Lead The Way
Brittany Carter
Published by: Swoon Romance
Publication date: April 22nd 2019
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance
Fresh off the high of college graduation, Melody James is back in her Podunk town. She needs a job, but first, she’ll spend a lazy summer with no agenda at all.
But life’s got other plans for Melody, ones she’d sooner ignore. When the next-door neighbor passes away, his son returns home to take care of his affairs. Thane Cohen hasn’t been home in ten years. The last time he was, someone accused him of murdering Melody’s parents. Now, after major efforts to recover his self-worth and start a construction company, Thane wonders if enough time has passed for him to clear his once good name.
At the time of the murders, Melody was the only person who didn’t believe Thane was responsible. But how could she even suggest otherwise when just about everyone in town was convinced of Thane’s guilt? Her brothers would never allow it. With nothing to lose before, Thane packed up and left, leaving the town and Melody behind. Now that he’s back, rekindling an old flame in Melody and proving his innocence are critical.
When several car windshields get broken and fires start unexpectedly, the world inside their little town is tossed upside down. With Melody’s brother against her, and Thane fighting every attempt she makes at breaking down his walls, Melody’s push for answers leads her to a frightening conclusion. Thane may actually know more about her parents’ death than she was lead to believe. Can she trust him, or has everyone else been right about him all along? Only time will tell if she can let love lead the way.
—
*Author previously wrote under the name, Alla Kar
Dangerously Sexy and Addictive Romance that Made My Heart Race
Dangerously sexy and addictive, Lead the Way was an absolute page turner romance that made my heart ache and race at the same time.
With plenty of drama, conflict, intrigue, steam and a hint of suspense, this book was such an utterly thrilling and wonderful love story. I loved Brittany Carter’s writing style. It was engaging, emotional, and captivating. My heart felt so heavy, but also filled with hope and happiness as I experienced everything the characters were feeling. I laughed and I swooned like crazy. I felt delicious anticipation. I held my breath and clutched my heart. And I was in tears… I felt so damn much going on this journey with Melody and Thane and I enjoyed every moment of it. The ending was perfectly realistic and bittersweet and wrapped up the story so beautifully.
The forbidden romance between Thane and Melody was absolutely electrifying and swoony! They had intense and sexy chemistry. Their attraction was palpable and I felt their desire for each other. I also really loved the playful way they teased each other and all those window scenes. I loved the build up and the titillating moments, their sweet kisses, and their heartwarming scenes. They were both passionate and protective about each and I loved that they were willing to fight against all odds to find a way to be together.
Melody was an amazing heroine and I admired her so much. She was strong and determined. She was also kind, smart, caring, and selfless. She fought to prove Thane’s innocence and never gave up on him. Thane had my heart from the beginning. He was misjudged and mistreated and I just wanted to give him the biggest hug ever!
The supporting characters were well-developed and likable. I liked Sammy and how he helped Melody. I loved that both Melody’s brothers, Jackson and Hayden wanted what was best for her. I absolutely adored Mrs. Arlene. She was funny, spunky, and kind. Even Lucas who was annoyingly creepy was hard not to like cause he definitely added some conflict to the story that made it more entertaining.
The mystery about Melody’s parents’ murder was always in the back of my mind, but I was honestly more invested in the romance part and how the story would play out and lead the way to Thane and Melody’s HEA. That being said, I did really enjoy the suspense and never could have guessed who the kiler was. I was actually quite shocked and disturbed by the revelation. Totally did not see that coming.
Heartwrenching, poignant, and achingly beautiful, Lead the Way had me glued to the pages. I loved the gorgeous writing, the broken but wonderful characters, and the storyline that kept me on my toes. It was an enjoyable read to the very last page and I cannot wait to read more books from Brittany Carter!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher and Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts and opiniosn are my own.
Brittany Booker Carter previously writing as Alla Kar. I’m a Christian, lover or romance, a wife and mother to a wild-child!
Website / Facebook / Twitter
Thanks for stopping by and reading. I hope you get the chance to meet Thane and Melody.
Until next time, have a wonderful day lovelies!
Sincerely Karen Jo 