BOOK REVIEW ❤ Toxic by Kim Karr

toxic (ˈtɒksɪk)  adjective

1. of, relating to, or caused by a toxin or poison; poisonous
2. harmful or deadly
3. (of a financial asset) likely to cause significant loss to the holder

( from dictionary.com)

Jeremy and Phoebe initially met the summer of 2009, she a socialite and he a summer worker at the country club. They have an amazing month of falling in love but because of a misunderstanding and distrust Phoebe walks away. Fast forward five years later. To celebrate her would-be wedding day, Phoebe goes out with friends and encounters Jeremy for the first time since the day she left him. Now he is a well to do entrepreneur, and she is struggling to rebuild her family’s company. And this is where the story begins again.

The title of the story was set to describe Jeremy and Phoebe's relationship, but I didn’t feel as if the relationship itself was toxic, but maybe Phoebe was. Jeremy came across as firm unwavering, honest and devoted to Phoebe. It was she that kept questioning his loyalty and second guessing his motives.  She didn’t trust him especially when it really counted. She always wanted him to come to her, to chase her, but she never recognized the part she played in the destruction of their relationship.          

I love the play on the word TOXIC. Based on the definition of toxic listed above there are a few toxins in this story besides the “relationship” between the H/h.  We are given a wonderful supporting cast of characters in Phoebe's friends, each in their unhealthy but delicate situations. Then there is the future of the St. Claire empire, a primary source of Phoebe's unrest.  And, of course, the story would not be complete without the poison of our villains, one seen the other a wolf in sheeps clothing.  All of these made for a well-written attention-grabbing story.

I read this book in one night and although I enjoyed the story I was not particularly moved by it.  There was entirely too much back and forth, too many secrets, half-truths, and drama.  After reading then re-reading 50%  of this story I walked away feeling… blah. I never connected with Phoebe, but I was Team Jeremy from beginning to end. Although this book is not one of my favorites, I am sure it will find itself in the hands of many that will love and enjoy Jeremy and Phoebe's  road to happily ever after.

An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.