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Dark Falls #6
Dark Burning
Detective Eric Cantu has been dancing around the sexy reporter for months. The memory of a too-damned-hot one night stand before he knew who she was won't stop torturing him at night. By day she's one step ahead of him in his arson investigation.
He's not the only one to notice, either.
The arsonist has Merritt McKenna in his sights, too, and his plans for her aren't anywhere near what Eric's are.
He's not the only one to notice, either.
The arsonist has Merritt McKenna in his sights, too, and his plans for her aren't anywhere near what Eric's are.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2019
137 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 16, 2019
The story felt like I had read it before many times, and that the other books did it much better
March 23, 2020
I am in love with this series. I’m completely blown away by the way the authors are able to maintain a theme and mysteries that span multiple books while still being able to focus on the central couple and mystery of each individual story. Eric is a character that fascinated me from the beginning. Cool and private, I always wondered what it would take to make him flustered. I particularly liked finding out what it is that drives Eric, compels him to make the choices he does. It’s been long enough since I first started reading this series, that I don’t remember my first impressions of Merritt McKenna from those earlier books, but I loved the feisty, vulnerable woman we meet here. This pair, together, could be the dictionary definition of enemies to lovers. And I am so impressed with how the author smoothed all the rough edges between this pair to get them to their happily ever after. I found the mystery of this book compelling. For me it wasn’t so much in the figuring out of ‘whodunnit’ but in learning the motives behind the crime, and in seeing if the Dark Falls detectives would bring down their suspect before more harm could be done. I’m not quite sure what’s coming next but I know I’m looking forward to it.
January 18, 2019
This is another very good story in this well written series . Each of the stories, written by various authors, are stand alone, but the characters do interrelate . Something these authors do seamlessly.
This story belongs to Dark Falls Detective Eric Cantu, and journalist Merritt McKenna. Eric is known as the easygoing of his team. Always the one helping his friends with their “softer side” though he is the one night stand kind of a guy. Merritt, a single mom, has a one night stand with him. Neither knowing the other’s profession. A point Eric didn’t take well.
When an arsonist is on the loose, Merritt with her journalism and Eric with his detective work , are teamed together. Much to their dismay.
Their relationship is complex and both have trusting issues. It was interesting to see how each one developed throughout the story.
All this while the fires continue to escalate as do the danger of people dying.
Another engaging story with interesting characters, in this series. Looking forward to seeing what else these talented authors have in store for us.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
This story belongs to Dark Falls Detective Eric Cantu, and journalist Merritt McKenna. Eric is known as the easygoing of his team. Always the one helping his friends with their “softer side” though he is the one night stand kind of a guy. Merritt, a single mom, has a one night stand with him. Neither knowing the other’s profession. A point Eric didn’t take well.
When an arsonist is on the loose, Merritt with her journalism and Eric with his detective work , are teamed together. Much to their dismay.
Their relationship is complex and both have trusting issues. It was interesting to see how each one developed throughout the story.
All this while the fires continue to escalate as do the danger of people dying.
Another engaging story with interesting characters, in this series. Looking forward to seeing what else these talented authors have in store for us.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 30, 2019
When Eric and Merritt were first introduced at the beginning of the book, all I could think was with the level of hostility between them, there was no way I could see a romance happening. Eric's hostility seemed to be more than the "I like her too much and I don't want to" anger.
Leave it to Lori Ryan to weave a tale that diffused Eric's hostility, releases Merritt to be able to feel something for him, includes him liking her kid, Collin, and be protective of both of them. On top of all of that, you get a suspenseful mystery and a few sexy scenes as icing on the cake.
The mystery behind the fires is intriguing and revealed slowly, layer by layer. Yet, it does not move so slowly that it causes you to lose interest. The pace of the story will keep you in the edge of your seat.
This is Lori Ryan's second story in the Dark Falls series, and it is as enjoyable as the first. In fact, it makes me want to read the other books in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Leave it to Lori Ryan to weave a tale that diffused Eric's hostility, releases Merritt to be able to feel something for him, includes him liking her kid, Collin, and be protective of both of them. On top of all of that, you get a suspenseful mystery and a few sexy scenes as icing on the cake.
