The Color of Betrayal by Hollie Smurthwaite

The Color of Betrayal by Hollie Smurthwaite
Published: Oct. 31, 2022
As a memory surgeon, Jolene can see, experience, even steal other people’s memories. To atone for her past, she’s been using her psychic gift to help a secret government entity taking out drug lords across the U.S. After a screw-up on an assignment, she’s back in Chicago, where her own worst memories live. The last thing she needs while trying to make up for her mistake is a sexy distraction.

Krysten’s Review

After devouring The Color of Trauma, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on an ARC of the follow-up novel. Like its predecessor, The Color of Betrayal is a fast-paced, sexy thriller filled with complex, snarky characters; plenty of secrets and lies; lots of unexpected twists and turns; and a deftly woven underlying theme.

Unlike its predecessor, however, I wasn’t as heavily invested in these characters or their relationships. Though Jolene and Cass certainly had depth, the romance felt a bit forced, a bit contrived. The thriller aspect of the novel was wrapped up in a satisfying way, but I was a little disappointed by the romantic conclusion. The final (sex) scene felt—somehow—both gratuitous and a little corny. That said, I know I am not the typical spicy romance reader, so this will no doubt appeal to its primary audience.

All in all, this was another entertaining and gripping read from Hollie Smurthwaite, and I am looking forward to the next installment!

3.9Overall Score

The Color of Betrayal by Hollie Smurthwaite

Jolene, a recovering alcoholic with the ability to experience people’s memories, helps a secret government agency take down drug syndicates.

  • Plot
    4.0
  • Characters
    3.5
  • World
    3.7
  • Writing Style
    5.0
  • Ending
    3.5

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