Review: Spent Identity

1/6/2020

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Spent Identity is the second book in the Annalisse series by Marlene M. Bell. It seems like I am breaking all my rules when it comes to series these days! In case this is your first read on my blog, let me clue you in a little - I am not used to starting a series on the second book. I am a legit completist that needs to start from number one. However, I have made exceptions in order to review some pretty lovely books, Spent Identity being one of them! (Nevertheless, please keep in mind that I have not read the first book in this series!)

So, let's get that point out of the way. Bell mentions events from the first book throughout Spent Identity. As someone who wasn't aware of the events of the first book, I didn't particularly mind that these instances were included. I appreciated any backstory on the characters in the books I read. I could see, however, how these instances could annoy other readers - those who have already read the first book, or even the readers who prefer to read each book of a series as a standalone. I believe that Bell was able to incorporate the information in a way that was more informative rather than tiresome. Regardless, I will always recommend reading the first book in any series, including this one.

I have a limited amount of background reading romantic suspense, which is how I would categorize Spent Identity. Bell included many elements into her novel. Intrigue and mystery, lust and betrayal - these were all interwoven excellently throughout the story. It's these components that make the story entertaining and attention-getting. I found myself wanting to keep reading, page after page. There was definitely great pacing with the mystery and twists woven through the book. Cozy-mystery readers beware though - this story is most definitely made for those who prefer their mysteries a little darker and with some romance elements mixed in.

Overall, I will definitely need to go back to read book one in this series because I found Spent Identity to be well worth the read. I recommend this book to readers of drama and thrillers - especially those who like their intrigue with a relationship at the center of it.