The Scenic Route by Katie Ruggle | ARC Book Review
- dessimalakov
- Aug 1, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 3, 2024
A Captivating Blend of Romance, Comedy, and Adventure by Katie Ruggle
Author: Katie Ruggle
Series: Beneath the Wild Sky #1
Release Date: August, 30th 2024
Genre: Romance
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 1
Official Description:
Why date a mountain man?
Because climbing him will leave you breathless.
Felicity Pax loves her job. She craves excitement, and being a bounty hunter gives her that in spades. So when her estranged mother disappears with a small fortune in tow, Felicity chases her like she would any other skip. Too bad she didn't barter on having increasingly infuriating (and infuriatingly hot) PI Bennett Green on her tail.
Bennett's got a job to do, and if that means shadowing Felicity…well…he's had worse assignments. Even if he's 99% sure the increasingly intriguing bounty hunter is leading him on a wild goose chase through the Rockies.
If she has to drag her PI tail through endless quirky mountain towns in order to shake him, that's what she's determined to do…but it isn't long before Felicity's intended distraction turns up a mystery worth solving―and Bennett becomes the unexpected partner she never realized she needed. As things heat up, Felicity will have to decide what's most important to her: staying one step ahead of the "enemy" or giving herself freedom to experience the adventure of a lifetime.
The Rocky Mountains get unBEARably hot in Katie Ruggle's brand-new series packed with adventure, action, tall dark & scruffy heroes, and a sense of quirky humour that will be your next perfect escape.
The scenic route katie ruggle
#1: First Thoughts
From the moment I picked up The Scenic Route by Katie Ruggle, I knew I was in for a treat. It's a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and adventure that instantly pulled me in. Ruggle's writing feels effortless and natural, a testament to her experience as an author. She masterfully creates immediate suspense and captures the reader's attention right from the get-go. There’s a perfect balance of humor and tension throughout the book, making it a thoroughly enjoyable read.
#2: Characters & Romance
One of the standout aspects of this book is the character development, especially that of Felicity and Bennett. Felicity is introduced as the youngest sibling yet the leader of her sisters in their bounty hunter agency. She's incredibly strong, disciplined, and steadfast, living her life for others. On the other hand, Bennett is portrayed as socially awkward but deeply sincere. His instant, unwavering affection for Felicity is both endearing and refreshing. Unlike many romances where the female lead is dismissive, Felicity quickly lets down her guard. This dynamic felt genuine and allowed the romance to flourish naturally.
The romance itself is beautifully crafted. The tension, longing looks, and touches between Felicity and Bennett build up in a way that feels authentic and not rushed. Despite the story taking place over a week, it doesn't feel like insta-love. The high-intensity, forced proximity of their situation accelerates their connection in a believable way. It reminded me of my own experiences backpacking, where intense moments can fast-track relationships.
The action is just as engaging as the romance. Felicity, a bounty hunter, teams up with Bennett, a PI, to work on a case. This partnership not only adds to the suspense but also allows their relationship to develop organically. Felicity’s mission to find her neglective mother takes a backseat as she decides to partner with Bennett, who was initially hired to find the same woman.
The supporting characters are just as delightful. The small-town setting in the mountains, complete with a “Murder Club” of crime-solving women, adds a charming and humorous layer to the story. Characters like the chatty Lou and the serious Rory, along with their husbands, enrich the narrative and provide a sense of community and warmth.
#3: Final Thoughts
I’m genuinely surprised I hadn't discovered Katie Ruggle before. Her ability to weave romance, suspense, and comedy into a cohesive and engaging story is impressive. The Scenic Route is not just a cozy romance mystery; it’s a story that evokes genuine emotions. It made me feel butterflies and reminisce about the excitement of falling in love.
While the book isn't high on the spice scale, the palpable tension and steam between the characters make up for the lack of explicit scenes. Sometimes, the buildup and subtle interactions are more impactful than open-door scenes, and Ruggle nails this perfectly.
In conclusion, The Scenic Route is a must-read for anyone who loves a well-rounded romance with a dash of adventure and humour. I can't wait to explore more of Katie Ruggle's work and dive into the interconnected world she's created. This book left me with a smile, a few laughs, and a heart full of warmth.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. This review reflects my own and unbiased opinion.
If you liked this review of "The Scenic Route" or have any questions or comments, let me know !
the scenic route katie ruggle
Disclaimer: I have added an affiliate link for your convenience so you can directly purchase the book if you are intrigued. This also means that I will receive small commission. This does not affect inclusion in my reviews or the overall rating of the book.
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