Member Reviews
Another great read from Jay Crownover! I’ve been a fan of hers since I read the Marked Men series, and it’s great to see that she still kicking @ss with her books.
This story takes place in Loveless, TX (ironic?) where the sheriff, Case Lawton, is determined to do right by the people of his town and not follow in the footsteps of his corrupt predecessor...his own father. Aspen Barlow, a former classmate of Case’s, turned his world upside down when she helped his ex-wife gain custody of his son, but Aspen isn’t the heartless lawyer Case remembers. After Aspen’s office is broken into, Case is forced to face her again, but as they get to know one another again, he begins to question his long-held grudge. Aspen’s life is threatened, and since the town is well aware of the animosity between Case and Aspen, his home is the last place anyone would expect to find her. But living in such close quarters is bound to ignite sexual tension between the two. The threats continue to escalate and the person behind them is the last person you’d ever expect, but knowing Case, he won’t let them get away with it.
I really enjoyed this book. It was sexy, suspenseful, and now has me dying to read the next book in the series. Definitely recommending this one!
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2869850968
I am a bit of a sucker for a story with a Sheriff - must me something to do with the handcuffs lol.
Throw in a feisty woman who is a great big pain in his ar$e, and you got me drawn right in.
This is the first full length story in the Loveless, Texas series, and what a great start to this new series.
I both loved and hated our leading man Case at times. What a judgemental, prig of a man he was at times. I could understand his frustration at Aspen, but man the way he went about things, I wanted to throw my kindle at his head for being an asshat hahah
So much is going on in Aspen's life, and I just wanted time for her to breathe! I was exhausted just reading about it.
There's a bit of a whodunnit through this story, and I was surprised when I found out what was going on.
I am looking forward to more of the Loveless, Texas series.
Jay Crownover is one of my favorite authors. She has a way with words that makes the story so real. After reading about Case's brother I couldn't wait to get my hand on this one.
Case has had a hard life. With the help and love of his siblings he has been able to conquer his past. Aspen has known Case since highschool. He was the only one who accepted her for being unique. Until he believed she was the cause of losing her son. Little did he know Aspen has done everything for him.
They had to work together to find out who was trying to have Aspen dead. Now the person who wanted her dead I didn't see coming.
Sidnote I'm crossing my fingers for a book on Kody and Hayes.
4.5 stars
Case Lawton has led a tumultuous life...from the Golden Boy of Loveless, Texas to his life spiraling out of control and he is now back on track as the town Sheriff. But he is not the same charming, witty young man he once was. He is hardened, closed-off, and easy to anger. But he loves his son and his brother and sister and will do anything for them, and he is doing his best to make Loveless a safe community.
Aspen Barlow once had a teenage crush on him, but they later become bitter enemies when she represented his ex wife in court and lost him custody of his son for years. But now she is a woman in danger, and he is the only one she can really turn to. Someone seems to have a vendetta against her and they are coming at her full force. And Case has to take his job seriously to keep her safe and figure out who is out to get her. And along the way, they have to face their past, some secrets, and their undeniable chemistry. Sometimes things are not always as they seem, especially in this small town.
And at some point it becomes even more important to protect her so he does not lose her.
This is a friends-to-enemies-to-lovers that has danger, suspense, mystery, and steam. It is told in dual points of view. There are plenty of possible suspects, action, and hidden agendas. I will admit I did figure it out faster than Case did, but there was plenty of suspense and drama.
I enjoy the setting in Loveless and am looking forward to sister, Kody having a story. She is awesome and loves to snap back at her brothers. There seem to be two men in her periphery that could be her match.
I received this book for free from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
NOTE: Will be posted on blog and social media on 6/26/19 for blog tour
Welcome to Loveless, Texas, ladies and gents. After such an all to short visit with Crew, it's good to be back visiting with his older brother, Case.
At first, I was not fond of Case Lawton. I thought he was a jackass. However, he quickly grew on me. Like his brother, I loved his heart of gold and his love for his family, especially his son. But man can this dude hold a grudge. I grew a bit tired of his decade long hatred of Aspen. I get why he was so angry, and hate filled, but I wanted to clobber him a time or two and scream at him to grow the hell up. His 17-year-old son had more maturity than he did sometimes. With that said, he did turn out to be quite the catch. He was dedicated, loyal, protective, possessive, a bit alpha, and a great father. Not to mention, a time or two quite swoon worthy. All the things you would look for in a great book boyfriend.