The mystery behind the fires is intriguing and revealed slowly, layer by layer. Yet, it does not move so slowly that it causes you to lose interest. The pace of the story will keep you in the edge of your seat.
This is Lori Ryan's second story in the Dark Falls series, and it is as enjoyable as the first. In fact, it makes me want to read the other books in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
January 29, 2019
Someone is setting fires and has escalated to killing and Detectives Eric Cantu and John Sevier are giving their all to try and find this guy. When reporter, Merritt McKenna is assigned to the case Eric is not very happy because he has a short history with her but the more time they spend together to more he thinks having more than a one night stand might be what he’s looking for. When danger targets Merritt, John realizes he will do what it takes to save her and their relationship.
This author has a great talent for putting together romance and suspense and coming up with a romantic suspense story that keeps you on the edge of your seat as to how the H&H will get their HEA and who the bad guys are and how they will get what’s coming to them. I don’t typically like the “who dun it” stories but I will always read whatever Mrs. Ryan releases because she is one of the few authors who can do a really good balance of romance and suspense. I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
This author has a great talent for putting together romance and suspense and coming up with a romantic suspense story that keeps you on the edge of your seat as to how the H&H will get their HEA and who the bad guys are and how they will get what’s coming to them. I don’t typically like the “who dun it” stories but I will always read whatever Mrs. Ryan releases because she is one of the few authors who can do a really good balance of romance and suspense. I thoroughly enjoyed this one!
February 3, 2019
Dark Burning
This is another book on the multi author series of Dark Falls and it is suspenseful as Detective Eric Cantu works to solve a serial arsonist along side a journalist, Merritt from Dark Falls newspaper that he had to keep informed of the case. As it turns out they had a rough start having had a one night stand earlier but they had to reconnect for this case. They were drawn to each other but were both commitment shy because of their failed past experiences. Merritt also had to look out for her six year old son, Collin so she was very wary of men being introduced to him. This was an amazing action packed story as they work to stop the arsonist and actually fall in love. Merritt and Eric overcome their relationship fears as they get their happily ever after while Eric and the Dark Falls police department track down this arsonist turned killer and save Merritt's life. I cannot wait to read the next release in this fantastic unique series of books.
This is another book on the multi author series of Dark Falls and it is suspenseful as Detective Eric Cantu works to solve a serial arsonist along side a journalist, Merritt from Dark Falls newspaper that he had to keep informed of the case. As it turns out they had a rough start having had a one night stand earlier but they had to reconnect for this case. They were drawn to each other but were both commitment shy because of their failed past experiences. Merritt also had to look out for her six year old son, Collin so she was very wary of men being introduced to him. This was an amazing action packed story as they work to stop the arsonist and actually fall in love. Merritt and Eric overcome their relationship fears as they get their happily ever after while Eric and the Dark Falls police department track down this arsonist turned killer and save Merritt's life. I cannot wait to read the next release in this fantastic unique series of books.
January 14, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book!
It's a captivating, suspenseful thriller.
Eric, is a detective, with the Dark Falls
Major Crimes unit. Merritt, is a news journalist, & single mom.
She recently moved to DF. Having the
night free, Merritt goes to a local bar.
While there, she meets Eric. After
spending a wonderful night together,
the next time they see one another,
it does not go well.
Eric, & his partner, John, are working
a new case, involving arson.
He's not very happy that Merritt,
is the reporter on the case.
DG Major Crimes is dealing with a very
sick individual. The fires keep escalating,
as Eric & his unit, search to stop the person doing this.
With Eric & Merritt working together,
is doesn't stop their strong attraction
for each other.
The story will draw you in, from the very beginning, & keep you reading till the end.
It's a captivating, suspenseful thriller.
Eric, is a detective, with the Dark Falls
Major Crimes unit. Merritt, is a news journalist, & single mom.
