4* ( )

Deadly Heat by Cynthia Eden
Book #2 in Deadly
3.5 Stars
Warning: Contains sexually explicit scenes

Synopsis: Seeking revenge after her lover dies as a result of arson, firefighter, Lora Spade, calls in the FBI. Agent Kenton Lake is sent to capture the serial arsonist labeled “The Phoenix” and finds himself drawn to Lora’s courage and passion. But as they grow closer so does the killer, and the two find themselves in a deadly game of cat and mouse with a sadist who enjoys burning his victims.

Review: This is an enjoyable romantic thriller. The writing flows, the tension is tangible and the description true to life. I particularly enjoyed figuring out the villain's identity moments before he was revealed in the book.
However, while the main characters are likable and easy to identify with, their chemistry is not as vibrant as that of the couple in the first book: Monica and Luke. Neither is the tension in their relationship sufficiently developed.
Recommendation: An excellent read for lovers of romantic suspense. I will be continuing with the series and will be looking for other Cynthia Eden books as well. ( )

I hate to say it, but this was a DNF for me. I've read Cynthia Eden before and her writing didn't annoy me this much then. How was it annoying? All the definitive statements and superfluous descriptions. The writing just wasn't for me this time around. ( )

I hate to say it, but this was a DNF for me. I've read Cynthia Eden before and her writing didn't annoy me this much then. How was it annoying? All the definitive statements and superfluous descriptions. The writing just wasn't for me this time around. ( )

I was actually able to read the first in this series,Deadly Fear, and I really enjoyed it. So I was expecting quite a bit from this one. I have to say I was not disappointed. Cynthia has an ability to really get into the head of a killer. And while her ability is sometimes a bit creepy, it makes for an awesome story!

I like that this story follows one of the characters from the first story. Although Kenton wasn't the main character in the first book he did play a part and so he was a "familiar face" so to speak. But in addition to the "old" characters Eden does a great job of adding new characters to the mix.

The story, like Deadly Fear, is a bit on the disturbing side. But it's a great read. This one really keeps you guessing. I actually had guessed who it was early in the story, but then other things kept happening and I changed my guess a few times. I love when a book does that.

This was also a very fast read. The writing style and pace of the story are done so well that I got so caught up in the story it only took me two sittings to finish the whole thing.

A review copy of this book was provided by the author. This is not a paid review and is a truthful and honest review. ( )