Finding Bliss by Cassie Strickland

​CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

Publication date: 09/18/2015
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
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Based on the blurb, I had no idea what to expect from this book. But honestly, I’m glad I went into this with no preconceived notions, because all in all, I really enjoyed Clara and Grey’s story.

I won’t spoil any plot points, but Clara is a woman who has suffered unfathomable trauma, and that trauma has led her to isolate herself and lead a rather...un-lifelike life. Grey enters her world under terrible circumstances, but ultimately rescues her from her self-imposed exile, bringing with him friends, family and, well, life.

Clara was an interesting character. She had a quiet strength about her that was inspiring. Grey was surprising, because I don’t normally like sensitive beta heroes (I’m all about the alphas). But Grey was sweet without being a wuss, supportive without being a doormat.
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I really only have two negatives to report. First, while the author’s style reminded me a bit of Kristen Ashley (if Kristen Ashley wrote sensitive beta heroes, that is), this story tended to ramble a bit and went longer than I generally care for. This story was long. I mean, really long, folks. I think I aged ten years while reading it. Honestly, for me, romances that go longer than 350 pages could probably be tightened up, and I think this one would’ve worked just as well if it had been 150 pages shorter. (Note: the exception to that is Kristen Ashley, because her stories are usually pretty long and I don’t feel like they need to be tightened up at all. But she’s super special, you know?)

Secondly—and this is a minor nitpick—the cover, with its colorful title and flirty-looking photo, doesn’t so much as hint at the dark subject matter of the story.

But, cover and page count notwithstanding, I would recommend this book to lovers of well-written, thoughtful stories full of emotion and intense subject matter.

Full disclosure: we received an ARC from the author free of charge.

Does this book contribute to or help crush the romance stigma?
It’s clean and sober. No rehab needed.    

Other reading suggestions
I’d check out this author’s backlist. And of course, if you haven’t already, check out Kristen Ashley. ​

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