She recently moved to DF. Having the
night free, Merritt goes to a local bar.
While there, she meets Eric. After
spending a wonderful night together,
the next time they see one another,
it does not go well.
Eric, & his partner, John, are working
a new case, involving arson.
He's not very happy that Merritt,
is the reporter on the case.
DG Major Crimes is dealing with a very
sick individual. The fires keep escalating,
as Eric & his unit, search to stop the person doing this.
With Eric & Merritt working together,
is doesn't stop their strong attraction
for each other.
The story will draw you in, from the very beginning, & keep you reading till the end.
January 29, 2019
ONE THRILLING RIDE!!!
OMG! Talk about living on edge. A whirlwind of activities and events that keep you flipping page after page. Lori's don't pull any punches, no holds barred, and take no prisoners attitude really set the tone for this fast paced read that leaves you wanting more. One amazing storyline and strong plot bring this read roaring to life brilliantly. The characters were realistic with personalities and depth that screamed for respect. Sparks fly as danger ensues in epic proportions. Heart pounding and pulse racing as their hot and steamy connection grows. The scenes were so vividly detailed and descriptive that it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Twists and turns abound with unexpected circumstances that really pull this bad boy together flawlessly. Remarkable job Lori, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
OMG! Talk about living on edge. A whirlwind of activities and events that keep you flipping page after page. Lori's don't pull any punches, no holds barred, and take no prisoners attitude really set the tone for this fast paced read that leaves you wanting more. One amazing storyline and strong plot bring this read roaring to life brilliantly. The characters were realistic with personalities and depth that screamed for respect. Sparks fly as danger ensues in epic proportions. Heart pounding and pulse racing as their hot and steamy connection grows. The scenes were so vividly detailed and descriptive that it gives the illusion you were right there in the middle of ground zero with them. Twists and turns abound with unexpected circumstances that really pull this bad boy together flawlessly. Remarkable job Lori, thanks for sharing this little gem with us.
October 1, 2021
Ever popular with the ladies Detective Eric Cantu’s annoyed and convinced recent to town journalist Merritt McKenna sought him out to use him despite her denials of knowing who he was until after their night together. Now the city powers have ordered Eric to give Merritt information on their most recent serial arson case and she’s beating him to the leads.
It doesn’t take long for his partner to recognize Eric’s specific issue with Merritt and Eric decides he may have been unfair to Merritt when he meets her small son and notices her kindness to a witness. Meanwhile, it seems the arsonist is very aware of and possibly tracking Merritt as she connected the series of fires before the police did.
Overall, I want to like this series more than I do, and it’s true there’s nothing new under the sun but seriously, the repetition!
Rating: 3.5stars
It doesn’t take long for his partner to recognize Eric’s specific issue with Merritt and Eric decides he may have been unfair to Merritt when he meets her small son and notices her kindness to a witness. Meanwhile, it seems the arsonist is very aware of and possibly tracking Merritt as she connected the series of fires before the police did.
Overall, I want to like this series more than I do, and it’s true there’s nothing new under the sun but seriously, the repetition!
Rating: 3.5stars
February 9, 2019
Eric & Merritt had a hot one-night stand before he realized that she was a journalist. As a cop, he thinks she might be using him to get an unfair advantage. But as an arsonist escalates, they are forced to work together. I liked Merritt; a strong single mother. I struggled a bit though because I didn't realize this was several books into the series, so it felt like lots of characters were mentioned that I probably should have known. (My bad, not the author.) I also wasn't entirely sold on their relationship; it seemed to turn a little too quickly from hate to love. But I did like how the mystery played out and how Eric bonded with Merritt's son. I need to go back now and start from the beginning of the series!
May 24, 2019
Finally, Eric's story!
I have really enjoyed this series and was looking forward to hearing Eric's story. The arson investigation and the story of this detective and reporter, Merritt McKenna have been going on in the background of the other books.
As Eric and his partner, John are investigating the arson case they are directed to include reporter, Merritt. In both prior books and early in this one, it shows that they have a past, which turned out to be one night stand with some major misunderstandings. Both the case and their relationship heat up as the story develops with plenty of action and suspense. Very enjoyable story and right up there as my favorite of the series.