Aspen was a fun character. Our girl didn't have the easiest life, but she didn't let that rule her and bring her down. Her strength was quite admirable. She was witty, fierce, and quite sassy. The perfect match for Case. Her pining got on my nerves a bit, but I think that's more to do with the book funk I'm in. Lately the littlest things have been irking the crap out of me. And unfortunately, that ended up being one of the little things. Outside of that, I really adored her. I especially loved that she didn't take Case's shit. Or anyone's for that matter. No doormat here. A huge added plus.
Together these two were a ticking time bomb, in and out of the bedroom. All those heated, conflicting thoughts and feelings between them definitely played a key factor in keeping me turning the pages. I quickly became addicted to their interactions. Their chemistry was engaging and hot. And as much as they could drive me bonkers, I wanted them to find that coveted HEA. I rooted for them even when Chase was being a dick. Thankfully, he got over that.
I enjoyed the whole who done it plot line. It added a bit of suspense to the whole romantic, enemies to lovers, drama unfolding. I'm excited to say, I did not see the ending twist coming. Yay!! I love when I think I have a book all figured out and it takes me by surprise. But then it is a Crownover book so I should have known better.
I would definitely recommend this quick, entertaining, low angst read from Ms. Crownover.
Now I get to sit back and anxiously await Kody's book. She's my favorite Lawton and I'm wicked excited for her story. I just know her brothers are going to lose their minds. Just the thought as me giggling just thinking about it. On a side note, I'm really wanting her with Shot but thinking with all the tension pouring from her and Hill he will be her leading man.
I love a good "enemies to lovers" story and this one definitely hit the right spot. It has been a long time since I have read anything by this author, I believe "Charged" was the last book. I don't have a specific reason as to why, but I do know that I will be checking out every book in this series ;)
I also really liked the side-characters in this book, and since some play a part in a previous series, I will have to check those out as well. So looks like I'm gonna be busy.
Aspen and Case have known each other since high school. He was de sweet, yet popular jock and she was the new kid...the weird girl. Despite their differences Case was always kind to her and she never forgot.
But people grow up and life doesn't always turn out as expected and when Case's wife wants a divorce and custody of their child...Aspen is the lawyer that represents her...and wins the case. This pretty much cements the future (hateful) relationship between Case and Aspen...
Things aren't always as they seem though and these two are about to find out....especially Case.
When Aspen is the victim of vandalism and violence, Case has no choice but to get up close and personal with his nemesis. He is the town sheriff after all, and not wanting to be like his corrupt dad...he will have to do his job, even if he hates the victim.
But nobody probably told him that love and hate are only separated by a very fine line...
....Don't worry, he is about to find out himself.
I really enjoyed reading this story but I have to admit that the ending threw me a bit. I have read other reviews of people who feel the same way, so I know it isn't just me. This book is already pretty heavy on the drama and I think that last bit was just a bit too much, at least for me. That said, it was still very good.
I'm really looking forward to the next story...I hope it will be Kody's ;)
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
I am a huge Jay Crownover fan ,whatever she writes I'm going to read it.Even though I don't read often romance with cowboys. I was so into the story from the first pages, I felt connected and I couldn't put it down.
I have read almost all Jay's books and I can tell you that this one is a little bit different I find it refreshing and I liked the set up of the small town.Aspen was a little bit complex and I didn't like her immediately.She has some good in her she was strong but sometimes she frustrates me.Case and Aspen had great chemistry.with a lot of push and pull between them.
Overall, it was a great read.
Ah, Jay Crownover. I never miss one of her stories. This new Loveless, TX series is terrific. All the Jay I love set in my home state.
Case Lawton is dreamy - if a bit of a jerk to start. And I loved Aspen. The interactions with Hayes were awesome. And I love how people from other series pop up.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4. This is the first book by Crownover that I have read. It's the start to a series that takes place in Loveless, TX.
