Two Books, One Post: "Unscripted" and "Dark Ambitions"
Unscripted by Davis Bunn
Back Cover
Line producer Danny Byrd is well known in Hollywood for being someone who gets things done on time and under budget. But when his reputation takes a beating after his partner -- and former best friend -- makes off with their investors' money, Danny has but one chance to redeem himself and restore his ruined career.
LA lawyer Megan Pierce has sacrificed years of her life proving herself to impossible bosses, only to find herself disgusted at their snobbery and their specious business practices. When an opportunity to actually make a difference comes her way, she knows she has to grab it -- even though she's not entirely clear what "it" is.
Danny and Megan are each other's best hope for redemption. What they never could have imagined was that they might also be each other's best hope for love.
My Thoughts
Davis Bunn is an acclaimed, award-winning author for a reason. I was unaware until reading his bio in this book that he has also written many screenplays. His writing is gritty and raw and time-proven, and he is truly a master storyteller.
Unscripted did not disappoint. This book had heart. The character development, unique setting, and the fun of the story line made it stand out. It was like reading a movie about a movie, since the characters actually create, cast, and film an entire movie throughout the story. This was so fun to read!
Danny is rich in emotion and layers -- I loved how one character described him as a vintage car with a classy exterior and a growl under the hood. (I'm kinda partial to his name. :)) I also especially liked Megan's bold, sassy stance for justice and the way she and Danny fit together so well.
And warning -- you will meet many characters that will pull your heartstrings and might even bring a tear! And the ending ... well, I can't give that away. But it's sooo satisfying!
5 stars
*I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Dark Ambitions by Irene Hannon
Back Cover
Danger lurks when ambitions turn deadly...
Former Army Night Stalker Rick Jordan usually has his camp for foster children to himself during the winter months. But someone has visited recently -- leaving a trail of blood. One of the two clues left behind tips Rick off to the identity of his vistor, who soon turns up dead. The police deem it an accident, but Rick isn't convinced.
With the help of private investigator Heather Shields, he sets out to decipher the remaining clue. Except someone doesn't want them to succeed -- and will stop at nothing to keep them from finding the truth.
My Thoughts
If you paid attention to that book blurb you'll notice it's a bit, well, run of the mill as far as romantic suspense goes. I read another book by this author earlier this year with a completely different premise, and quite enjoyed it, but I was disappointed by the giant cliches in this book.
Rick and Heather's relationship was spicy and libido-driven, without too much substance. They had their cute moments, (and the epilogue was adorably sweet!) but overall this felt like just another murder mystery with a romance woven in to keep it fun.
Nothing against the (ahem, award-winning) author -- like I said, I really enjoyed her book Driftwood Bay earlier this year -- but I'm going to stay away from her mysteries from now on. Irene Hannon is quite the established author, but I feel like her books are losing uniqueness. There was no heart behind this one, no story to tell. I'd read it if I were bored, but that's about it.
2 stars (I feel like cringing and saying sorry.... I hate being that negative reviewer.)
*I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*