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In this sizzling romantic suspense by a New York Times bestselling author, a serial arsonist targets the biological family he found through an online DNA ancestry test.

Five years ago, Charlotte Murphy's brother tracked down her family through a DNA ancestry test. Charlotte was the only one he left alive. And now he's back to finish the deadly game he started.

When reclusive Mack Connor is summoned to Alaska by his best friend, he's not prepared to play bodyguard to a spunky, sexy bartender fighting to reclaim her life from the stalker who killed her family. But when Mack falls hard for the sassy Alaskan, the stakes suddenly become much higher than he can afford.

Charlotte's scared. She's in danger. She's afraid to trust. Until Mack walks into her life, with shadows in his eyes, a gun at his hip, and a heart he keeps under lockdown.

When the serial arsonist heats up his game, can Charlotte and Mack find a way to survive, or will her death be the final victory for the brother no one would ever want?

342 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 21, 2020

106 people are currently reading
73 people want to read

About the author

Stephanie Rowe

112 books1,537 followers
Hailed as a "paranormal star!" by J.R. Ward, Stephanie Rowe is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty-five novels. She is the 2018 RITA® winner for Best Paranormal Romance, as well as a five-time nominee for this prestigious award. For more on Stephanie and her books, visit her at www.stephaneierowe.com, or on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/StephanieRow....

A life-long reader, she began crafting stories at age ten, but didn't realize it was her dream until she was an adult.

Once the light dawned, she immediately left behind "work" as the world defines it and went to "work" as she defines it, which means getting up every morning with a smile in her heart so she can spend the day doing that which makes her spirit sing.

Stephanie believes in learning to listen to your heart in order to figure out what your dreams are, and then opening yourself to the inspiration that will direct you there. She believes we all deserve the right to enjoy life, and for the ride to be as easy as we want it to be, and that we all should accept nothing less than making our dreams come true.

Stephanie lives in New England, and spends every day doing her best to fill it with people, observations and activities that uplift her soul, which include writing, tennis, dancing, friends, and her amazing family.

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5 stars
157 (69%)
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49 (21%)
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15 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
Profile Image for Madison Warner Fairbanks.
3,452 reviews495 followers
July 21, 2020
Burn by Stephanie Rowe

Book 4 in the Alaska Heat series. Contemporary Romantic suspense.
Can be read as a stand-alone. Previous events and characters are mentioned in this book so it might feel like you want to know their stories or more about an event. I have not read the previous books and had no problem following the story. I do want to go backwards and read the previous books in the series after reading this.

Fast paced, engrossing and a thrilling story. Romantic and inspiring.
The heroine has had a lot of trauma in her past. She’s scared but strong enough to overcome those events and grow and be comfortable in trusting friends.

