Bound to Danger

Reus follows Targeted with a fast-paced high-stakes romantic thriller. Maria Cervantes, who turned her back on family wealth to become a children’s advocate, attends a ritzy party and accidentally overhears a plot to blow up American landmarks. As she flees, the building explodes, killing dozens of Miami’s elite. Maria, the only survivor, becomes both a target and a suspect: the bombers think she’s a government snitch, and the government thinks she might be in on the plot. To make matters worse, her assigned NSA investigator is Cade O’Reilly, former Marine buddy of her late brother. Even though it’s been eight years, Maria’s still smarting from the abrupt way Cade dumped her after her brother’s death. Reus cleverly complicates the plot with not-your-run-of-the-mill terrorists, a brief cameo by Targeted’s Jack Stone, and plenty of ice, fire and steam between the damaged lovers. Strong characterization and steadily mounting tension are powerful weapons in this talented author’s arsenal. (Aug.)