The writing in this book was very engaging and the dialogue very real, but the story was a little light for me. I kept expecting the great problem to emerge or some kind of emotional drama, but it just wasn't there. The female lead suffered from PTSD, which in and of itself should create a great deal of drama, but it seemed almost frighteningly easy for her to overcome. The male lead was addicted to painkillers from a back injury, which also seemed easily overcome. I compare this story to the rolling of a ball. The ball just kept rolling with no bounces or dips until it just stopped rolling. That's how this story felt to me. ( )

A unique setting, very little drama and realistic, likable characters prove to be a winning combination in Kara Braden's debut novel, The Longest Night. Set in a remote cabin in the Canadian wilderness, former Marine Cecily Knight and criminal defense lawyer Ian Fairchild unexpectedly find love and heal the wounds from their pasts.

Cecily is a strong, self-sufficient woman who has carved out a safe, but lonely, life far removed from civilization. In an effort to avoid any possible triggers for her PTSD, she carefully controls her environment and has limited contacted with anyone except a few close friends. There is little Cecily cannot do for herself as she survives her primitive and somewhat harsh living conditions with few luxuries. Ian's arrival brings her long dormant emotions and desires back to life and their relationship slowly transforms from friends to lovers.

Ian is very driven and career oriented and his inability to take time off from his law practice has kept him from successfully kicking his addiction to painkillers. Ian's brother convinces him that a place far removed from his regular life is key to his recovery and he arranges for Ian to stay for a few months with Cecily. Although the cabin is definitely not what he expected, he gradually (and somewhat grumpily) adjusts to his new accommodations and he is very curious about his reclusive hostess. His keen observation skills and admirable patience prove invaluable as Ian begins to understand what motivates Cecily's need for isolation.

Ian and Cecily's relationship is uneasy in the beginning as they adapt to their new living situation. Mutual respect provides a firm foundation for their growing friendship and they transition fairly smoothly from friends to lovers. When problems do arise, Ian and Cecily discuss their problems and arrive at compromises that work for both of them.

Kara Braden's The Longest Night is a heartwarming novel that is quite engrossing. The beautiful setting is appealing and the characters are charming and well-developed. The storyline is well-executed and delightfully angst free. An overall sweet yet sexy love story that fans of contemporary romances are sure to enjoy. ( )

The writing in this book was very engaging and the dialogue very real, but the story was a little light for me. I kept expecting the great problem to emerge or some kind of emotional drama, but it just wasn't there. The female lead suffered from PTSD, which in and of itself should create a great deal of drama, but it seemed almost frighteningly easy for her to overcome. The male lead was addicted to painkillers from a back injury, which also seemed easily overcome. I compare this story to the rolling of a ball. The ball just kept rolling with no bounces or dips until it just stopped rolling. That's how this story felt to me. ( )

steamy romance about an ex-Marine who was held hostage, who has lived by herself in the wilds of Canada for the past 7 years. Banished by his brother from Manhattan, after a car accident and subsequent addiction to pain killers, criminal lawyer Ian is sent to this remote outpost to live with Cecily under his rehab and physical issues are under control. It's the perfect thing for Cecily - Ian is highly trained from his work to handle her PTSD, but just paying attention to her behavioral cues. Of course, he uses that to get her under the covers often. ( )

I thought that author, Kate Braden did a nice showing with her debut book. I liked the beautiful, snowy, remote mountains of Canada. It made for the perfect setting for this story. Although, I don't know if I could live there myself all year around. I am more of a warm person. I would never leave my home, I would want to sit by the fire drinking hot cocoa and reading books all day if I lived in Canada.

So I liked Cecily. She had this tough exterior that made me get attached to her. I like the tough women in stories. Ian was hot but he did lose some points with me on his grouchy attitude. I could have overlooked if for a little bit but it seemed to go on for a long time. The romance was fine. I liked that they did not fall all over each other right from the beginning. Although, when they finally hooked up to do the deed. It was almost half way into the story. It felt a little lackluster and clinical. This is not what you really want it to feel like with someone. There should be passion and love. Luckily the next time was better. ( )