Victoria Dawson's Rush of Jealousy is a compelling exploration of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human emotions. As the first installment in the three-part Entice Series, this novel sets the stage for a tumultuous journey between its protagonists, Angie and Graham. The narrative is a deep dive into the intricacies of a relationship built on secrets, and it challenges readers to question the very nature of trust and forgiveness.

The story is centered around Angie, a woman scarred by past relationships, who finds herself entangled with Graham Hoffman, a man whose charm and allure are as undeniable as they are dangerous. The blurb succinctly captures Angie's internal conflict: "Every person I’ve ever loved has left me." This sentiment is the driving force behind her actions and decisions throughout the novel. Angie's character is crafted with a depth that makes her both relatable and frustrating. Her struggle to reconcile her feelings for Graham with her past experiences is portrayed with a raw honesty that resonates with anyone who has ever been caught in the throes of a complicated relationship.

Graham Hoffman, on the other hand, is the quintessential "beautiful liar." His character is enigmatic, and Dawson does an excellent job of peeling back the layers of his persona as the story unfolds. Graham's relentless pursuit of Angie, despite the damage he has caused, adds a layer of tension that keeps readers on edge. The dynamic between Angie and Graham is electric, and their interactions are charged with a palpable intensity that is both thrilling and heart-wrenching.

Themes of jealousy and control are woven throughout the narrative, serving as both a catalyst for conflict and a mirror reflecting the characters' deepest insecurities. The title itself, Rush of Jealousy, encapsulates the emotional turmoil that Angie experiences as she grapples with her feelings for Graham. The jealousy she feels is not just about Graham's interactions with others but also about the life she envisions with him—a life that seems perpetually out of reach due to their individual need for control.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of the psychological aspects of relationships. Dawson delves into the impact of past traumas on present behavior, highlighting how unresolved issues can manifest in destructive ways. This theme is particularly evident in Angie's character arc, as she struggles to let go of her past and embrace the possibility of a future with Graham. The question posed in the blurb—"Can two people obsessed with our own pasts set aside our differences to fight for the same future?"—is a central theme that drives the narrative forward.

In terms of character development, Dawson excels at creating multi-dimensional characters who are flawed yet endearing. Angie's journey from a woman defined by her past to someone willing to take a chance on love is portrayed with a subtlety that feels authentic. Similarly, Graham's transformation from a "beautiful liar" to a man genuinely seeking redemption is handled with care, making his character arc both believable and satisfying.

The novel's pacing is well-executed, with a balance of introspective moments and high-stakes drama that keeps readers engaged. Dawson's writing style is both evocative and accessible, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the world she has created. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the nuances of human interaction with precision.

Comparatively, Rush of Jealousy shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels that explore the complexities of love and trust. Fans of authors like Colleen Hoover and Tarryn Fisher will likely appreciate Dawson's nuanced approach to storytelling and her ability to create characters who are both relatable and compelling. However, Dawson's unique voice and the specific dynamics between Angie and Graham set this novel apart, offering a fresh perspective on familiar themes.

Overall, Rush of Jealousy is a captivating start to the Entice Series, promising readers a rollercoaster of emotions and a story that lingers long after the final page. It is a testament to the power of love to heal and destroy, and it challenges readers to consider the lengths they would go to for the sake of their own hearts. For those seeking a romance novel that delves beyond the surface and into the depths of human emotion, Victoria Dawson's latest offering is not to be missed.