Rating: 4 out of 5.

This was a fun YA Mystery/Romance. I didn’t realize this was book 2 of a series, but this book is a stand alone mystery so I didn’t feel too lost.

Sydney is a spy and Winter is a popstar. They had a fling a year ago on an undercover mission and went their separate ways, not expecting to see each other again. But now, the agency needs cover that only Winter can provide, so Sydney makes contact again. The timing couldn’t be better as damaging secrets of Winter plays out in the tabloids and he’s ready to get away for a bit. Their mission is dangerous and doesn’t go as expected, but that’s when their training kicks in.

I liked that Winter falls hard and isn’t afraid to show his feelings for Sydney. She’s devoted her adult life to being a spy and knows she can’t commit to a relationship, especially to someone that lives their life in the spotlight. Getting through her tough exterior won’t be easy, but Winter is willing to put in the work.

I thought Sydney was a bit too uptight and closed off and wouldn’t even throw Winter a bone. In one moment that any other girl would be swooning over, she got pissed and went off on Winter. I realize it was consistent with her character, but she’s not a robot. She could at least show a bit of humanity. But, I guess I’m a big softy and would not be a great spy. 🙂

Winter has very few people he can trust, and has to put on a show and keep his image up whenever he’s out. Not only is Winter in love with Sydney, she’s one of the only people he can trust and be himself with. When you live a life like Winter, that is something money can’t buy. I liked that he never gave up on Sydney and let himself be vulnerable with her. I also liked how he treated his ex-girlfriend. There were a lot of reasons why he should have shown her the door and would have been justified in cutting her out of his life. But he could see through her facade and treated her with understanding and kindness instead.

I’ve liked this author’s books since the Legend series. I like her writing style and she always includes interesting elements to her books. I didn’t like this book as much as I did the Legend and Warcross books, but I appreciate she is trying out new genres. I’m sure writers get bored writing the same thing over and over, so I don’t mind it when they venture out. I just hope her next series is another YA/Fantasy series.

I listened to the audio of this book and really liked the narrator. Her voice was pleasant and there was a clear distinction between the various characters and I didn’t get confused. She did a great job bringing the author’s story to life.

I was given a complimentary e-copy and audio of this book from NetGalley and MacMillan. All opinions are my own.