Intimate

Douglas (Lethal Deception) combines heart-pounding suspense and sensual scenes in this contemporary romantic thriller, the first of a series set in the wine country of Northern California. Tattooed, pierced Marielle “Kaz” Kazanov has just lost her modeling representation when she meets sexy photographer Jake Lowell, who’s searching for a model to show off intimate jewelry for a new assignment. Still mourning the death of her younger sister, Kaz isn’t looking for Mr. Right, but Mr. Right Now will certainly do, and she and Jake have explosive chemistry. As the two grow closer, a mysterious stalker tries to expose Jake’s deepest secrets, while someone else makes multiple attempts on Kaz’s life. Douglas ably ratchets up the tension, drawing the reader ever deeper into the mystery before revealing shocking surprises. Danger, deft characterization, and a tight plot make this a thrill ride that will have readers eagerly expecting the next in the series. Agent: Jessica Faust, BookEnds. (Dec.)