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Overcome

(Cunningham Security #2)

A.K. Evans (Goodreads Author)

4.43 · Rating details · 61 Ratings · 34 Reviews

It only took a matter of moments for Lexi Townsend's life to change. Her power was taken, her trust lost. Her bubbly personality was smothered by the depressing weight of shame and guilt.

Four years later, Lexi yearns to get back to the former version of herself. A stronger version. One who is no longer afraid to share her story, her body, and her trust. When Private Invest ...more

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291 pages

Published June 12th 2018

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Jun 26, 2018 Nadine Bookaholic rated it really liked it

Recommended to Nadine Bookaholic by: True.magic

Shelves: 2018-books-i-read-for-a-challenge, meet-greet-challenge-round-28, goodreads-year-in-review-2018, 2018-ammp-badge-lover-challenge, abuse-all-types-past, abuse-rape-attempted-rape-current, genre-romance-contemporary, genre-romance-romantic-suspense, arcs-read2review-completed

I found this to be a deeply emotional read, especially for anyone that has been sexually abused or sexually assaulted. Please use caution if rape is a trigger for you. This was a seriously intense book that was light at times but with the subject matter it's kinda hard not to be mostly serious.

I must admit that this was the first time I have read any of A.K. Evans books, and quite honestly I was seriously thinking of passing this one over because of the subject matter but I received a couple of ...more

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Jun 19, 2018 ⚜️Trea rated it it was amazing

Shelves: challenges-2018, netgalley-arc-reviews-2018, series-challenge-2018

FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH INKSLINGER PR. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!

I was a little worried about this book being a trigger for me, but it really wasn't one, in spite of the scene at the beginning of the book in the prologue. The biggest problem I had with this book was that it was part of a larger seri ...more

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Jun 16, 2018 Tracey *Steamyreads* rated it it was amazing

My Readultery Life Review

This book was amazing. I was hooked from the very first page, in fact I was hooked from the blurb before I even started reading this journey. A.K Evans has written a beautiful novel about a subject matter that leaves destruction in its wake and the journey that one faces rebuilding their life.

Lexi Townsend was an easy going, bubbly, people person. Never in her wildest dreams did she expect the guy that she was seeing to subject her to a vicious assault, the kind of assa My Readultery Life Review

This book was amazing. I was hooked from the very first page, in fact I was hooked from the blurb before I even started reading this journey. A.K Evans has written a beautiful novel about a subject matter that leaves destruction in its wake and the journey that one faces rebuilding their life.

Lexi Townsend was an easy going, bubbly, people person. Never in her wildest dreams did she expect the guy that she was seeing to subject her to a vicious assault, the kind of assault that can change a person forever.

The once bubbly Lexi has been replaced with a Lexi who carries the guilt and shame around for many years. Not wanting to weigh her family down with the burden on her rape, Lexi carries on as best as she can and tries to live her life. But somethings aren’t that easy to forget.

Even years after the rape, Lexi still has reservations about meeting or touching people that she doesn’t know. While her professional life is booming, Lexi knows that this isn’t the life she is meant to be living she seeks help and allows her family and friends into her heart. Along the way she meets Cruz, the only man, apart from her brothers, that makes her feel safe.

But can she trust her heart again? Will Crux be the man that allows Lexi to open herself to the possibilities?

Cruz Cunningham has liked Lexi for a long time, his first attempt asking Lexi on a date was shot down in flames. But Cruz us patient and wiling to do anything to gain Lexi’s trust, even if that means only as a friend. By giving over his control to Lexi and allowing her to dictate the speed off their growing friendship and relationship, Cruz gives Lexi a gift. A gift that helps Lexi find herself.

While ‘Overcome’ tackles a subject that is often difficult to deal or read about, the author has created a read that focus on the rebuilding off one’s life. The story addresses the victims shame, guilt, pain and evolution beautifully. I was expecting to be left feeling stripped and empty due to the nature off this story, but I was left feeling strong and hopeful, knowing that even in the darkest of days we have the strength to move on and make things better if we choose to do so. It’s a story about fighting back and not being a victim but becoming a survivor.

This book took my breathe away with the care and thought that A.K Evans has taken to build the plot and the characters that we read and fall in love with. I adored Lexi for her strength and courage, her evolution in the story was beautiful to read and witness her taking a chance on love made my heart sing. Cruz stole the show, his care and patience stole my heart, he is what a man in love is meant to represent.