Excerpt:
“Protectiveness surged through him, a fierce need to keep her safe, to free her spirit to soar again.
A smile flickered across her face. "You look so intense right now."
"I've decided to keep you safe." He hadn't meant to say it, and he sure as hell hadn't intended to say it like he was staking a caveman claim on her well-being, but that's what came out.
She stared at him, then suddenly, a smile flooded her face, lighting up her eyes with a sparkle that seemed to reach right into his core and rip all his shields away. "Thank you for saying that. I have the same goal for myself.”
Excerpt From BURN By Stephanie Rowe
Profile Image for Angie.
400 reviews8 followers
July 27, 2020
Wow... This book has so much happening that it keeps you hooked from the beginning to the end. I couldn't put this book down. I really enjoyed reading Charlotte and Mack's story. My heart really went out to Charlotte, she has been through so much. You need to read this series.
Profile Image for Sylvia Robson.
48 reviews
July 19, 2020
WOW !! what a roller coaster of a page turner, it has been a long time since the last Alaska Heat book from Stephanie and the time lapse has not deterred from the fast paced action with a lot of emotion that we have come to expect from Stephanie and she does not fail to deliver a fantastic plot with twists and turns, this is the story of Charlotte and Mack , Charlotte is Mari's friend who she works with at O'Dells we met Mari and her man Ben in Ghost, Charlotte has been living a nightmare and in fear of her step brother Dexeter for the past 5 years which has now caught up with her, and the cat and mouse game starts again so she is determined to leave Twin Forks and is not prepared when Ben asks his best friend Mack a security specialist to come to Alaska to help Charlotte Mack has demons of his own past to deal with and is reluctant to help as he feels he is best being alone but when he first see's her all things change and he has to tread carefully to win over her trust this is a gripping tale of how 2 people learn how to trust not only each other but friends as well , we also meet up with the characters from the first 3 books in the series ..I could not put this book down and read it with in a day , it has everything including a extremely evil adversary
I was gifted an advanced reader copy for an honest review .. Cannot wait for the next one.
2 reviews
July 18, 2020
I was selected to read and rate this book and received a free copy. I won't rehash the storyline as you will pick that up above.
Burn is a book about finding the inner strength to overcome the things that you fear and hold you back. Stephanie Rowe weaves a beautiful story between Charlotte and Mack, two battered souls, who find each other and choose the courageous path of facing their fears and moving forward together. This story is set in the beautiful Alaska and what I love about the story is that you can imagine the crunch of snow and stark beauty. The book is fast paced and for those that love a mystery thriller romance, you will not be disappointed. I enjoyed both characters and found them authentic and believable. The book was well written and held my interest throughout. The reason that I only gave it a **** star and not a ***** star rating was that I would have liked a little more slow burn in their romance. Perhaps over a week or so. It concerned me that Charlotte fell for Mack so quickly with all the trauma she had endured. The time could have been extended without drawing out the book but it would have worked better for me. It is an excellent thriller romance. Enjoy!
Profile Image for Cindy.
2,350 reviews172 followers
July 22, 2020
I forgot how thrilling this series is. Suspense and peril from start to finish. This book literally picks up where the last one ended.

Charlotte Murphy who is still recovering from surviving a serial killer returns home to find out the man who killed her parents has finally returned to fulfill his promise 5 years ago to kill her.

Mack Conner whose best friend is Ben Forsett who is also recovering from saving his woman Mari and her best friend Charlotte comes to Alaska at Ben's request to help protect Charlotte. These two are pretty broken when they meet. Charlotte is almost paralyzed with fear and grief and Mack carry a heavy load of quilt over an op that went wrong. The two end up being the light to the other's dark and heal the others bruised souls.

All the previous characters in the series are back to help Mack and Charlotte. I hope there are more books coming in the series.
Profile Image for Vinessa.
1,951 reviews23 followers
July 27, 2020
Oh my this is so romantic and I can't imagine it could be with all the dangers around the corner. Five year old mysteries, family secrets, haunting nightmares, missions gone wrong, betrayal by unexpected sources, unconditional love, security, life changes, is it a community or a family. Rugged Alaskan men backed by strong Alaskan women. A Boston man who hates people is embraced in the bussom of the Alaskan people. After one serial killer is caught and incarcerated Fires start popping up out of nowhere causing a string of deaths they are all connected to the tragic deaths of one woman's parents five years ago.
Profile Image for TXBRITGAL.
1,435 reviews33 followers
July 22, 2020
LOVED this book! Very intense and filled with suspense, danger and excitement. Though it's book 4, I hadn't read the others before reading it. I was still able to thoroughly enjoy this treat. Set in Alaska, Charlotte is recovering from wounds she suffered after getting kidnapped weeks prior. What her friends are realizing is she's dealing with major demons from the past that aren't kidnapping related. They just know they want to help her. The reader quickly learns just how tough this woman is. After all she's endured, she's learned the hard way. Can she beat her demons and the real life evil after her? Enjoy the ride and help cheer her on!!
9,376 reviews140 followers
July 21, 2020
The fourth book in the Alaska Heat series brings Mack and Charlotte's story. The author does a great job pulling you in with all the drama,danger and emotions and describes her scenes in vivid detail. It's a fast paced ,sexy and steamy story that had me glued to the pages right to the end. I loved this book and would highly recommend reading.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
Profile Image for Melanie.
149 reviews4 followers
July 21, 2020
Wow! This was the first book I've read from this series ( I will be getting the rest) and I loved it. Stephanie Rowe rocks contemporary romance and suspense. Can't wait now to read the rest! It had just the right amount of spice, action, laughter, emotion. A great read!
2,425 reviews43 followers
July 22, 2020
From the first breath of overwhelming anxiety that swallows Charlotte in the beginning of the book, I fell into her world with no chance of escape until, in the end, I witnessed with my own eyes that all was well. That is the quality of writing that Stephanie Rowe brings to Burn, the fourth book in her outstanding Alaskan Heat romantic suspense series.
Five years ago, Charlotte could not imagine what her life would become, living every day looking over her should, haunted by the monster who had murdered her parents. Now her name has been splashed in headline grabbing news and she is no longer hidden from the twisted genius that hunts her. The high intensity of her grim tale is balanced by the warmth of the small group of friends whose unique talents and bravery allow them to stand with her, by the sometimes dark humor that not even terror can completely wipe out, and by the inner strength that shines through as she chooses, somewhat reluctantly, to take a stand against a truly evil enemy. Never could she have imagined allowing a damaged stranger to join that the small group willing to face the ingenious menace that threatens her.

