Malicious Intent (Defend and Protect)

Malicious Intent by Lynn H. Blackburn is the second book in Defend and Protect series. Personally, I feel it is best to read Unknown Threat first. When I began reading Malicious Intent, I felt like I had missed out on key information (or a prequel). Malicious Intent is a fast-paced romantic suspense. Dr. Ivy Collins and U.S. Secret Service Agent Gil Dixon have a history which is evident from the first moment. It has been fifteen years since they last saw each other, but they have not forgotten each other. They still care for each other. Before they can get their happily happy ever, Gil and his colleagues need to figure out who is after Ivy. I thought the story contained good writing and it moved along at a swift pace. There are two main characters and five secondary characters. Ivy is a smart, resilient woman with a good heart. Gil is a protector with a heart of gold. He provides emotional support for Ivy during her time of need. The mystery involves violence. It is explained in a matter-of-fact way (not gory but detailed). There are several suspects. It was one little detail that allowed me to identify the wrongdoer. Romance is the main game in Malicious Intent. An incident in the past has kept Gil and Ivy apart. They never stopped caring for each other and we are privy to all of their thoughts regarding the matter. I would have preferred less romance with a more complex mystery. Romance lovers, though, will enjoy it. I like how faith was incorporated into the story. It is light but present. There is no foul language or intimate scenes in the book. We get to catch up with Faith and Luke from Unknown Threat as well as their colleagues. I appreciated the epilogue that nicely wrapped up Malicious Intent. I enjoyed this suspenseful story with its strong women and handsome men. Malicious Intent is a thrilling tale with savvy Secret Service Agents, a resolute researcher, a steadfast sister, caring colleagues, and a dangerous desperado.