Cursed Blessings by JM LeDuc

Book Description:
Shrouded in secrecy, the Ark of the Endowment has remained hidden for millennia. Those fortunate enough to know of its location have but one task: to keep its contents from being stolen. Like Pandora's Box, the legend says that anyone who partakes of its sacred contents will invoke divine judgment upon the world. But who is to say that it cannot be used for good? Who could resist the temptation of its promise: eternal youth? Brent Venturi owns and operates a library in Palm Cove, Florida, that has been in his family for generations. But unknown to most, his simple life and dedication to structure have been engrained in him by a career of elite military service. As the retired captain of a group known only as the Phantom Squad, he has no history or records on file, and he remains the property of the United States Government. His rigidity and devotion have cost him dearly; his service has left psychological and physical scars, and he is emotionally distant. When the heirlooms of a man he hardly knew show up unannounced in his office, his everyday routine is shattered. Cursed Blessing is a rollercoaster thriller that will keep you guessing at every turn. Each revelation leads to more questions, cryptic warnings, secret maps, and shady allies. When the last guardian of the world's most important secret is dead, who can be trusted?

My Thoughts:
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Brent is a librarian but also a lot more. His specialized training makes him a lethal weapon and no one knows about it! Chloe, his somewhat ex-girlfriend, wants him back but only with one condition. Maddie has her own agenda in everything. Ferric and his men are ruthless and everyone is after the secret formula! Some want it for safekeeping while others want it to use for themselves. There is a severe consequence to using the formula and being the new guardian, Brent must keep it safe at all costs.
I absolutely loved all the characters in this book. Brent is a God fearing man who wants to honor his grandfather's wishes but is completely in love with Chloe. Chloe knows exactly what she wants and won't settle for less...still she trusts Brent completely. Maddie is somewhat a mystery while Ferric and his men are evil. The history throughout the book is great. God is woven throughout the storyline without being 'in your face' about it. There is plenty of mystery and suspense along with betrayal, love and a wonderful ride!
I rate this a 5/5. I can't wait for the next in this series!

Thank you to the publisher for the review copy of this book. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.