Sanctuary by Brenda Novak is a powerful, well-crafted romance that weaves together themes of love, redemption, and the dark side of polygamy. The story centers on Hope, a determined and resilient heroine, and Parker, a man with a secret so devastating it could shatter their growing connection. The way Novak reconciles the deep rift between them is nothing short of remarkable.

From the beginning, Parker’s behavior is both intriguing and frustrating. He’s clearly drawn to Hope, but his hostility and avoidance leave her—and the reader—questioning his true feelings and his past. The mystery surrounding the little girl Hope gave up for adoption only deepens the tension and emotional stakes.

The story also delves into the sinister side of polygamy, depicting it as a tool for abuse and control, much like the news stories we’ve all heard about the worst cases. The villain in this book is chillingly evil, and Novak doesn’t shy away from showing the harm such manipulative figures can cause in the name of faith. It’s a stark contrast to the more sanitized portrayals of polygamy seen in pop culture, making the story feel raw and authentic.

What truly shines is the strength of the characters. Hope and her sister Faith are admirable for their resilience and refusal to let their painful past define them. They embody hope and determination, seeking love and family despite their struggles. Even Parker and Lydia, who wrestle with guilt over their past choices, are deeply human and relatable.

The unique plot, emotional depth, and brisk pacing make Sanctuary a true page-turner. It’s a romance with heart, substance, and a compelling storyline that feels both fresh and grounded in real-life struggles. For readers who love a love story with layers of complexity and suspense, this one is a must-read. Thank you NetGalley for the ALC.

A re-release of an older story, the second in a series. Interesting enough story for someone who is a fan of TLC’s Sisterwives. Unsure why it was categorized as erotica as there was no intimacy until 94% into the story and it was brief, this was really not a romance novel. Overall, an interesting depiction of escaping polygamy—an unfathomable topic we’re still dealing with in todays society…this was more true crime adjacent/women’s fiction than romance.

Thank you Net Galley and Harlequin audio for the advanced copy of this audiobook being re-released this month. The main female character Hope Tanner escaped her polygamous community when she refuses to be wed to her uncle. After 10 years returns to the village to try to rescue /protect her younger sister. They return to Enchantment when she went 10 years prior to have her baby. A sad but well told story with two storylines running parallel - both storylines had holes but an overall good read. I enjoyed most of the narration but the younger sister’s voice was innocence to the extreme.