Nienke asked for my thoughts on Alison Kent’s Deep Breath. First, I was tickled to win this in Alison’s husband’s contest (he and his blog buddy change their header image every week–that’s been a fascinating treat to check out ever since I learned of his site). Second, I was delighted to participate in Walt’s experiment with Amazon. Third, I’d never read any of Alison’s books before, and this was a great chance to experience a new author.

I enjoyed Deep Breath. The layout was great. I liked the characters.  I like the SG-5 organization–a small “family-run” place with an international impact (at least that was my impression). This really lends itself to a good series run, and that’s intriguing. (Note: This is #7 in the SG-5 series, but it’s the first I’ve read. Perhaps some of my comments would be different after reading #1-6.)

Georgia–a great, single-minded gal out to clear her father’s name. Wonderful handling of getting her ready for the glamour events related to the auction. Characterization came through strongly with her, and I liked her. Too often someone will characterize a tom-boy character and have her carrying a purse and wearing high heels. Georgia carried a duffle bag and wore jeans and boots. And she crammed that fancy dress right into the duffle at the end–great way to keep her in character.

Harry–confident, capable, but worried about making the right impression on his new boss. He’s the new guy and doesn’t want to blow it–but really after that time with the child prostitution ring, hadn’t he earned most of his stripes by now? Maybe, but Harry’s still concerned about not having seniority in the company. Good–it keeps him just a bit on edge, and he’s not too cocky (no pun intended).

Finn–I can see why people are clamoring for more about Finn. Actually, all the “good guy” characters would be worth knowing more about–even Tracy Dunn. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but I’m wondering how things worked out for her beyond what’s covered in the book (if you’ve read the book, you know what I mean).

It’s a contemporary romance. I’m just starting to read some of the genre after years of uneducated prejudice. I saw some things that struck me as stock romance things–rock hard chiseled bodies and such (but, hey, the book is supposed to fuel fantasies, right? Not everybody fantasizes about the balding, beer-gutted wonder so prevalent in everyday life.). The story elements were there, but I tend to prefer thrillers and mysteries, and, naturally, there was less emphasis on those elements in this story.  But, by and large, the book was an enjoyable read.

I haven’t decided if I like the ending yet or not–it wasn’t quite what I expected, and that’s not a bad thing. I plan to read more of the SG-5 books–and maybe a few others Alison has written. Thanks for the chance to check Alison out, Walt.