Trent Brady’s confidence as a capable cop takes a severe blow and he battles self-imposed demons after accidentally shooting and paralyzing his partner on the job. Despite that, he jumps in to assist Elise and although it would undoubtedly pain him to admit it, it was good for him to be involved with an investigation. When threats are made against Elise, escalating into violent attacks on her life, he has to admit that his feelings for her run much deeper than simply helping a neighbor’s sister.
This was my first time reading Shannon K. Butcher’s work. It won’t be my last. This book is an exceptional example of romantic suspense. The risks Elise takes in trying to find her sister could have appeared foolish but her painful desperation is written so exactly as to be reasonable and understandable. Trent’s sudden realization that he loved Elise was sweet, especially his understanding that her despair over her missing sister is so strong that she doesn’t recognize the same feelings for him. “Bad guy” is far too mild for the serial killer in this book. His evil runs so deep that you could wonder how an author thinks up someone so bizarrely twisted. The suspense is intense and while implications of the most chilling violence are made, it is done so without the most gruesome details. Romance readers will be satisfied with the passions of Trent and Elise. The balance of suspense and romance is just right and I truly don’t think it could have been done any better. LOVE YOU TO DEATH has my highest recommendation.