Alaskan Heat is a series connected by overlapping characters making it easy to read Burn as a standalone novel but also making it almost irresistibly tempting to go back to the earlier book to learn more about the awesome characters encountered here. Fans of suspense novels featuring strong women and men who stand up when times get tough and who exchange banter even in the toughest times, Burn is the book for you. Fans of Susan Stoker, Kristen Ashley, Sharon Sala, Nora Roberts, and Iris Johansen are sure to love it.
414 reviews
July 25, 2020
New author to me

I read the blurb on Burn, and thought it might be good. I took a chance and clicked on it. So glad I did! What an amazing story! One of those stories you think about weeks after you finish the book. Loved it, and will be reading all the other Alaska Heat books - and adding Stephanie Rowe to my author list! Highly Recommend
3 reviews1 follower
July 30, 2020
This is the 4th book in Rowe's smokin' Alaska Heat series - although it can truly be read as a stand alone - I loved reconnecting with previous characters. Her ability to weave adventure, peril and romance is outstanding. This book picks up right where the last one left off and I couldn't wait to reread the previous book to refresh my memory.

From the first few pages, Charlotte's fear and anxiety seep into your bones and you are right there with her through her entire journey. When Mack joins her, there is obvious chemistry, but the understanding and solace they provide for one another is what touches the heart and sticks with you. What I love about Stephanie's writing is her ability to immerse you in her characters and their world. It is a connection that sticks with you long after the last page.
Profile Image for Vicki Shaff.
413 reviews2 followers
July 27, 2020
Love this series

Charlotte is just returning home from the hospital. Kidnapped and sliced with a knife the killer almost succeeded in ending her. She's survived but there's another danger waiting for her that she's tried to escape from for the last five years. She's terrified to enter her home and makes up her mind to leave when two of her friends drive in. Another is on his way with his best friend Mack. The intention is for Mack to stay with her but Charlotte is determined neither one of them will stay. Mack is a loner but something about Charlotte calls to him. With a lot of persuasion they convince her to not leave. Charlotte doesn't trust anyone but she's drawn to Mack. It takes a bit of convincing but Mack gets her to tell him what she's terrified of. Turns out she has a sociopath for a step brother who killed her parents and who vowed to kill her too. Mack vows to keep her safe. Lots of drama and danger but both Charlotte and Mack find each other and find the true meaning when friends have your back. Excellent reading.
4 reviews
July 29, 2020
Best book and series I have ever read keep them coming

These books are the best series I have ever read I read a lot of books but this was the best exciting thrilling You couldn't ask for a better series at all
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,298 reviews207 followers
July 21, 2020
BURN is the fourth instalment in Stephanie Rowe’s contemporary, adult ALASKA HEAT romantic, suspense series set in the wilderness of Alaska. This is cyber security specialist Mack Connor, and waitress Charlotte Murphy’s story line. BURN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Mack and Charlotte’s story begins in book three GHOST. Mack is Ben Forsett’s childhood best friend, and Charlotte is Mari Walsh’s co-worker at the local bar.

