The impact of the disastrous dinner with Lona has reached epic proportions as the lies about Bee become the fodder of blogs; as her name becomes known all over the internet, Bee is deluged with dubious gifts and offers. With her reputation completely ruined, Bee is convinced her roommate Cyndi's father will insist Bee move out. As Bee realises her connection with Hawke is more than a friendship, she has to keep reminding herself that she must try to fall in love with Nicolas because that's what she needs, that's where she will find stability, but it's getting to be more and more difficult as the self- professed asshole is always working; he looks exhausted and seems on the verge of unravelling.

SINFUL REWARDS 6 is all about truth: true friends, true love, remaining true to who you are, not keeping secrets, not trying to be something you're not. This time, those who have not read at least #4 and #5 will be scratching their heads a bit. Halfway through this fantastic twelve part series, Ms. Sax amps up the heat level and we're in for some serious sizzle as Bee throws caution to the wind and lets her sensual side take over.

The somewhat wistful tone that coloured the past two instalments is slowly fading with the return of Cyndi, and priorities are shifting for several characters. The future still looks bleak for Bee, and even for the usually carefree Cyndi, as some events in California have her re-evaluating her outlook on life. I love how Ms. Sax handles the genuine affection between the two friends, how subtly she portrays the delicate balance between all the characters, how every word and action have consequences in the grand scheme of things. What is most surprising is how much substance there is in SINFUL REWARDS 6. I found quite interesting that the storm that was towards the end of Sinful Rewards 5 still affects the turns of events: what happened to the ancient tree, around which Nicolas Rainer's condos are built, stands as a metaphor for the changes that are taking place in the characters' lives, not to mention the startling plot twist towards the end.

SINFUL REWARDS 6 is so beautifully written and yet so understated, it sneaks up on you and doesn't let go until you've turned the last page, and even then; the characters stay with you. Ms. Sax keeps you guessing, wondering, and hoping the next month will come quickly.