In Fortress, the fourth installment of the M/M paranormal romance series A Monster By Any Other Name, Tobias and Jake face a terrifying threat. Years after escaping the Agency of Supernatural Control's horrific Freak Camp, Tobias, still bearing the invisible scars of his past, finds their hard-won peace shattered by the ASC's return. Their idyllic life hangs precariously in the balance as the agency closes in, demanding Tobias's return. This emotionally charged story explores the power of love and trust in the face of unimaginable trauma. While offering a slow-burn romance and a "happy for now" ending, Fortress contains sensitive content including references to child abuse and torture, so reader discretion is advised. Recommended for readers familiar with the series, beginning with Freak Camp or Fear.
Review Fortress
Fortress, the fourth installment in the A Monster By Any Other Name series, left me with a whirlwind of emotions, a testament to the power of Rye and Hansen's storytelling. While I appreciate the slower burn approach, characteristic of the entire series, Fortress felt like a particularly potent cocktail of suspense, heartbreak, and ultimately, hope. The authors masterfully weave together the lingering trauma of Tobias' past with the burgeoning strength of his relationship with Jake, creating a narrative that is both intensely intimate and thrillingly suspenseful.
The emotional depth of this book is undeniable. The raw vulnerability of Tobias, the invisible scars he carries from his years of captivity, resonated deeply. His journey of healing and self-discovery is a powerful one, and witnessing his growth alongside Jake’s unwavering support is profoundly moving. Jake, in his own right, is a compelling character; his strength and unwavering love for Tobias are the bedrock upon which their relationship is built. The authors beautifully portray the complexities of their bond, showing the challenges they face not only from external threats but also from the internal wounds that haunt them both. Their relationship isn't a fairytale; it's realistic, messy, and all the more compelling for it.
The pacing in Fortress kept me completely hooked. While some readers might find the cliffhangers frustrating (and I admit, the anticipation for the next book is almost unbearable!), the tension builds organically, leaving me constantly on the edge of my seat. The mystery surrounding the Agency of Supernatural Control remains captivating, and the authors skillfully drop hints and clues that kept me guessing until the very end. The inclusion of secondary characters, like Roger, adds another layer of depth and warmth to the narrative. Their presence highlights the importance of found family and the strength that can be found in supportive relationships, further enriching the overall experience.
However, I must acknowledge that the book's exploration of sensitive themes—past abuse, torture, and neglect—is not for the faint of heart. The authors handle these themes with sensitivity and care, but they are undeniably challenging. This isn't a lighthearted read; it demands emotional engagement, and it will likely stay with you long after you've turned the final page. This intensity, though, is precisely what makes the eventual moments of tenderness and triumph so profoundly satisfying. The happy-for-now ending, a consistent feature of the series, left me satisfied while simultaneously craving more, a testament to the authors' skill in creating a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and incredibly compelling.
In short, Fortress is a powerful and unforgettable read. While it demands emotional investment, the rewards are immense. The character development, the intricate plot, and the emotional resonance of the narrative make this a book I'll be recommending to others for a long time to come. I eagerly anticipate the next installment, even if the wait will be agonizing.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.69 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 274
- Publication date: 2024
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