I have really enjoyed this series and was looking forward to hearing Eric's story. The arson investigation and the story of this detective and reporter, Merritt McKenna have been going on in the background of the other books.
As Eric and his partner, John are investigating the arson case they are directed to include reporter, Merritt. In both prior books and early in this one, it shows that they have a past, which turned out to be one night stand with some major misunderstandings. Both the case and their relationship heat up as the story develops with plenty of action and suspense. Very enjoyable story and right up there as my favorite of the series.
January 26, 2020
Detective Eric Cantu, the office “Love ‘em and leave ‘em” finally meets his match. And of all professions, Eric hooks up with a Reporter, who is a single mom with a dog named Kitten! Merritt McKenna and Eric start their relationship in bed and it goes south from there, until he is forced to cooperate with her on the arson spree taking place in Dark Falls.
With her research expertise and his investigation skills, they come together to catch an arsonist/murderer. They both can’t forget their lustful “One Night Stand” and soon find themselves between the sheets.
This book had more suspense than some of the others with three possible suspects. The author displays a realistic look at motherhood. The past leading men make a presence in this story, which is alway a plus when reading a Series. There is an equal balance between mystery and romance.
With her research expertise and his investigation skills, they come together to catch an arsonist/murderer. They both can’t forget their lustful “One Night Stand” and soon find themselves between the sheets.
This book had more suspense than some of the others with three possible suspects. The author displays a realistic look at motherhood. The past leading men make a presence in this story, which is alway a plus when reading a Series. There is an equal balance between mystery and romance.
February 5, 2021
Dark Burning
Dark Burning is a fast pace story with amazing lead characters. This story is about digging deeper and not always trusting your instincts. I loved the female lead Merritt McKenna she is a single mom with a intense career as a reporter. She had strength and I enjoyed seeing her parenting side of the story. Eric is the male lead, he is a detective working an arson case that Merritt is reporting on. Eric and Merritt had a one night stand months ago, it turns into something more and their chemistry between them is explosive. Eric has trust issues and is gun shy and dragging his feet. When the Arsonist turns his attention to Merritt, Eric will have to move fast to save her in time. This is a must read if you have read this series. Happy Reading!!
Dark Burning is a fast pace story with amazing lead characters. This story is about digging deeper and not always trusting your instincts. I loved the female lead Merritt McKenna she is a single mom with a intense career as a reporter. She had strength and I enjoyed seeing her parenting side of the story. Eric is the male lead, he is a detective working an arson case that Merritt is reporting on. Eric and Merritt had a one night stand months ago, it turns into something more and their chemistry between them is explosive. Eric has trust issues and is gun shy and dragging his feet. When the Arsonist turns his attention to Merritt, Eric will have to move fast to save her in time. This is a must read if you have read this series. Happy Reading!!
May 1, 2021
4 stars
I purchased a copy of the Dark Burning in the Dark Falls Box Set 6-10 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers: Eric and Merritt by Lori Ryan et al and this review was given freely.
A dark, twisted and suspenseful story combining a look into the twisted minds of arsonists with the difficulty of learning to trust after destructive relationships and an adversary to more instant attraction romance. Contains some violence, work place drama, a nice update of the Major Crimes Unit couples, and a heartwarming ending.
New resident, reporter and single mom Merritt McKenna's life collides with Dark Falls' determinately single detective playboy Eric Cantu at first with an unexpected one night stand and again with an arson investigation.
I purchased a copy of the Dark Burning in the Dark Falls Box Set 6-10 Dark Falls, CO Romantic Thrillers: Eric and Merritt by Lori Ryan et al and this review was given freely.
A dark, twisted and suspenseful story combining a look into the twisted minds of arsonists with the difficulty of learning to trust after destructive relationships and an adversary to more instant attraction romance. Contains some violence, work place drama, a nice update of the Major Crimes Unit couples, and a heartwarming ending.
