Under Lock and Key

[one can only hope that the double review of same person, same copy - that one would be deleted - not fair if it counts for the stars points] And I like a list of characters to figure out if I would like the story. Melissa Carnes [inherited billions - soon to turn 30] lives in an imported castle in Texas. Her uncle, Freddy Gold, has received an indirect message of danger to her. Tyler Blackwell, 34, is one of Freddy's reporters, that is until his wife was murdered when he was investigating J. R. Randall and his business. He turns to the bottle. Then we have Sable Lorel Carnes, Melissa's step-mother as a suspect, she married William Carnes for his money. They produced a half-sister, Tia Carnes, who was always living beyond her allowance and she now wants more money to impress her new love. Then there is Sheriff Tate who really wants to believe in the "witch" tales attributed to Melissa, probably because of her habit of coming out only at night. Someone was taking advantage of her strange habits. Ah, yes and don't forget Deanna Randall who became Melissa's nanny and companion and still is her confidant and shows Melissa's horse, Eclipse in dressage. I love the inclusion of the horses. And by the way, which person likes to play chess? Melissa has facial and body scars from the burns suffered when her mother died in a car wreck. Why was she the only one to survive? Who pulled her out? It was a very neat plot - intrigueing - as for going from hate to lust, don't they always? - great cast of characters - excellently paced plot - nice intertwinning of characters' roles - what did the villians want? revenge? money? Definitely Recommended --m This may be a keeper for some.

This is the 1st Harlequin book I've read. I really liked it, especially the ending!