Book Review: Finding Nora (#1.5) and Finding Valor (Searchers Series #2) by Ripley Proserpina
5 of 5 stars
While Finding Valor is the official second book in the Searchers Series, there is a novella called Finding Nora that starts off almost immediately after the first book and goes until the start of the second. It is not necessary to read this book before diving into Finding Valor; however, it does contain plot and character development that I feel made me enjoy the next book even more. There are plot points that are referenced in the second book, and even though you do not need to read the novella to continue reading the series, I do recommend reading it as you get more in-depth plot and relationship growth with Nora and the boys.
Now for Finding Valor. I was not too sure how much I would like this book after reading the first one (Finding Honor); however, Ripley Proserpina's writing has grown more and more with each book/novella. My biggest issues with the first book (even though it did not detract too much from my overall enjoyment) was that the relationships between Nora and the boys felt rushed and I did not get a sense of why they were falling in love with Nora or even her with all of them. That has completely changed in this book. I feel like I was really able to see the connections between all the characters, the guys to each other as well as to Nora. This book focuses on Ryan and his past. He is the main focus, but that does not mean that the others are in the background and forgotten. No, the other boys are in it just as much. I predict that we will be getting a story revolving around each guy that will give us more insight into their characters. I loved that this book was not overtaken with Ryan's past. It was there, but it was punctuated with situations in the present that gave action, angst, and romance (some sexual content too) throughout.
I was very impressed with the characterization of the guys, and this is one of the first times in an RH story that I have seen the guys in the harem having to deal with some jealousy in constructive ways. Not only that, but Nora seems to be very in tune with each guy and I cannot wait to see how the relationships develop.
The first book might have been only 4 stars for me, but this one is 5 stars (and growing). I have officially fallen in love with this series and all the characters. I cannot wait for more. Ripley Proserpina has become an insta-buy author.
