Eye of the Beholder by Jayne Ann Krentz

Eye of the Beholder by Jayne Ann Krentz

After a career-stalling tangle with a fraudulent gallery owner, Art Deco expert Alexa Chambers is ready to take risks to rebuild her reputation.  But when she secretly consults on an exquisite collection for the new Avalon Resorts, she doesn't know she will cross paths with the hotel's owner, the enigmatic and possibly threatening J. L. Trask.

Years ago, Trask accused Alexa's stepfather of murder--and vowed he would return to Avalon for revenge.  Now, their meeting is inevitable--and attraction immediate--as they trade sizzling sparks and snappy repartee.  But when a killer emerges from the shadows, these sensual partners team up to solve a deadly crime from the past.  Following a trail of clues to a trendy but decidedly strange New Age spa, Trask and Alexa don't need a crystal ball to see that their survival--and their chances of bliss--will depend on a little help from a higher power: a true and trustworthy love.

Alexa is determined to revive her career after a debacle involving her old boss and a lot of forged art.  She is secretly tasked with creating THE art deco collection of the southwest for the latest Trask hotel.  When she spots a forgery, she wrangles a promise that the piece will not be displayed in the hotel.  At the opening celebration she spots the forgery and about blows her top.  She decides to hide it in a closet so the press don't see it and is in the process when she is confronted by Trask, the owner of the hotel.  This is one of several humorous situations that pop up throughout this title.

Trask is determined to prove that his father was murdered and his questions are stirring up a lot of anger from certain parties.  When one such party ends up dying the same way that Trask's father did, he cannot believe it to be a coincidence.  Unfortunately, as Trask digs through the present and the past, his list of suspects grows rather than narrows.  Alexa is determined to help him if only to clear her step-father's name as he is one of the people Trask is looking at closely.  

Trask and Alexa make a wonderful couple--they are both strong and independent people who have their faults but together they are truly a balanced couple.  I have read this title several times and every time I am reminded why I enjoy it so much--and it always comes back to the characters.  The plot is fun and well timed but I read this book for Trask and Alexa.  If you haven't read this one, I certainly recommend you give it a try!

I purchased this book with my own funds.