Book: Fragile Sanctuary by Catherine Cowles
Reviewed by Maggie Hayes
Rating: 5/5
Fragile Sanctuary by Catherine Cowles
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Once again, I am OBSESSED with Catherine Cowles' ability to craft characters who immediately pull me in, a suspense plotline where I never correctly guess whodunnit, and a small town that feels like a character—Sparrow Falls, in this case.
Rhodes is a fantastic FMC. She may have lost her biological family when she was a teenager, but she forged another with her foster siblings that is just as loved, though in a different way. I really admire her resilience, staying positive and living as fully as possible despite horrible circumstances. She can acknowledge that trauma changes a person without letting it rule their entire life—a lesson she shares with Anson.
I cannot state how much I love Anson, the wounded grump who believes he has to stay away from Rhodes to keep her safe. His tragic backstory and self-imposed isolation absolutely broke my heart. He has so much to give as a natural protector and an excellent source of support. I love his character growth as he stops fighting his feelings for Rhodes and learns to let her in, finally accepting that he deserves the peace she brings him.
They may start off on the wrong foot, but it quickly becomes evident that Rhodes and Anson are perfectly matched. They understand each other in a way that no one else in their lives does, having experienced similar losses. The chemistry between them is undeniable, both tender and sexy, with some deliciously spicy scenes.
As usual, I went into the story's climax with a suspect list that was completely wrong. Cowles always keeps me guessing right up to the very end, which is super satisfying.
I cannot wait to dive into the next book in the series. I am so curious about Rhodes's foster siblings and their backstories.
Thank you to the author, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and NetGalley for providing a review copy.