Out of Control

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Out of Control
Mary Connealy
2011

The Summary

Julia Gilliland adores geology and spends her days exploring local rock formations, geological wonders, and caves - that is, until someone steals her rope ladder and leaves her stranded in a system of caves in the wilds of 19th century Colorado Territory.

Luckily for Julia, Rafe Kincaid offers her a helping hand.  But, for a man who is obviously used to handling authority, Julia - an intelligent, outspoken outsider - is a force to be reckoned with.  Now, forced to work together to secure their own safety and the safety of their respective families, Julia and Rafe are faced with someone more dangerous than they ever imagined.

The Good

With just enough suspense to keep the novel moving, Out of Control is relatively detailed and structured with some solid characters, a few interesting plot points, and a handful of intriguing mysteries.  Overall, Mary Connealy's novel is enjoyable and entertaining to read during an empty afternoon.

The Bad

Personally, I found certain character quirks annoying.  Julia, for instance, not only has a passion for geology, but an obsession.  Perhaps I've not known enough would-be geologists in my lifetime, but her character occasionally proved frustrating given her focus for fossils when her life is obviously in danger.

While I don't consider Julia to be the "damsel in distress" type - and, admittedly, I doubt I would have appreciated her fully as a character if she was - I find her apparent superiority complex slightly annoying and her willingness to overlook the attempt on her life frustrating.  Likewise, Rafe has his own setbacks as a domineering control freak.

Moreover, their romance, if it could be called such, appears to spring from constant bickering.  Their relationship is strained throughout the text - so much so, it's hard to believe they made any romantic connection at all, beyond their supposed affection mentioned in passing.  In fact, you sometimes get the feeling you imagined it all.

The Ugly

To put it mildly, Out of Control is not a book that compels you to read it.  It's passably entertaining, but, rather than being a story to read and adore from cover to cover, it has only enough of a mystery to hold your attention for a few pages.

In short, it's easy to skim.