Deep in My Soul. Kimberly Brown. 2023. 304 pages. [Source: Kindle Unlimited.]
The second installment with the Jareau family returns with a deeper dive into a situation first presented in Where Love Blooms. Cartel Jareau has been drawn Adina Harold since he intervened when her husband made a scene in his restaurant a year prior. Adina’s trapped in a toxic, abusive relationship to Dominic, and can’t find her way out. Nonetheless, Cartel remains at the ready to support her, and remains an attentive friend in the meantime. When he literally saves her life after yet another attack from Dominic, it seems like he might finally have his chance to prove that he can be the partner and protector Adina needs.
Unfortunately, Adina’s recovery is anything but smooth, and Dominic isn’t so quick to give up his wife. He remains ever present but in the shadows, making sure Adina, Cartel, and the Jareau family know he won’t be easy to get rid of. His character is that of a true villain; unfortunately, he was just as cunning and connected. There’s definitely a dramatic tension where he’s concerned, but it was balanced with a predictable anticipation for me. While reading, I could often guess when he would pop up in various instances, even if I couldn’t predict the exact details. This made for heightened suspense for me while reading, because I expected the other shoe to drop and was anxiously awaiting how it would come to fruition.
Deep in My Soul is an emotional book. The subject of domestic abuse looms large and is explored from several different aspects. While it’s hard to read at times, it feels like an honest portrayal of what people experience in abusive relationships and as they try to rebuild their lives after escaping. The complexity of the issue of domestic violence isn’t lost here. It’s often easy to expect someone to act in the interest of their self-preservation, even if that seems the opposite of what those around them think is best. Here, Brown demonstrates the myriad issues Adina has to contend with as she heals from her attack, separates from her abusive marriage, and tries to piece together a future that isn’t mired in fear. She’s a multifaceted character, and I appreciated the depth Brown gave her.
It’s not surprising that the Jareau family looms large in this book, but it was actually heartwarming. The family rallied around Cartel and Adina in a way they really didn’t have to. That unity is a driving force in the book, and highlights the support and cohesion within the family. Brown also found an appropriate balance of humor to counter the heaviness of Adina’s situation. This levity was much appreciated and kept the story from being constantly dark.
Overall, I enjoyed Deep in My Soul. It was a difficult situation that was explored with care and consideration, and blossomed into a thoughtful story about healing and courage. It was a solid follow-up in this series and left me looking forward to the third installment.
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