Raelynn Rose's Climbing Everest is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and redemption set against the backdrop of a ruthless criminal underworld. The novel masterfully intertwines themes of forbidden love, familial loyalty, and the quest for justice, creating a narrative that is as emotionally charged as it is thrilling.

At the heart of the story is the protagonist, the daughter of a formidable crime lord, who finds herself entangled in a forbidden romance with three men from a rival family. This setup immediately introduces the reader to a world where love is a dangerous game, and the stakes are life and death. The blurb succinctly captures the essence of the novel: "Loving them was a crime. Leaving them was survival." This line sets the tone for the entire narrative, highlighting the protagonist's internal conflict and the perilous nature of her affections.

The character development in Climbing Everest is one of its strongest aspects. The protagonist is a complex character, torn between her loyalty to her family and her love for the three men who have captured her heart. Her journey from a naive young woman to a determined survivor is both compelling and believable. Rose does an excellent job of portraying her internal struggles, making her a relatable and sympathetic character.

The three men from the rival family are equally well-developed. Each has a distinct personality and backstory, adding depth to their relationships with the protagonist. Their initial anger and desire for revenge are palpable, but as the truth of the protagonist's past is revealed, their emotions evolve, showcasing Rose's skill in crafting multi-dimensional characters. The transformation of their anger into a shared mission for justice is a testament to the power of love and forgiveness, themes that resonate throughout the novel.

One of the most compelling aspects of Climbing Everest is its exploration of the theme of survival. The protagonist's decision to leave the men she loves is driven by a need to protect them, illustrating the sacrifices one must make in the name of love. Her journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the lengths one will go to protect those they care about.

The novel also delves into the theme of revenge, as the protagonist and her lovers unite to dismantle her father's empire. This aspect of the story is both thrilling and satisfying, as the characters take control of their destinies and fight back against the forces that have oppressed them. The action sequences are well-written and keep the reader on the edge of their seat, providing a perfect balance to the emotional depth of the narrative.

In terms of its overall impact, Climbing Everest is a powerful story that stays with the reader long after the final page is turned. Rose's writing is both evocative and engaging, drawing the reader into the world she has created. The novel's pacing is excellent, with a perfect blend of action, romance, and suspense that keeps the reader invested in the story.

Comparatively, Climbing Everest shares thematic similarities with other works in the romantic suspense genre, such as Sylvia Day's Crossfire series or J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood. Like these authors, Rose excels at creating intense emotional connections between her characters while weaving a suspenseful narrative. However, what sets Climbing Everest apart is its unique focus on the dynamics of a polyamorous relationship within a crime family context, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.

In conclusion, Raelynn Rose's Climbing Everest is a captivating novel that combines romance, suspense, and action in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Its exploration of themes such as love, survival, and revenge is handled with nuance and depth, making it a standout in the romantic suspense genre. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or love stories, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.