2.5 stars ( )

I have been wondering what this fifth book would be like for quite a while and was sure it couldn’t possibly get any more fascinating than the first four books. Boy, was I wrong. The link that ties these books together is the murder of a young woman called Elizabeth. So far we have seen the story, and all subsequent events, from the perspective of the people most directly involved: a direct witness to Elizabeth’s murder, her step-brother, Elizabeth’s pseudo-boyfriend (trying to protect himself from being seen as gay by the Bullens), and the two agents who have been involved not only with the case, but, as it turns out, with each other.

Manny is someone who has always been there in the background. He was helpful and supportive, is extremely clever, but his role was to help the others do their jobs. What I really loved is how RJ brings Manny to life, shows us all the passion he hides underneath his 'nerdy' side, and how he evolves from a supporting character to a full-fledged hero with his own goals, problems, and needs. And what a guy he is once he emerges. I've always loved him, but after this story? I think he is just amazing.

Josh's role wasn't clearly defined at the end of book four. He could have been a bad guy, and needs to prove himself before the Sanctuary organization can believe he is yet another victim of the Bullens. His dad ended up turning against the Bullens though, so Josh end up in witness protection. Trying to redefine his life isn’t easy, and the pressure is enormous. Especially with the suspected leak in the FBI endangering the whole situation!

If you like stories with a lot of tension and mystery, if you prefer your men clever and ready for action, and if you want to know ‘who did what’ in this ongoing case, you will probably devour and like this book as much as I did.


NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews. ( )

I absolutely loved this entire series. ( )

Manny is moving out from behind his computer this time and he's taking along Josh the son of the cop who committed the murder. We found out a lot more about quiet little Manny and his relationship to Sanctuary. Josh proves himself to be smart and capable when his feelings don't get in the way. And when they interact with each other sparks fly. Great addition to series and the net over the Bullen family draws tighter. ( )