Hexed

By far the best book of this series — so fuckin’ hot and a great story to boot!

The audiobook of this was next level — I don’t actually know the accent of a full blooded New York Italian but the male narrator was fantastic and the added touch of hearing him swallow because he was so worked up, as the character was, was … it just added so much to the narration. If it had been anymore it would have verged on annoying or disturbing — especially if you have an issue with hearing people swallow.

Part of me wants to own this, both as an ebook and an audiobook.

I purchased this book as soon as it hit my local store. I was excited and I already knew how McIntire's books go. I was especially anticipating this one because I love a good Little Mermaid retelling.

The book starts with a scene similar to when Ariel brought a half dead Eric back to shore and saved him, but it's Venesa finding Enzo already half dead washed up on some rocks. Against her better judgement she saves him, but her cousin takes the credit and ends up engaged to him.

Alas, Enzo and Venesa have an undeniable, fiery, and all consuming insta-lust that I wasn't a huge fan of. There wasn't really a foundation for their relationship other than the lust. It also escalated way too fast for me. The man was engaged to someone else, and show more that didn't deter him in the slightest.

One thing I look for in books is character development and I don't think either character did much. On top of that, Venesa's personality did a complete 180 the more she hung out with Enzo to the point where it didn't feel right. Almost like two different personalities or two different characters lived in Venesa's head.

This book felt a lot like Wretched. The characters also felt very similar. Very strong, smart women that flip and become mushy once they meet Mr. Mafia Man.

In saying all that, I did read this book in very few sittings. It was fast paced and kept my attention easily. I enjoy McIntire's books because they get right into the action and romance. There were plenty of high tension scenes and I like how she retold the fairy tale.

Overall, a solid read. show less

Venesa Andersen and Enzo “Loverboy” Marino

Review:
A brilliant twist on everyone's favorite mermaid - the mafia theme is high in this entangled love story of grief, strife, and suspicion. I immediately fell in love with the story, as all McIntire's Never After fractured fairy tales have had me in a chokehold since the beginning! This book breaths tension and desire into the very air on your skin and brought goosebumps to my arms!

Quotes:
"In a different life..." I pause, emotion suddenly clogging my throat. "I'd love you out loud."
“That’s what she is to me: a work of art.”
“I’m tired of being someone’s burden and not someone’s choice.”

Retelling of the little mermaid. Simple standalone series. Good characters, some spice.

I loved reading this book. Enzo was beautifully written.

TBC

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