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Mystery Lake #7
Burned
A series of fires, a portent of what’s to come, and woman who isn’t about to let that happen.
Ava Jones has seen enough of the world to know there are no absolutes—evil exists, so does love, bad things happen to good people, and coincidences do occur. But when a serial arsonist makes Mystery Lake his hunting ground, Ava knows it’s not by accident—her past has come back to haunt her. And grumpy, sexy firefighter Mitch Warwick isn’t at all pleased—not with the fires or with Ava being at the center of it.
Recovering from an accident that will likely spell the end of his career, Mitch would prefer to tune the rest of the world out and wallow in solitude. Only an arsonist in his town isn’t something he can—or will—ignore. Especially not one that appears to be tied to Ava, a woman who challenges him like no other. A woman he can’t stop thinking about.
Mitch and Ava both know she’s the key to stopping the arsonist. They have a tangled history, though, and trusting each other isn’t easy. Unfortunately, when she becomes the target, neither has a choice. Not if they want to stop Mystery Lake, and the people they love, from being caught in an inferno.
Ava Jones has seen enough of the world to know there are no absolutes—evil exists, so does love, bad things happen to good people, and coincidences do occur. But when a serial arsonist makes Mystery Lake his hunting ground, Ava knows it’s not by accident—her past has come back to haunt her. And grumpy, sexy firefighter Mitch Warwick isn’t at all pleased—not with the fires or with Ava being at the center of it.
Recovering from an accident that will likely spell the end of his career, Mitch would prefer to tune the rest of the world out and wallow in solitude. Only an arsonist in his town isn’t something he can—or will—ignore. Especially not one that appears to be tied to Ava, a woman who challenges him like no other. A woman he can’t stop thinking about.
Mitch and Ava both know she’s the key to stopping the arsonist. They have a tangled history, though, and trusting each other isn’t easy. Unfortunately, when she becomes the target, neither has a choice. Not if they want to stop Mystery Lake, and the people they love, from being caught in an inferno.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2023
70 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
Tamsen Schultz
42 books349 followersTamsen Schultz is the author of several romantic suspense novels and American Kin (a short story published in Line Zero Magazine). In addition to being a writer, she has a background in the field of international conflict resolution, has co-founded a non-profit, and currently works in corporate America. Like most lawyers, she spends a disproportionate amount of time thinking (and writing) about what it might be like to do something else. She lives in Northern California in a house full of males including her husband, two sons, three cats, a dog, and a gender-neutral, but well-stocked, wine rack.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 11, 2023
Mitch and Ava
This was a great romantic suspense. I felt like it was more similar to the first few books in the series with the pacing and the emphasis on the suspense. And I’m glad Tamsen threw a trip to Mystery Lake in at the end, I had missed that element in the last few books.
Mitch and Ava had a two year long frienemies relationship, spurred on by both their abilities to get each other riled up. That quickly turned into something more when they team up to chase down a serial arsonist who is targeting Ava. I loved how one kiss decided their romantic fate and they never questioned it after that.
There was quite a bit of humor laced through this story. Between their banter and the Warwick family, there was ample opportunity for some good laughs. I loved how easily Ava’s family fit in with the Warwicks. And I loved getting to see some of the other couples from previous books.
Mitch was the quintessential grumpy hero hiding his softer side. And of course, Ava saw beneath his grumpiness. But Mitch also saw past the glamor Ava put on. I loved that they both found solace in each other.
Of course my favorite character was Eleanor, the raccoon kit Ava and Mitch saved and adopted. He was the perfect pet for them!
Another great mystery to add to this series. I really enjoyed my time spent back in the fictional world of Mystery Lake!
This was a great romantic suspense. I felt like it was more similar to the first few books in the series with the pacing and the emphasis on the suspense. And I’m glad Tamsen threw a trip to Mystery Lake in at the end, I had missed that element in the last few books.
Mitch and Ava had a two year long frienemies relationship, spurred on by both their abilities to get each other riled up. That quickly turned into something more when they team up to chase down a serial arsonist who is targeting Ava. I loved how one kiss decided their romantic fate and they never questioned it after that.
