Rating: 2 1/2 stars

Criminal Defense Attorney Carling Dent must have been a cat in a previous life. Having already sustained a brain injury from a bullet to the head last year, Carling continues to be in harm’s way and her nine lives are being slowly chipped away.

Desperate to solve the shooting that left her memory impaired and her client, Borys, dead, Carling continues to come up empty. Unfortunately for Carling, she’s not the only one waiting for her memory to return. There are many others lurking in the shadows for any signs of recall, which will change Carling’s status from victim to loose end.

The shooting cost Carling more than her memories. Many things changed, from her taste in décor to the car she drives. She often put her safety at risk by representing hard-core criminals that no one else would take. As a result, Carling’s boyfriend—States Attorney Jared Manning—could no longer accept her high-risk lifestyle and left.

After a near fatal car accident, Carling begins having flashbacks. The images are so confusing, Carling isn’t sure if she is living in the past or present and accidentally calls Jared. Initially annoyed at her call, Jared rushes to her side. As her memories begin to unfold, Carling starts piecing together clues and cryptic messages that Borys had left for her.

As the feelings between Jared and Carling heat up, so does the danger. All signs begin pointing to the Russian mob and corrupt law enforcement. As each answer clicks into place, Carling is one step closer to the killer—and he’s one step closer to her.

Carling Dent may have a brain injury, but her no-nonsense attitude is something to be admired. The turbulent relationship between her and Jared belies the deep connection these two tenacious people share, which makes for entertaining conversation and steamy moments.

Carol Stephenson does a great job of keeping the mystery alive. By throwing out a few clues here and there, she keeps the story intriguing and nearly impossible to solve; leaving the reader no choice but to see this action-packed thriller through to the end.
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Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 352 KB
Publisher: Carina Press (April 4, 2011)
ASIN: B004RQA71K