TALON, book one in author Sybil Bartel's new
Uncompromising
Series, a spin off of her original
Unchecked series. There are references to these
characters
and events throughout the book, and some readers may feel
a bit lost and may want to read them first. I however
had not read the series prior to TALON, and had
absolutely no problem following the story line since it
is focused on Talon and Nichole "Siren" only.
Talon owns a local surf shop on a Florida Beach. The ex-
Marine has been on a lone list of one night stands since
the death of his wife. The pain of loosing her and not
being able to save her, is a constant battle for Talon to
overcome. When the blue eyed blonde Nichole, or Siren as
Talon nicknamed her, shows up badly beaten on the beach
across from his
shop seeking help Talon's training as
a military medic kicks in. But when Nichole's secrets
start mounting up, and her ex comes around to take her
back home, Talon must make a choice. Rescue Nichole and
learn all her secrets or let her go forever.
TALON is written in title character's point of view and
gives readers
a roller coaster ride full of emotions throughout. Talon is
a very strong and dominant
character, while Nichole is more reserved. Talon lost
his wife two years before and has been struggling with
his grief of losing her when Nichole shows up. Nichole
on the other hand hides her emotions and is secretive. In
the beginning I thought she was just
being difficult and perhaps using Talon to get what she
needs from him. But as the story goes along, it is very
clear as to why she is the way she was portrayed. This
story does touch a bit on the domestic violence and child
abuse angle, so if that is something you prefer not to
read, then this book is not for you.
I enjoyed reading Sybil Bartel's TALON. Her
characters were strong and their banter comical and the
plot entertaining with its twist and turns, and full of
action. I will certainly be checking out more of Sybil
Bartel's titles in the future.
Two years ago my life was perfect, until it wasn’t. I
scattered my wife’s ashes then walked away from the
Marines. I didn’t think I had anything left to lose.
I was wrong.
The blonde showed up on my doorstep beaten and stabbed. I
did what I was trained to do—I stitched her up. I didn’t
have a clue who she was and I told myself I didn’t care.
Until they came looking for her.
I swore I’d take my last breath before I let anyone else
hurt her, except I didn’t know she was keeping a deadly
secret. Now I had two choices, her life or mine.
Marriage and combat taught me the same thing—I was no one’s
hero. And I was about to prove it.
Warning: This book contains offensive language, violence
and sexual situations. Mature audiences only. 18+