***** 5 Stars
...more

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Jun 10, 2018 Victoria Raven rated it it was amazing

I really took my time with this book and gave it the time it deserved, so I could write a review that fully encompassed this beauty.
I don't think words really do this story justice. It was everything I imagined it would be and everything it should have been.
A.Ks words are like poetry in motion. As soon as they are in front of me they just work, they just make sense.
Cruz and Lexi were just pure beauty. I read the book a few times so I could absorb everything.
Their story really did have everyt I really took my time with this book and gave it the time it deserved, so I could write a review that fully encompassed this beauty.
I don't think words really do this story justice. It was everything I imagined it would be and everything it should have been.
A.Ks words are like poetry in motion. As soon as they are in front of me they just work, they just make sense.
Cruz and Lexi were just pure beauty. I read the book a few times so I could absorb everything.
Their story really did have everything for me. The one thing that really stood out was how connected they were and how strong their love was.
Cruz was everything good and perfect, everything that Lexi needed. He was her strength and her best friend.
The more you read, the more you fall in love, with everything, their love, their hope, their journey and who they want to be together.
The story was delicate where it needed to be and such care was taken throughout the book that you can really see A.K went above and beyond to write this with as much care and thoughtfulness as possible. She is my favourite author, not only because she writes amazing beautiful stories that capture your soul but also because she takes you on their journey, you feel what they feel, you see what they see and your heart is filled with every emotion there is. She really gives 1000% when telling their story, she gives herself fully and uninhibited, leaving nothing but sunshine and beauty along they way. And at the end, when you've finally finished you feel rested and contemplative. With this story especially, I feel a sense of peace. I feel better for reading it, for understanding. When you've lost something and you don't know if you will ever get it back, just when you need it most, you will see your light, it will pull you through, heal you, guide you and love you and it will bring a sense of peace that helps you heal and binds you.
I fell in love with this book, in its entirety. I mean how could you not. And one of the most important things I took away from this is that, love is really all you need. ...more

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Jun 18, 2018 KFForever rated it really liked it

Reviewed by Emma-Louise on behalf of KFF

When I saw the cover for this book, I expected a quiet little romance with an ounce of suspense. Nah ugh! Not what I got at all. I would be remiss if I left out the beautiful dedication this author wrote. It summarises so eloquently what this book encompasses, giving people back power that was ripped from them.

How on earth does someone move pass a tragedy such as the one that Lexi endures? How do you battle demons that are so ingrained into your psyche ...more

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Jun 10, 2018 A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog rated it really liked it

How does a person overcome a tragic event? How do you even contemplate putting your life back together?

Lexi has to answer those questions and decide if she will let this event control her or if she will rise above it. Cruz wants to help Lexi but will she let him?

Overcome was an amazing story or survival and how we can let one event make us or break us.

Reviewed by: Dana D.

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Jun 17, 2018 We Review Books rated it it was amazing

You can find healing in this book...

This book captured my heart. While the subject matter is heavy and traumatic, Ms. Evans handled it so well that you feel the weight of that is on Lexi's heart being lifted away as she blooms into a wonderful young woman with the capacity to love. It makes you go through all the stages: anger, defeat, disappointment, but Lexi come out as the warrior Cruz see.

If the subject matter is too much for you, I beg you to take a chance. In this book, there is not only ...more

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Jun 26, 2018 Janine - The World Was Hers for the Reading rated it it was amazing

Lexi Townsend’s life changed in a matter of minutes when her college date doesn’t listen to the word “no.” She’s left feeling ashamed and guilty for not fighting harder, terrified to be alone with men and out of control of her life. Years later, with the help and support of her therapists, Lexi dreams of getting her life back. She’s on the way to being a successful business woman, but wants more from life. When Private Investigator Cruz Cunningham shows his interest in her, for the first time in Lexi Townsend’s life changed in a matter of minutes when her college date doesn’t listen to the word “no.” She’s left feeling ashamed and guilty for not fighting harder, terrified to be alone with men and out of control of her life. Years later, with the help and support of her therapists, Lexi dreams of getting her life back. She’s on the way to being a successful business woman, but wants more from life. When Private Investigator Cruz Cunningham shows his interest in her, for the first time in more than four years, Lexi feels more than terror at the thought of being with a man . . . now it’s up to Cruz to prove he’s worthy of all she has to offer.

Cruz Cunningham has wanted Lexi from the first time he met her, but something always seems to hold her back and she seemed disinterested until now. He’s willing to take her in any way he can get her, even if it’s just friendship with no expectations. When multiple young women go missing, Cruz is torn between finding them and keeping Lexi safe. As things get even more personal between them, Cruz refuses to let anything come between Lexi and all that she has overcome. When their relationship is put to the ultimate test will Cruz be able to save the missing women and Lexi, or will she be be lost to him forever?

