The Thief by J. R. Ward ★★★★ (Black Dagger Brotherhood #16)

Sola Morte is living safely in Miami with her beloved grandmother, always looking over her shoulder for a threat that she’s sure will come. Assail is still in Caldwell but in a coma as his withdrawal from his drug addiction is not going well. Desperate to save him, his cousins find Sola and appeal for her help, using a slight bit of duplicity as she agrees to return to be at his side. Meanwhile, Vishous and Jane are experiencing some turmoil in their relationship as the Brotherhood is facing a new and ominous threat in the war against the Lessers…or are they the true enemy this time?

This was true, vintage BDB with its multiple storylines but it’s Sola and Assail at the forefront. Theirs is the story I’ve waited for and while there wasn’t a lot of drama, it was just what I wanted. Her grandmother Vovo added lots of comic relief and the tension built as Assail dragged his feet in telling Sola his true nature. Their journey was fun and sensual.

At first I was horrified that V and Jane were going down this dangerous path in their relationship and resented that it was even happening. However, it was important to the the Brotherhood and the connected events regarding the new threat. You’ll have to read it for yourself to understand the outcomes.

I’m still enjoying Jim Frangione’s brand of storytelling. He was brilliant in delivering Vovo’s dialogue, making me laugh out loud. There are so many bright moments (think pink pj bottoms) to balance the very real dangers and threats in the war. This was such a fun and interesting ride this time. I guess it’ll hold me until the next release.

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(I received an advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review)