Tess Pendergrass, Missing Incorporated

Missing Incorporated

Tess Pendergrass

Silhouette Bombshell, Apr 2006, $4.99

ISBN: 0373514026

Investigative reporter Magdalena "Mad Max" Riley deservedly earned a reputation for her uncanny ability to find missing people. She is quite proud of her latest feat, locating missing billionaire Atchison Dantell, believed to be dead in a plane crash in Alaska. However, her elation turns bitter and guilt-laden when the wealthy man apparently commits suicide; she assumes he did not want to be found, her actions exposed him and ultimately led to his taking his life.

However, Dantell's son Alex insists his father did not hang himself, but instead was murdered by a clever assailant. However, the police feel the death is obvious, as Atchison left a note and ignores his son's plea. When Alex vanishes, Max sees a chance at atonement by finding the lad and looking into his accusations that his dad was murdered. Even more dedicated than ever on this quest, Max obtains help from peer Davis Wolfe, while someone tries to kill her so she is unable to learn the truth.

MISSING INCORPORATED is a terrific action-packed romantic thriller starring two likable dedicated protagonists, with Max as the lead and Davis her support when she needs it. The storyline is action-packed from the moment that Max, emulating Stanley when he met Livingstone says "Atchison Dantell, I presume", and never takes a break as the heroine sees the rescuing of the son as her chance to somewhat atone for her belief that she caused his father's death. Suspense fans will enjoy this fine tale due to the strong heroine and the man who encourages her to be all that she can be and more.