Hot as Hale — Marie James

Innocent Joselyne Bennett loves her quiet life. As an elementary teacher her days include teaching kids then going home to research fun science projects to add to her lesson plan. Her only excitement is living vicariously through her sister Lorali and friend Alexa Warner. Incredibly gorgeous police detective Kaleb Perez was going through the motions of life. His position on the force as a narcotics detective forced him to cross paths with Josie after a shooting involving her friend. On more than one occasion Kaleb discretely tried to catch Josie's eye. On every occasion he was ignored but when her hand is forced after a break-in at her apartment Josie and Kaleb are on a collision course with each other. Formerly timid Josie is coaxed out of her shell by the sexy-as-sin Kaleb who nurtures her inner sex-kitten in the most seductive ways, and replaces her inexperience with passionate need. The small group has overcome so much in such a short period of time and just when they think they can settle back into their lives they are forced back into the unknown. Can Kaleb protect Josie from further tragedy? Can she let him go once the threat of danger is gone? This is a standalone contemporary novel. The next book in the Hale Series: To Hale and Back is the conclusion of the series and in the point of view of all six characters. Recommended for readers 18 and up due to strong language and explicit sexual content.