Silver Lining by Aleatha Romig

Aleatha Romig returns with Lena Montgomery, Donovan Sherman's best friend from Red Sin, in Silver Lining as she is forced to deal with a stalker situation that ultimately leads her to the man of her dreams. Lena was such a multifaceted character—someone who was forced to become a strong and ruthless woman because of past events but she also had a side to her that was vulnerable and sweet as well. I also loved her chosen hero, Chandler John Thompson or CJ to close friends and family. He was devoted to Lena and completely perfect for her because he loved all of her sides. Their relationship was incredibly sexy, sweet, fun, and relaxing—something that Lena had been missing from her life for a very long time. Their one week in paradise left a deep and unforgettable impression for both of them.

"Everything I see in you. I wasn't looking, but now that you're here, you're too good to be true. You're everything I never knew I wanted."

Lena's story was suspenseful and completely romantic, something that I never expected from her. In Donovan and Julia's books, she was this formidable character who refused to let her past define her. Seeing Lena's vulnerability as she is forced to contend with her stalker, past, and self-worth was a beautiful and heartbreaking thing to witness. During her climb to the top, she made many enemies and unethical decisions but never lost sight of her ambition. Her chance meeting with the confident, handsome, and playful CJ changed the course of her life. In addition to the romance, Aleatha simply excels at the suspense and twist behind Lena's dangerous stalker who had been tormenting her for some time. As Lena begins to question everyone and especially those around her, she looks to CJ as a safe haven and he certainly delivers.

"I don't need you. I want you. The want is strong enough to become a need. For you. Your laugh, your smile, your everything."

In the end, I loved this standalone title because Lena Montgomery has always been a character I was intrigued by. She was powerful but there was a vulnerability to her that made her truly special. Furthermore, Lena needed a man who was willing to take the reins but give it back to her as well—CJ does that and more. Despite their age difference, CJ was wise beyond his years and became Lena's rock during her time of need. Their love scenes were steamy and swoon-worthy as CJ persistently pursues Lena and chooses her over everything. Fans of Aleatha Romig and the Sin series will absolutely want to read this book because we're given a deeper dive into Lena's character and her meeting with the one after Donovan and Julia Sherman's story.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author and publisher for an honest review*

Rating: ★★★★★