3.5 stars 
 I still adore the Merrick brothers. 
 This book didn't quite have the camaraderie, banter and adorable brother love I have come to expect from these books - but I understand why. 
 "People surprise you sometimes. Especially when you give them the chance." 
 The words hit Nick hard, the way words you need to hear usually do. 
 Nick is a wonderful character. 
 I love how, from all the other books and everyone else's perspectives, Nick is portrayed as calm and put together when in reality he is confused and scared as hell. 
 Kemmerer deviated a bit from the pattern of previous books in that the Elemental aspect took a back seat to deal with this bigger thing. And she did a good job! Angsty and emotional, I really felt for Nick. 
 I wasn't a major fan of Quinn's, her behavior can only be described as self-destructive. 
 I know, I know, given her home situation and now the betrayal of Nick and Becca.. She has reasons to be unhappy. I get that. But still. 
 I actually like the twist Kemmerer is going for, and am a big fan of her love interest. He isn't going to accept her BS, and that's exactly what she needs. I ship it. 
 I do wish we had a bit of Adam's POV! He added great value to the story. 
 I love how he took care of Nick, and tried to get Nick to put himself first. 
 I am very keen for Michael's story, especially after how he was in this one - I think he might be my favorite.