Fractured Truth: Consequences of a Sin Book 1, Ashe Winters

A vampire with a superiority complex, a human with a lot of questions.  Neither one knew what Fate had in store for them when a dangerous meeting at a club forced them to flee together.  Something in the past set them on this course and their unlikely partnership sets them on a path to right those wrongs.  Sniping, bickering, running, and protecting; Avery and Ryker aren't sure if they're supposed to be enemies or allies and everywhere they turn their steps are followed by something that wants to use them for their own purpose.  It becomes clear their enemy will stop at nothing to destroy them...unless they end up killing one another first.

Avery was interesting in that he has a complicated past that he never wants to face.  His evasion is "helpful" for the plot to continue beyond this first installment but I find it completely vexing when his withholding of vital information endangers both him and Ryker beyond what would be necessary to continue the story adequately.  It's also frustrating when he seemingly blames Ryker for their situation because of his willful blindness to what's going on.  Adding his constant expressions of hatred and belittling of humans and he's certainly not endearing himself to me despite being an interesting character.  I am, however, looking forward to how he'll soften, open up, and grow as the series continues.

Ryker, on the other hand, is fortunate in that he found a family who accept him for all he is despite his beginning.  Their patience, love, and understanding gave him a foundation to become the tolerant, take-no-guff, compassionate, strong man he is when we meet him.  I enjoy him quite a lot and don't exactly know if I'm on board with the possibility of a romantic relationship between him and Avery just yet.  He does draw me into the story far more than anyone else and, if I'm honest, he's the real draw for me to continue reading the series.

The overall plot is going to some really intriguing places.  I'm eager to learn more of the magic, why it really ceased, how it might have continued, and what Ryker's role is in that.  I'm also eager to see his and Avery's interactions with Ryker's parents more because they seem to be very stellar human beings that might be able to give Avery the love of family and foundation he needs to feel truly secure with Ryker and ultimately himself.  There are a lot of ways this series could go and I think it's off to a good start.

*$2.99 on Amazon!