FIRST STRIKE is a novella; the prologue that was cut from the novel Striking Distance. Pamela Clare decided that the prologue was too long to be included in that novel, and she regretfully had to cut it. It contained some important information about the characters, however; how they first met and their wild weekend of no-strings sex. It also helped explain why there was such a close tie between Laura and Javier in Striking Distance. Luckily for us, Clare decided that their first meeting was too good to not share with the reader; and decided to expand it a bit and publish as a prequel novella. The dedication for the book is absolutely fantastic, and note-worthy.

This is a bittersweet read, as well as a special treat. FIRST STRIKE is a delicious little story all on its own, and as hot and smexy as any reader could want. When Javier and Laura met at a bar in Dubai City, the attraction was instantaneous. They impulsively decided to act on the temptation, even though sex between unmarried people is forbidden and would land them in prison if caught. They spent the next three days hiding in the hotel room and also some quality time in Dubai City sneaking around to be together, and seeing the sights of the city. Not only did the engage in hotter-than-hot sex; they made a real connection. Javier and Laura got to know each other well as individuals, especially when talking about their growing-up years.

There was also a bit here and there about the kinds of stories Laura covers; and the degradation that women in the Middle East suffer at the hands of the men in their culture. Pamela Clare obviously has a vested interest in bringing the plight of these long-suffering women to the public eye. The descriptions of the oil-money rich Dubai City and its various charms were enjoyable to read about. The sexual attraction between Laura and Javier stood all on its own, however. The sex was erotic, and off-the-chains hot. There was a little domination and kinky sex; and the use of the mirror was a nice touch. Laura was not like any woman Javier had ever known before or been attracted to. He liked that she was confident about herself and her body. She knew what she wanted sexually and out of life.

FIRST STRIKE is a fantastic read, and is a must to read as the segue into Striking Distance, the sixth novel in Pamela Clare's wildly successful and incredible I-Team<? standalone, but the slight cliffhanger at the end will havei> Romantic Suspense series. This novella can easily be read the reader eager to push on to Striking Distance.