Detectives Raven McKenzie and Tony Rodriguez draw the case. Quickly they understand robbery is not the motive, as the victim’s wallet and Rolex are still on him. His work badge identifies him as security for Dunhill Corporation, which they realize, given that and the circumstances under which Blair is found, has the potential of turning this crime into a very high profile affair. Their preliminary investigation reveals he lives much beyond his salary level, suggesting a sideline of work.

Fiona Dunhill, widow of the founder is known to be tough, and very highly connected. Additionally Raven’s research suggests that Dunhill Corporation began as a mere front for the illegal arms trading of her husband Charles. Socialite that she was, the city was surprised when Fiona assumed control after his murder, which to date had remained unsolved.

On their initial visit with Fiona Dunhill, they are quickly made aware of her powerful connections and her resolve to cooperate with the police – only if they work with her chief of security Christian Delacorte.  Delacorte has been living in her household since he was ten years of age. He is there because his family was allegedly murdered in front of his eyes by police in a botched raid. Obviously, working with the police will be difficult for him.

Fiona persuades him that it is critical to her and in her best interest if he does so, and he reluctantly agrees. Quickly thereafter, Fiona disappears on her private jet to an unknown destination in Europe, leaving him to cope with the problem. An unusual choice particularly since Blair was an employee she claimed not to even have known personally. When Tony is critically wounded, and it is apparent that he and Raven have become targets. Christian swoops Raven up and insists that she is safe only in the impregnable Dunhill estate. This joint living sets the stage for their joint investigation and their joint time together advances their romantic relationship.

Dane defines her characters principally by what motivates them, which is obviously driven by their pasts, and translates to a one dimensional view. Given the huge amount of foreshadowing, the events which propel the investigation forward are pretty predictable, as well as the sexual tension that deepens between Christian and Raven. There are few surprises as the novel wends its way to conclusion, at… of all things, a paint ball battle.

And, the ending …it merely sets the stage for a sequel.

--Thea Davis