“Protective Instinct” by Joy York

What an absolutely wild ride this story has turned out to be! With twists and turns I didn’t see coming, secrets about the characters’ past revealed, and action on every page, I had real difficulties putting this book down, even when it was way past my bedtime.

I enjoyed the Jailer’s Daughter Mysteries series by Joy York so much that I can’t help but check from time to time if there appeared the third book. Something tells me that Lily and Christi, two teenage girls who get entangled in crime solving, because how can it be otherwise if one of them is a jailer’s daughter and lives virtually in the prison building, have more troubles waiting for them. And I’m looking forward to finding myself immersed in a deliciously atmospheric setting of rural Mississippi.

I am not what you can call a thriller reader, so I didn’t know what to expect when I picked up “Protective Instinct.” Let me admit at once, I wasn’t disappointed. On the contrary, I found myself frantically turning the pages, contemplating what might happen in the next chapter.

Sebastian Bartoli might be rich and famous, but many people – myself included – would find him extremely annoying. He is one of those guys who believes that the planets, together with all their moons, revolve solely around him. That being said, it’s probably the right time to mention that it’s my favourite type of book character. Controversial, with substantial possibilities for development as the story progresses.

Morgan Skylar is a sweetheart. Young, friendly, pretty, and a kindergarten teacher on top of all that. Struggling with grief over losing the only close person she had in her life, she still wants everyone around her to feel happy. That is why, when her best friend delivers an unexpected blow, and that, when Morgan is already on her way to their meeting place and cannot immediately turn back, she puts on the bravest face and ensures that her friend has no idea how upset she is about the turn of events.

Neither Sebastian nor Morgan remains what readers were led to believe they are for long. Besides, the secrets they reveal about their pasts and family ties shock them just like they do us readers. The rollercoaster of events, set in motion by the appearance of two armed guys, pondering over whose intentions would come at a too-high cost, doesn’t stop until the very last pages.

Why does someone allegedly involved in shady business persist in persuading Sebastian to write his biography? How is it possible that someone you’ve known all your life managed to hide not only who they were but your identity as well?

Choosing to read “Protective Instinct” by Joy York, be prepared to gasp in surprise and for your fingers to itch with the desire to turn the pages. I recommend this book to everyone who appreciates fast-paced thrillers with plenty of action and a dash of simmering romance.