An Act of Persuasion

An Act of Persuasion By Stephanie Doyle

After a life of leading teams of CIA agents through life threatening maneuvers, Ben Tyler never believed he would be brought to his knees, especially by his own body.  There was no way he was going to allow cancer to kill him slowly, so he decided to undergo a drastic treatment behind the back of his personal assistant, and primary support.  Now, twelve weeks later, he is cancer free, and Anna-free.  Can he talk her in to forgiving him?  Especially now that his future is in her hands.

The only thing Anna Summers has ever wanted is a home.  Abandoned at the age of six by her mother, and spending twelve years of her life being bounced from house to house, she thought she had finally found that home caring for her boss, Ben.  Everything changes after one night when barriers come crashing down and they give in to a passion she is sure is mutual.  However, in the aftermath, she is left feeling used and betrayed.  Though leaving him was the hardest thing she had ever done, she will willingly walk back in to his life now that she is carrying the only child Ben will ever father, but it is going to be on her terms only.

This story is emotionally captivating and beautifully written.  The characters are both strong, in the sense that life has taught them that it is better to be independent than a victim.  That being said, it is understandable why they are drawn to each other.  Anna sees Ben as the only person who has ever truly needed her, and Ben sees Anna as the only person who has never pitied him.  It is also why they are wary of each other.  Anna doesn't want to be controlled, and Ben doesn't like being out of control.

The introduction of Mark and Sophie in the side story gave a great contrast to Ben's control.  Mark is confident and good at what he does.  But Ben has an emotional detachment that really becomes emphasized when compared to a peer who lacks that detachment.

Overall, this is a great read and my personal favorite of the series.  The language is strong at times, but in an isolated manner.  The love scenes are well written and the storyline never really lags.

Ratings:

(1=unacceptable, 2=poor, 3=acceptable, 4=good, 5=excellent)

Continuity/Flow – 5

Sex – 5 

Language – 3 

Storyline – 5

Overall – 5