The Breath of Dawn

Heitzmann (Secrets) reintroduces several familiar characters and brings in new ones in her latest romantic thriller. Author/entrepreneur Morgan Spencer is still reeling from the death of his wife and fully dedicated to his two-year-old daughter, Livie, but when Quinn Reilly walks into his life, he takes notice. Quinn, however, has other things on her mind, namely staying hidden from the man she put in jail who is now free and vowing to find her. As danger looms, Morgan offers Quinn a way out that presents its own danger—to her heart. Heitzmann weaves a many-layered tale that blends a lost father, a hidden basement, revenge, and love, all tied up nicely. Despite some awkward writing (“tears once again washed her emotive eyes, the starbursts seeming to scintillate”), Heitzmann keeps readers entertained and wondering when the next bit of drama will occur. Agent: Donald Maass, Donald Maass Literary Agency. (Nov.)