The inaugural Skye Kellerman novel from Novak (Dead Right
, etc.) generates genuine thrills. Attacked four years ago at home by rapist and murderer Oliver Burke, Skye defended herself and put him behind bars. Inspired by her own struggle, Skye began the Last Stand—an organization focused on helping survivors and teaching self-defense. She is also wrestling with an attraction to the detective from her case, David Willis. When Burke cuts a deal, the fiend is out on the street, eager for revenge on Skye—who has been the focus of his continued obsession. Novak changes the pace by focusing on the families—of the victim, of Willis, of Burke—showing different sides of protective love. Skye’s fellow members of the Last Stand get short shrift, but readers will look forward to books in the series devoted to each woman. (June)
