Review of "Risky Business" by Nora Roberts
As an avid fan of romantic suspense, I was thrilled to dive into "Risky Business" by Nora Roberts, who never fails to deliver heart-stopping plots intertwined with intricate romance. This book beckoned to me with its intriguing premise—a suspicious death bringing two lost souls together in a setting as picturesque as the Caribbean island of Cozumel. After finishing the book, I can confidently say that it exceeded my expectations.
The novel features Liz Palmer, a determined single mother who moved to Cozumel a decade ago, leaving behind a broken heart and a chaotic life. She’s worked tirelessly to build a successful dive shop, Black Coral Dive Shop, to provide a better life for her daughter. When her diving instructor, Jerry Sharpe, mysteriously vanishes only two weeks into his job and is later found dead, Liz finds herself at the center of a web of intrigue. Enter Jonas, Jerry’s twin brother, who seeks answers and quickly discovers a growing attraction to Liz amidst the chaos.
One aspect of the book that resonated with me was its strong character development. Liz is not just a mother; she’s portrayed as a resilient woman who epitomizes strength and independence. As highlighted by a reader, MEB Haskell, Liz’s journey—a single mom who sacrificed everything for her child—creates a relatable and compelling protagonist. Her evolution throughout the story feels genuine as she navigates her feelings for Jonas while standing firm against the threats that emerge from the criminal conspiracy surrounding Jerry’s death.
The setting of Cozumel is another highlight. Roberts paints a vivid picture of the tropical paradise, making me feel like I was right there with Liz, diving into the azure waters. This captivating backdrop adds layers to the narrative, creating an enchanting atmosphere that complements the suspense beautifully. I found myself immersed not just in the story, but also in the rich descriptions that Roberts weaves throughout.
However, the novel isn’t without its drawbacks. While the pace and plot twists keep readers engaged, some character interactions may feel a bit formulaic at times. For instance, as pointed out by a reviewer, Melodie Bennett, the romance does have a tinge of controlling behavior that felt unsettling at moments. Jonas’s sudden advances, particularly his decision to get involved in Liz’s family affairs without her consent, left me feeling conflicted. Although the chemistry between the leads is palpable, moments like this tinge the romance with a sense of discomfort that could be improved.
Moreover, while I truly enjoyed the suspenseful elements, a few readers mentioned that the mystery wrapped up a bit too neatly for their tastes. I agree that while the resolutions provided closure, the predictability of how certain plotlines unfolded might leave some seasoned mystery readers wanting more twists and surprises. However, as someone who enjoys Roberts’ style, I found the balance of romance and suspense quite satisfying.
Overall, "Risky Business" is a delightful blend of mystery, romance, and strong character arcs that make it a worthwhile read. While it definitely meets the characteristics I’ve come to expect from Nora Roberts—such as depth in her protagonists and beautiful settings—there are elements that could have been explored more effectively. With all its twists and emotional beats, the book ensures that you’re engaged until the last page.
If you’re a fan of romantic suspense or are simply a lover of well-written stories filled with strong, captivating characters, I wholeheartedly recommend giving "Risky Business" a read. It’s a testament to Roberts’ ability to craft engaging narratives that are both thrilling and romantic. Despite some minor drawbacks, it truly delivered a captivating story that resonates with the heart.
In conclusion, I rate "Risky Business" a solid 4.5 stars—an exhilarating read that reinforces why Nora Roberts is a beloved figure in the world of romantic suspense.