Preface

Detective Annika Bennington's life has been spiraling out of control for the last three months. Despite her heartbreak and loneliness, she spends her days at her desk, secretly jotting down poetry in her notebook and tackling piles of paperwork. It's a stark contrast to the thrilling street action she once thrived on.

When Rio Melendez, a captivating singer-songwriter who skyrocketed to fame through his online music, waltzes into the station and insists she takes charge of the investigation into the recent attempt on his life at his home, Annika is not surprised.

Rio and her sister Alice share an incredible bond as good friends. Alice also serves as Rio's trusted assistant, providing a sense of security and support. With Annika by his side, Rio feels invincible!

Things get really interesting when Alice reveals to Annika that Rio has been secretly in love with her for ages. Apparently, he's even written songs about her! Despite a wild night of drunken romance that ends with Rio getting shot and Annika being sent on leave, she remains uninterested.

What happens next when Rio tells her that he has loved her since before his rise to fame, and when clues about who wants the stunning singer dead start to surface, and they point to a suspect she refuses to believe is capable of such a devious plot? Will she choose to ignore the suspect's identity or uphold her oath as an officer of the law? Will she find happiness in Rio?

✵Cover design by MerneithTaylor