On the Line

Berkley, Jul 2004, $6.99, 400 pp.
ISBN: 0425197107

Because of the many fires well above the norm especially a deadly one that has ripped through Hidden Cove New York, Mayor Johnson requested the State investigate. The Office of Fire Prevention and Control sends Eve Woodward to learn what is going on in the small community. Her first hunch is that Fire Chief Noah Callahan is on the take receiving kickbacks that have led to equipment failure and inadequate building inspection.

When Eve meets Noah's youthful "wife" and "child", she realizes he further fits the profile of a corrupt firefighter, as his spouse is young enough to be his daughter. However, as she becomes acquainted with Noah and observes how everyone in his sphere thinks highly of him she begins to wonder what is really going on especially when she learns that his "wife" is his daughter and his "child" is his granddaughter. Soon a fire burns between the investigator and the target, but that does not prevent Eve from seeking the truth even though it keeps adding up to the undeniable fact that Noah is the culprit.

ON THE LINE is an exhilarating fiery romance that centers on the investigation, but also enables the audience to taste the danger of firefighting. The story line contains two romances including one between two fire fighters who deserve a second chance as well as the conflict of love vs. duty starring the ethical lead couple. Although the "motives" for all the troubles seems too minor when compared to the cost (ten dead in the Sinco fire - see AFTER THE FIRE), readers will appreciate this dynamic homage to real heroes.

Harriet Klausner