Amber Leigh Williams' Colton's Last Resort is a gripping romantic suspense novel that deftly combines the allure of a luxury setting with the tension of a murder investigation. The book is a part of the Harlequin Romantic Suspense series, and it delivers on both fronts—romance and suspense—while exploring themes of trust, deception, and the complexities of human relationships.

The story revolves around Laura Colton, a poised and affluent woman who finds herself in a precarious situation. Her best friend, Allison, has been murdered, and the investigation leads to her family's luxury resort. Enter Noah Steele, a rough-around-the-edges homicide detective with a personal stake in the case—Allison was his sister. The two form an unlikely alliance, with Noah posing as Laura's tattooed rock-star boyfriend to gain access to the resort and conduct his investigation.

One of the novel's strengths is its character development. Laura Colton is portrayed as a woman of strength and vulnerability. Her wealth and poise are juxtaposed with her emotional struggles, making her a relatable and multi-dimensional character. Her internal conflict about the fake relationship with Noah adds depth to her character, as she grapples with the blurred lines between pretense and reality.

Noah Steele, on the other hand, is the quintessential rugged detective, driven by a personal vendetta to solve his sister's murder. His character is well-crafted, with layers of complexity that unfold as the story progresses. The contrast between his rough demeanor and his underlying sensitivity is skillfully portrayed, making him a compelling character.

The chemistry between Laura and Noah is palpable, and Williams does an excellent job of building tension between them. Their relationship evolves from a mere facade to something more genuine, and this transformation is handled with subtlety and finesse. The fake relationship trope is a familiar one in romance novels, but Williams breathes new life into it by adding elements of suspense and danger.

The setting of the luxury resort adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. It serves as both a glamorous backdrop and a potential crime scene, heightening the stakes for both the characters and the reader. Williams' descriptive writing brings the resort to life, making it almost a character in its own right. The opulence of the setting contrasts sharply with the dark undercurrents of the murder investigation, creating a captivating dichotomy.

The theme of deception runs throughout the novel, not just in the fake relationship between Laura and Noah, but also in the secrets that each character harbors. This theme is explored with nuance, as the characters navigate a world where appearances can be deceiving, and trust is hard-won. The tension between truth and lies is a driving force in the narrative, keeping readers engaged and invested in the outcome.

Williams' writing style is engaging and accessible, with a keen eye for detail and a knack for pacing. The plot unfolds at a steady pace, with enough twists and turns to keep readers on their toes. The suspense element is well-executed, with clues and red herrings skillfully interwoven into the narrative. The resolution of the murder mystery is satisfying, tying up loose ends while leaving room for reflection on the broader themes of the story.

In comparison to other romantic suspense novels, Colton's Last Resort stands out for its well-rounded characters and the seamless integration of romance and mystery. Fans of authors like Nora Roberts and Sandra Brown will find much to appreciate in Williams' work. The novel strikes a balance between the emotional depth of the romance and the adrenaline-fueled suspense of the murder investigation, making it a compelling read for fans of both genres.

Overall, Colton's Last Resort is a captivating novel that explores the complexities of love and trust against the backdrop of a high-stakes murder investigation. Amber Leigh Williams has crafted a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. Whether you're a fan of romance, suspense, or both, this book is sure to satisfy your craving for a well-told story with heart and intrigue.