Consequences by Aleatha Romig

From goodreads: Besieged by memories of a brutal abduction, Claire Nichols wakes in an unfamiliar bedroom, within a luxurious mansion. Her recollections have one common denominator, the man she just met, Anthony Rawlings.

Unbeknownst to Claire, for a very long time, she has been within Anthony’s sights. Many of the pivotal events in her life occurred, due to his sinister manipulation. Every action has a consequence, and his actions result in their chance meeting.

More than a psychological thriller, Consequences is a vivid story of one woman’s struggle to survive incomprehensible circumstances. Every aspect of her being suddenly depends upon the tall, wealthy, dark haired, dark eyed businessman. Anthony Rawlings is known to the world as prosperous, benevolent, and kind. Claire quickly learns that he can also be a menacing controlling captor.

With few options but concession, Claire attempts to earn her freedom, while enduring a hellish existence that truly appears perfect. Persevering tests and trials, she struggles to retain her pure Midwest values and beliefs. Encouraged by memories of a loving upbringing, she gains strength in the simplest of joys: solitude in nature and good in the face of evil.

His goal in sight, Anthony’s calculated agenda encounters an unforeseen detour. He becomes captivated by Claire’s beauty, resilience, and determination. The interaction of these two compelling characters instigates strong emotions: fear, anger, love, and lust. Claire and Anthony’s tumultuous journey flows into uncharted waters of intrigue and passion.

Utilizing vivid detail, this 167,000-word novel unfolds like a movie, before the eyes of its readers. From the opening criminal abduction, through twists and turns, to the unlikely romantic thrills, the suspense climaxes as Anthony’s motivation becomes evident.

I had a hard time with this book and not because the writing wasn’t good because it was excellent but I had a hard time figuring where the story was going. Consequences is written beautifully and is extremely detailed. The part I struggled with was Anthony and Claire but I also thought, at times the story dragged a bit. I’m sure you are all wondering if I struggled with the characters and the story, how’s it possible that I am recommending this book. Very easy…

Anthony is an absolute brute. There is not one redeeming quality about him that I liked because he doesn’t have any and for the majority of the story I kept wondering, when will I like this man? When will he appeal to me through Claire’s eyes? Calling him depraved almost seems too nice but I can’t seem to think of a better word to describe him.

“I want you to make me a promise. A promise, that you will do your best to follow my rules. That you will do your best – to never give me cause to hurt you again.”

Claire’s clouded judgment when it came to Anthony left me completely mystified. I simply couldn’t understand why she wanted to live alongside this holy terror of a man. Actually, alongside is the wrong word, a better way to say it would be … living under his surveillance.

Her constant performance of what was expected by Tony was absolutely exhausting and terrifying.

“God she hated the dance. A blow to the cheek one minute and discussing a romantic getaway the next. It was the one step forward, two steps back waltz. She wanted to scream. Sitting on the side of the bed, Claire allowed herself tears and swallowed”

There were so many moments I thought this story wasn’t going anywhere. I thought that perhaps I was simply reading a book about a woman who is delusional to fall in love with a sadistic man. Even with the added layers of mystery I was unsure as to where this story was going and I didn’t feel invested. I had so many doubts but I was encouraged to continue on and I did.

“Claire knew she was in control of her actions, she could choose to fight or complain. Her plan was for self-preservation until she was free. This had been a good old-fashioned thunderstorm, loud and boisterous but no real damage.”

I was ready to throw my kindle out the window multiple times but then something magical happened when I finished reading 81% of the story. I had no idea that’s where the story was headed and the home-stretch of the story made it all worth it and I didn’t think I would be saying that at all!!! One word: brilliant! It’s psychologically brilliant!!!

My final two cents: I do think the story could have been condensed a bit but maybe that was the author’s intent to set us up for book 2, Truth. Maybe this is the major foundation for what lies ahead but I’m not sure. What I’m absolutely certain about is the last 19% of this book because it was totally worth it and I’m completely and utterly intrigued. I can’t wait to find out what happens next!!