I Love, Love, Love this series!
Raven's Claw, book two of Elle James and Kriss Norris' Romantic Suspense series, Raven's Cliff, is a magnificent example of the genre. The collaboration between these two authors has resulted in an amazing action-packed story on par with some of the best suspense novels, like Lee Child's Jack Reacher. I am so impressed with the realistic and relatable feel of the setting and characters thus far in this series.
The setting for the series is the rugged Oregon Coast in the small town of Raven's Cliff. Having spent my summers at my grandparents' place on that coast, the descriptions of the cold ocean waves breaking over the rocky shore were like a trip down memory lane. Oregon was the only place this California girl ever wore a coat on the beach! I could also empathize with the main character, Kash, who found peace in the wild frontier. Exploring the old apple orchard and climbing the rocks near the rugged ocean shore near Grandma and Poppie's Oregon Homestead provided a happy break from the stress of school and home. The epic rescues involving the former Coasties and the battle with monster waves were even more intense because of my vivid memories of the Oregon surf.
I also enjoyed the slow-burning relationship between Kash and Jordan. I had hints of their attraction in book one, and the building sexual tension in the setup chapters made me want to scream, " Just kiss the girl!" Kash and Jordan's love story was almost as suspenseful as the battle against the "ghost" operatives, hidden identities, and nasty weather! I appreciated that there was more to this story than erotic love scenes (though those were hot enough to melt metal-yum!) The romance enhanced the intensity and desperation of the mission. The rescue is sweeter because it resulted in a happily-ever-after.
The best part of this series is the family-like love, devotion, and commitment between the brothers-in-arms. Having survived a horrendous, failed mission, they successfully rebuild their lives in Raven's Cliff. The teasing banter and pranks are reminiscent of large, happy family gatherings. Elle and her fellow author, Kriss, excel at writing laugh-out-loud dialogue! I had to stop and share several passages with my siblings because they were hilarious! I must thank the authors for providing comic relief to an otherwise exhilarating, tension-filled, life-threatening plotline!
I can't wait to read book three in the series!