NOTE: For fans of the series, there is a six year gap for the author in writing the series, and a continuity error as it pertains to Charlotte’s family.


Told from dual third person perspectives (Mack and Charlotte) BURN follows in the aftermath of Charlotte and Mari’s abduction by Charlotte’s former boyfriend Joseph. Struggling to move on with her life, Mari is determined to pack up and leave Alaska until Ben Forsett introduces Charlotte to the man with whom she will fall in love. Enter security specialist Mack Connor. What ensues is the quick building romance and relationship between Mack and Charlotte, and the potential fall out as Charlotte’s past has returned in an effort to take down Charlotte and everyone connected to our heroine’s past.

Charlotte Murphy lost everything five years earlier when her step-brother Dexter took the lives of her mother and father. Swearing to return to finish the job and kill the ‘sister’ he never knew, Charlotte has been hyper aware and in seclusion fearing Dexter will make good on the promise. Mack Connor’s last mission went all to h*ll, and in the ensuing months Mack has come to believe he is unworthy of love, relationships, friendships or help. Meeting Charlotte gave Mack a hope for the future but Charlotte’s issues of trust, may be something Mack is unable to overcome.

The relationship between Mack and Charlotte is one of immediate attraction but Charlotte’s confidence is shattered, and she waffles between trusting our hero and the uncertainty of his ability to protect her life. Both Mack and Charlotte are a little bit broken and struggle with their demons both day and night. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters many who have been introduced in the previous instalments: Cort and Kaylie (Ice #1), Luke and Isabella (Chill #2), Ben and Mari (Ghost #3) ; local Haas Carter; bar manager David Hampton; and Trooper Trey Hooper.

BURN is a story of betrayal and vengeance; trust and uncertainty; relationships, friendships and love. The premise is intriguing and dramatic; the romance is captivating, tender and emotional; the characters are energetic and impassioned. BURN is an engaging and intense story of jealousy, retribution, hatred and hostility.

copy supplied for review

www.thereadingcafe.com
3 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2020
This book sucked you in and didn't let go until the end. It was fast paced, kept you wondering what happens next.
The characters in the book are amazing. I love how the main characters Charlotte and Mack work together making each other stronger. They way the just know to trust each other. Charlotte is kick ass. She has a inner strength that is so awesome for all she has been through, the kidnapping and being cut from her crazy ex...and the 5 years of waiting for the killer of her parents, who burned their house down with them in it. He made Charlotte watch it all. Now she has been waiting for him to come back. Through all of this she never quit. Then Ben and Mari bring her Mack, Ben's best friend.
Two loaners who not only find each other, but learn to rely on other people is amazing. I love Haas, he is smart and has secrets, but he can be counted on to help with the trouble Charlotte and Mack have found themselves in with her brother, who was the one who burned her parents. They all try to get at least one step ahead of a cunning opponent. This book keeps you on your toes and guessing what will happen next.
I was given a advanced copy of this book and it was so good. I recommend it to anyone who loves suspenseful books with some love thrown in the mix, great friendships that go above and beyond. Plus there's a great dog in the story too.
18 reviews
July 26, 2020
This book is my favorite romantic suspense book that I've ever read. It was not memorable for the twists and turns of the suspense, but the story-arc of the heroine. How she managed her fear and continued to work past the fear throughout the book made the story memorable for me. The key to her moving past the fear was not her newfound romance with the male lead - but about the friendships she had created ahead of the book and now just needed to recognize. Stephanie Rowe is a superb writer, and this might be my favorite character arc she has written.

