Joy Fortuna’s "Even Dusk Has Its Dawn" is the thrilling second installment in the Max Rossi Series that blends crime, romance, and suspense with finesse. Following the events of "In the Shadow of Dusk," this book delivers a gripping narrative that explores justice, loyalty, romance, and the intricate fight between good and evil.

The story begins with Tami Tran, a famous recording artist, who finds herself summoned to a meeting with Victor Golubev, the new owner of her music label, Arioso Music. From the moment she steps into the building, Tami senses a shift in the atmosphere. Mournful flowers and goodbye letters left by grieving fans of her late friend and colleague, Anastasia, serve as a stark reminder of the dangers surrounding Victor’s takeover. Tami suspects Victor’s involvement in Anastasia’s death and quickly learns that he is a man accustomed to getting what he wants by any means necessary.

Justice, Corruption and High-Stakes Intrigue

Victor’s demands for changes to Tami’s contract — including performing at private venues for his dubious associates — which she fiercely refuses. When he threatens her life, Tami escapes but soon realizes that Victor’s reach extends far beyond her imagination. After narrowly avoiding his goons, she contacts Max Rossi, her fictive kin brother and former military operative, for help.

Max, fresh from a mission a few weeks ago, is already dealing with assassins sent by a vengeful adversary on the East Coast. Unable to be in two places at once, he sends his trusted comrade, Devon, to California to protect Tami while he battles his own troubles back home. Meanwhile, Harvey Vance, a wealthy hotelier, is caught in a perilous affair, and a high social standing Mayor Clarisse Thetford is involved in a brutal crime.

In "Even Dusk Has Its Dawn," Fortuna creatively explores themes of justice, corrupted morals, loyalty, resilience, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. Just like the first installment in the series, this narrative is also told through multiple perspectives. The story will immerse you in a world of danger, high-stakes and intrigue, where each decision the characters make has life-altering consequences.

The author’s prose is vivid and paints a cinematic picture of the character’s struggles. Action scenes are intense and engaging, and the romantic scenes are heartfelt and don’t overshadow the central plot.

A Hero Worth Rooting For

Fortuna’s characters are thoughtfully crafted and multi-dimensional. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the character Tami. She is not your average damsel in distress. She is fiercely independent, determined and refuses to be intimidated by Victor’s threats. However, she is also not afraid to show her vulnerability and asks for help when she needs it. Max Rossi is a compelling protagonist who balances his public persona as a vintage auto-customization shop owner with his secret life as a vigilante. His unwavering commitment to justice and loyalty to those he cares about make him a hero worth rooting for.

On the other hand, Victor Golubev is as a chilling antagonist who embodies ruthlessness, loose morals, and unchecked power. Like Tami, he also has a vulnerability that makes readers empathize with him (for a split second anyway). His calculated moves and dominance give constant tension within the narrative and move the plot forward.

In conclusion, "Even Dusk Has Its Dawn" is a spellbinding novel with a blend of action, suspense and romance. If you are a fan of crime fiction and romantic thrillers, you will enjoy this narrative’s well-thought-out characters and explosive plot. I look forward to the next installment in the Max Rossi Series.