This is the fisrt book in Allison Brennan's 'Evil' romantic suspense trilogy and the first that I had the pleasure to read. And the pleasure was indeed mine. SPEAK NO EVIL is rapid-fire suspense coupled with slow-burn romance.

Carina Kincaid is a homicide detective, inspired by the tragic death of her nephew. She doesn't want any victim's death to go unsolved. So when she catches the case of a young college student who is raped, defiled, and murdered, it gets personal for Carina.

Nick Thomas is a small-town sheriff. He's got plenty to keep him busy but he doesn't hesitate to drop everything and run to the aid of his big brother Steve, when it looks a though Steve might have something to do with the co-ed's murder.

Secrets and lies keep the plot twisting and turning, as Nick discovers that he doesn't know Steve as well as he thought, and that he'd like to know Carina a lot better. Carina is both instantly attracted to Nick and wary of his desire to extend his to help her and her partner catch a killer.

I usually stay away from graphic, all-too-realistic murders when I choose romantic suspense stories. However, I found this one difficult to put down. For my money, I prefer a stronger romance, in terms of unfolding emotions and growing attachment, than the delicate dance between Det. Kincaid and Sheriff Thomas. I also thought the wrap- up of the romance plot felt tacked on, necessary because the very gripping suspense story had been resolved. Overall, however, it was a good read because Ms. Brennan is a very good writer. She puts you right in the mind of each character, including the killer, as the story unfolds. I'll definitely be on the hunt for the rest of the books in the trilogy, SEE NO EVIL and FEAR NO EVIL.