Suddenly Dating

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Ravel

Thank you to D.M. Simmons for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Laney has moved on with her life, but something still lingers in the back of her mind. Darkness plagues her, tormenting Laney with nightmares and sleepless nights. She should be happy, starting a new chapter in her life with Evan, but the past refuses to let her go. And it doesn't help that Dean is back in town. On edge, Laney does her best to plan for her future, but something doesn't feel right. To be truly happy, she will have to revisit the night that caused her the most pain.

While there might not be as much internal conflict and mystery as in the previous novel, Ravel is a book set to build up the world of Lake Haven. Readers will witness Laney and Evan's lives moving forward after the tragic accident in Evoke. As the world builds around the characters, Laney is plagued by nightmares, slowly taking her down a road of misgivings and doubts. But the one part of the novel that remains strong is Evan and Laney's relationship. The support they show one another is amazing, and no matter what difficulties lay in wake for them, they stand united against them.

Ravel is an engaging book that shows readers the day to day of small town life and shows readers that true love does exist. It's a feel good book that has its share of tragedies but ultimately is about living life to the fullest and not letting the past weigh you down. As the story unfolds, readers will witness both sides of the coin. Those who can move on from tragedy, and those that dwell within it, and the effects it has on their lives. D.M. Simmons has a way with her characters that makes readers feel at home and connected with them. You'll feel as though you are walking beside them, experiencing the range of emotions they feel as they try to move on with their lives.

The pacing is slower than in the previous novel, but savor it while you can. There is heavy foreshadowing as the story progresses. Once the plot twists start revealing themselves, the pacing ramps up. And while I suspected some of the major plot points by the end, some took me completely by surprise. And now I just have to know what happens next. I can't wait till book three is announced! Fiction readers who enjoy small town settings and books about true love will love this series!

Another Slow Burn. Apparently this is London's style for this series - lots of detail, very slow burn to the romance. Yes, there is a HEA - as there must be for a romance - but unlike many others of this genre, you're apparently not going to see it until the final 5% of so of the book. Enjoyable read, but not a particularly memorable one.