New resident, reporter and single mom Merritt McKenna's life collides with Dark Falls' determinately single detective playboy Eric Cantu at first with an unexpected one night stand and again with an arson investigation.
January 14, 2019
This series is amazing.....it centers in a town called Dark Falls. A detective, Eric and his partner are investigating fires that are becoming more frequent and more serious. In the process he meets a reporter, Merritt McKenna, who was already investigating the fires looking for a pattern. He finds himself attracted to her, and her son Collin, despite his firm belief love and marriage are not for him. They slowly work toward have a relationship of some kind, when the fires turn deadly and start turning toward an interest this man has for Merritt.
Very enjoyable read, with romance, suspense and a few hold your breath moments.
Very enjoyable read, with romance, suspense and a few hold your breath moments.
January 28, 2019
Another awesome book in the Dark Falls series. Eric and Merritt's story is thrilling. There is an arsonist wreaking havoc on Dark Falls. Eric and his partner John are on it. The Captian sets it up for Merritt to be the lead reporter on the story and Eric isn't happy. They had a hot one night stand when he met Merritt in a bar and he's been avoiding her like the plague. This series of stand-alone books are so well written. The characters are well defined and the love stories rock the series. I've loved every book I've read of this series and none has disappointed. If you like romantic thrillers, hot love stories and books you won't be able to put down, I highly recommend them all.
January 30, 2019
Dark Burning is a great romantic thriller. Merritt is a new reporter who has happened on the story of her life. Eric is the detective in charge of the case. Eric is determined to ignore Merritt. They had a one night stand & then found out each other’s career. Eric holds hers against her.
I enjoyed the characters & their fight against their attraction. The plot was fast paced but easy to follow. I liked the way Merritt was trying to stand up to her family & make up for past mistakes by taking control of her life. Eric had to decide whether or not he could trust Merritt & where their relationship would go. I really enjoyed this one.
I enjoyed the characters & their fight against their attraction. The plot was fast paced but easy to follow. I liked the way Merritt was trying to stand up to her family & make up for past mistakes by taking control of her life. Eric had to decide whether or not he could trust Merritt & where their relationship would go. I really enjoyed this one.
August 28, 2020
This one was a really fast read. I am enjoying this series immensely. Although you do not need to read all the books, as they are stand alone, there are little hints sometimes about what might be coming or a comment about the relationships that have happened before. Therefore, I recommend that you do read all of them and read them in order. Feisty heroine and hero, just so much fun. Everyone has baggage, but it doesn't overshadow the story, just blends in nicely. Even the child wasn't perfect, for a change, but a good kid at heart and normal! So far I have only read Lori Ryan in this series, and another series with multiple authors, the Sleeper SEALs.
January 1, 2025
mckenna needs some backbone
literally her work was just stolen from her n she's not saying anything??? ugh fine ok seniority n she doesn't want to risk losing her job but like ??? still ??? do. something.
i'm so frustrated with this woman istg
eric, i'm ok with. he clearly knows what issues he has and is now willing to work on them. i respect that.
this book so far is a downer compared to the previous ones. it seems so slow, or the plot isn't well built and well written. i'm literally forcing myself to read it just so i can read the next book. it's pretty sad nga kasi this was the arson case that's been mentioned several times previously.
2.5 stars
literally her work was just stolen from her n she's not saying anything??? ugh fine ok seniority n she doesn't want to risk losing her job but like ??? still ??? do. something.
i'm so frustrated with this woman istg
eric, i'm ok with. he clearly knows what issues he has and is now willing to work on them. i respect that.
this book so far is a downer compared to the previous ones. it seems so slow, or the plot isn't well built and well written. i'm literally forcing myself to read it just so i can read the next book. it's pretty sad nga kasi this was the arson case that's been mentioned several times previously.
