Flash

Bestselling author Krentz (Sharp Edges) once again displays her expertise in contemporary romance thrillers. As in most of her fiction, an attractive hero and heroine are set up as antagonists, then fall in love. Here she pits Jasper Sloan, successful venture capitalist-turned-CEO of GLOW Inc., against Olivia Chantry, who possesses 49% of the stock and is the niece of the company's recently deceased owner. Both powerhouses in their own right, the two expect to dislike each other, but, not surprisingly, the attraction between them leads to steamy encounters. Romance takes a back seat when a mysterious intruder threatens blackmail, and Jasper and Olivia join forces to prevent their respective family secrets from being exposed. Krentz provides the requisite inside look at the glamorous life. Olivia's special events company, Light Fantastic, provides ""flash"" for product launches, political fund-raisers and corporate happenings, replete with over-the-top interior designs, sumptuous catering and state-of-the-art technology. Though Krentz's hometown of Seattle, Wash., is the setting, there is little local background; the action might as well take place in any major city where financial wizards and corporate executives hobnob with politicians, nosy journalists and gossipy columnists. Yet Krentz delivers on her tried and true formula: charismatic though uncomplicated main characters, a compelling plot with equal parts romance and suspense, and a surprise denouement that neatly ties up all the loose ends. Editor, Linda Marrow. (Oct.)