Hell or High Water
by Abbi Glines
Montana
Momma hadn’t been gone from the world for twenty-four hours before the first letter showed up. Blue paper, folded into an origami heart, left where the writer knew I’d find it. Dealing with my grief, I was able to put it out of my mind until the next one came, then the next. Each one more disturbing than the last. Until I woke up to find one beside me.
He’d watched me sleep.
Only desperation could drive me to ask the man who had fertilized my momma’s egg for help. I preferred to forget him and his existence, just like he had us… me. But with Momma gone, I had no one, and I needed a safe place to escape—out of this town and away from the stranger who was stalking me.
To say I was shocked that my father turned me down would be a lie. I’d expected as much. He’d left me with no choice but to threaten to expose his sins to the God-fearing people of Mississippi who placed him in office. The nineteen-year-old daughter of a stripper he’d knocked up and deserted would know a lot about his transgressions.
However, the two men he sent to get me weren’t what I’d been expecting, but I didn’t really have much of a choice. It was trust the devil I knew or stay and live in fear of the one I didn’t.
Than
Waking up hung over and naked on the sofa of a friend’s house wasn’t out of character for me. Being woken up and told I was being ordered to babysit the Governor’s accidental offspring was another. It wasn’t fair that I’d been handed this task. Why me? I didn’t want to watch some stripper’s daughter who had decided to blackmail the governor. Why didn’t we have the philandering bastard hand over hush money, and then we could put enough fear in her that she kept her mouth shut?
When I didn’t believe it could get any worse, the stripper’s daughter opened the cheap ass motel room door she had been staying in and knocked the wind out of my chest.
.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Abbi Glines' Hell or High Water is a gripping tale that delves into the complexities of family, identity, and survival. The novel is a compelling blend of suspense, romance, and drama, set against the backdrop of small-town Mississippi. Glines, known for her ability to craft emotionally charged narratives, does not disappoint in this latest offering.
The story is primarily told through the perspectives of two protagonists, Montana and Than, whose lives become intertwined under unexpected and tense circumstances. Montana is a young woman grappling with the recent death of her mother, a stripper, and the sudden, unsettling presence of a stalker. Her world is further complicated by the need to seek help from her estranged father, a prominent political figure who has long abandoned her. The letters she receives, folded into origami hearts, serve as a chilling reminder of her vulnerability and isolation. Glines masterfully uses these letters as a symbol of the invasive and threatening presence that looms over Montana's life.
Than, on the other hand, is introduced as a reluctant hero. His initial disdain for the task of protecting Montana is palpable, and his character is painted with broad strokes of cynicism and indifference. However, as the narrative progresses, Glines peels back the layers of Than's character, revealing a depth and complexity that is both surprising and satisfying. His transformation from a disinterested bystander to a committed protector is one of the novel's most compelling arcs.
One of the standout elements of Hell or High Water is its exploration of the theme of identity. Montana's struggle to reconcile her mother's past and her father's rejection with her own sense of self is poignantly portrayed. Glines does an excellent job of capturing the internal conflict that arises from being caught between two worlds—one of shame and secrecy, and the other of power and privilege. This duality is mirrored in Than's journey as well, as he grapples with his own demons and the expectations placed upon him.
The novel also tackles the theme of survival, both physical and emotional. Montana's determination to escape her stalker and find safety is a driving force in the narrative. Her resilience in the face of adversity is inspiring, and Glines effectively conveys the tension and urgency of her situation. The dynamic between Montana and Than adds an additional layer of complexity to the story, as their relationship evolves from one of mutual distrust to a partnership built on trust and understanding.
Glines' writing is both evocative and engaging, drawing readers into the world she has created with vivid descriptions and well-crafted dialogue. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with moments of intense action interspersed with quieter, more introspective scenes. This allows for a deeper exploration of the characters' inner lives and motivations, making their eventual growth and development all the more impactful.
In comparison to other works in the genre, Hell or High Water stands out for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and its willingness to tackle difficult themes. Fans of authors like Colleen Hoover and Jamie McGuire will likely find much to appreciate in Glines' storytelling. However, it is the unique blend of suspense and romance that truly sets this novel apart, offering readers a thrilling and emotionally resonant experience.
Overall, Hell or High Water is a testament to Abbi Glines' skill as a storyteller. It is a novel that challenges readers to consider the lengths one will go to for survival and the power of human connection in the face of adversity. With its richly drawn characters and compelling narrative, it is a book that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page is turned.
For those seeking a story that combines heart-pounding suspense with heartfelt emotion, Hell or High Water is a must-read. It is a novel that not only entertains but also provokes thought and reflection, making it a standout addition to Glines' impressive body of work.
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