She trusted the wrong man once. She won't make that mistake again.

When investigative journalist Lena Carter returns to her hometown to uncover the truth behind her sister's mysterious death, she doesn't expect to cross paths with Declan Holt, the brooding ex-detective with a dark past of his own.

As Lena digs deeper, she realizes her sister's death was no accident—it was murder. And the killer is still watching, waiting to silence anyone who gets too close.

Declan, haunted by his own demons, is determined to protect Lena, even if it means confronting the secrets that bind them both. But as passion ignites between them, so does the danger. Someone wants Lena dead—and the closer they get to the truth, the more deadly the game becomes.

In a town where trust is a liability and love is a weakness, Lena must decide: Is Declan her salvation... or her downfall?

Character Sketches:

Lena Carter

Declan Holt

Villain (Example: Mayor Grayson)

Romantic Tension Moments:

✔ Forced Proximity: Stuck in a cabin during a storm.
✔ Jealousy Spark: A flirtatious deputy tries to win Lena over.
✔ Near-Death Confession: One thinks the other is dying and admits their feelings.
✔ Angry Make-Up: A fight turns into a passionate kiss.

Why This Works for Romantic Suspense Readers:

✅ High Stakes: Murder mystery + personal vendetta.
✅ Slow-Burn Romance: Enemies-to-lovers tension.
✅ Twists & Betrayals: Keeps readers guessing.
✅ Atmospheric Setting: Small town with dark secrets.