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SURRENDER - Brenda Jackson Harlequin Kimani/Arabesque March 2009 |
SYNOPSIS: After a childhood spent moving from army base to army base, Nettie Brooms is determined to secure a stable life -- and never become involved with a military man ...and then she meets handsome, charming Ashton Sinclair, a dedicated Colonel in the U.S. Marines, who's intent on capturing her heart.
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE |4| Susan Plummer
REVIEW: Brenda Jackson’s novel, SURRENDER is a love fest featuring old faves and new characters. The story begins with successful restaurateur, Netherland Blooms who is contented with her stable life in Houston, until a tall, dark, and temptingly delicious man walks into her restaurant and interrupts the happy balance she has achieved. Ashton Sinclair is God’s gift to every woman and but he only has eyes for Nettie. Unfortunately, she doesn’t share his interest. After growing up a military brat, forced to follow her father from country to country, Nettie swore to never get involve with a Military man and Ashton is a Marine. Despite her resistance, Ashton is not backing down because he knows without a doubt they were made for each other. It isn’t long before Ashton infiltrates Nettie’s defenses and she is powerless to withstand his love. Nettie’s surrender might come a little too late though as Ashton is called away to a dangerous mission.
This is one fast story with many storylines unfolding simultaneously. Ms. Jackson manages to keep it all cohesive although at times the many characters become overwhelming.
The story is set in Houston, land of the Madaris clan. The character list resembles a family reunion with names from many of Ms. Jackson’s earlier novels. One thing all they all have in common is the instantaneous attraction and interesting storylines. Main character Aston Sinclair stands out in the crowd of attractive males, with his partial Native-American ancestry and commanding presence. Netherland’s character has a quiet strength, common in many of Ms. Jackson’s heroines.
Surrender touches on domestic violence, unfailing faith and the amazing power of love. Ms. Jackson’s works are known for kinetic attraction and love at first sight. This novel stands out however, for the sheer volume of couples who find love at the end of the story. I enjoyed the story, especially revisiting past characters.
reviewer@romanceincolor.com | 10th May 2009