Honestly, I don’t even know how to put into words how truly amazing and uplifting this book was. A. K. Evans dealt with the subject of sexual assault in a way that was incredibly realistic, showing not only the physical, but also the emotional aspects a victim endures, including the despair and fear, the triggers at random times, and just how long and difficult it is to feel normal in your own skin again. It was also inspirational in that while Lexi struggles, she is able to overcome her trauma with time, therapy and the support of friends and family. It was truly a breathtaking journey of a young woman taking her life back.

Cruz was everything that Lexi needed him to be. Loving, supportive, alpha enough to make her feel safe yet not controlling in any way. Even before he knew of her past, he treated her with care and respect making her comfortable enough to trust him and want more than friendship. He was really an amazing character.

While the main story revolves around Lexi taking back her life, the sub-plot of the missing girls adds a great deal of depth and suspense, as it becomes more integral to Cruz and Lexi’s story than the reader first realizes . . .and in more ways than one.

Seriously, this book is a breathtaking and inspirational journey of love and healing. Of the importance of giving yourself what you need and trusting that others will do the same when they love you. Of growth and change and overcoming what you never thought you could. 5 stars.
...more

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Jun 25, 2018 Pavitra (For The Love of Fictional Worlds) rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2018-read, adult-fiction, angsty-read, romance, romantic-suspense

Also Posted on For The Love of Fictional Worlds

Disclaimer: An eARC was provided via Inkslinger PR and the Author as part of the Blog Tour. The Thoughts, opinions & feelings expressed in the review are however my own.

I absolutely love a romance where the heroine is a survivor - and that when she does decide on a man to fall for (you know its' a decision!); it will be because she wants to be with him and not because she needs him!

And Overcome by A.K. Evans is EXACTLY that kind of romance - ...more

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May 30, 2018 Jenn the Readaholic rated it it was amazing

This book hooked me from the very first words (and by that, I mean the dedication before I even started the actual book!). AK’s words left me feeling like she just GETS it. Then, I hit the actual chapters and that feeling was solidified: this woman truly DOES, indeed, get it!

Lexi has survived one of the worst things that can ever happen to a woman, and she’s done it without ever letting anyone but her therapist into her mind. For years, she hasn’t felt safe giving a man her time or trust because ...more

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Jun 07, 2018 Natshane rated it liked it

Shelves: arc

I'm glad that this book is garnering raving reviews and I can see with the plot theme, it makes senses that why so many readers would be drawn to the story. Well, I was one of them too.

On paper, this book ticks all my boxes, it has an interesting blurb, darker theme that I normally go for, not too big on the book cover, but I had high hopes. I guess because I dove in with so many expectations, the story just fell short when I realized I couldn't click with Lexi, at all.

I couldn't understand her ...more

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Jun 08, 2018 Dina Maio rated it really liked it

4.5 Stars. . I don’t give out 5 stars reviews very easily, a book has to REALLY get me! And while this book did not do that, it almost did. It was a great book that dealt with a really hard subject – rape and abuse. The stories within this book are sobering and it is not for the faint of heart. That being said, I loved the story and the characters – Lexi and Cruz – wow! Lexi is just now getting her life back together when Cruz enters, well, actually reenters her life, and she finally is ready to ...more

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Jun 22, 2018 Kari Hansen rated it it was amazing

Lexi was an easygoing college student until the night that changed everything. She may look the same from the outside but inside she carries the pain and guilt that she should have done something different and for the last four years the only person she has been able to tell is her therapist. She has graduated from college, has started her own business as a publicist but the only men she allows close to her are her brothers and father.

Cruz is part of Cunningham Security and he met Lexi when he w ...more

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Jun 13, 2018 Marie Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads) rated it it was amazing

Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:

WOW! I mean this book was so profound and amazing and was everything I could hope for. From the moment I read the blurb, I suspected that Overcome would be an unforgettably good book, yet the moment I started it I got lost within it and I was awed and inspired by the characters, the plot, and the romance. It was just...EVERYTHING!

This book dealt with a difficult subject. And how this book was written and how the heroine went forth after her ordeal showed her ama ...more

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Jun 01, 2018 Joanne rated it it was amazing

I love this authors work each and every book she writes just gets better and better. We met Cruz and Lexi In the previous series so they weren’t unfamiliar to us. Lexi has a secret she’s kept for years and finally feels comfortable revealing it to her friends and family. Unbeknownst to Cruz, who’s working a case that hits a Little to close to home, his attraction to Leix is fortunately reciprocated. As they navigate their relationship we catch up with some beloved characters. Without giving spoi ...more

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Jun 09, 2018 Hannah rated it really liked it

ARC REVIEW

I didn't know what to expect from this book, this is a new author for me and I was a little hesitant about the rape and sexual assault, but the blurb really did catch my attention and I'm so glad I did read this because it is so good. For the most part this book really is Lexi finally dealing with and putting the last pieces of her life back together after her rape. If reading a truncated and detached version of the rape from Lexi's POV is not something you want to read skip the prolo ...more

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Jun 13, 2018 Lynn rated it it was amazing

5 Emotional Stars!!

This is my absolute favorite by this author…and I’ve LOVED all of her books. After reading the book description I have to admit I was worried. This book tackles a sensitive subject and I wasn’t sure I’d be able to enjoy it. Even still, I had to give it a try. I’m so glad I did.

Despite the subject matter, Overcome was a heartfelt and tender romance. A.K. Evans crafted a complex and compelling story. It was so inspiring to see that even though Lexi’s internal struggle was omnip ...more

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Jun 05, 2018 Susana rated it it was amazing

This was such a great book. I easily fell in love with Cruz, and adored Lexi. Despite having one of the worst things happen in her life, she found her strength to fight through it and overcome her issues. The reader can’t help but root for her to keep moving forward in her journey and allowing Cruz to help her. As heroes go, he’s one of the best. He’s sweet, patient, and protective with Lexi, while still being alpha and sexy at the same time.
You also get to see some characters from the previous ...more

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Jun 07, 2018 Roxie rated it it was amazing

Wow! I don't even know if I have the words to describe just how perfect this book was for me. A.K. Evans wrote a deeply emotional story that hooked me from the first page. While the subject matter was difficult, it wasn't ever gruesome and Evans handled it beautifully.

Lexi was a strong, determined heroine and Cruz was a perfect hero. Lexi's character gripped me from the prologue and I felt every emotion right alongside her. Cruz was protective of her, but not in a way that stifled her recovery. ...more

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May 31, 2018 Jenette Rufibach rated it it was amazing

I just don't know where to begin. I was very excited for Lexi and Cruz's story. Their story was beautifully written. There were times where I was smiling and laughing and other times where I was crying just a little bit. I love a book that can pull those emotions out of me! A.K. Evans wrote about a subject a lot of people would not. She did it with care but also didn't sugarcoat it like most would. I feel like that's what make the story so wonderful and beautiful. I think this is her best book y ...more

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Jun 07, 2018 Jenny rated it it was amazing

This is the first book I have read by this author, it was absolutely amazing! I can’t wait to read more! This book was more than I ever thought it would be. I love Lexi and Cruz. Cruz is perfect! I love the supporting characters. The chemistry between Lexi and Cruz is so hot. The storyline kept me interested and was beautifully written. While this book deals with a subject that not every one would be willing to write about, this author did it respectfully. I look forward to reading more books fr ...more

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Jun 21, 2018 Marika rated it it was amazing

This story was so beautiful!
Lexi never imagined she would have to overcome something so dark and feeling so hopeless..and when she feels like she is ready, it's when she meet the perfect man, Cruz.
He is everything she might need, so good and strong.
Sadly not everything works for her and soon a dangerous situation out of her control might threaten everything once more.
The story was beautiful and even tho the subject is not the easiest to read for any woman, it worked out because everything was so ...more

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Jun 01, 2018 Tara rated it it was amazing

I’ve been a fan of A.K. Evans from the beginning. And this book was absolutely no exception. I loved it! This is a survivor story. It is powerful and heartfelt. The story line was written beautifully, and with so much care. I could feel everything the characters felt. Lexie is strong and determined. And Cruz is sexy and sweet, and such a protector. Their story was perfectly intertwined with the rest of the story going on around them. This was such a wonderful read. Now I can’t wait to read the n ...more

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Jun 09, 2018 Paula D rated it it was amazing

What a amazing story! Lexi has had something awful happen to her that changes her life forever. Trying to keep going is a struggle daily. Cruz a amazing man that made my heart skip a beat by his love and strength. Two people that build each other up in a messed up world and I loved seeing it all open up for us to experience. A very deep book with serious issues that reminds us. Strength and love will get you through anything. 5/5 stars

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Jun 10, 2018 Dana rated it really liked it

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Jun 13, 2018 Mari Westphal rated it really liked it

Althought 'Overcome' has a heavy and sensitive plot, it was a interesting reading. The author addresses very well the subject regarding the rape, the victim's shame, guilt, pain and how a victim becomes a survivor. Usually I don't like to read this kind of theme, but A.K. Evans shows us Lexi as a survivor, a woman who didn't accept to be part of the statistics, a woman who fights to take back her life.

Besides all her traumas, Lexi Townsend is strong and determined. Even with fear, she has a care ...more

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Jun 25, 2018 Tammy Huk rated it it was amazing

The author did a wonderful job of addressing a very sensitive subject. From the moment I read the Prologue I was intrigued and the story itself did not disappoint. Every woman deserves a man like Cruz Cunningham in their life, to protect them and to help them heal and learn to trust again.

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Jun 04, 2018 Amy Fogarty rated it it was amazing

Wow! I was excited to read Lexi and Cruz's story since we caught a glimpse of them in the Everything series and Evans didn't disappoint. The story had everything you could want from an A.K.Evans book and more. Evans handles the subject matter of the story in a compelling and realistic manner.

She doesn't shy away from the brutal truth or rawness of the events that happen to Lexi, which made me love the book even more for the realness it posseced. Lexi is written as a woman who experiences a horr ...more

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May 31, 2018 Trudi rated it it was amazing

Overcome was about a very delicate, heart wrenching topic, A.K. Evans managed to show compassion and understanding for Lexi showing how she overcame the fear and guilt but also showed Lexi's strength. The chemistry between Lexi and Cruz was amazing, a true love that had the perfect ending.

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Jun 22, 2018 Sarah rated it liked it

After reading Obsessed, the first book in this series, I was leery of starting Overcome. I was pleasantly surprised to see how much better the writing was in this book was than its predecessor, though there is still room for growth. Again, the story was decent, if a little predictable, and I was rooting for Lexi and Cruz throughout the book.

I have always loved books about survivors of all types, but those about women who’ve overcome sexual assault have always held a special place in my heart. As After reading Obsessed, the first book in this series, I was leery of starting Overcome. I was pleasantly surprised to see how much better the writing was in this book was than its predecessor, though there is still room for growth. Again, the story was decent, if a little predictable, and I was rooting for Lexi and Cruz throughout the book.

I have always loved books about survivors of all types, but those about women who’ve overcome sexual assault have always held a special place in my heart. As soon as I read the blurb for this book I was all in. I can not tell you how happy I was to see so much of Lexi’s healing arc in this book. Often romance novels seem to have people be magically healed by finding love, so seeing how hard and how many things Lexi was doing to leave her rape behind her was wonderful.

Cruz was fantastic with Lexi. His compassion and patience went so far to help her learn how to trust men again, in particular, him. I loved how carefully he helped her find all the things she thought she’d lost after she’d been violated so horribly. His support in those moments when she felt she had no strength was sublime.

My wishes for this book are many, unfortunately, but I think most of them could be solved with a heavier editorial hand. Most of the tell-not-show aspects of Obsessed were absent from this book, though there were still a few cringe-worthy moments that need to be addressed. I also feel like Lexi’s reaction to the climax of the book felt completely wrong, given what she’d been through, I absolutely could not get on board with it. Again, there were editorial issues, though not as plentiful as the first book in this series. Finally, all the ‘L’ names: Levi, Lexi, Leni (Lennox), Luke, Logan, Lorenzo, though not present in this book, there was also a Leah in this series, and those are just the names I could recall off the top of my head. It just felt strange to have so many similar names in one novel. Especially all the Le_i names, more than once I misread a name and had to do a double-take to make sure I knew who I was reading about.

Overcome is the second book in AK Evans Cunningham Security series. This series is a spinoff of her Everything series, and several of those characters make an appearance in the Cunningham Security series. Each book in both series are interconnected standalones and do not have to be read in order. However, if you’re anything like me, you’ll have so many questions about the other couples the desire to read the other books will be strong. Overcome is written in dual first-person perspective, narrated by Lexi and Cruz.

AK Evans has improved greatly from the first book I read by her. A lot of the distrust of her readers I felt in that book was absent in this one. That being said, I feel like there is still a lot of room for growth and she would benefit from a stronger editorial team. Her storytelling is compelling enough that I can see myself picking up more books from her, in hopes to see continued improvement in her writing. ...more

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