Relentless

This final installment in the Star Crossed Lovers trilogy brought suspense, passion, and some closure. Lucian and Elaine are still in hiding, but soon decide to go on the run in fear that both their families will retaliate against them to save face. I loved the similarities of this story to Romeo and Juliet's harrowing tale, yet I love how this author twisted it up a bit to throw in much needed passion and sensuality, added suspense, and an ending to make my romance-loving heart happy. I can't wait for some overlap in storylines to really make this book world start coming together.

I've been looking forward to this book, the conclusion of Lucian Morelli and Elaine Constantine's love story. The previous two books (which must be read first) have been dark, explosive and full of revenge, pain, passion and heartbreak, so I was excited to see how this fiery, enemies to lovers couple could stay alive and make it work. The dynamics are a bit different in this book and it felt slightly slower paced. They've fallen in love against the odds and are initially on the run from their families wrath until they find their feet again. Lucian clearly loves and adores Elaine, he gives her the attention she craves and builds her self confidence. It was wonderful to see her bloom. He is still dirty and dominant, she wants the pain and tenderness he gives and she makes him feel for the first time. However, there was something missing for me that was in the first two books and I can't quite put my finger on it. The angst, the tension wasn't quite as I expected and they were unexpectedly sweet as a couple. I kept waiting for the retribution to come for them, but it didn't really happen until right at the end. That's not to say I didn't enjoy the conclusion to this modern day Romeo and Juliet style retelling, I absolutely did but it wasn't quite the explosive finish I imagined, but that's on me. I'm loving the Midnight Dynasty world, I'm quite sure we will see more of this couple in future books. Perhaps their love will kick start the ending of their families feud or maybe there's a lot more action and drama to come. I'm looking forward to finding out! 3.75 stars

Jade West delivers a suspenseful and passionate finale to the trilogy. Danger coming from all directions as Lucian and Elaine are being hunted by both of their families. They have to fight to stay alive because they fell in love with each other. I was curious how things would work out for them to be together. I thought Lucian's solution was a bit easy. I expected the obstacles to be more difficult. There were a couple of moments I was on the edge of my seat, but most part it was smooth sailing. I felt the last chapters were rushed to wrap things up quickly. Regardless, I loved Lucian in this book. He was willing to fight hard to be with Elaine, and give the middle figure to anyone who didn't agree. He was prepared to protect her at any cost— even kill— and give her the life she deserves. I loved how Elaine shined. She came out of her old shell and became the Constantine she was meant to be. The character grow was great as well as the conclusion. 4-4.5 stars.