Extreme Exposure by Pamela Clare

This was my first Clare title and one I would highly recommend. It falls into the category of books I’m happy to have read, but not a must-keep, must pursue author relentlessly for next title kind of book. Largely because of my personal reading preferences and little to do with author talent.

It was very well written.

Clare’s characters are sharp and interesting. She lends Kara just the right dose of self-deprecating humor and Reece a well-fitting confidence. Both are honestly flawed, but without false insecurities or arrogance. Very believable, easy to relate to folks. I enjoyed their story even though my reading (escapism) preferences tilt more toward characters less likely to live next door.

The suspense plot reminded me of others I’ve read and watched (in the movies). But Clare does it well, never boring the reader. She did include at least one stereotype—that of professional journalists and their chauvinistic bosses—that turned me off a bit. Her portrayal of Kara’s boss was slightly over the top, IMO.

The sex was hot and the humor was laugh out loud. I loved the vibrator’s role all the way around. Of course it also explained why I could never find this book in my local library. Clare pens some of the most erotic sex scenes I’ve read.

The role of Kara’s small son—and her role as mother—could have been more authentically portrayed. Little ones have great character and do not need to be limited to images of vulnerability or cuteness. Clare depicted their bath time rituals beautifully and would have benefited from extending this glimpse of their relationship throughout the story. Also, in the face of danger, I had to close my eyes when Kara sent him off with his grandmother. Under such a threat, the job—however noble—would have been second to the safety of my son and myself. I would have taken off, with my son, to a safe place. Clearly, that would not have worked for the book. But it was a slight stepping off point for me.

I imagine it is quite difficult to portray characters that you or I, as the reader, might know in the real world. The end result is that we hold them more accountable to the “that would never happen” rule.

Overall, I really did enjoy this book. And while I haven’t rushed to Clare’s website for news of her next release, I will read more of her books.