Annotated reading two - Romantic suspense

Author: Karen Robards

Title: “Shattered”

Genre: Romantic suspense

Publication Date: 2010

Number of Pages: 388 pages

Geographical Setting: Lexington, KY

Time Period: Present day

This book is not part of a series.

When I read about the romantic suspense book, “Obsession” by Karen Robard that was mentioned in the textbook, I really wanted to read it. That book was not available at my library; so I decided to try a different one and chose “Shattered”. 

Synopsis: Lisa Grant is home in Grayson Springs and staying home to stay by her mother’s ailing side as she is suffering from ALS. As a favor to Lisa and her mother, Scott Buchanan who is the District Attorney, hires Lisa as a research assistant I the office. When Lisa is assigned to the basement she discovers a photo from a cold case of the Garcia family many years ago and the young mother who looks like Lisa’s twin. After the cold case file is taken home, a series of events, including a fire that almost kills Lisa is casting suspicion that maybe there is more to the story than originally thought. Lisa had grown up privileged in the area with her boyfriend Joel and Scott who was a slightly older neighbor boy who was not in the same social circle. As Scott and Lisa's lives become more intertwined, the attraction between them has never been more undeniable.  However, he is afraid he might lose her as it becomes apparent that someone is trying to prevent Lisa from finding out more about the Garcia family's disappearance. The question's looming are who and why?

This romantic suspense novel is characteristic of the genre with an action packed prologue, plot-driven theme, a threatened heroine and a sense of general unease. The romantic relationship was woven throughout and was integral to the plot.  The relationship between Lisa and Scott developed and was passionate, but not explicit. This book was an interesting read and I will try another one from her in the future. The writing was witty and it was fast-paced.

Similar authors include: Sandra Brown, Judith Gould, Beverly Barton and Julie Garwood

Titles that are similar include: “Smoke screen” by Sandra Brown, “A grave mistake” by Stella Cameron, “Fast track” by Julie Garwood and “Chill of fear” by Kay Hooper.