Review ~ Widow's Web by Jennifer Estep

Goodreads Synopsis:  I used to murder people for money, but these days it’s more of a survival technique. Once an assassin, always an assassin. So much for being plain old Gin Blanco. With every lowlife in Ashland gunning for me, I don’t need another problem, but a new one has come to town. Salina might seem like a sweet Southern belle, but she’s really a dangerous enemy whose water elemental magic can go head-to-head with my own Ice and Stone power. Salina also has an intimate history with my lover, Owen Grayson, and now that she’s back in town, she thinks he’s hers for the taking. Salina’s playing a mysterious game that involves a shady local casino owner with a surprising connection to Owen. But they call me the Spider for a reason. I’m going to untangle her deadly scheme, even if it leaves my love affair hanging by a thread.


My Review:
I did not start out as a Gin fan.  I know that assassin's are cold-hearted and need to be for their jobs, I just didn't see enough of her personal side at first to determine if I liked her or not.  With each book we get to know Gin a little better and see that she indeed has feelings.  She is letting her affair with Owen grow into something and I was so glad to see that.  Then this bitch Salina comes along.  Owen's reaction to her appearance pissed me off and I wanted to dive into the book and slap him.  I totally appreciated Gin's logic and control over her emotions.  It was something I didn't like about her to begin with, but it was a tool she needed to fall back on in this situation.

After reading Thread of Death I was quite curious about Phillip Kincaid.  Widow's Web gives you a really good look at Phillip's past and his friendship with Owen.  He was made out to be a villianous mobster, but is he really?  Having a head mobster being called "Philly" nearly had me in tears.

Gin's on a mission to save Ashland, Phillip, Owen and his sister (her name escapes me at the moment), AND her relationship.  She knows what needs to be done, but will her job cost her the love of her life?  Gin knows her priorities and does not let her personal life get in the way.  I find myself in awe of her strength and selflessness.

All in all, I would give Widow's Web a 4 out of 5 rating.  I lost some respect for Owen and that had a bit of an impact on my rating.

Other thoughts:

Ok, this is not related to Widow's Web, but I really need some neat rating graphics, and a blog make over.  Does anyone have a favorite designer?  I'm on the lookout so leave me some suggestions!

Thanks for reading fellow readers!

~Tanya~