#BookReview: Because of Love - Kyus Philnesta

Police Sergeant Kyle Mackey was dealt a harsh blow when the only woman he had ever loved turned down his marriage proposal. In the three years since Simone Banister walked out of his life, he has spent his time building up his career and saving enough money to buy his dream house. His recent promotion to sergeant and the purchase of his very own mini mansion serve as proof that he’s on the right track and nothing can derail him.

Kyle’s best friend and partner in crime, Tony, is raising his daughter alone following the death of his wife. When this son of a police officer finds himself under investigation for stealing money from criminals, he can’t seem to find a way to break it to Kyle that he’s been implicated in the crime as well.

With the recent purchase of his house and a blooming romance with an office administrator named Lena, Kyle is well on his way to having the perfect life. And then hurricane Simone blows back into town. Kyle’s not sure how she got his number, or what it is she wants, but he’s pretty sure that his Aunt Mary is somehow behind it. Finally agreeing to see Simone, Kyle is shocked to learn what it is she so desperately needs to tell him.

When Simone left town three years ago, she told no one where she was going, not even that she was leaving. She’s only returned because she has a secret to tell and needs help. Fully aware that she crushed his hopes and dreams three years ago, Simone can only hope that Kyle will forgive her enough to help her out now that no one else can.

Helping Simone is the last thing Kyle wants to do. Taking a chance on her could mean losing everything, but especially Lena.

In her first novel, author Kyus Philnesta takes care to present characters to whom the reader can relate. The relationship between both Kyle and Tony and their fathers is one that’s not explored often enough in literature and it was refreshing to read. Readers will also enjoy the interactions of the meddlesome, but lovable Aunt Mary. Overall, I’d say Ms. Philnesta has done pretty well for a fairly new writer.

Though I was unable to find the book for purchase on Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble, it is available on the author’s website: http://www.dauthorkyus.net.

What did you like about the book?
I loved the men’s interactions with their fathers.

What did you dislike about the book?
I didn’t necessarily dislike it, but I felt that the character of Chayill, Tony’s daughter, was underutilized. Mention is made of her, but she really brings nothing to the story line, so as a character she’s unnecessary.

What could the author do to improve this book?
I would suggest better cover art. I wouldn’t take off too many points, because it’s self-published, but perhaps another artist would be helpful in the future.