Everything She Wanted (The Hunted Series #5) by Jennifer Ryan

Title: Everything She Wanted
Classification: Adult Fiction
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Series: The Hunted
Format: Paperback; 448 pages
Publisher: Avon Impulse (March 1, 2016)
ISBN-10: 0062396439
ISBN-13: 978-0062396433
Author's Website: http://www.jennifer-ryan.com/
Notes: I received and eARC loan from the publisher for reviewing purposes.



Once upon a time there were two little girls who lived the stuff of nightmares. They got each other through the bad times, had each others back, and were always there when the other needed them--no matter what. They were each other's constant at a time when little else was. They lived their lives in fear, and were more prepared than any boy or girl scout, though their preparations were for flight when circumstances called for it. As they grew and entered adulthood, one held on to the belief that all their dreams could come true while the other was more cynical and skeptical. Just when it seemed the one would get her happily-ever-after, it was taken from her. Grieving for the friend she'd promised to grow old with, the one left behind vowed vengeance on the person responsible. This is her story. Little did she know that in the midst of her grief, she'd find her own happily-ever-after.

One of the things I love about Jennifer's books is that they tend to go from low to high. They give you a sense that no matter what life throws at you, you can get through it. The main characters are strong females who never lose that strength even when their 'Prince Charming' enters the picture. The men in their lives respect and admire their independence and inner strength and don't try to infringe upon it, take over, or change them. They'll be their safety net and person to lean on when needed and know, if need be, their gal will reciprocate. By the end you get the sense the couple will make it through thick or thin. All that wrapped up in a fast paced suspenseful and dramatic story line that keeps you wondering how things will play out.

Almost from the beginning we see the signs that Kate and Ben are perfect for each other. Kate is a smart woman who is both tough and feminine at the same time. She grew up in the school of hard knocks, and took away from it a bit of street smarts and a desire to help others in similar situations. It's what led her into a career as a social worker. Ben didn't have an easy childhood either. He grew up with a desire to help woman in abusive relationships, like his mother, by becoming an attorney and founding a shelter called Haven House. What I found interesting about this couple is that they'd met before and even had a "moment" yet nothing had ever come from it. It took a situation where they truly got to know and depend on one another for them to act on what they'd both felt, but previously hadn't allowed themselves to.

I gave this one 4 1/2 out of 5 roses. This was a wonderful romance with a great big side of suspense added to the mix. I haven't read all of the previous books, but didn't feel lost at all. I will confess, however, I now want to read the others so don't be surprised if you see a lot of reviews in the near future for some of Jennifer's other books. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating this one gets a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.

Order of The Hunted series: