Bloodfire

Series hero PI Fred Carver guards a client's heroin-addict wife in this quick and jaunty read. At first, Robert Ghostly seems sincerely worried about Elizabeth, but Carver develops doubts after he is nearly hit by a bullet that kills Elizabeth's sister. Then he learns that his client, who is really Roberto Gomez, one of Florida's most brutal drug dealers, blames the stillbirth of a son on his wife's habit. Roberto wants revenge, but Carver wants out--until beautiful Elizabeth turns up and begs him to help her. After discovering that she was never an addict and that her son is alive, Carver altruistically agrees. Together they drive to a motel in the wilds of Florida, where Elizabeth, who is black, infuriates a pair of rednecks who then add to their problems. Fortunately for Carver and Elizabeth, Roberto is being followed by a cop. While failing to build up much suspense, Lutz ( Flame ) supplies a credible twist at the end of this absorbing tale. (Jan.)