My only minor critique is that the book occurs is only because I want to be more like Charlotte - the book takes place during a very compressed timeframe. However, that is the joy of reading fiction and being able to suspend some disbelief.

Although this book can stand alone, I recommend you read the previous books in the series for maximum enjoyment. Also, there are two characters introduced that seem like they are being set up for future books, so I'm excited for the continuation of this community and family-by-choice! I hope we get more parties and events that involve the entire crew so we can catch-up on their lives as the series continues to grow.
Profile Image for Marsha.
16 reviews
July 21, 2020
Burn
☆☆☆☆☆ 5 out of 5 stars. · a few seconds ago
You Think You Know Fear?
ARC reader. Have read one other in series and they are all gripping and intense stand alone romantic suspense books. Grab your book or e-reader and go on this journey to see how main character, Charlotte approaches Fear. Her life if forever changed by past events and she checks and double-checks her environment with the help of her dog, 'Bear' and her group of loyal friends. Her parents died 5 years ago at the hands of her estranged step-brother and his misplaced abandonment stirs fear as jealousy and fires. She returns to the solace of her home in Alaska. She is not sure she can stay. Help is in the form of a friend Mack who only wants to help her past her fears and she doesn't want him in her house. Enjoy this page turning intense read and solve how every act and person fit the answers. It will leave you with goosebumps as you discover what will burn next.

✔ Yes, I recommend this product.
Profile Image for Kari.
317 reviews
September 13, 2020
I am a huge fan of this author, but I have to say this is the best book she has written so far. The constant hum of tension throughout the book made this one of the strongest romantic suspense stories I've ever read. It's a gift to tell a story and convey emotion to the reader that really drives their reading experience. Rowe has that gift in spades. Charlotte is a women who has suffered tragic loss and who is struggling to not be swallowed up by her fear. Her friends, determined to help her, introduce her to the man who will become her protector. Mack has his own demons and like Charlotte, he struggles with death and unimaginable betrayal. As the story progresses, Mack gives Charlotte the strength to push back against her tragic past that has risen to claim her in the present. Falling in love with Charlotte makes Mack realize he needs to let go of his guilt and to trust in order to save the woman he loves.
There was absolutely nothing not to love about this book. This is romantic suspense at it's very best.
Profile Image for Carolyn Spence.
1,925 reviews16 followers
July 17, 2020
Intense from page one. Mack is a friend of Ben's, the previous chapter in this series. You can read without reading previous chapters, but you get a better understanding for sure if you do. Mack comes to assist Charlotte find someone that is terrorizing her. It's funny how they both are so, so sure that they are each going to send the other one packing as they don't need or want to help each other, but then they see each other from far away and the sizzle and intensity explodes. One is willing to give the other a chance. There is pure evil in this book and it takes a village to tackle and both Charlotte and Mack have to realize that if they want to live another day. Total twists and turns, and "how are they doing what they are doing to get to Mack and Charlotte"? You have no choice but to turn the page to find out what is going to happen next. Loved it and it was a kick ass ride to the end.

I received this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Christine.
44 reviews2 followers
July 17, 2020
I can’t tell you how glad I am that I read this book. Charlotte and Mack have been through some things! The danger they faced seemed insurmountable, but they were willing and able to face it together. They both had violent and traumatic pasts, but by opening themselves up, they not only found the help and support from each other, they were able to find that help and support from others as well. While this is the 4th book in the series, it’s actually my first read from it. I don’t even know how I managed to miss the others, but I’m definitely going back and reading the rest.

** In my opinion, this can be read as a stand-alone if you haven’t read the rest of the series yet.

*** I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Denise.
4,120 reviews12 followers
July 22, 2020
Another one that filled my need to escape to a thriller that will have you pulled tight with suspense. This one also has romance to seal the edges. All around to fill what ever it is you crave with this author providing the escape. The pace will be quick so you will not want to get any distractions so not to miss anything. Charlotte has a brother that is deadly and likes to play the wrong kind of games. The interesting part in this is the recluse whom comes to the her aid. They both have issues but Mack will certainly steal anyone's heart. As they try to stay ahead of the danger you will be right with them holding your breath at times. Wow was this better than expected but the ending will certainly be worth any scraps and bruises.
Profile Image for Suzi (Obsessive Reading Disorder).
2,234 reviews
July 31, 2020
4.5 Stars

This is the 4th book of the series, but could easily be read as a stand alone. Travel to the wilds of Alaska and hold on for a heart pounding suspense read.

