Kate Darby runs Darby’s with a ready smile and quick wit, but that’s where her interaction with her patrons stops. She has closed herself off from anything personal. Toby Angel is a regular customer and the sexy fireman is the star of her fantasies, but even he can’t get her to break her self-imposed rule brought about by a painful past. However, when someone appears to have it in for her, Toby refuses to leave Kate alone. He tempts her with his gentle strength, friendship, and patient passion. Can she let go of the past and trust him to help her find more than she dreamed of even as the danger surrounding her seems to increase?

Where There’s Smoke is the third in Anna Leigh Keaton’s To Serve and Protect series and I have been anxiously looking forward to this story. While Kate and Toby’s story can stand on its own, you will want to read the first two as well.

In Where There’s Smoke, author Anna Leigh Keaton moves beyond sheer storytelling and breathes life into individuals whose story is captivating and moving. This is an emotionally charged portrayal of two deserving people finding the strength to love and trust. Kate and Toby are well-developed, believable characters. Even as Toby shows his compassion and tenderness, he still fumbles in his desire to help Kate. His imperfections and loyalty made him that much more endearing to this reader. Kate is a wonderfully strong woman whose struggle to overcome the past will charm readers. Their relationship develops at a steady, tender pace and pulls readers in completely. The poignancy of some scenes will be enough to move readers to tears. The added suspense elements flesh out the storyline and had this reader engaged from start to finish. Wonderful job!

Reviewed by: Amanda S.