A review by courtsbooknook
Awakened by Helen Hardt

dark emotional tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes

4.5

What a magnificent introduction to the next generation of the Steel family. I absolutely loved Dale and Ashley's beginning and I think these books are going to be a wild ride. There wasn't too much of the sark elements in this one except the mentions of Dale and Donny's past. I loved seeing the OG Steels and I think the family dynamic is unmatched. I really enjoyed the winemaking/ tasting sub plot and it was really interesting to read about. I think some of the other books were really focused on the beef so it was great to see the wine be at the forefront. Also, I thought the synesthesia was something I hadn't really known too much about so I thought that was cool as well. The spice was fantastic and there was so much immediate tension between Dale and Ashley and I am living for all of it. Very excited to continue with more of these books!