One of my favorite things about this author is her ability to change things up. She is never one who is afraid to write where her muse takes her. Initially, when I started this I was thinking that a book that was this rich in story and characters needed to be more. Especially, after meeting the side characters. It would been sad to leave with so many possibilities left. That is another testament to how talented she is because she creates stories with characters that feel real. Even in their ability to traverse the fine line of dark/light red flags /green flags, or even good versus bad stands out as extraordinary. I liken her characters to having some traces of her Southern charm in everything she creates, where they will kill you with kindness while also saying, "Bless their heart." In my house, I say bless their heart--mainly to my son, Storm, and my daughter, Rayni, often. To the point that they usually answer back with, "We know what that means." In my defense, they are usually being the village idiot.
I find that when I read a book by this author, I know I'm going to get the trademark snark that I live for in a KM book. She is truly one of the best (looking at you Theo and Remi). Van Gogh was something. His anger was justified. Someone needed to pay and what better person than the person who betrayed him? Or did she? Prepare for a bumpy road before these characters get their ducks lined in a row.
The chemistry between these characters was extraordinary. It's why I read romance and getting this chance to see one of my favorite authors create a story this fantastic makes it even better. I loved the snark (and in all fairness, it wouldn't have been a true KM book without it. The steamy times and chemistry were chef's kiss. I needed these characters to be given a chance for their happily ever after. It had the angst and turmoil that enhanced the story.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention Tennyson, Shakespeare, and Bach. There is a gold mine here for their stories. Each interaction had me asking what their story was. I'm eager to find out.
I did wish a few things came out or had beer explained more, but it didn't weaken this story. In my opinion, this is some of her best work. Van Gogh is up there with my Remington, Timaeus, and Bennett.
This past couple of years, my health has curtailed my reading habits. usually, I have an easy time staying on task or can finish several books in a day instead of just a few chapters a night like my new norm. Yet, once I started this book, life ceased around me, and I stayed up way too late to finish it. That's a testament to this author's talent. Originally, this book was due on my birthday, so even though that didn't happen, I still call it a belated birthday gift. One of the best things of 2024. If the past four years have taught me anything, It is to celebrate the good things that give happiness. This book did that. And the cover?!?! Sweet holy titfire.
I will have to check this review for errors when I get on my computer. Kindle likes to change words on me. I just needed to review it when it was fresh in my mind, regardless that it's 4 am or the fact that I've taken all my nighttime meds so I'm one degree away from loopy.
In my next life, I will not settle for anything less than a man created by KM.