Against the Odds

November 12, 2012
Martin’s seventh Raines of Wind Canyon contemporary western (after Against the Sun) sizzles with unbridled passion and nonstop suspense. Sabrina “Rina” Eckhart, a former stockbroker, decides to travel from her home in Houston to West Texas to see an ostensibly valuable mine she inherited from her uncle, and hires private investigator Alex Justice to accompany her on the journey. Danger follows the pair as a series of “accidents” befall her. As fiercely independent Rina reluctantly leans on commitment-wary Alex, the two form a sizzling emotional and physical connection. A subplot involving a serial killer Alex helped put behind bars adds an additional element of mystery. While at times Alex’s superhero-like qualities defy credulity, the fast pace and romantic chemistry never falter.

Hunky Alex Justice, a private investigator known for playing the field, meets his match in beautiful Sabrina Eckhart, an independent and determined woman someone is trying to kill. Jack Garrett's rich, smooth voice is perfect for this fast-paced romantic adventure. Garrett's Texas drawl is spot-on for "man's man" Alex. Garrett also does a credible job portraying the female characters, lightening his voice to make each sound feminine in a manner that is both convincing and believable. This is an engaging listen with enough twists to keep one glued to the headphones. A.C.P. (c) AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine