Naomi could never remember exactly what woke her up that night, two days before she turned twelve. Seeing her father headed outside away from the house, Naomi follows him, hoping he is going to the creek where she can cool down in the summer heat. What she discovers instead is a nightmare as Naomi soon realizes her father is a monster, guilty of unspeakable crimes.

Years later, Naomi has forged her own path in the world using a different last name. Naomi never settles anywhere for long, letting her eye for photography guide her into new adventures. Something about an old house captivates Naomi and before she can think too much about it, Naomi is a resident of Sunrise Cove. She hopes to enjoy the solitude, but Xander Keaton and a stray dog just won't give up. Will Naomi stand and face the past when it comes calling?

Nora Roberts crafts a masterful character study of Naomi, combined with one heck of a good romantic suspense story. I love that we meet Naomi as a young girl and follow her path as she survives a childhood that would have destroyed many others. Nora Roberts shows us Naomi's inner strength without sacrificing the wonderful bond she has with her uncles and brother. The first half of THE OBSESSION is nothing short of gut-wrenching as I couldn't help but cry for Naomi and courage she displays.

Naomi is no less extraordinary as an adult. I love that Nora Roberts takes the time to delve into Naomi's work as a photographer and the connections Naomi builds as a result of her art. I love getting to meet Jenny and Kevin, as it is such a delight to see Jenny and Naomi discussing their passions for their different art forms. Xander is ideal for Naomi as he has the perfect balance of determination and patience needed to understand and love Naomi. However, it is Tag who steals the show! I absolutely love Tag and his quirky traits!

THE OBSESSION is dark, disturbing and yet still hopeful as Nora Roberts takes us on an often forgotten journey, showing us the damage wreaked on the unknowing family members. Naomi is one of the strongest written female characters I've had the pleasure of reading as Nora Roberts shows us Naomi's heart and soul in even the smallest of nuances. However, it is the haunting, almost poetical atmosphere of THE OBSESSION which makes it such a knockout. If you read just one book this year, consider making THE OBSESSION that book!