Review of Wanting (PAVAD: FBI Romantic Suspense Book 2) by Calle J. Brookes
From the moment I stumbled upon Calle J. Brookes’ Wanting, I felt an irresistible pull—perhaps it was the promise of a strong heroine grappling with her past, paired with the intriguing world of FBI suspense. As a sucker for stories that balance tension with deeply personal journeys, I was more than ready to dive in.
At the heart of Wanting is Carrie Sparks, an autistic FBI computer analyst, who navigates both her professional and personal spaces with resilience and intelligence. Brookes does a phenomenal job portraying Carrie’s complexities, shaped by a tumultuous past as a foster child and a witness to a crime she barely remembers. The book literally shines when it paints Carrie’s experiences and her coping strategies, which resonate powerfully with anyone who has faced prejudice or misunderstanding.
Enter Sebastian Lorcan, the steadfast agent driven by a need to protect the vulnerable, particularly the missing daughter of a friend. Their dynamic is electric. Initially, tensions crackle between them, colored by a rich backstory filled with unspoken feelings. As Sebastian peers beneath Carrie’s exterior, we witness their relationship bloom amidst high-stakes drama, creating a delicate balance of romance and suspense.
Brookes skillfully weaves themes of trust, vulnerability, and redemption throughout. I was especially drawn to how both characters deal with their fears and how they learn to depend on each other. A standout moment for me was when Sebastian realizes how much strength Carrie possesses, despite her differences. This not only highlights the romantic development but presents a refreshing take on love as a partnership built on mutual respect and understanding.
The writing style flows smoothly, capturing the urgency of the plot while ensuring that character development never feels rushed. Brookes’ narrative is punctuated with vivid descriptions that plunge readers into the action, making it hard to put the book down. Other reviews echoed this sentiment, noting that the plot twists kept them engaged and guessing. One reader perfectly encapsulated this, stating, “The plot was unpredictable, and the characters were interesting and well-written.”
Though some readers point out minor editing issues, I found these moments to be outweighed by the rich storytelling and character arcs. There’s a tangible enthusiasm in Brookes’ writing that makes Wanting feel alive; it’s clear she pours heart and detail into every page.
If you enjoy romantic suspense laced with depth and realism, Wanting should definitely find a place on your reading list. Whether you’re a fan of strong, complex female leads or crave the thrill of a gripping mystery, this book has something for everyone. Personally, I walked away not just entertained but also inspired by Carrie’s journey—a testament to the strength found in vulnerability. I can’t wait to explore more of Brookes’ work and see where the PAVAD series takes me next!
You can find Wanting (PAVAD: FBI Romantic Suspense Book 2) here >>