Holy Wow! This book captured me from page one and by the time I reached the end I was a balled up mess of nerves.

Working for friends who feel like family at an underground casino, Bell meets the man who basically owns Vegas. The chemistry and attraction to Dario is immediate despite the fact that few words are spoken. When it comes to light that he is having her followed, he uses it to push open the door and enter her life in a substantial way.

Dario is instantly attracted to Bell and unable to get her off his mind. With stalker like actions, he sets out to learn everything he can about her. Once he accomplishes his goals he is completely trapped. His desire for her has now put Bell and his wife in danger and any decision he makes will only compound the problem. But he can’t let her go.

I loved Dario’s obsessive tendencies in regards to Bell, his need to protect and provide for her. However, she’s a strong independent woman who has survived a nightmare and refuses to yield to his demanding ways. (Be assured, this trait does not lead to any too stupid to live moments.) Bell has no intention of getting into a relationship with anyone but she finds herself unable to stop the pull that Dario has on her heart. I enjoyed watching her slowly accept that what she felt for Dario was love.

Together, this couple move through some rocky places as Bell is reluctant due to his marriage and Dario is intent on keeping her safe. The pull toward each other overcomes all their obstacles. Along the way, we occasionally get another point of view in the story. This one is dark and sinister and ratchets up the angst each time they pop up. There is evil here and it’s only a matter of time before it rears its ugly head.

This had a great pace to it that never got too wordy. The secondary characters were wonderful and the steam between the hero and heroine was scorching. Yes, it’s true, Dario is married. However, his wife is his best friend and the marriage was arranged for purposes other than love. While his wife is in love with another man, he has arrangements with two women.

This ends in a huge cliffhanger! I’m talking HUGE! Thank goodness the next book, Double Down is releasing in a few days.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.