Hoodwinked Hearts
Publication Date: June 19, 2017
Contemporary Romance
Carina Press

Reviewed by Kini

A master jewel thief meets his match in a daring romance of love and larceny…
Confidence man, master thief and professional crook Cleve Jones knows a thing or two about risk.

Ten years ago, he risked his freedom to fall in love with a dangerously sexy, foulmouthed, punk-ass professor’s daughter and she disappeared, stealing his future happiness.
Vegas hustler Aria Harp is back, she’s in disguise, and she’s snatched the famous diamond Cleve’s been casing in a bold heist. She would’ve gotten away clean if her old nemesis hadn’t figured out her sleight of hand and come after her.

This time around, Aria’s too smart to let Cleve break her heart, but he’ll do anything to keep her safe. Even if it means a dirty double cross and losing the only woman he’s ever loved—all over again.

This love story/jewel heist caper book is novella length and is a fast and fun read. As I’ve found in many of her books, Paton challenges the reader with both words and with what is happening. The whole story is told in dual POV and the first 20% or so is each character in current time doing what they do and also explaining their previous relationship.

Once they finally meet up again, they work really well together. She’s angry and he’s repentant for his previous behavior. Aria is out at a bar and attempts to hook up with another guy. Cleve interrupts and it was quite amazing. He wasn’t overly alpha, it felt unusual and was amazing to read

Rugby was kissing her, all thrusting tongue and sucking lips, and that was car chase good, but he stopped, rested his forehead on hers. “Don’t need your help, mate. Sod off.” “You don’t know how to put her back together when she breaks.”

This is a story of separated lovers who never stopped loving each other. Aria is angry about her love for Cleve. Cleve is reflective about his for her. His persistence that his love is real was fun and “feely” to read. He sees her, I swooned.

You were mine then, black heart and fireball soul. Years I looked for you.” He took a step forward. “You’re still mine.”

“Aria. That’s my girl. Under all that skinny, polished, perfect skin is my shaved-head, tatted hellion. I see you.”

There were several passages that I highlighted that described their love for each other and how much the time apart hurt each of them.

Aria to Cleve-

“Eighty-seven thousand six hundred hours.” He shook his head and sat back on his heels. “Eighty-seven thousand six hundred hours is ten years. I’ve missed you every day. I told myself I hated you, but it’s me I’m angry with. I never should’ve run from you, I should’ve let you find me, because we could’ve been something.”

The heist caper was fun,with a few little twists but not too much suspense. This book was a fast and emotional read. I was glad to see that Aria and Cleve get the HEA they deserved.

Grade: B

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