Case Lawton replaced his corrupt father as sheriff and is determined to do a better job. Aspen Barlow moved to Loveless in high school and had had a crush on Case since then. She was the 'weird girl' and Case befriended her in high school. She left town, got her law degree and came back. Unfortunately she ended up representing Case's wife in a custody battle and won, keeping Case and his son apart. She and Case have been bitter rivals ever since (9 years ago). Until now... Aspen has just left her hisabnd and his family law practice. She has set up her own office, and is settling in. Unfortunately, her office was vandalized, so she called the police. Case was the officer who responded. It turns out the vandalization was just the start. It seems as though someone is out to kill Aspen and Case, as the sheriff has to keep her safe. This is the beginning of their transition from enemies to lovers. There's a mystery to be solved, lots of relationship angst/bad blood to reconcile, and Aspen needs to stay one step ahead of whomever is trying to kill her.
I thought this was a good romantic suspense novel and I am interested in reading the next book in the series. It was intense and there was a little too much drama and angst for me. That said, I think the intensity and angst did suit the characters. I think it's probably a great addition to the romantic suspense genre. It made me realize I lean more towards romantic comedies; it's been awhile since I've read a romantic suspense novel with life and death situations.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Enemies to lovers is one of my all-time favorite tropes and this one was fantastic. I devoured it! I loved the characters, their fiery barbs and underlying passion. There is a wonderful suspense element that was happening and I loved the build to it all.
The prologue had me so hooked with all the tension and emotion, I was all in. I loved Aspen and how tough she was, standing up for herself and what she wants, fighting to stay strong in the middle of a very hard situation. I freaking loved Case, understood why he didn't like Aspen and admired how hard he worked to be a better man. These two together, oh my! I loved learning their history, understanding that fight in them and the simmering passion that was building between the two as the story evolved. It was all just so exciting!
I loved all the characters introduced and the foreshadowing for what I hope will be the next couple featured in the series. That tension between the Case’s sister Kody and his best friend was palpable. The Lawton siblings are great. I loved the relationship Kody formed with Aspen. It was just so well thought out with all these great details, I was hooked.
I loved the romantic suspense vibe happening and had a million questions throughout. Some things I didn't see coming, which is always awesome. There was a good amount of drama, an awesome action-packed ending, and a totally sweet epilogue too.
This was just fantastic. The writing is wonderful. I can't say enough about the build as all the histories were learned and details unfolded. I loved the secrets, the element of mystery, the tension, and this animosity and fight between the main characters. It was exciting and passionate!
3.5 stars. This was a "like it" not a "love it" for me. Justified is the second book in the Loveless, TX series (The first book was #0.5). This book is focused on the second Lawton sibling in the series, Case, who is the oldest and the town sheriff. Aspen is a family lawyer in the town. The two met in high school when Aspen's family moved from Chicago. Case was friendly with her and one of the only people to be nice to her, when many students called her weird because she wore black and was different. Aspen had a crush on him, but he was several years older and had a girlfriend who soon got pregnant on purpose. Years pass and they don't really speak, both marrying others. When Case's relationship with his wife crumbles, Aspen is hired to represent her in their divorce/custody proceedings. Aspen does her job well, resulting in Case hating her and making her life miserable whenever possible. Several years later, Aspen's marriage also ends and she is the victim of multiple crimes. It seems someone has it out for her, and no matter how much Case resents her, he feels it is his job to protect her as a town citizen. As he protects her, they both realize things between them in their past were not what they seemed and the two grow closer, falling for each other.
I really enjoyed this story. It was interesting and suspenseful. I liked this couple together, once they fixed their misunderstandings and were nicer to each other. I'm not a huge enemies to lovers fan. This relationship is slow burn and I felt the enemies part of the enemies to lovers was dragged out too long. Case was pretty mean to Aspen for a good chunk of the book. Aspen carried over her crush from high school even while he was mean to her, which I didn't love. There was too much pushing away, not admitting feelings between them, and also a lack of chemistry. I didn't feel a big connection between them until 80% of the book, when I finally liked them together and felt like they cared for each other equally. But I did feel the love between them by the end. Also, I found the book a little too slow and dry, with very little humor to balance out the drama. In addition, I found the epilogue to be a very odd ending to this book. I understand it was setting up the next book in the series, but it was depressing and a poor note to end on. Still, I found this book entertaining in general. It is not a bad book, just not my favorite by Ms. Crownover.
