Miranda McTiernan is sister Tricia's best friend. Both her parents have died, leaving her emotionally fragile. Josh has always rushed in to "save" Miranda, claiming she was a flaky airhead and unable to take care of herself. She is a successful illustrator of children's books, but she stays in the home she grew up in. Josh and Miranda have always squabbled, refusing to admit the attraction others couldn't miss.

For a period of time, Miranda was engaged to Josh's best friend Danny. Josh could never admit his jealousy. Now Danny, also a firefighter, is dead. Miranda wants Josh to father a child with her, claiming her biological clock is running out.

Now someone is trying to destroy everything Josh loves. The murderer himself tells the reader how Josh has ruined his life, but his identity is kept hidden until the end. We have a red herring or two before the killer arsonist is revealed. The clues are well-paced and the solution logical and exciting.

Author Tenorio has given us a likable cast and a lot of satisfying action. She does a good job describing the gossipy small town and the missteps of long term relationships. Though Danny dies early in the book, his legacy to Ranch Del Ceilo and its residents is thoughtful and touching. This was a highly enjoyable read.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Sweet

Reviewer: Lynn Bushey
February 6, 2009