Title: Catching Raven
Author: CB Tucker
Publisher: XlibrisUS
ISBN: 9781543428919
Pages: 386
Genre: Fiction / Romance / Fantasy
Reviewed by: Liz Konkel
Pacific Book Review
Catching Raven follows single mom Samantha Raven and her fifteen-year-old daughter Liz. Samantha is a forensic accountant and in doing her job she ends up annoying some disturbing and powerful people. Her life hasn’t gone the way she thought, but it’s the way she wants it, even if her daughter does wish she’d go out on dates.
Romance is a key component of the story, finding her in both the past and the present. As a student she fell in love with Tip and was consumed by the relationship, but she always had a feeling that it wasn’t meant to last. Then he disappears without a word and she never sees him again. What happened to Tip is a mystery that follows her throughout, something that weighs on both her and Liz. One day at work, rich and handsome businessman Trevor Paterson walks into her life and she realizes how easily he could sweep her off her feet. The two romances sort of reflect each other. She was hesitant in the past, but eventually went all into the relationship whereas in the present she’s keeping a distance. Trevor provides her with an unexpected chance at love and a completely new path. The first path gave her a daughter, while Trevor gives her a whole new opportunity to fall in love again.
“Catching Raven” is a serious read, and delves into a lot of serious topics such as kidnapping, rape, and prostitution. It’s not a light read, but CB Tucker tackles the topics with emotion and a thirst for justice. Some of it may be difficult and very heavy to read, but it’s well-done and Tucker says a lot through every chapter. Despite the serious nature of the story, there’s also happiness, humor, and a lot of heart throughout which allows for a mental break and provide a balance.
Tucker weaves back and forth through time, linking up Samantha’s memories of her past and her present. In her past, her goals are clearly laid out until she meets the handsome Tip who turns her world upside down. Each memory of her past is very purposeful and is a key to understanding the person she is in the present. She doesn’t have the exact life she planned, but she’s settled and has a routine with her daughter.
Family is at the heart of the story, mainly with Samantha and her daughter. Moments between them are sweet and loving, showing how close the two are and how much they rely on each other for support and encouragement. They’re a much needed confidant for the other. Then on the opposite side is Trevor and his employees that also serve as his family. He seemingly has everything but as you get to know him there’s clearly something missing from his life. Jamie is one of his closest friends and she’s a very strong and independent character that is needed throughout. “Catching Raven” is a thrilling read that’s suspenseful, gritty, and well-written, delving into corporate politics, an assortment of characters (some you’ll want to hate), and is quite emotional.