Overall, this was not a bad read. I really liked Case and Aspen together by the end of the book. I enjoyed the small town feel and the side characters, especially Kody, Case's sister. I look forward to Kody's book to come later on in the series. I mostly enjoyed this book and I look forward to more from Ms. Crownover in the future.
Aspen and Case have a past and it got worse when she came back to town. She's always had a thing for him but he was never hers. These two are now barely civil to each other and then she needs him in his capacity of sheriff. He'll do what he needs to do to find out what's going on in his town and who is out for her but that's it. Right? Well....
This story had me hooked before I even started reading it. I knew Case from previous books and couldn't wait to dive into his story. It had past little snippets to see how they were before and I felt that it added to the story. It has mystery in it and I loved that it kept me guessing. It had feelings, heat, and the push and pull of these two that just made the story. Will he be able to see what's right in front of him before it's too late?
It was set up beautifully for the next book in the series and I can't wait!!!!
. This is the first book that I have read by this author but, it definitely won't be the last. It is a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It has wonderful, endearing characters and a suspenseful storyline. It had a realistic storyline that flowed seamlessly. From the first page until the last, I couldn't put this book down until the end. I can't wait to read what this author writes next.
4.5 stars
Case Lawton is the oldest brother of the Lawton crew and the town sheriff. Following in his father’s footsteps has not been easy, especially as he has worked to distance himself from his father’s corrupt ways. His entire world revolves around his son, his family, and his town.
Aspen Barlow was the lawyer who helped his ex-wife gain custody of their son, but now she needs his help. As hard as he tries to remember he hates Aspen, he can’t help but think maybe he pegged her wrongly all those years ago.
These two have chemistry. Aspen had a crush on him as they were growing up, but the bad blood that was spilled during Case’s divorce left them closer to enemies than friends, if they even acknowledged the other. Case focused all his anger at losing time with his son at the lawyer responsible, not realizing there was more to the story than he realized.
I had so much fun reading Case and Aspen’s story. The element of suspense throughout kept me guessing and waiting for Case to figure it out once I thought I had it. This element was also the perfect reason for Case and Aspent to have to spend more than passing time with each other in order for Case to learn what was really going on during the divorce proceedings. He thought he hated this woman, but as it turns out, there is only a small distance from hate to love.
I met the Lawton family in Unbroken and fell in love with these three siblings living in the shadow of their past. I can’t wait for Kodi’s story. As the only girl in the family, I’m guessing she had a slightly different view of things than her brothers did. But I also loved returning to this town. Granted, most of Unbroken takes place away from Loveless, but as this is the place the formed the Lawton kids into the adults they are now, it was great to return and see what Case has done with the place since taking over as sheriff.
I received this book from Netgalley for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
5 Stars
A love story full of heartache, forgiveness, danger and most of all love! Case and Aspen have a long history that ended in an ugly way. When Aspen is in danger Case has to put aside his feelings and do what is right. This book is full of mystery, excitement, lust (be prepared for some serious heat!), and many lessons learned. I love the people of Loveless, Texas and cannot wait for more!!
Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Jay Crownover’s Justified is an intense book that will have you page turning from the start. Starting with the slow burn of hate to love of Case and Aspen and then the twist and turns of the plot, you will be captivated by Ms. Crownover’s writing and the story line.
Case Lawton was a man trying his best to be all the things. Good father, have your back brother and stand up sheriff. Between his father and ex-wife, his life had not been easy and he partially blamed Aspen Barlow for this. As the story unfolds and truths are told, Case understands that he had made a mistake and set about correcting it.
Aspen Barlow was the odd girl in HS that Case had been kind to. On her way out of a bad marriage, she found herself the victim of one incident after another. Taken into protective custody per the very man that claimed to hate her and her long time crush, Case, she tried to protect her heart as much as Case was trying to protect her.
Their story was enthralling with all the twists and turns as well as all the emotional upheaval that goes on. As Case learns the truth about the past and his relationship with Aspen begins to change from enemies to lovers, their interactions become frantic with unexplored feelings. When they get their HEA you almost want to cheer for them.
I enjoyed this book very much and look forward to the additional books in this series.
