Charleston Times reporter Sharon MacCabe has worked hard to move from intern to full-fledged journalist. So when a series of arson fires across the city turns into a string of murders, she's ready to investigate. But first she'll have to gain the trust of Charleston's new Fire Captain.

Matthew Payton has reason to be wary of reporters. As a firefighter in Pittsburgh, the press falsely accused him of arson in a blaze that killed his sister. Now he's trying to start over. When Sharon insists on collaborating, Matthew is suspicious yet also attracted to this lovely, tenacious young woman-and the feeling is mutual. As they work together, Matthew finds his defenses breaking down, and his heart opening up. But their growing intimacy is about to be threatened when they discover they are pawns in a deadly game, one that may cost them their love-and their lives.

REVIEW

4.5 stars - Fantastic, keeper

Sargeant's scrupulous research coupled with terrific writing makes this a sensational and engrossing story. Mistrust, confusion and anger are balanced with humor and sexual tension as a fire investigator and a newspaper reporter teeter between love and hate. Sargeant pens such exhilarating novels, her literary career is surely on fire.

Reviewed by: Romantic Times Book Review
www.romantictimes.com

EXCERPT

Matthew stood. "Chief Miller and Assistant Chief Naismith can vouch for my qualifications. Any other questions?"

The pint-sized reporter rose, too. The modest cream dress shifted over her slender figure as she stepped closer to his desk. "Just one. Why are you so defensive?"

He couldn't believe her audacity. "This was supposed to be a personality story, not an interrogation."

Sharon's eyes sparked with anger and vivid color dusted her cheekbones. "I wasn't interrogating you. I was asking simple questions."

"I'm sure that's what Woodward and Bernstein said before they brought down Nixon's presidency." He crossed his arms. "Not everyone you meet has a criminal intent."

The reporter's sharp intake of breath let him know he'd hit his target. "I'm not out to get you. I'm just doing my job."

"What is your job, Ms. MacCabe? I thought reporters were supposed to cover the news, not pass judgment."

She stepped back as though he'd struck her. He held her wide-eyed gaze, refusing to regret his words.

Sharon turned from him to lift her oversized purse from the floor. She pulled the strap over her shoulder. "Thank you for your time." She turned, back straight and head high. Long strides carried her from his office.

Matthew's temper chilled with the realization he'd just crossed the media. In a normal situation, he would welcome the attention of an intelligent, attractive woman. But, circumstances as they were, this woman's interest could burn him.