L.A. Heat

by: PA Brown

Published by: Alyson Books

Reviewed by Kim Reis

LAPD detective David Laine and his partner Martinez Diego are chasing a serial killer, known as the Carpet Killer, through the gay community of Los Angeles. Several men have been brutally killed and their bodies dumped.

All leads are pointing to Chris Bellamere, an openly gay playboy who knew the victims. In the eyes of the homophobic members of the LAPD, that means he must be their killer, and they look for evidence to prove it. Fortunately for Chris, David is also gay, though closeted, and will not allow Chris to be railroaded. But when David falls for Chris, he is determined to do whatever it takes to prove Chris' innocence.

Brown brings a new spin to the "cop falls for prime suspect" story. A high level of personal danger, a light dose of humor, and a respected cop coming out of the closet provide the emotional ties to well-defined characters that you can't help but care about. The ending will leave you breathless.

I can't wait to see more of this duo.

Armchair Interviews says: New and unique "character" twists for a mystery.