There was quite a bit of humor laced through this story. Between their banter and the Warwick family, there was ample opportunity for some good laughs. I loved how easily Ava’s family fit in with the Warwicks. And I loved getting to see some of the other couples from previous books.
Mitch was the quintessential grumpy hero hiding his softer side. And of course, Ava saw beneath his grumpiness. But Mitch also saw past the glamor Ava put on. I loved that they both found solace in each other.
Of course my favorite character was Eleanor, the raccoon kit Ava and Mitch saved and adopted. He was the perfect pet for them!
Another great mystery to add to this series. I really enjoyed my time spent back in the fictional world of Mystery Lake!
November 5, 2023
In this latest Mystery Lake book, we follow the story of Mitch and Ava. Mitch had been working as a hot-shot fireman until an accident put an end to his career. Ava is an operative of HICC. The two have been frienemies for quite some time, enjoying pushing and challenging one another each time that they meet. There's more than that to this pair though.
Like the other books in this series, there's a good mix between thriller and romance. Although it's clear that Mitch has started to develop feelings for Ava nothing comes of this until at least half way through the book. Instead, Ava has to deal with the threat from someone potentially from her past. The romance when it does happen is quick and both Ava and Mitch fall for one another quickly.
This was a great read, I sometimes feel a little inadequate with these characters. They are so 'grown up' and sorted that us mear mortals can't measure up! I did enjoy the developing romance between these too and the way that the thriller aspect of the story played out. Another great instalment in the Mystery Lake Series.
Like the other books in this series, there's a good mix between thriller and romance. Although it's clear that Mitch has started to develop feelings for Ava nothing comes of this until at least half way through the book. Instead, Ava has to deal with the threat from someone potentially from her past. The romance when it does happen is quick and both Ava and Mitch fall for one another quickly.
This was a great read, I sometimes feel a little inadequate with these characters. They are so 'grown up' and sorted that us mear mortals can't measure up! I did enjoy the developing romance between these too and the way that the thriller aspect of the story played out. Another great instalment in the Mystery Lake Series.
October 26, 2024
Another Mystery Lake winner
Great story, full of plot twists and turns, intrigue, suspense, and steamy romance scenes.
My two peeves are 1) Ava supposedly rolling one eye in response to a comment from Mitch—which is literally impossible as human eyes cannot function independently, so why did the author include such an obviously ridiculous idea, and 2) that she repeatedly makes the same mistake writing “us women are” instead of “we women are”, which is the correct sentence configuration.
I’m very surprised that a writer as talented as Ms. Schultz would make the same error in every book in this series. And I’m equally surprised that her editor didn’t catch both of these mistakes, either.
Great story, full of plot twists and turns, intrigue, suspense, and steamy romance scenes.
My two peeves are 1) Ava supposedly rolling one eye in response to a comment from Mitch—which is literally impossible as human eyes cannot function independently, so why did the author include such an obviously ridiculous idea, and 2) that she repeatedly makes the same mistake writing “us women are” instead of “we women are”, which is the correct sentence configuration.
I’m very surprised that a writer as talented as Ms. Schultz would make the same error in every book in this series. And I’m equally surprised that her editor didn’t catch both of these mistakes, either.
November 4, 2023
Tamsen Schultz's latest visit to Mystery Lake provides such a great ride, pairing Ava and Mitch and an arsonist that they feel will evenutally target Ava.
I'll be honest, grumpy Mitch is really grumpy and I didn't really care for him until he started to show he wasn't simply a jerk and that he did have feelings deep down. That said, I do enjoy the Warwick family and their various spouses and friends. Being the backbone and heart of Mystery Lake, they're a great fit for the role, especially because they're always ready to step up for the underdog. And Ava was a wonderful character that made me want to meet her someday.
I loved learning about how arson investigators work and how they can figure out certain things. This type of thing is a huge plus in all of the author's books. You learn new things, often very complicated and involved things and never feel like you're being lectured to or in a classroom. She does her research and makes you want to know more.
For tightly woven, unique plots and well-rounded characters that jump off the page, and that all-important edge-of-your-seat intensity, you can't go wrong with a book by Tamsen Schultz. I'd highly recommend jumping into Mystery Lake today...
I'll be honest, grumpy Mitch is really grumpy and I didn't really care for him until he started to show he wasn't simply a jerk and that he did have feelings deep down. That said, I do enjoy the Warwick family and their various spouses and friends. Being the backbone and heart of Mystery Lake, they're a great fit for the role, especially because they're always ready to step up for the underdog. And Ava was a wonderful character that made me want to meet her someday.
I loved learning about how arson investigators work and how they can figure out certain things. This type of thing is a huge plus in all of the author's books. You learn new things, often very complicated and involved things and never feel like you're being lectured to or in a classroom. She does her research and makes you want to know more.
For tightly woven, unique plots and well-rounded characters that jump off the page, and that all-important edge-of-your-seat intensity, you can't go wrong with a book by Tamsen Schultz. I'd highly recommend jumping into Mystery Lake today...
November 2, 2023
Burned is the 7th book in the Mystery Lake series and a great addition to the ongoing saga about the Warwick family. It's an action-filled suspense with the team at HICC hot on the heels of an arsonist. When Mitch is drawn in to consult, sparks fly between him and Ava. I enjoyed their witty banter, their introspections, their fall into love and most of all, the complete trust and loyalty of all the family members. There's a super adorable addition to their household, many twists and turns and a wonderful HEA.
I was lucky to have reveived an advanced copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
I was lucky to have reveived an advanced copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
November 3, 2023
Small but Mighty!
That is how I would describe the “hero” in Tamsen Schultz’s latest book Burned in her Mystery Lake Series. After trying to figure out why fires are being set all over Mystery Lake and by whom, the answer is finally realized how one mistake from the past could cause such havoc. But thanks to the “small but mighty” hero--well like all good books—the good guys come out on top! Thoroughly good read, intensely intriguing, unputdownable 😊!
Thank you for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
That is how I would describe the “hero” in Tamsen Schultz’s latest book Burned in her Mystery Lake Series. After trying to figure out why fires are being set all over Mystery Lake and by whom, the answer is finally realized how one mistake from the past could cause such havoc. But thanks to the “small but mighty” hero--well like all good books—the good guys come out on top! Thoroughly good read, intensely intriguing, unputdownable 😊!
Thank you for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
November 16, 2023
Absolutely love this series!
There is only one thing that I don't like about this series.... it's having to wait for the next book release! Lol! This story was intense, suspenseful, complex, with lots of unexpected twists and turns. I truly loved the "little" one that was included in this unconventional love story! Sorry, don't want to give spoilers! I really can't wait to see where the series goes from here, especially since they just keep getting better and better.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
There is only one thing that I don't like about this series.... it's having to wait for the next book release! Lol! This story was intense, suspenseful, complex, with lots of unexpected twists and turns. I truly loved the "little" one that was included in this unconventional love story! Sorry, don't want to give spoilers! I really can't wait to see where the series goes from here, especially since they just keep getting better and better.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
October 27, 2023
Great addition to the series!
A series of fires are being set in Mystery Lake. While investigating, Ava discovers they could be connected to her past. Mitch is recovering from an injury on the job and is unsure if his career can withstand the injury. Can Ava and Mitch discover the identity of the arsonist before it's too late? Read and find out!
A series of fires are being set in Mystery Lake. While investigating, Ava discovers they could be connected to her past. Mitch is recovering from an injury on the job and is unsure if his career can withstand the injury. Can Ava and Mitch discover the identity of the arsonist before it's too late? Read and find out!
November 3, 2023
Ava and Mitch enjoy annoying each other. But when an arsonist starts burning with a technique used in filming, Ava knows something has to do with an accident in her past, now can she and Mitch, a firefighter on medical leave, stop him before he does more damage and comes after her?
7th book in this great series! I highly recomment it!
7th book in this great series! I highly recomment it!
November 12, 2023
wow
What a great read. Surprise revelations. Quick accusations. Arsonist on the loose. Waiting around for an attack to happen. Two people who understand one another falling in love while rescuing a baby. Becoming a family over night. New careers starting. What a book. Can not wait to see what you conjure up with the next one.
What a great read. Surprise revelations. Quick accusations. Arsonist on the loose. Waiting around for an attack to happen. Two people who understand one another falling in love while rescuing a baby. Becoming a family over night. New careers starting. What a book. Can not wait to see what you conjure up with the next one.
October 30, 2023
Another great read in the Mystery Lake series. This one centers around an arsonist. Both Mitch and Ava investigate but things don't go as smoothly as they would hope. More of a slow burn type of romance, with a nice who done it type mystery. I received an ARC copy.
November 4, 2023
Another exciting, suspenseful read in one of my favorite series. It kept me guessing. The characters are fantastic. Ava and Mitch have chemistry through the roof. I loved the ending! I can't wait for the next book.
November 4, 2023
Another gripping mystery that will have you trying to figure out what or who committed this crime. Eva seems to be caught in the middle of all of this. Unfortunately Mitch isn’t pleased. There’s no stopping until the end.
November 9, 2023
Great!
Love this series , reading about the Warwick 4th generation find their HEA. Each book involves one specific person , with all the other cousins/ brothers involved. It is a continuing saga so it is best to read the books in order, because of the events of each book!
Love this series , reading about the Warwick 4th generation find their HEA. Each book involves one specific person , with all the other cousins/ brothers involved. It is a continuing saga so it is best to read the books in order, because of the events of each book!
November 11, 2023
Great suspense, romance
This book has a wonderful array of characters. The suspense is very entertaining. The romance has been brewing for a while but has a happy ending. This is a great addition to the series.
This book has a wonderful array of characters. The suspense is very entertaining. The romance has been brewing for a while but has a happy ending. This is a great addition to the series.
November 13, 2023
Book number seven in this fascinating series! An operative with HICC becomes entangled in a series of fires, believed as arson. A firefighter who is on medical leave, is studying to be a fire investigator, and he and Ava try to understand the arsonist’s plans, which seem to center around Ava. As always, a great romance and the suspense is continuous. Can’t wait for Book # 8.
February 27, 2024
Thrilling.
Burning hot a super thrilling romantic mystery. Delightful with a adorable creature involved. I won’t spoil! Loved the last bit about the Lake which lent a nice finish to the story full of the Warwick family embedded in twists and turns.
Burning hot a super thrilling romantic mystery. Delightful with a adorable creature involved. I won’t spoil! Loved the last bit about the Lake which lent a nice finish to the story full of the Warwick family embedded in twists and turns.
November 28, 2024
Getting stalked by an unknown arsonist is keeps you wondering!
Great read. Lot of helpful people. As things start to burn around Mystery Lake Ava and Mitch put their opposing characters to good use. Trying to solve who this person is. Really good writing.
Great read. Lot of helpful people. As things start to burn around Mystery Lake Ava and Mitch put their opposing characters to good use. Trying to solve who this person is. Really good writing.
November 3, 2023
Very interesting plot and characters.Lots of suspense.
An excellent book,worth reading
An excellent book,worth reading
November 3, 2023
I love it. Well written, page turner, great characters. Good job. I received a copy and voluntary leaving a review
November 3, 2023
Another great story in Mystery Lake. Good characters. Nice romantic suspense tale. Kept me turning the pages. Thanks to the author for providing a copy. My review is voluntary.
November 9, 2023
Kindle
November 13, 2023
I loved this book. This book is sizzling hot in more ways than one. The romance and the fires in Mystery Lake are both on fire. Can they stop an arsonist before the town goes up in flames?
November 15, 2023
love it!
Romance, suspense, humor. It has it all. Probably my favorite of the Mystery Lake series! I couldn’t put it down
Romance, suspense, humor. It has it all. Probably my favorite of the Mystery Lake series! I couldn’t put it down
December 20, 2023
loved it
I loved that the romance followed a different path than the usual romantic suspense one. The mystery was interesting and the family interaction was fun as usual.
I loved that the romance followed a different path than the usual romantic suspense one. The mystery was interesting and the family interaction was fun as usual.
November 2, 2025
This series is the light in my mediocre reading October. I adore this series and it is truly the most underrated romantic suspense series out there.
October 16, 2024
I am loving this series. Although the books are all love stories,they are first the best mysteries I have ever read. The mysteries keep you guessing until the very end. Love this author
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews