Book Review: Gathering (PAVAD- FBI Romantic Suspense Book 14) by Calle Brooks
When I first stumbled upon Gathering by Calle Brooks, I was immediately drawn in by the compelling premise—a woman grappling with the mysterious disappearance of her twin brother. The quest for closure, set against the backdrop of a small town steeped in secrets, promised that perfect blend of suspense and emotion I often crave in a good read. After losing track of time with this novel, I can confidently say Brooks has delivered yet another riveting installment in the PAVAD series.
At the heart of Gathering is the fearless Leina Howell, whose journey back to her hometown of Evalyn, Nebraska, is fraught with tension and trepidation. With fifteen years of unanswered questions about her brother’s fate, her determination is palpable and relatable. Within mere hours of her return, danger lurks around every corner. This is where we meet Agent Ken Chalmers, a tall, handsome FBI agent who becomes her unwilling yet steadfast ally. The dynamic between Leina and Ken adds a delightful layer of tension, as trust is not easily earned—especially when shadows from the past loom large.
Brooks skillfully navigates themes of trust, loyalty, and the unresolved pain of loss. She knows how to balance nail-biting suspense with heartfelt character development. One notable moment that stood out to me was when Leina reflects, “The past has a way of erasing the present,” a poignant encapsulation of the story’s emotional undercurrents. It’s a statement that resonates deeply, echoing the way unresolved trauma can haunt us.
As for the writing style, Brooks’s prose flows effortlessly, creating an engaging pace that kept me glued to the pages. The action unfolds organically, allowing the reader to experience the characters’ growth alongside the rising stakes. Yet, while the plot is thrilling, I couldn’t help but notice the persistent editing inconsistencies that have been mentioned by other readers. Typos and misplaced words occasionally interrupted the flow, which is a bit disappointing, especially given the book’s gripping nature. Still, the story’s core weighed more heavily for me than those imperfections.
Readers can expect an intriguing mix of mystery, emotional depth, and romance that carries over from previous books. Although Gathering can stand alone, those familiar with the PAVAD series will appreciate the familiar faces and nuances that Brooks weaves through. This novel is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to face the past, making it particularly relatable for anyone who’s ever sought closure for past wounds.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Gathering to anyone who enjoys romantic suspense with a strong emotional backbone. If you’re looking for a story that will keep you up late reading, filled with compelling characters and a plot that twists and turns, this is it. Brooks offers an engaging experience that, for me, reminded of the power of facing our shadows and the healing that can come from unexpected alliances. Grab a cozy blanket and settle in—this one is worth every moment. Happy reading!
You can find Gathering (PAVAD- FBI Romantic Suspense Book 14) here >>