Wowza! Welcome to Loveless Texas!! And no love lost between Sheriff Case Lawton and Aspen Barlow, the attorney he blames for everything wrong with his life for the past 15 years. What a flipping great story Jay has given us, mystery, suspense, smart women and hot damn a badge wearing cowboy! One who slowly learns exactly how his life unfolded along with Aspens' and getting his head around how things can change. Happy now, he's got his son living with him he gets called out to Aspens new law office that's been vandalized. He's not happy being there, he's unaware that Aspen and her husband are going through a divorce, one in which he's refusing to sign the final papers, the weasel that he is and how he just seems to show up. Case has no problem putting him in his place. Neither does Aspen. Later that night Aspen goes home after dealing with the aftermath of her office mess and finally falls asleep, bad dreams and wakes to the smell of smoke. She's forced out onto the roof. She's forced to jump having no choice, ending up in the hospital and once again facing Case. Now having lost everything she owns, and no place to go Case calls in a favor from his sister who owns the town bar. Loved her. Case isn't sure she'll even bring Aspen anything to wear because his family blames her for his losing custody of his son. That's where their shared reality diverges in a huge way. He's a total dick to her early on in the book, and she's just as nice as she can be but the woman also takes no prisoners. Jay's given us two strong women in this book and I loved it! Between Case's sister Kody and Aspen, their dynamic and friendship is totally relatable. The suspense will keep you on edge as Case takes her home to his house and sends his son out to his brothers farm to live while she's there. When the rubber hits the road the curves and twists are superb. Makes for a stunning read, full of steam, tension and a great suspense.
Bring on Kody's story, I'm ready!
arc from NetGalley and Publisher for an honest review
Aspen Barlow moved to Lawless during her high school years, and although she and Case were not friends per say, he was the only one who took the time to show Aspen any kindness. Years later and Case has nothing but distain for her due to the professional role she played which ultimately led to his ex wife gaining sole custody of his son.
From the outset their was intrigue into what would motivate Aspen to do such a thing. She instantly comes across as sweet and sincere, but we learn this first impression is not wrong once the story begins to take shape.
The loneliness she felt in her teens still plagues her in her adulthood. She’s recently divorced and has no family roots in Loveless, but her work as a lawyer and the people she helps keep her rooted there. Someone else however has other ideas.
The injection of drama and suspense are heightened when attempts are made on Aspen’s life. With no motive or leads, as Sheriff of Lawless, Case makes the decision to put Aspen under his direct protection.
What I enjoy the most about love/hate relationships is the thin line that separates them, and the passion that erupts once the line has been crossed. The forced proximity made for great tension building but I wasn’t necessarily bowled over by it.
This was my first experience reading Jay Crownover and I immediately warm to her writing and storytelling. Justified was an enjoyable read, and although I was not overly keen on the dramatics towards the end, Loveless and it’s characters have guaranteed a return visitor in me.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
C'est un plaisir de retourner à Loveless pour cette fois ci se focaliser sur Case Lawton, le frère de Crew ( personnage que nous avions découvert dans Unbroken) . Jay Crownover va nous offrir une saga familiale comme elle sait si bien le faire et je me suis régalée en apprenant à découvrir Case et sa relation particulière avec Aspen.
Case Lawton est donc un père de famille mais surtout le shérif de cette petite ville du Texas où tout se voit et tout se sait. Il essaie de redorer la réputation du poste de shérif après les ravages de son père Conrad qui se faisait acheter son silence et qui ne portait pas secours à ceux qui en avaient besoin . J'ai adoré ce personnage car il est droit dans ses bottes de cow boy et il met tout en oeuvre pour assurer la sécurité de sa ville. Il n'a pas peur de se salir les mains pour arrêter les criminels et pour mettre en prison ceux qui le méritent. Son plus grand regret a été d'épouser Becca avec qui il a dû se battre pour obtenir la garde de son fils Hayes mais malheureusement ils ont été séparés pendant de nombreuses années. Il avait 14 ans quand Becca a eu sa garde mais à présent , il est aux côtés de son père et leur relation est intact . J'ai adoré ce gamin qui est génial et très mature pour son âge. Il a le charme des Lawson et il fera à coup sûr des ravages. Il est la gentillesse même et n'a pas cru un seul instant les délires de sa mère.
