Scarlet Nights by Jude Deveraux 374 pages

I have always pegged Jude Deveraux as a romance author.  I had just finished a rather dark novel and needed something light so I pulled this book from the shelf.  Much to my delight, it was pretty good!  Not as mushy as Debbie Macomber with just the right mix of mystery, suspense and, of course, a hot guy. 

Sara Shaw is a small town girl who prefers dresses over jeans, makes all her own clothes, loves to bake and is very close to her family.   When she is dumped by her boyfriend, she is easy pickings for Greg Anders.  Greg is really a con man who is after something valuable Sara owns.  Sara has completely fallen under his spell and has no clue she is being used, even though the whole town despises him. 

In swoops Mike Newland, undercover detective, former inhabitant of this small town, and work-out fanatic whose muscles have muscles!  His assignment is to find out what Greg, and his dangerous mother are after.  In the process, he sweeps Sara off her feet, saves the day, and she gets to see his buff body!  A light and enjoyable novel.  A fun summer read!  Take it to the beach and enjoy.