Limecello’s review of Storm Watch by Jill Shalvis
Contemporary romance published by Harlequin Blaze on 1 Aug 2009

I generally enjoy Jill Shalvis’s writing, but I have to admit to being somewhat apprehensive about this one. I vaguely remember a mixed reaction from one of her previous Blaze books. Nevertheless, I was riding the good read high from Instant Gratification, and I’m glad I read Storm Watch. I felt that it was very fitting that I read this book while riding in a car, in the rain. Luckily, the conditions I experienced were vastly different  from what Lizzy and Jason encountered.

Lizzy Mann is a very likable, normal, yet quirky character. A very typical heroine for Ms. Shalvis (which is a good thing), there’s just something about Lizzy that draws you in. I also liked the fact that she’s capable on her own. It was nice to see a heroine who was generally well matched to the hero. Lizzy is an ER nurse who had to grow up too quickly. I loved that she was a geek in high school, but at the point where she meets up with the hero again, she’s found herself. She’s fine with, or without the hero. Aside from a few minor cringe worthy moments, Lizzy is a fantastic heroine. She’s someone I’d like to be friends with, and would also want around in case of emergency.

Jason Mauer is a great hero. He’s a very typical guy, but a good one. He’s got some emotional damage, and is at a cross roads in his life – which makes him the perfect candidate for a terrific romance. I liked that Jason is honest with himself, and he has a great personality. He’s patient with Lizzy, willing to risk life and limb for strangers, and has incredibly exacting standards for himself. You can’t help but respect and admire him. Subtle touches in Ms. Shalvis’s writing and characterization, such as the fact that Jason eats like an 8 year old, snarfing cheez whiz and crackers adds a depth and whimsy to his character.

I really enjoyed this story. It was lighthearted and a quick read, which is what I was looking for. I was a bit afraid the plot might get a little heavy, considering it’s about a natural disaster – major flooding in the town. However, I felt that Ms. Shalvis gave the situation the necessary gravity, but didn’t harp on it. I also enjoyed all the background Ms. Shalvis gave, especially Lizzy and Jason’s relationship (or lack thereof) from high school. It made the romance much more believable, considering the book takes place in such a short period of time. (One, maybe two days.) Based on their interaction from years ago, there’s a nice sense of homecoming throughout the story as well.

I really enjoyed the secondary characters, and the sub plot as well. It was nice that Lizzy was so well developed, and not a tragic figure. Although Lizzy had to make a lot of sacrifices for her sister Cece, the book effectuates a positive change for both of them. Lizzy and Jason are both able to make decisions about their future, and Cece is hurtled along her path of independence and responsibility. I really appreciated that Cece was an interestin and likable character. In fact, I wouldn’t mind reading more about Cece in a novella.

If you’re looking for a short enjoyable read, I definitely recommend Storm Watch. Ms. Shalvis does a great job with characterization, and setting. I felt that I really knew and understood Jason and Lizzy, and almost that I was experiencing the flooding myself. (Not just because I got rained on a lot.) If you’ve never read a category romance, I suggest giving this one a try. For fans of Ms. Shalvis, or Harlequin Blaze books, this one is a must.
Grade: B+

Subject: Jason Mauer, National Guard.

Current status: Homeward bound.

Mission: Getting some R & R!

Obstacle: Lizzy Mann. Sexy blast from the past.

After battling a hurricane of catastrophic proportions, Jason needs some downtime—badly! But there’s no rest for the heroic. During another deluge, Jason’s savior skills are suddenly in demand…by his hot friend Lizzy.

She’s fiercely independent. But that doesn’t keep them from having incredible sex as they, ah, ride out the storm!

Jason knows relationships and duty don’t mix. Still, he feels as if he’s being swept away by a flash flood of desire for Lizzy.

The permanent kind…

Read an excerpt here.