This is an excellent and intriguing story; it has so much to offer and was a pure pleasure to read. Apart from Rylee and Cole’s story, which is captivating in itself, there are additional interesting sideline tales that bring the book to life. I always enjoy reading this author’s books and this particular one is no exception. I would certainly have no hesitation in recommending this book.
Running the research laboratory at Bearden and reporting on the supernatural forces at work is a great honor for Rylee; she has only been inside the Bearden Enclave for a short while and she already loved it. While other laboratories were trying to create new weapons, she worked to keep everyone healthy and whole. There is nothing significantly wrong with Rylee’s life, but something is lacking. Rylee had been assured she would be safe both at the base and off, though she never thought she would feel safe again. Rylee hopes to run her new laboratory without any interference, but her confrontation with Major Delano gives her cause for concern; then his flippant reference to the people of Bearden seals her dislike for the man. Cole’s hostility towards Major Delano earns him the job of babysitting Rylee; he also has to keep a close eye on her while she listens to stories and collects samples to study. It was his eyes that drew Rylee in; they were storms of grey that hinted at a troubled soul, but there is kindness there too and she knew he could keep her safe from her nightmares. Rylee is a mystery to Cole, but she called to and calmed his inner beast; his bear is watching her, but why her, why did she matter so much? When Rylee comes across documents outlining the eradication of Bearden’s supernatural residents, she becomes suspicious; more so when she loses her job and Cole is accused of a crime he didn’t commit, giving Major Delano the justification for his nefarious activities. The entire population of Bearden needs protecting; they didn’t deserve death simply for being different; but this is not the first time supernaturals have been hunted down. When matters escalate out of all proportion, Rylee has to first betray Cole before she can save him, but what of the people of Bearden, is their fate sealed or not? A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.