Beyond Control Book Blog Tour, Review, and #Giveaway #LoneStarLit

Let’s ask about the plot of Beyond Control. It’s what drew me in initially and kept me reading to the end. The tension and suspense are palpable. (I swear my heart was racing throughout the whole novel.) There was a point when I was at about 60% into the novel that I would have sworn the page count couldn’t have been correct. I kept expecting the culmination of the novel around every corner. There are so many great scenes when you think the bad guys are going to get their comeuppance. But Ms. Martin saves the good stuff for the very end. And good stuff it is. As well-written as the ending is, I did anticipate how the book would end early on in the novel. Still, the ending, and the whole novel for that matter, is a very rewarding read.

The romance between Tory and Josh feels very realistic. True, they do start with the insta-lust. But more importantly, they both heal, grow, and love each other.

Josh is definitely the hero type. Ladies, beware if you are at all attracted to the wounded military hero! Josh is a perfect example. He may not have many exterior wounds, but he has internal wounds and nightmares. He also hires other wounded vets to work on his ranch, help with his security, do some private investigation. Ms. Martin has created such a great arch-type of hero and loner cowboy in Josh.

Tory has strength inside her. It’s just taken some time for her to figure that out. On the run from her abusive ex, she’s literally and figuratively on fumes when she drives onto Josh’s ranch, looking for work. I especially enjoyed her gumption. It takes a strong woman to convince a rancher to take her on as a ranch hand. Luckily, Josh see’s Tory’s potential. I also really appreciate how well Tory takes to the ranch, learning to ride, putting together a website, and taking care of an abused animal. Tory has so much love to give. I’m glad Ms. Martin gave her such a happy ending.

Finally, there is Ivy, Tory’s daughter. I love how she grows as a character, from being petrified of any and all men to the vibrant child who proudly draws pictures of her new family to display on the fridge. She’s completely adorable.

After finishing Beyond Control, I’m disappointed in two things. 1) I had no idea this series existed and I haven’t read the first two books in the series. And 2) the series appears to be finished. There are so many other great characters that I’d love to see more novels in this same world. I can only hope for a spin-off series or two!

If you are looking for a romantic and suspenseful novel, check out Beyond Control. It’s well worth!

4 1/2 Stars!