Reviewed by Sadonna
TITLE: Imagines
SERIES: Imago
AUTHOR: N.R. Walker
NARRATOR: Antony Ferguson
PUBLISHER: Tantor Audio
LENGTH: 5 hours and 5 minutes
RELEASE DATE: February 2, 2021
BLURB:
Jack Brighton and Lawson Gale have been together for six months and are very much in love. Lawson’s work ensuring the survival of the Tillman Copper is as demanding as ever, and Jack’s work with the regeneration of the bushfire-ravaged national park is just as hectic.
When Jack suggests they take a short trip, Lawson agrees. But then he is offered a two-week research position in tropical Queensland to help determine why the Ulysses butterfly is on the decline. Figuring they could combine work and pleasure, Jack and Lawson go on their first vacation together.
Working alongside renowned Professor Piers Bonfils isn’t easy. But personal and professional differences aside, Lawson is offered a more permanent role in Queensland. Torn between his new life in Tasmania with Jack and a dying species of butterfly he feels compelled to save, Lawson has to decide where his fate lies.
But fate changes the rules. On a research expedition into the depths of the rain forest, suddenly it’s not only the butterflies’ existence that hangs in the balance.
Contains mature themes.
REVIEW:
Note: This is the second book in this series and builds on the events of book 1. It is recommended that they be read in order.
Jack and Lawson have recovered from the events of the first book in this series and are happier than ever. Lawson loves his work and Jack is busy with the recover of the park post the fire that nearly cost them everything. They are looking forward to taking some time off and getting away together when an offer comes in for Lawson to assist with an problem in Queensland with a butterfly that is quickly dying out. Seems fortuitous and so they decide to take the trip together.
When they get to Queensland, it seems that the man in charge, Piers Bonfils, isn’t only interested in Lawson’s professional opinion, but perhaps he’s interested in Lawson personally. Lawson quickly sets him straight on that score and introduces him to Jack 🙂 To say that he’s disappointed is an understatement, but he does really need Lawson’s help. In the meantime, Jack enjoys the beach and the outdoors and the local park.
Lawson and Professor Bonfils continue to be frustrated by dead ends on the search for what is killing the butterflies. Professional disagreements and frustrations with Bonfils aside, Lawson tries to enjoy his time with Jack. And then there is a potential discovery that may shed light and confirmation on Lawson’s theory. But of course as Jack and Lawson investigate, Lawson once again finds himself in a dire situation – and Jack is there to lend a hand 🙂 I don’t want to be spoilery, but post this little snafu, things turn in a sweet and lovely direction 😀
This book is such a sweet and lovely addition to this series. While Lawson does seem to find himself again in some danger, Jack is there to assist. I love that both men are so passionate about their professions and each other. Their lives seem to fit together better and better as this series goes on. I loved meeting the families in this one as well. Professor Bonfils starts off as a rather unsympathetic figure, but he does change his attitude during the evolution of the story 😉 I just adore these two and their friends and the life they’ve made together. This entire story takes place over a longer span of time and epilogue was absolutely perfect. My only complaint is that I didn’t really feel like the narrator added to this story. I’ve listened to a number of audios from this narrator now, and I have to say, he’s just not my favorite. I don’t know if it’s the clipped speaking style or just what, but I don’t feel the emotional warmth that I’d like to from these characters. I feel like this is an “it’s me, not the book” kind of thing. Regardless, if you’re a fan of this series, I think you will really enjoy this story. These characters are just very special and their relationship has been a real joy to watch as it has changed and blossomed. Recommended!
RATING: 
BUY LINKS:
Audible