Jaci Burton, known primarily as a writer of erotic romances, moves to the realm of romantic suspense with her Oct. 18, 2011 release, The Heart of a Killer (Mira). This work also introduces Burton’s newest series, The Killer.
Burton comments on her change in subgenres on her website. “I love romantic suspense. It’s one of my favorite genres to read, and to watch on television,” she says. “The elements of danger and suspense, of keeping my characters in constant turmoil, is such a delicious challenge and one I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into.”
The Heart of a Killer begins with a flashback to a pivotal incident occurring twelve years prior to the present-day events of the novel. Sixteen-year-old Anna Pallino was attacked by a stranger in the alley behind the St. Louis ice cream shop where she worked.
Anna’s assailant used a knife to carve the shape of a heart on her chest before Anna’s boyfriend Dante Renaldi and his foster brothers arrived to save her. In the subsequent scuffle, her attacker, later identified as Tony Maclin, was killed.
Anna, who has now become a detective with the local police force, is once again reminded of these events when she finds the body of George Clemons, foster-father to Dante, Gabe Angelo, Roman Darnelle and Jeff Barrone, in that same alley. George has had a heart carved into his chest too.
George’s death occurs on the night Dante returns home for the first time since Anna’s attack. Dante joined the Army after leaving St. Louis and now works with Special Forces. Despite her continued attraction to Dante, Anna has to consider the possibility that he may be George’s killer. Her suspicion grows as the body count increases.
Burton’s first attempt at romantic suspense is a successful one. Her choice of beginning the novel with the one incident that influenced all subsequent events is quite effective. Equally well done is her use of a surprise ending that is nevertheless supported by the novel’s plot and characterization.
As a prelude to a series, The Heart of a Killer offers an intriguing group of characters for future development. Gabe Angelo, the foster-brother who now works for mob boss Paolo Bertucci, is especially appealing. Although Burton has not yet commented on additional titles in her series, many readers will hope to find Gabe at the center of her next release.
FTC disclosure: A review copy of this book was provided by its publisher.
Comments