The book starts after some traumatic events with the heroine Charlotte. Because of that, her friends bring in some security for her. She doesn't want to share her space but eventually gives in and lets Mack stay with her. As time goes on, they agree that they are a good match. Together, they try to keep Charlotte and her friends safe.

Loved the chemistry and honesty between the two main characters. As always, this author brings the suspense. One or two twists I didn't see coming. Great read! Grab the series!

*Complementary copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jennifer Wilson.
356 reviews12 followers
July 23, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. Poor Charlotte is so scared; the only thing she can do is run. Mack is also running, but he is trying to outrun his past. Put these two together and you have two very different people, but they are drawn to each other like magnets. There is no fighting their attraction. I loved the suspense plot and was truly intrigued by the background story. So much good in this book. This is book four in the Alaska Heat series. If you haven’t read the other three books, don’t worry, you can jump in to this book and not be totally lost. Cannot wait to see if there is more of this series!
Profile Image for DawnieG Goveia.
83 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2020
Burn is definitely my favourite of the series. I couldn’t put it down. The depth of the feelings between Mack and Charlotte was so intense. They truly connected having each experienced the darkness and pain of loss. She was definitely a fighter and I love how even though Mack wanted to protect he also encouraged her to find her true strength at every turn. I also love how all my favourite characters came together as a team and strong friendships were formed. Suspenseful, intense and full of passion you can’t help but keep turning the pages to find out what happens next!
734 reviews
July 21, 2020
What do you do when you find a book by your favourite author but it is number four in a series you have never read? Devour it of course! It reads very well for not knowing what happened before. The chemistry between the main characters is hot and the storyline flows off the pages! Previous adventures are mentioned but are sufficiently explained so the storyline doesn’t suffer. Adventure, intrigue, suspense, romance and loyalty...this book has it all. I won’t give away any spoilers, but believe me, you won’t be disappointed!
898 reviews13 followers
July 22, 2020
Burn:An Alaskan Heat Novel
Stephanie Rowe

What would you do if you had to live in fear for 5 years because you knew someone wanted you dead? This is a perfect book to see how Charlotte is handling it. When Mack shows up, can he help not only her but himself?
A breath holding read that has you also wondering how Dexter is doing everything he is doing to make her fearful. Together can they prevail?
A nail biting read from beginning to end that keeps you up into the wee hours.
A great series and can’t wait to read more.
Profile Image for Jenny Hubenthal.
36 reviews2 followers
September 29, 2024
I got this as an ARC and WOW Burn is absolutely breathtaking! It's fast paced, action packed I loved Charlotte and Mack's story the twists and turns trying to figure out how was helping her stalker and who helped him years ago. This was a great addition to the Alaksa Heat series and I hope she continues with another story. All in all it took me about 4 hours to read and it left me wanting more.
535 reviews
July 21, 2020
Hot, sexy thriller

If you love a great couple and a wild adventure this is for you. I was given an advanced copy for a review. Charlotte and Mack will lead you on an adventure that is very hard to put down. The romance is fantastic. The adventure is amazing and unforgettable. The characters are so unique and wonderful you want them all to have their own story. A fantastic on the edge of your seat must read.
Profile Image for Jessica Whitlow.
6 reviews
July 21, 2020
This was my first time reading a book from the Burn series and I am now going to go back and read all the others. The suspense really hooked me and the characters were believable. A lot of times when I’ve read other books similar to this I find myself rolling my eyes at the unrealistic behavior of the characters but with this it was totally realistic but at the same time an intoxicating romance that I enjoyed escaping into. Can’t wait to read the others!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews

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