Title: Complicated
Author: Kristen Ashley
First published May 2, 2017
19 pages, Audible Audio
Rating: 4.22
Overview
When Hix Drake, a small-town Nebraska sheriff, meets Greta Dare, he knows that there’s an undeniable connection between them. However, Hix is still reeling from a painful divorce and trying to create a new home for his children.
He decides to put a halt to any potential relationship with Greta to prioritize his family’s safety. Meanwhile, Greta has finally found a place she can call home with her beloved brother, far from the painful memories of her past.
She’s resigned herself to a life of tranquility until Hix enters her life, challenging her to hope for something more. While Hix struggles to trust again, a series of murders rocks their peaceful town.
Now, Hix must convince Greta to take a chance on him, catch the killer, and protect their community. In short, things are complicated.
About the Author
Kristen Ashley hails from Gary, Indiana, USA, and her entry into this world was quite the feat. The umbilical cord was wrapped tightly around her neck, but she made it through, already showing off her accessorizing skills before even taking her first breath!
After growing up in Brownsburg, Indiana, Kristen has lived in various places such as Denver, Colorado, and the West Country of England. This has allowed her to have friends and family all over the world, and her quirky group of loved ones bring much inspiration to her writing.
Kristen was raised in a big family on a small farm in a small town in the heartland. They were surrounded by music from Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon, and Whitesnake, and dressed to match the tunes.
Growing up in a home full of love, music, and fashion was a great way to grow up, and Kristen continues to thrive as time goes on.
Editoral Review
Complicated by Kristen Ashley is a work of contemporary romantic fiction that stands out in the genre with its unique characters, multifaceted relationships, and emotionally charged plot. Ashley, a New York Times bestselling author, has established herself as a master of the genre over the years, and Complicated is a testament to her skill and talent.
The novel revolves around the story of three main characters: Hixon Drake, Greta Dare, and his stepdaughter, Dorothea Mathis. Hixon is the newly appointed sheriff of a small town in Colorado, and Greta, a successful architect, moves to the town to start a new life after a messy divorce.
Dorothea is a teenager who has faced a lot of hardships in her life and is trying to find a place in the world. Complicated is set in the small town of Rocky Springs, where everyone knows everyone else’s business, and secrets don’t remain hidden for long.
The setting adds a sense of coziness to the story and makes the reader feel like they’re part of a supportive community. However, the town’s charming exterior is just a façade, as the characters’ lives are anything but simple.
At its core, Complicated is about the complexities of human relationships, be it romantic or familial. The characters in the novel are flawed, damaged, and carry a lot of baggage.
However, it is their vulnerabilities and insecurities that make them relatable and endearing. Ashley has done a brilliant job of creating characters with depth and emotional complexity.
The novel incorporates several themes, including family dynamics, second chances, and the power of forgiveness. Ashley explores each theme with care, compassion, and honesty, making the reader experience a wide range of emotions throughout the story.
The writing in Complicated is engaging, witty, and often provocative. Ashley’s prose is descriptive, and she skillfully captures the mood and atmosphere of the story.
There are moments of intense drama, heartache, and passion that are expertly written, leaving the reader invested in the characters’ lives. However, the novel’s pacing is uneven, and certain plot points feel rushed or unnecessary.
The romantic relationship between Hixon and Greta, while impactful, feels a bit contrived and forced at times. Additionally, the novel’s focus on several subplots can make the story feel cluttered, and some characters and their stories feel underdeveloped.
Overall, Complicated is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance. It is a well-written novel with compelling characters, an engaging plot, and themes that resonate with readers.
While it has its flaws, the book’s strengths far outweigh them. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a heart-wrenching, emotionally charged romance novel.
Readers who appreciate complex and layered characters will find Complicated to be a satisfying read. Ashley fans, in particular, will not be disappointed.
I rate the book a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
