A Coral Kiss
4 Stars

Continuing with my reading of JAK/QA's backlist, this is one of her earliest works. Although probably original when first published in 1987, the mystery and romance are enjoyable if somewhat predictable.

Living in a small coastal town in California. Jed Glaze and Amy Slater strike up a strong yet platonic friendship. However, this all changes when Jed is injured on the job and requests Amy's help. Soon their simmering attraction boils over and their intimacy leads to the sharing of secrets - some of which lead them into danger.

Jed and Amy are well-developed both as individuals and as a couple. Their slow-burn romance, which begins off-page and ignites fairly quickly is steamy and sensual. Jed is a great hero, stoic and resourceful, although he does have one or two moments of male condescension, which is not uncommon for the time period. Amy is a sympathetic and caring heroine, and her acceptance of Jed, flaws and all, make her very appealing. That said, she can be exceedingly stubborn and unwilling to admit when she is in the wrong.

The suspense story is the weakest part of the book as there are too many convoluted threads that never really come together, and the villains' actions are often illogical and nonsensical.

Overall, a well-paced and engaging read despite some of the outdated tropes. ( )

sweet ( )

very interesting. Jed is mixed in an adveture after meeting Amy and getting involved, where the trophy is emarald. The attraction is undeniable but the mystery surrounding the emaralds gets more and more insaint. ( )