Author Devika Fernando creates heat straight from the opening line of “Playing with Fire:” ‘She wanted to burn.’ The reader is instantly intrigued by this lovely figure, not afraid of fire... and the first glimpse of Him- “extraordinarily tall and slim, dressed in black jeans and a grey t-shirt, molding to his finely muscled upper body.”
The seemingly innocent librarian’s assistant has a past and he is determined to know more. As Felicia and Joshua learn more about one another and their opposing elements, they are drawn together like magnets- fire and ice.
Devika flirts with steamy romance (no pun intended) and the description of Joshua’s appreciative glances at Felicia don’t just send shivers down her spine, but the reader’s as well.
The power of her writing is in the details. It isn’t just the characters’ appearances- tan and red-headed vs. pale and blonde- but the characters’ clothing and food choices. The detail Devika included about how their foods are tied to their elements is pure brilliance. Felicia wanted spicy seafood pizza while Joshua enjoyed an extra helping of ice cream.
While reading, I was confused by Joshua’s conflicting actions and his smug attitude, enjoying his role as ‘Master.’
Joshua’s role as a private investigator and the truth behind finding Felicia was a surprising twist and had me jumping in my seat.
I can’t wait to see where this story goes in Part 2. (Which I promised myself I’d purchase after writing this review, so please excuse me while I go buy another book!)
