Book Review; Be Afraid by Mary Burton for those who like their crime fiction served with some Romance

Detective Rick Morgan  after a serious injury on the job returns to work  in the homicide department in Franklin Nashville feeling like he has to prove himself.  When he is obliged to consult with Jenna Thompson, a secretive Forensic Artist on sabbatical from Baltimore Police force he finds himself attracted to her despite his distrust of her and therein lies the romance bit. Read on for the crime bit...


A murdered child's skeleton is discovered and Jenna Thompson

uses her Forensic skills to reconstruct the child's face leading to an identification.  Meanwhile, a series of arson attacks on unoccupied  properties reveal bodies and the hunt for a serial killer is on.  However as Jenna's traumatic secret past comes to light there may be links between her and the recent murders.
The smouldering tension between Rick and Jenna

doesn't detract from the edge of your seat tension as the investigation continues.
I found it absolutely fascinating to learn how Forensic artist's can contribute to the identification of the murdered. Burton deals with this issue sensitively and with real commitment.  
If you like a touch of romance with your crime fiction then Be Afraid is for you.  As usual Mary Burton delivers a tense serial killer book that is fast paced and edgy, so fans of serial killer hunts will enjoy this too.
Personally I loved the insight into the work of the Forensic Artist, particularly as used to identify 'lost people' from their skeletons.  It's truly amazing how accurate some of these techniques can be and I loved reading about how memories can be prompted by a good forensic artist tapping into the subconscious of a witness.