Question H

[Jonetta]

Despite all the action, Stephanie and Joe had opportunity to focus on their relationship. What worked/didn’t work about their romance?

[Robin]

As I said before, I don't like the whole "breaking up so you don't get hurt" storyline. I really didn't think much about their relationship. They had a good thing going, he broke it off, she figured out why he broke it off, rescued him and they got back together. It was OK, but I didn't feel like they were any better off that before the book started.

[Jonetta]

I liked how Stephanie was the one who changed and demanded better, which strengthened their relationship. She was rather passive in the beginning and then realized it when Joe left. When she put him on notice, he stepped up. It became a two-way relationship and I liked that subtle message the author seemed to be giving. Otherwise, Joe would be perceived as the bad guy for holding back. Stephanie bore some of the responsibility and that mirrors real life.

[Anita]

I was really disappointed that Joe just cut her loose like that. That Stephanie didn't buy his bull and saved his rear end says a lot about the depth of her love for him.