The Final Target by Nora Roberts

The Final Target

Book Summary

A young author becomes the object of a fan’s desire—and rage—in the gripping thriller by the #1 New York Times-bestselling author of Hidden Nature.

He showed up at Arden Bowie’s debut author appearance with a copy of her novel and an eager smile. He showered her with compliments and got her autograph. Then he came to her next event. And the one after that.

Dustin was just an aspiring writer who wanted advice, Arden reassured herself. But after giving in to one of his incessant invitations and chatting with him over coffee, she discovered that ignoring her inner alarm bell had been a terrible mistake…

An introvert at heart, Arden had long craved solitude—but now, after a harrowing assault, she finds herself hiding behind locked doors and startling at every sound. And her relief at his imprisonment is tempered by anxiety when Dustin’s wealthy mother helps to get him a paltry five-year sentence at a psychiatric facility.

Arden decides to write a new story for herself, moving to a tiny Oregon town and befriending Gideon, an ex-LAPD detective. But while she learns to thrive, Dustin remains his delusional, twisted self, as fixated as ever and now seething with anger. He still believes Arden's purpose on earth is to serve and please him. And his job is to protect her. But who will protect her from him?

My Thoughts

The Final Target by Nora Roberts is a tense, emotional thriller that held my attention from beginning to end. It is a well-written story with strong characters, steady pacing, and an especially effective villain. The multiple points of view add depth, and I liked how suspense, obsession, and family drama are woven throughout the story. The relationships felt genuine, which gave the book added emotional weight. The assault is graphic and may be upsetting for some readers, but the story is ultimately about hope, healing, and reclaiming independence. There is also romance, and Gideon brings warmth and calm to the darker parts of the novel. The unexpected twists and satisfying ending made this a suspenseful, compelling read.

The Final Target can be purchased from Amazon (it is also available from other major booksellers including Barnes & Noble, BAM, Kobo, Target, Waterstone's).  Nora Roberts has published many wonderful books since her first publication, Irish Thoroughbred in 1981.  I have been reading her books since I was twelve (young adult fiction did not exist when I was kid), and I look forward to each new release.  You can find her other novels here.  On Thursday, May 28, I am featuring Danger in the Rockies by Terri Reed. It is the third book in the Colorado K-9 Unit series.   Hope today treats you kindly. Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader

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*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book.  I am not required to leave a review.  The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.

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