S'ils ont été séparés c'est à cause ( ou grâce) à l'avocate de Becca qui n'est autre que Aspen , une ancienne connaissance de Case. Quand ils étaient au lycée, il a su la défendre contre les méchancetés proférées à son égard et la préserver un certain temps. Il était la star de football du lycée mais ses rêves ont été brisés à bien des égard. Autant donc vous dire que la tension est importante et que la rancoeur est aussi très présente. Pourtant il saura se montrer professionnel quand il devra résoudra un acte criminel. Qui peut bien en vouloir à cette avocate et qui va tout mettre en oeuvre pour la réduire à néant? Peu à peu la carapace de cet homme va se fissurer et laisser apparaître ses failles mais aussi ses forces. C'est un homme sur qui on peut compter et qui pourrait s'ouvrir aux autres mais surtout à notre héroïne
Aspen Barrow est également une jeune femme que j'ai adoré. Elle va susciter en nous des émotions contradictoires. Quand nous découvrons ce qu'elle a vécu au lycée , on ne peut qu'avoir un pincement au coeur la concernant car elle a toujours été mise de côté et ce sentiment d'être invisible a laissé des traces. Elle a été blessée par Becca mais elle ne pourra refuser de ne pas être son avocate. Elle va découvrir que cette femme est toujours aussi mesquine et elle va prendre une décision qui changera à jamais sa relation avec Case. Elle pensait enfin être heureuse aux côtés de David mais on va se rendre compte qu'il ne saura pas la rendre heureuse. Je n'ai d'ailleurs pas apprécié cet homme qui ne m'a pas inspiré confiance. Il ne veut pas divorcer et on va donc chercher pourquoi. Il est comme un chewing gum attaché à la semelle d'Aspen et elle n'aspire qu'à le sortir de sa vie. Elle va souffrir pendant ce tome car le sort s'acharne sur elle et elle va devoir apprendre à penser à elle avant de penser à ses clients. On se demande qui lui en veut à ce point et on ne sera pas au bout de nos surprises.
Elle a eu un coup de foudre pour Case étant plus jeune mais elle n'a pas pu empêcher la haine de s'installer entre eux. Elle l'a fait pour de bonnes raisons et elle va donc devoir accepter le statu quo qui va s'opérer entre elle en attendant de découvrir qui en a après sa vie. Quand elle est en présence de Case, on sent qu'elle a toujours ce lien particulier avec lui mais ce dernier ne semble pas conscient des sacrifices qu'elle a fait pour le préserver. La tension va de nouveau s'embraser entre eux mais la nature de cette tension sera différente. On espère donc qu'ils pourrons communiquer en toute sincérité et laisser ce passé derrière eux.
Bref, j'ai adoré le 1er tome de cette saga et j'ai adoré retrouver les divers références à d'anciennes sagas de Jay Crownover. Les Lawtons n'ont pas fini de nous faire passer de bons moments et Justified nous offre une histoire forte en émotions , en révélations et en intensité. Si vous lisez en VO, c'est la nouvelle saga de Jay Crownover à ne pas manquer.
I have enjoyed every book I read by Ms. Crownover, and this was no exception. Case and Aspen go way back to high school when she was the new student and he was the only one who tried to be nice to her and accept her. Years later, when she came back to town as a lawyer, she was integral to the worst day of his life-losing custody of his son. Because of that, they now have a hate-hate relationship. At least that is what they both want the other to think.
When her life implodes and her life consistently is threatened, he takes her to the only place she can be safe. His house. No one will think to look for her there. After all, they hate each other. Once she is there, he starts realizing that maybe his hate isn't hate after all and he doesn't know what to do with that. She has always had a crush on him, so she tries to lock her feelings down.
The twists, turns, and bumps they have to overcome are many, but they can be stronger if they come out the other side. The person who is behind all fo the bad things coming her way is spiteful, calculating, and self-important, and also the last person Aspen thought would go this far.
When Case's son becomes a target and he has to choose between his son and Aspen, is there any way he can save both of them? Will they admit their true feelings before it is too late? I can't wait to read the rest of this series. There are things Case doesn't know and reasons why she did what she did during the custody battle. When Case finds out, what will his reaction be? Will they change things between Case and Aspen? I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.