Fun, fulfilling and fast-paced, Sylvie Stewart’s latest book, The Spark, is also a masterclass in how to write a strong, sexy heroine with a hint of vulnerability that a reformed playboy hero simply can’t resist.
The story moves along at a cracking pace and while it takes a while for Fiona and Mark to actually meet, we learn a lot about their backgrounds in the meantime – and it really helped me warm to them.
I did struggle at first with the book’s bright and chatty style but that could have something to do with the last book I’d read, which was a bit more serious than I was used to.
I soon got into the swing of it – and when I did, I couldn’t put it down.
Here’s the blurb:
When your back is against the wall, can you change the person life’s experiences have molded you to be?
Fiona Pierce is many things to many people. Dutiful daughter to her loving parents, fiercely loyal friend to her very tolerant bestie, half-assed employee to her laundry list of bosses, and dedicated fashion goddess and spreader of good cheer to the world at large. But Fiona is hiding something behind her irresistible smile – something she’s determined to keep to herself.
Mark Beckett doesn’t do complicated. Saddled with lingering baggage from his childhood, Mark sails through life one girl at a time – with frequent gym breaks in between. He likes his life just how it is and doesn’t see any need to change his work-hard/play-hard attitude.
When an unexpected blast from the past threatens to turn his family’s life upside down, Mark finds help in the unlikeliest of places – specifically the pint-sized princess who has a knack for pushing his buttons.
Can you overcome your fears and embrace the happiness you might just deserve? And, perhaps more importantly, can you really fall in love with someone who is so damn insufferable?
If you’re looking for a quick fix of romance, this is for you. The chemistry between Fiona and Mark is irresistible – and the spark soon bursts into flames. It was such fun witnessing them get together. There are some great scenes that genuinely made me chuckle.
It’s the second book in the Carolina Connections series – although works as a standalone. The first has definitely won its place in my “To Read” pile.
Format: Kindle.
Price: £2.46.
My rating: Four stars.
With thanks to Sylvie Stewart for the ARC (via NetGalley) in return for an honest review.
After The Rain 