Howler by A.J. Storm is a mystery novel that is infused with a romance that burns through the pages. The author gives the reader two strong-willed characters and they, of course, proceed to butt heads while falling for each other. Sadie is a ranch owner, and she still mourns the death of her father. His death was ruled an accident, but she knows that there is more to it. Howler is hired by one of her men, Ben, to investigate who is targeting her and the ranch. Sadie believes she knows who it is, but could the culprit be closer than she thinks?
Howler is the first book that I have read by A.J. Storm and I have to say that I enjoyed the air of mystery that the author weaves throughout the story. While there is an insta-attraction between the two characters, Sadie doesn’t fall all over herself concerning Howler. Instead, she’s the exact opposite. She views him as just a worker, a nuisance when he steps up to take control and just an all-around attractive pain in her butt. While I do feel that Sadie does take her stubbornness too far at certain times, I appreciate that Howler doesn’t throw in the towel and just quit.
There isn’t much that I don’t like about this book. The author does a good job keeping the reader guessing as to who the culprit might be. There are moments of where I feel Sadie takes the attitude too far, but I appreciate that the other characters don’t take it lying down. I just wish the cover of the book reflecting the book/characters better.
All in all, I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. The characters are engaging, the author gives the reader just the right amount of steamy, and a healthy dose of danger and suspense. This book is a good choice for those who enjoy a mystery novel with a nice dose of romance to balance it all out.