This book is number 6 in the ‘First Responders’ series but it is also a continuation of the ‘Justice series’. The reader can catch up with some of the most iconic characters of that series (Frye, Dell, Sandy, Sloan, among others) along with Ali Torveau and Beau Cross of ‘First Responders’ # 1 ‘Trauma alert’. Despite the “old” characters, ‘Heart Stop’ can be read as a stand alone book. However, this book is so much than that as it introduces the reader to the lives of Dr Jay Reynolds, a former surgeon who had to switch her career to Medical examiner as a result of an accident, and her boss, Assistant Chief Medical Examiner Olivia Price. The plot follows their attraction and budding romance together with the investigation of a dangerous war between two crime organisations. Radclyffe balances the thriller and romance elements of the plot with her usual expertise and keeps the reader on the edge until the end that promises more contributions of Rebecca Frye’s team.
My only criticism is that the book blurb doesn’t describe the mystery/action aspect of the plot (though the cover gives a hint). The publisher only categorises it as a contemporary romance.
Overall, a very good mystery and romance read. 4.5 stars
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
