Review of Control: A Friends to Lovers Protector Romantic Suspense (On Guard) by Kiana Hettinger
As I settled in with Control, I was drawn in by its intriguing premise: a deep dive into the worlds of art, control, and unexpected romance. Kiana Hettinger’s reputation for weaving gripping narratives caught my eye, and I was eager to see how she would blend the elements of suspense with a slow-burn friends-to-lovers story. What I found was not only a captivating plot but also a reflection of how vulnerability can turn the tables in relationships.
At its core, Control follows Evie, a strong-willed artist who finds solace in her art as she grapples with a stalker and the resurgence of her feelings for Jackson, the brother of her best friend. Jackson, recently back from the force due to a traumatic loss, embodies the protector role that many of us find so appealing in romance novels. Their dynamic is a beautiful tapestry of tension, history, and growth, allowing readers to witness the evolution of their relationship from platonic to something deeper.
What resonated with me the most was the way Hettinger painted Evie’s struggles with control. As a character, she demands autonomy in every aspect of her life, except in her art, where she allows her emotions to take the reins. This paradox creates a rich internal conflict, making Evie’s journey all the more relatable. And then there’s Jackson—he’s not just a protector but also a man layered with vulnerability. His attempts to navigate his feelings for Evie amidst the chaos of her life and his own make for a compelling narrative.
The pacing of the story has an undeniable ebb and flow, often described by other readers as a “slow burn.” While some might find the buildup a bit gradual, I appreciated how it allowed me to savor each moment of tension and intimacy. There’s something exhilarating about waiting for that first brush of the hand or stolen glance, an experience that feels all the more rewarding after indulging in their backstory.
The dialogue also shines, filled with moments of wit and heartfelt exchanges that captured the essence of friendship’s evolution into love. One particularly memorable quote that struck me was when Jackson reflects on Evie’s art: “Sometimes, losing control is the only way to find yourself.” It’s a line that encapsulates not just Evie’s artistic journey but also the emotional murkiness they both navigate.
If you’re drawn to stories that balance romance with suspense and feature characters who grapple with their past while facing new dangers, then Control will be a delightful read for you. The crescendo of tension paired with the sweetness of budding romance makes for an engaging experience.
Ultimately, Hettinger’s Control left me pondering the concept of control—not just in relationships but in life itself. If you enjoy a slow-burn narrative that enchants with every page, this book is more than worth your time. You might find yourself, like me, surrendering to its charm and rooting for Evie and Jackson to finally let go of their fears and embrace the love that’s been waiting in the wings. Happy reading!
You can find Control: A Friends to Lovers Protector Romantic Suspense (On Guard) here >>