2.5 stars
January 27, 2019
The city of Dark Falls has been hit by a rash of crimes, the latest of which is arson. Now, Detective Eric Cantu has been ordered to cooperate with a local reporter. Eric and Merritt McKenna have a short steamy history, and neither is looking for more, but things happen when you’re not looking. Author Lori Ryan has written a romantic thriller with great intensity; characters with regular jobs, lives, and emotions; and a book that will keep you turning the pages. Eric and Merritt are definitely worthy of your time spent reading their story.
January 29, 2019
Though this is book 6 of the Dark Falls series, I read it as a standalone.
A thrilling standalone of catching an arsonist. Clues are masterfully left in the story so you as the reader are in on the action with Eric and Merritt. As things escalate, there is a race against time as things come to light.
Trust is powerful as is motherly love. There is no room for manipulation as thwarts all the good.
A thrilling standalone of catching an arsonist. Clues are masterfully left in the story so you as the reader are in on the action with Eric and Merritt. As things escalate, there is a race against time as things come to light.
Trust is powerful as is motherly love. There is no room for manipulation as thwarts all the good.
July 20, 2019
Merritt & Eric
Merritt and Eric were introduced in earlier books and get their own book. She's an intrepid investigative reporter and he's one of Dark Falls' finest. When she breaks a story about a serial arsonist, he's ordered to liasion with her. Forced proximity results in them rekindling their attraction. Both have emotional baggage but when the arsonist graduates to murder, they may not get a chance at happily ever after.
Merritt and Eric were introduced in earlier books and get their own book. She's an intrepid investigative reporter and he's one of Dark Falls' finest. When she breaks a story about a serial arsonist, he's ordered to liasion with her. Forced proximity results in them rekindling their attraction. Both have emotional baggage but when the arsonist graduates to murder, they may not get a chance at happily ever after.
January 12, 2021
This could have been a story of two people who started out not liking each other because of trust issues. It turned out to be more than that. There was a serial arsonist, whose story was explained along with the reasons behind the trust issues if the main characters. The development of the mystery behind the fires and the relationship of the two main characters, keep this readers interest. For me that made this book interesting. I enjoy Lori Ryan’s books.
January 19, 2019
I’ve been captivated with this multi author series. Lori Ryan is one of these and this is her second book in this series. This story had a little bit of everything. Drama, intrigue, suspense and love. The emotions dealt with in this book were heartbreaking. Once you start this book and to be fair the whole series you just want to keep reading. Great book and series I highly recommend it.
January 25, 2019
I was enthralled with this story to the point it kept me on the edge of my seat. I could feel the flames of the fires that were set. I felt said for the young Eric and wanted to hold that long ago little boy in my arms to console him. I am so happy he and Merritt found each other. I highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
January 29, 2019
Eric is my favorite male character in the Dark Falls Series, and I really enjoyed his story. I loved his relationship with Merritt, and also the close friendship he had with his co-workers. Dark Burning is a well written mystery that kept me turning the pages. I look forward to see what happens next in Dark Falls.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary Advance Reader Copy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary Advance Reader Copy.
January 29, 2019
This is a fast-paced read with loads of drama and suspense. Merritt is a is a reporter and Eric is a cop. Eric feels she used him to get information but they still end up working together. Will they the find the arsonist before he finds Merritt. Great characters, with plenty of steam and a story with plenty of twists and turns. I really liked it.
April 1, 2019
Another enjoyable installment! I have been interested in Eric since the beginning and just loved him with Merritt. They have enjoyable banter and great chemistry. Both were multi-dimensional and layered characters that I loved learning more about. The plot was interesting and moved quickly. Looking forward to more in this series!
January 19, 2019
I'm loving this series. Each book is about one of the Dark Falls detectives in the Major Crimes division. All of them are hell bent on not being in a relationship but they all fail and fall in love with their lady. Lots of suspense and the build up to the romance makes for a good book.
February 11, 2019
Good story
Suspense filled with interesting characters. It keeps you guessing and has enough twists and turns to keep you reading. I would recommend it to anyone who loves a mystery.
Suspense filled with interesting characters. It keeps you guessing and has enough twists and turns to keep you reading. I would recommend it to anyone who loves a mystery.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews