Skeleton Bayou by Melanie Atkins

Title: Skeleton Bayou
Author: Melanie Atkins
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Publication Date: 12/09
ISBN: 1-60154-611-4
Genre: Contemporary Suspense
Length: 352 pages
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Author Website
Rating: 5 Diamonds
Heat Level: sensual
Other: Domestic violence
Reviewer: Olivia Starke
Date: 01/8/10

Savannah Love is emotionally and physically battered but is determined to survive after escaping the hellish imprisonment imposed on her by her psychotic cop-husband. After seven months in hiding, she resurfaces at Mossy Oak, her ramshackle family home on a Louisiana bayou, and attempts to restart her life. The empty house provides shelter, but isn’t the fortress she needs when her cruel ex comes calling. Mack O’Malley, former cop turned handyman, conflicted over a bad shoot on the job, comes to Savannah’s rescue when the psychopath draws them into a deadly game of cat and mouse. Fearful of Mack at first, she soon discovers that beneath his steely exterior lies a resolute defender with a heart hungry for love. Will their alliance save them, or will they fall victim to the Legend of Skeleton Bayou?

This is suspense at it's most intense, I was holding my breath during much of the action. There are many twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat, and the author didn't forget the romance! The hero is all alpha and the heroine is a strong and determined woman. There are scenes involving domestic violence, a heads up to those who may be sensitive to the subject. A great read, I highly recommend it!