Review of Tenderfoot (Avenging Angels, #3) by Kristen Ashley
When I first picked up Tenderfoot, the third installment in Kristen Ashley’s Avenging Angels series, I felt a flutter of excitement. As an avid fan of Ashley’s writing, particularly her Rock Chicks series, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the promise of Harlow and Javier’s story—one I had been eagerly anticipating since the very first book. There’s an electric anticipation surrounding a long-teased romance, and Ashley has a knack for delivering that in spades, even as we dive into her trademark mix of shenanigans and heartfelt moments.
At its core, Tenderfoot is a love story marked by contrasts. Harlow, a girl with meticulous routines, longs for a connection that goes beyond the surface. Conversely, Javier emerges from a complicated past, craving stability and family. Their initial meeting in Phoenix, filled with thrilling escapades and the kind of drama that makes you feel alive, sets the perfect stage for their chemistry. However, it’s the momentous disconnect—when Javier retreats and Harlow feels emotionally splintered—that transforms their connection into a drama worth rooting for.
As the story unfolds, Ashley expertly balances romance with action—a hallmark of her writing style. The narrative zooms from smoldering glances to intense confrontations, holding you captive with its fast-paced plot. However, as much as I appreciated this whirlwind, I found myself wishing for a deeper exploration of Harlow’s internal struggles regarding her family dynamics, or a more gradual evolution in her and Javier’s relationship. For a romantic angst aficionado like me, the quick escalation felt a touch too wholesome, leaving me slightly disconnected.
Another aspect I grappled with was the sheer volume of characters weaving in and out of the narrative. While Ashley has always excelled at crafting a rich tapestry of personalities, this time around, it felt overwhelming at times, particularly as I was trying to connect deeply with Harlow and Javier. The constant interjections from a multitude of side characters added to a chaotic environment that made it difficult for me to catch my breath amidst the action.
Despite these personal musings, there is undeniably fun to be had in Tenderfoot! It’s a rom-com mixed with high stakes, where the Angels’ antics remain a delightful constant. If you’re a fan of over-the-top drama, this installment won’t disappoint. The story ultimately offers a satisfying bond between Harlow and Javier, one that invites you to stick around for more characters and future romances that tease their way onto the horizon.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Tenderfoot to anyone who loves action-packed stories brimming with heartfelt connections and vibrant characters. While it may not have resonated with me as powerfully as some of Ashley’s other works, I still had a good time, and I’ll certainly be following this series as it unfolds. If you dive in, prepare yourself for a wild ride—you won’t regret it! Thank you to the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Connect with me more through my blog, Instagram, or on Libro.fm for audiobooks. Happy reading!
Discover more about Tenderfoot (Avenging Angels, #3) on GoodReads >>