Breath of Malice

by Karen Fenech

FBI special agent Paige Carson hoped she’d be able to start a new life in small-town South Carolina. But when a senator’s sister is murdered and a blank postcard is left next to the body, Paige realizes that a killer from her past has found her—and is sending her a very personal message.

From the moment he hired her, FBI special agent in charge Sam McKade knew Paige was hiding something. Prompted by this recent threat, she finally opens up: one year ago, she caught the eye of suspected serial killer Todd Thames. Now he’s come back to pull her into his game, whether she wants to play or not.

As the danger increases, Paige and Sam give in to their growing attraction, and he vows to protect her no matter the cost. But the murderer will stop at nothing to get to his intended prey, and the strong arm of the law—and the shelter of her new love—may not be enough to save her.

• ISBN10: 1503950751
• ISBN13: 9781503950757
• Publish Date: 14 June 2016
• Publish Status: Active
• Publish Country: US
• Imprint: Montlake Romance
• Format: Paperback (US Trade)
• Pages: 240
• Language: English

Reviews

[kimbacaffeinate]

When FBI agent Paige Carson catches a serial killer's attention, she along with her special needs sister find themselves living (hiding) in a small South Carolina town. This is not their first move but Paige was hoping it would be their last. Reality soon comes crashes down when she realized the killer has found her again.

Paige works for Special Agent Sam McKade, who suspects that Paige has been hiding something. When Paige realizes the threat has returned she takes a chance and opens up to Sam. Together they work the case and confront the attraction they feel for each other.

The mystery and suspense in Breath of Malice kept me engaged as Fenech delivered several nail-biting twists. Fenech did a great job of sharing Paige's fear and terror brought on by this twisted villain. I struggled a little with Paige as a person. Some of the decisions she made both in the case and with her sister irked me. While, the author allowed me to understand I disagreed. This may have affected the romantic aspect of the story for me.

The serial killer Thames was the perfect villain and the way he torments Paige will make your skin crawl. He seems to be everywhere and know everything! I love this type of edge of your seat threat. The entire storyline regarding his career and subsequent stalking was nicely developed.

The relationship that developed between Sam and Paige fell flat for me, even if I found them well suited. Normally I am ok with insta-love in romantic suspense, but in Breath of Malice there was not enough air to fan the flames, Sadly I did not become caught up in their chemistry. There were moments that were sweet and felt genuine but that sizzle was missing.

Christina Traister narrated and I enjoyed listening to her. She gave each character a unique voice and set the tone of the story. I would definitely consider books narrated by her.

Breathe of Malice was a good, quick, engaging listen but not necessarily one I will remember a year from now.

Audiobook provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer