Big Easy Temptation
3.5 Stars

Series note: This is book #3 in The Perfect Gentlemen and continues immediately from where the previous book ended. As such, the series must be read in order.

The story is presented in three different time periods: Dax and Holland's initial meeting nine years prior to the events of Seduction in Session, followed by their investigation into the death of Dax's father three years earlier, and finally a return to the present and the revelations concerning the ongoing story arc.

When done well, flashbacks can contribute significantly to character and plot development. However, in this case, it is a mixed bag. While the details concerning Dax's father are interesting and necessary for advancing the storyline, the romance in these sections is problematic primarily due to Dax and Holland's inevitable separation and the fact that the reader is constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop.

That said, Dax and Holland have the sweetest romance of the three so far. It is obvious that they care deeply for one another, and the hurt and betrayal that keep them apart are heart-breaking. Their reconciliation in the present is one of the best aspects of the book despite one or two asshat moments on Dax's part and Holland's tendency toward being too forgiving.

With regard to the conspiracy, there are some excellent twists and turns and some great actions scenes. Nevertheless, there are still more questions than answers and I look forward to finally learning the truth behind it all.

Dax's sister, Augusta Spencer, and the 4th Perfect Gentleman, Roman Calder, are the focus of the next book, and I look forward to the feisty Gus finally putting Roman and his machinations in their place. ( )

Dax Spencer and Holland Kirk have been circling each other for years, but when it seems like they might actually have a chance together, Holland lies to Dax making him believe that she has done things to hurt his family and walks out on him. In reality, Holland is trying to protect Dax from the same people that murdered his father. Dax reacts by getting drunk and marrying Holland's friend in Vegas. After three years apart, the two must come back together when the conspiracy that the Perfect Gentlemen have been tracking for years comes back to New Orleans and Holland's front doorstep.

Big Easy Temptation is the third installment in The Perfect Gentlemen series. All of the same characters are present as in the other books, but this book focuses on the relationship between Dax and Holland. We get a good strong female character in Holland who works in NCIS in New Orleans. She proves to be not only a good investigator, but can also handle herself when things get physical. The bond between Holland and Dax is believable, but would benefit from more communication. The continuing story line of the mystery of who killed Mad in the first book, is woven into this story with ease. Overall, Big Easy Temptation is a good romance with enough suspense to keep the mystery of The Perfect Gentlemen going. ( )