5 Stars
Rule Breakers is the third book in the Resort Romances Series by Mary Billiter. This is an entirely enjoyable, and entertaining read. I have enjoyed the other two books in this series- but this one really set itself apart from the rest and is my favourite of the series, so far! The story is an insta-love/contemporary romance with a bit of a mystery, a little suspense, some drama, a few twists- and a large dose of spicy and erotic goodness.
Hank Hughes is the Director of Purchasing at the Carlyle Hotel in Newport, Oregon. He’s travelled 1000 miles and arrived in town to take care of some personal business. He’s out of his element, a little adrift- so the last thing he expects is a chance meeting with a beautiful, sassy and sweet woman- who captivates him like no one else ever before. Hank really intrigued me in the previous book ‘Escape Clause’, as a secondary character, and I love finding out more about him in this story.
Carmen Gonzales juggles attending college for a Computer Science Degree, and working at the Waterfront Point Resort as a valet greeting guests and parking their cars. She’s sweet, petite, geeky, sassy, and a bit of a rule breaker. I enjoyed getting to know her so much better after meeting her in the first book of the series ‘Do Not Disturb’, as one of the supporting cast of characters.
The story really takes off when the two team up to investigate some shady dealings and a case of computer espionage that hits close to home. Their investigation draws them together and the sparks fly. Will they get to the bottom of it all and discover what’s going on? What happens when their feelings become involved? What happens when there is a misunderstanding? What happens when Hank has to return home?
This book could be read as a standalone, but I really recommend reading the other two books first as they introduce the other character’s and give some backstory that will make your reading experience of this book so much more enjoyable.
There were some very emotional moments in the story that tugged at my heart, but this was offset with witty humour that was sprinkled throughout the story.
As I have come to expect from Ms. Billiter, this book is really well written, interesting, and believable. Her characters are amazing, really well developed and endearing. I loved Hank in the last book but grew to appreciate him even more in this story. Carmen is such a smart, strong and wonderful person- you can’t help but love her beautiful quirky, geeky self. I also loved the camaraderie and funny banter between all the characters… and it was great to ‘catch up’ with the characters from previous books.
The only ‘issue’ that I had with this book is the cover. While the cover itself is quite nice, I didn’t think it captured the characters accurately as Carmen is described in the book- “her blue eyes were an exotic contrast against her butterscotch-kissed skin and silky BLACK hair”… and Hank is described as a MAMMOTH of a man with arms like tree branches, a Sexy BEAST of a man- and I don’t think the picture on the front cover captured them as they’re described. But I guess this is somewhat of a minor issue and didn’t really detract from my enjoyment of the story.
I’m looking forward to more from Ms. Billiter!!
Thank you, Ms. Billiter!