*Redemption* by C.J. Barry is an intense and fast-paced science fiction novel that blends action, romance, and a gripping storyline. The book follows the character of Tasha, a former soldier who is seeking redemption for past mistakes. She becomes involved in a dangerous mission where she has to face both her enemies and her own internal struggles.

Barry’s writing is filled with tension and high stakes, which makes for an exciting read. The plot is driven by suspense, with plenty of twists and unexpected developments that keep readers hooked. The chemistry between the lead characters adds depth to the story, with the romance element providing a good balance to the action-packed scenes.

Though the novel can be a bit predictable at times, *Redemption* offers a satisfying combination of thrilling moments and character-driven drama. It’s a solid pick for readers who enjoy action-packed sci-fi with a touch of romance and personal growth.

DNF. I stopped reading at 10%. This book was not for me as I could not become interested in the story line.

An interesting plot with complex characters. Not my usual read but I enjoyed it.
Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

As a massive Buffy the Vampire Slayer fan, I was really excited to dive into "Redeemer. The story follows Reya, a Redeemer who is working to redeem her own misdeed by giving evil souls one last chance to redeem themselves before they officially cross the veil. She is eventually noticed by detective Thane Driscoll, who is tracking strange accidents in the city, and the two of them team up to thwart the real Big Bad in town.

At the outset, I loved this – I found Reya likeable, the plot a fun and interesting take on the idea of Grim Reapers, and the prose enjoyable. However, the romance beween Reya and Thane didn't work for me – it was a little too insta-love and I wished for a little more true connection and build-up between the two. Further, the plot became a bit predictable in the back half of the book, when I was hoping for twists and surprises to keep me on my toes.

Reya Sinclair is a "redeemer"; her mission is to find people before they die and offer them redemption and forgiveness if they want it. She's not doing it for selfless reasons, though, her own redemption and salvation is on the line.

Unfortunately, her mission is thrown into peril by a detective that happens to notice the trail of dead bodies she leaves in her wake. Thane Driscoll also isn't as pure as fresh snow, exacting his own style of justice in his quest of finding his father's killer...And the woman he's tracking just might be the key to that most important investigation.


I liked the premise of this one with the whole redemption/forgiveness theme and the heroine delivering both in order to save her own soul.

Unfortunately, the execution left much to be desired. It was a little too "preachy" for me with its religious undertones, the info dump was simply that instead of sprinkling information here and there throughout the story, the suspense was lukewarm, and the characters didn't really resonate with me. Both Reya and Thane left me cold, and the romance between them was a real stretch. I felt they were more friends than lovers, and as the "romance" evolved and progressed, the whole thing felt a little icky.

Not getting into this book as much as I had hoped.