A Quick Dive into Fun with "The Blast from the Past" (Riley Thorn #3)
As the summer sun dipped below the horizon during my recent river vacation, I picked up The Blast from the Past, the latest installment in the Riley Thorn series by Misty Simon. Honestly, it was the perfect escape: a blend of light-hearted romance and suspense that was as refreshing as a dip in the cool waters. With all the interruptions that come from a family getaway, I loved how easy it was to pick up right where I left off.
In this delightful romp, we find Riley Thorn grappling with a new layer of chaos as her boyfriend, private investigator Nick, becomes obsessed with solving the case of a long-missing person named Beth. Talk about a twist to their relationship! Nick’s relentless pursuit of answers ultimately leaves Riley feeling a tad forgotten, and honestly, who can blame her? I found myself rooting for her to reclaim the attention of her boyfriend, as she juggles her psychic abilities and the lively antics of the senior gang next door led by the ever-quirky Mrs. Penny. Their understanding of boundaries? Well, let’s just say it ranges wildly from nonexistent to hilariously misguided!
The characters are painted with such warmth and humor that they practically leap off the page. I adored how Riley, infused with a healthy dose of snark, navigates the ups and downs of evolving relationships. Nick, on the other hand, is a dedicated investigator but his singular focus often leads to comical moments—especially when senior sleuths drop in uninvited. A gang of feisty retirees taking matters into their own hands? Yes, please!
The pacing in The Blast from the Past felt just right—fast enough to keep me entertained, yet gentle enough for when I had to put the book down momentarily. The ease of Simon’s writing allowed me to drift in and out without losing the plot thread, which is essential on a busy vacation. Plus, the way the mystery unfolds, complemented by comedic twists involving a clown thief and a doggy doody bandit, adds an irresistible charm to its pages.
And can we talk about the plot twist when Beth, now calling herself Sesame, waltzes back into their lives with an air of mystery that raises more questions than answers? It drags Riley into a whirlwind of uncertainty and danger just when life was getting a little too cozy. The inclusion of Halloween surprises and potential threats heightens the stakes, creating an exhilarating backdrop for Riley’s emotional journey.
In the grand scheme, The Blast from the Past delivers a light-hearted yet engaging narrative that perfectly suits readers seeking an enjoyable vacation read. Families, fans of romantic suspense, or anyone who enjoys a laugh amidst a bit of intrigue will bask in its charm.
In the end, this book left me feeling buoyed by its humor and warmth, proving that sometimes, the lightest reads can genuinely brighten our vacation months. Misty Simon has done it again—crafting a delightful, laugh-out-loud story that’s as comforting as a favorite summer spot by the river. Grab your copy, settle down in your favorite chair, and enjoy the wild, quirky ride with Riley Thorn!
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