working overseas in Thailand, Lou does the unthinkable, and goes undercover to work at her former home. The Hunington Manor estates has been turned into a luxury tourist attraction, but that doesn’t stop Lou from dying her hair and blending in as Addison Thomas, assistant to the general manager, Mr. Haymore. You know, from her description in all of Ember’s other books, I really thought I was going to hate her- especially from her interactions and bitchiness to Lily- but in reality, I didn’t hate her. I felt sorry for her, for all she went through, this was her way of getting closure.
She is crazy withdrawn from everyone, and to ease the pain of everything- she copes with running. There are so many memories surrounding her, and she can’t escape them. She never really had a mother figure either, so I am sure that’s tough, and explains quite a bit. That and having your father pass away at twenty three.
She bumps into Ward, a handyman fixing up the manor- and has a sweet little make out session with him, but runs- because that’s what she does. She also had a relationship- If you can call it that, with Ian, the project manager back in Thailand that she also ran from.
She thinks she is incapable of receiving love, but also giving it away. I am sure it stems from the guilt of everything she feels from her past. And she is just torturing herself by staying at the manor, but it is something she feels like she has to do.
There are plenty of little heat factors, dusted into the story- which keep it interesting. And there is a little tiny blurb with Calder in it, which I am totally ok with.
Fun fact- when someone writes a novel, based on new characters, it is not nice to be disappointed with the new work. Everyone should be excited that Ember has decided to keep writing, because she is that good. Of course everyone wants more Calder and Lily- just like we all want more Christian and Ana. Be excited to see new characters and where there story lines will go! I, for one, am ecstatic that Ember has written a new novel, a great novel- with new characters and emotions to read about. It keeps things fun and interesting. Congrats to you Ember, on another job well done. And hurry up! I want more Lou and Ward, ok?