Inferno
Next Level Snark, Steam, and Depth
Some books hit different. I've read all of Noelle O’Ryan's books, and they all have a wonderful level of snark, sass, heat, and heart, but the emotional depth of Inferno is next level. It’s a heartfelt tale of second chances and new beginnings, a steamy and sensual deep dive with characters who come alive on the page and burrow right into your soul. It’s snarky but sincere, witty while profound. And overall an incredibly immersive read that will have you crying laughing one moment and sniffling over heartbreak the next.
In a departure from her previous books—written in single POV from the heroine’s perspective—Inferno is written in dual pov, and adding Dante’s voice provides another element of depth and character development to O’Ryan’s words and story. Her language is rich and fluid, with a beautiful cadence. The storyline has excellent flow, and the authenticity of her dialogue and genuine intensity of her internal monologue bring the story and characters to stunning levels of reality.
Dante is a relatable character even if you’ve never been in his shoes. And his honesty draws the reader in, creating more than a simple sympathetic response. He’s real, and honest, and open in his hurt, anger, and intention. And his intensity and drive pull the reader into his plight early and ardently. Shelby is no less loveable and intense, a heroine everyone can hug and hold onto, root for and relate to. And together they are incendiary, and their HEA is well-earned and well worth the journey they each took to get there.
In addition to building a beautiful story around Shelby and Dante, O’Ryan does a stellar job of weaving and winding in supporting characters who truly enhance and progress the narrative. And while Inferno is a true standalone, it has lovely connections with stories O’Ryan has already written and hints at several stories yet to come, giving readers a chance to connect with those characters over and over.
If you’re a reader looking for a change of tone and pace, craving that powerful connection of a contemporary romance with the lighter elements of a romcom, Inferno is definitely the book for you.
