Hazel Snow's Fortune's Control is a captivating blend of romance and suspense, set against the backdrop of the quaint and mysterious town of Fortune’s Creek. The novel opens with an intriguing premise: Delilah Mayberry, a woman on the run, finds herself in a precarious situation that leads to an unexpected marriage proposal from a grumpy stranger, Shane Wilcott. This setup immediately hooks the reader, promising a story filled with tension, romance, and the ever-present threat of danger.

One of the novel's most compelling aspects is its exploration of the theme of unexpected alliances. Delilah, or Lilah as she is affectionately called, is a character who embodies resilience and independence. Despite the chaos surrounding her life, including a mysterious threat and a one-eyed cat to care for, she remains determined to handle her problems on her own. Her decision to accept Shane's proposal is not born out of desperation but rather a pragmatic choice in a dire situation. This decision sets the stage for a fascinating exploration of trust and vulnerability, as Lilah learns to rely on someone else for the first time in a long while.

Shane Wilcott, on the other hand, is a character shaped by his past. A former military man, Shane has returned to Fortune’s Creek after an accident ended his career. His initial portrayal as a grumpy and solitary figure is gradually peeled back to reveal a man grappling with his own demons. The novel does an excellent job of delving into Shane's internal struggles, making him a multi-dimensional character whose journey towards healing is as compelling as the central romance. His growing attraction to Lilah and his protective instincts add layers to his character, making him more than just the archetypal brooding hero.

The dual POV structure of the novel is particularly effective in providing insight into both Lilah and Shane's perspectives. This narrative choice allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the emotional landscapes of both characters, creating a richer and more nuanced reading experience. The alternating viewpoints also serve to heighten the suspense, as readers are privy to the internal conflicts and motivations driving each character's actions.

Snow's writing is imbued with a sense of place that brings Fortune’s Creek to life. The small-town setting is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the story, with its own secrets and quirks that add depth to the narrative. The sense of community and the concept of found family are woven throughout the novel, providing a comforting counterbalance to the suspenseful elements of the plot. This theme is particularly resonant in the interactions between Lilah, Shane, and the other residents of Fortune’s Creek, who rally around the couple in times of need.

In terms of pacing, Fortune's Control strikes a delicate balance between romance and suspense. The romantic tension between Lilah and Shane is palpable, with moments of humor and spice that add levity to the story. At the same time, the underlying threat to Lilah's life keeps the stakes high, ensuring that the reader remains engaged throughout. The novel's climax is both thrilling and satisfying, resolving the central conflict while leaving room for the characters' emotional growth.

Comparatively, Fortune's Control shares thematic similarities with other romantic suspense novels, such as Nora Roberts' Montana Sky or Catherine Coulter's The Cove. Like these works, Snow's novel deftly combines elements of romance and danger, creating a narrative that is both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat exciting. However, what sets Fortune's Control apart is its focus on character development and the emotional journeys of its protagonists. Snow's ability to craft relatable and complex characters is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

Overall, Fortune's Control is a delightful read that will appeal to fans of romantic suspense and small-town romances alike. Hazel Snow has crafted a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned. The novel's exploration of themes such as trust, healing, and the power of unexpected connections makes it a standout in the genre. For those seeking a romance with depth and a touch of mystery, Fortune's Control is a must-read.