May Archer’s The Right Way is a compelling exploration of love, revenge, and the intricate dance between control and chaos. The novel is a gripping narrative that delves into the depths of human emotion and the complexities of relationships, all set against the backdrop of a high-stakes battle against a formidable antagonist. With its intricate plot and well-drawn characters, Archer crafts a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling.

At the heart of the novel is Sebastian Seaver, a character whose brilliance is matched only by his obsessive need for vengeance. Sebastian, or Bas as he is often called, is a man driven by the tragic loss of his fiancée and parents at the hands of Alexei Stornovich, a ruthless Russian mob boss. This singular focus on revenge is both his strength and his potential undoing. Archer skillfully portrays Bas as a character teetering on the edge, his genius both a gift and a curse. The reader is drawn into his world, feeling the weight of his grief and the intensity of his determination. Bas’s journey is one of self-discovery, as he grapples with the realization that his quest for revenge might cost him everything he holds dear.

In contrast, Drew McMann is a character defined by his need for control. From a young age, Drew has learned that control is the key to survival, a lesson reinforced by the tragedies in his life. His sister’s brutal murder, his parents’ divorce, and the betrayal by someone he considered family have all shaped him into a man who values order above all else. Drew’s struggle is one of maintaining this control while confronting his long-hidden feelings for Bas. Archer does an excellent job of portraying Drew’s internal conflict, as he navigates the delicate balance between friendship and love, logic and emotion.

The relationship between Bas and Drew is the emotional core of the novel. Their friendship, built over decades, is tested by the revelation of Drew’s true feelings. Archer captures the nuances of their relationship with sensitivity and depth, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and the fear of vulnerability. The kiss that changes everything is a pivotal moment, a catalyst that forces both characters to confront their emotions and the lies they’ve told themselves. The tension between them is palpable, and Archer’s portrayal of their evolving relationship is both realistic and poignant.

Archer’s narrative is further enriched by the presence of Alexei Stornovich, the antagonist whose shadow looms large over the story. Alexei is a formidable foe, and his threat adds a layer of urgency to the plot. The danger he poses forces Bas and Drew to rely on each other more than ever, pushing them to their limits. Archer effectively uses Alexei as a catalyst for character development, as both Bas and Drew are forced to confront their fears and insecurities in the face of impending danger.

One of the strengths of The Right Way is its exploration of the theme of control versus chaos. Both Bas and Drew are characters who, in their own ways, seek to impose order on their lives. Bas’s need for revenge is a way of regaining control over the chaos that Alexei has wrought, while Drew’s adherence to logic and control is a defense mechanism against the unpredictability of life. Archer deftly weaves this theme throughout the narrative, challenging her characters to let go of their need for control and embrace the uncertainty of love and life.

In terms of character development, Archer excels at creating multi-dimensional characters who are both flawed and relatable. Bas and Drew are complex individuals, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Their growth over the course of the novel is organic and believable, as they learn to confront their fears and embrace their true selves. Archer’s secondary characters are also well-developed, adding depth and richness to the story.

Comparatively, The Right Way shares thematic similarities with other works in the romantic suspense genre, such as Nora Roberts’ The Witness or J.R. Ward’s The Bourbon Kings. Like these authors, Archer combines elements of romance, suspense, and emotional depth to create a compelling narrative. However, Archer’s focus on the internal struggles of her characters sets her work apart, offering a more introspective take on the genre.

Overall, The Right Way is a powerful and engaging novel that explores the complexities of love, revenge, and the human need for control. May Archer has crafted a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, with characters that linger in the reader’s mind long after the final page. For those who enjoy a blend of romance and suspense, with a focus on character-driven storytelling, The Right Way is a must-read.