Gigi Vale's Far is a contemporary romance novel that delves into the complexities of love, obsession, and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality. This book, the first in the interconnected Distance series, offers a standalone story that promises a Happily Ever After (HEA) while exploring darker, more intense themes that are sure to captivate readers who enjoy a spicy, suspenseful romance.

The narrative unfolds through a dual POV, allowing readers to delve deeply into the minds of both protagonists, Mary Wempton and Connor Milton. Mary is portrayed as a woman trapped in a gilded cage, living a life dictated by her family's expectations. Her role in her father's hotel company and the blind dates set up by her mother paint a picture of a life that is privileged yet profoundly lonely. Her only escape is her online relationship with Chris, a pen pal she believes to be her soulmate. This setup is a classic trope of mistaken identity and unfulfilled longing, which Vale handles with a deft touch.

Connor Milton, on the other hand, is a character shrouded in mystery and complexity. As a genius hacker and billionaire, he embodies the "possessive hacker" trope with an intensity that is both intriguing and unsettling. His secret obsession with Mary adds a layer of tension and suspense to the narrative. Connor's actions, driven by his desire to protect and be close to Mary, blur the lines between love and obsession, creating a dynamic that is both compelling and controversial.

The chemistry between Mary and Connor is palpable, and Vale does an excellent job of building tension and anticipation throughout the story. The dual POV format allows readers to understand the motivations and emotions of both characters, making their eventual coming together feel both inevitable and satisfying. The contrast between Mary's innocence and Connor's darker, more possessive nature creates a dynamic that is both opposites attract and forbidden love, adding depth to their relationship.

One of the standout elements of Far is its exploration of the theme of illusion versus reality. Mary's belief in her online relationship with Chris and Connor's creation of an illusion to be close to her highlight the ways in which people can become trapped in their fantasies. This theme is particularly relevant in today's digital age, where online personas often mask deeper truths. Vale's handling of this theme is both thought-provoking and timely, encouraging readers to consider the ways in which they construct their own realities.

In terms of character development, Vale excels at creating multidimensional characters who are both flawed and relatable. Mary's journey from a sheltered, lonely woman to someone who takes control of her own destiny is both empowering and inspiring. Connor's transformation from a shadowy figure to a man willing to confront his own demons for the sake of love adds depth to his character, making him more than just a stereotypical "billionaire with a dark side."

The novel's pacing is well-executed, with a balance of romance, suspense, and character development that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The spicy elements of the story are tastefully done, adding heat without overshadowing the emotional core of the narrative. Vale's writing style is engaging and accessible, with a flair for creating vivid, immersive scenes that draw readers into the world of the Valeverse.

Comparatively, Far shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels that explore obsessive love and mistaken identity, such as The Mister by E.L. James and Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire. However, Vale's unique blend of dark and spicy elements, combined with her focus on the digital age's impact on relationships, sets Far apart from its contemporaries.

Overall, Far is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance with a darker edge. Its exploration of love, obsession, and the power of illusion offers a fresh take on familiar tropes, while its well-developed characters and engaging plot ensure that readers will be hooked from the first page to the last. Whether you're a longtime fan of the genre or new to the world of spicy stalker romances, Far is a novel that promises to entertain and provoke thought in equal measure.