Review: Code Name: Aries

Code Name: Aries by Janie Crouch
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A book for a true escape from the ordinary

This is the first book in the new series, Zodiac Tactical. This is a spin-off from the Linear Tactical series, also by Janie Crouch.

Ian and Wavy meet when Ian is in town to get evidence on Mosaic (the bad guys) from Linear Tactical. While Ian wants to stay aloof, given his focused mission to destroy Mosaic, Wavy still worms her way inside Ian's heart. That Ian carries a heavy burden due to his history with Mosaic is clear. However, Wavy brings colour to his life, and I love how her art is used to represent her emotions throughout the book.

As this is romantic suspense, you can easily guess what happens next. Wavy is taken. This part of the book and her subsequent recovery is quite gritty. The suspense and action elements are well done, and you have a great, if rather farfetched, twist almost at the end.

The end of the suspense, however, does not mean that we have an automatic HEA. Our characters still have to work towards this. Both characters have to overcome tremendous trauma, and it is clear that they are suitable for each other. I loved that Ian connected so strongly with Wavy's art. You have brilliant characterisation in this book.

So why only a hesitant 4 stars if both the suspense and romantic elements separately were excellent? The book let me down as it felt long and drawn out while reading. I even checked, and the print length is only 333 pages. Maybe the story just hit too many elements, which on their own made for great reading but put together was just a tad overwhelming. Still a solid romantic suspense recommendation with a medium heat level.

 Get your copy now!