In the third book of the Marked Men series, Jay Crownover finally gives Cora Lewis and Rome Archer their story. This is one of the books I was most looking forward to because not only was I interested in Rome's broody character, but I was also genuinely interested in Cora as well.

Both are no strangers to days filled with angst. However, I think it is safe to say that Rome has received a far more tougher hand to be dealt. As a solider returning from Afghanistan, Rome has seen the worst of what the world has offered. As a result, he can be mean and vicious. Everyone else is willing to let that slide, but not Cora.

Cora is a strong, confident woman who has had her heart broken once and is determined never to allow anyone the chance to do it again. Though much of the book emphasizes Rome's PTSD, Cora's past is also engaging and unique.

Surprisingly, their emotional baggage does not bog down the storyline, but further enhances it. As a series that is strongly character driven, it's no surprise that Jay Crownover spends a lot of time developing her characters and creating multifaceted attitudes that will hook readers right in.

Though ROME can be read as a standalone novel, I emphasize the fact that there is more to be had if one reads the series in order. Not only would you better understand the characters, but the overall storylines will come across as much more developed and defined.

ROME is my favourite of the series so far. Who ever thought that mixing two broken souls would become so inspiring and sexy at the same time?