Review: Shadow of Deceit by Mal Olson

Shadow of Deceit by Mal Olson

Amazon Product Description:
Can an FBI agent obsessed with redemption and a grieving widow desperate to clear her husband's name learn to believe in love again?

Shannon Riedel faces down danger when a gunman breaks into her office claiming her dead husband swindled him. When FBI agent Tony Crazaniak arrives to investigate, sexual heat sizzles. The ex-Delta Force operative's massive presence and dark eyes trigger an attraction the young widow finds unnerving.

When Crazaniak convinces Shannon she needs his protection, they partner to unearth secrets her husband left behind--secrets involving a Tanzanian mine that yields perfect blue diamonds coveted by dealers around the world--secrets connected to a terrorist leader Crazaniak has vowed to take down.

With danger surrounding them, two emotionally wounded souls bond, but can they put their demons to rest and trust in love? Can they survive long enough to find out?
My thoughts:
     Wow!  This one has it all!  Non-stop action, hot and sexy characters, betrayal, smokin' romance, and a thrilling plot.
     Mal Olson has set her story, bless her, in the Midwest.  Wisconsin is not the place that comes to mind when you hear blood diamonds, international terrorists, or even FBI investigation; but we get all that and more in this fast paced, well-written story.  She has built a realistic setting and filled it with characters that capture your heart upon opening the book.  Shannon is fantastic.  She is strong, courageous, determined, loyal, trusting, and real.  Tony is truly the man we have all dreamed of and searched for.  It's called the "Crazaniak Effect" in the story - you freefall for this man!  He is driven, dedicated, compassionate, kind, sexy as the day is long, strong, smart, and brave.  The bad guys are terrifying.  The good guys shine. I even loved the cat!
     Mal Olson has written a story that holds the reader captive, driven to turn the pages faster and faster because you absolutely must know what happens next.  This is an exceptional story and I cannot wait to read more.