Book Review: C.J. Darlington’s Bound by Guilt

I could make this book review for C.J. Darlington’s Bound by Guilt really simple.

I read it in one sitting. I didn’t take a break, go somewhere else, use the bathroom, none of it.

I didn’t plan to read Bound by Guilt that way, but it was inevitable. C.J. Darlington tells a captivating story making every single character come alive.  Even background characters have dimension and as an avid reader, that’s a rare find for me.

Product Description

Roxi Gold has been shuttled from one foster home to another for most her life. She longs for a family and will do anything to fit in even if it’s against the law. Soon she’s traveling the country in an RV, stealing rare books from unsuspecting bookstores. She knows it’s wrong, but if she refuses, she’ll be put out on the streets.
Police officer Abby Dawson has seen the worst of society, and not just at work. Her ex-husband wrested her daughter away from her in a bitter custody battle. The job she once loved has become a chore, the world isn’t any safer, and there’s no joy in her life.
One fateful night a man’s innocent blood changes both Roxi’s and Abby’s lives forever. One searches for justice; the other finds herself on the run until a first edition of The Great Gatsby catches up with her. Will the power of forgiveness set them free, or will they both remain bound by guilt?

I enjoyed Bound by Guilt because C.J. Darlington weaves these characters together effortlessly with emotions and circumstances readers can relate to. I believe this can be read as a stand alone but the setting and some characters are from her first book, Thicker Than Blood. She also uses her own knowledge of rare books as a key aspect of the plot. It’s obvious she knows what she is writing about. I know when I read author interviews they admit to being either character centered or setting focused. C.J. Darlington masters both.  Again, a rare find.

I don’t want to say too much because there is a lot to the story and I don’t want to leak details because it’s worth your time to read. From the cover to the last page it is a mesmerizing and fulfilling read. What I love is C.J. Darlington promotes books and authors, often saying the same thing about others. I’m glad to write these things about her and her work. She’s top notch and I can’t wait to see more from her. Pick up Bound by Guilt and enjoy. I’m pretty sure you won’t be disappointed.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

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