This Book 3 uses the springboard of the first two short stories in the series to get into a compelling novel. Mild spoilers follow, but I don’t think there’s any disclosure beyond what’s in the author’s description of the book.
This is one of the best novels I’ve read for showing how a very tight couple can go off the rails very quickly. About midway through, after Rob and Suzy have enjoyed some very harmonious adventures, cracks appear. Suzy and Rob are not on the same page and smoke starts to rise over the relationship.
Author Swallows handles this transition deftly. It’s subtle. What’s the real source of friction: a real event, a misinterpretation or a misunderstanding, or jealousy? I think readers will vary in their opinions. And why don’t things get back on the rails quickly - this couple has been so good at communicating? There’s definitely some lack of communication, plus an escalation in unappreciated activities - what else is happening?
This series is written from husband Rob’s perspective. I’d really love to know what Suzy’s thinking - what’s really driving her. I think the author has the material to write her story. I’d love to know what she saw that Rob didn’t.
This over 200 page instalment lifts my view of the first two books. The total series is over 400 wonderful pages.
5 Excellent Stars