The Last Dance

The Last Dance was an enjoyable read that blended a number of tropes- a May-December romance, suspense, and hurt/comfort- with great dynamic characters, smooth dialogue, and a good plotline. I really enjoy this author’s writing and unique stories like this one is precisely why.

As much as I love romances, I love good stories with interesting characters independent of their love story more. In The Last Dance, Mr. Inman does an amazing job creating complex, engaging backstories for Martin Dance and Johnny Cotton before weaving their paths together, and the result is I cared for these men far before I was rooting for them to be together. That they ended up in love simply sweetened the payoff. Martin’s pain and loneliness over his partner’s death five years prior was poignant and palpable, as was his immediate care for Johnny’s safety and happiness. I really liked that his protective instincts were in the forefront, so much so that the first part of the story has Martin not acting on his attraction to Johnny. Similarly, I found Johnny’s pain and frustration in not knowing where to turn or how to escape his predicament emanate from the page. I enjoyed seeing these two heal one another and stand together to fight back and protect Johnny and Mace. I also loved the bonus romantic subplot and the Martin’s loyal but quirky ex-partner, Charlie. These fun, slightly imbalanced characters seem to be a trademark for this author and I was happy to have Charlie to add some levity during a mostly serious, suspenseful book.

There were times in The Last Dance that felt rushed- mainly the move from Martin protecting Johnny to the men acting on their mutual attraction and becoming a committed couple- and there were other moments that felt over-the-top, especially regarding the villains of the story. However, The Last Dance kept me engaged cover to cover.

*Reviewed for Alpha Book Club*