Rory Gibbs, the second born in a set of triplets, is the one who takes risks. Being a reporter, that skill comes in handy. When she's given the task of taking a picture of reclusive businessman Jared Slade, she suggests she also get an interview. When her superior laughs at her suggestion, Rory takes her laughter as a dare and decides to do whatever she has to do to get the interview. What she doesn't expect is that Slade's bodyguard will turn out to be her fantasy man come to life.

Long ago, Hunter Marks was forced to leave his family and never return home. His secrets were never to be mentioned again. Starting Slade Enterprises was a very successful business venture, but no one can know who he really is. He goes by the name Mark Hunter, executive vice president in charge of retail acquisitions.

When a cute reporter starts snapping pictures in a hotel lobby, Hunter knows he has to get the film. When the woman takes off, he follows, locating her in the dressing room of a lingerie shop he just happens to be purchasing. Meeting Rory changes things for Hunter. The constant need to have her with him can only be short term, even though he wants her with him all the time. His life demands he not get close to anyone.

Sure that someone is trying to expose and/or kill him, Hunter goes to an old friend for help. Soon after, Rory shows up ready to get her interview. When it becomes obvious that whoever is after him is also after Rory, he does everything in his power to keep her with him until the culprit is caught.

THE DARE is the second story in the Risking It All mini- series. Rory's story is extremely sexy and very exciting as she tries to spend as much time with the man of her dreams, even knowing she'll have to let him go. Ms. Summers has done a very nice job with the first two books of this trilogy, which started last month with THE PROPOSITION. I can't wait to read the final installment, THE FAVOR.