Review by Peta2017 -- Escape by Belle Ami

[Peta2017]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Escape" by Belle Ami.]

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2 out of 4 stars

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After a disastrous first meeting with her boyfriend’s parents, Layla Rose, is kidnapped and taken to Iran, a state notorious for its cruel behavior treatment of prisoners, especially women. Her only chance of survival is dependent on Cyrus Hassani, a Mossad agent, who is responsible for her protection. Will Cyrus manage to get Layla out of Iran unharmed? How will they treat the growing attraction between them whilst hiding from danger?

I gave this book a rating of 2 out of 4 stars.

Escape is more thrilling than it is romantic. The real strength of the book lies in the plot. Readers will feel the angst of danger while experiencing the anxiety of pursuit and the fear of capture, while the possibilities of escaping lessen by the minute. Readers can expect to be transported into a high-pressure situation which will heighten their sense of alarm and apprehension. The background of a nuclear race amongst global powers and issues concerning international relations, also enhanced the plot.

However, the romance between Layla and Cyrus was lukewarm at best. While once can understand a physical connection between the two, their emotional connection had no firm footing. It can be best described as impulsive. I found myself questioning if Layla was in love with Cyrus or if she had feelings for him because he was her ‘Superman’. Is it love or is it gratitude? Similarly, for Cyrus, I really could not pick out anything further than a physical attraction to Layla. Their interactions did not leave me convinced. The ‘conflict’ between the two was half-hearted. Two attractive persons stuck in a precarious situation, does not a romance novel make.

There was also some confusion in the way Cyrus was portrayed. At the outset, the author attempted to paint Cyrus as a disconnected individual without emotion. However, it is quite the opposite. Throughout the novel, his thoughts, emotions and actions depict a very humane and compassionate man. Perhaps, one he is not aware of, but which exists nonetheless. I would have also liked to see more character development for Layla.

I felt as if there were scenes in the book that added very little to the overall plot. On the flip side, there were scenes, which were understated even though they were of great significance. Consequently, it was harder to appreciate overall development of the story. Furthermore, the author lacked creativity at several points, especially at the end, which fell flat.

Overall, Escape is an ‘ok’ read. It is not a remarkable romance. More development, especially as it relates to the connection between the two main characters,would have made it more memorable as a romance novel.I believe that Escape would have been more memorable if the author taken the time to build the connection between Layla and Cyrus. However, if you enjoy an exciting plot, you can give it a try.

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Escape
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Like Peta2017's review? Post a comment saying so!

[va2016]

This is an interesting review! Thanks.

[Amagine]

It probably would have been a great book if the romance was more pronounced in the story and if the character of Layla would've been fleshed out more.

Thank you for your honest review and good job!

[Peta2017]

Yes, it definitely would have made a better impression if the romance was more developed and Layla's character was more developed instead of being reduced to a delicate blushing daisy