His social skills won’t win friends. He doesn't care. But if in trouble, the ruggedly handsome (confident to the degree of near arrogance) Jake Shepherd is the man to have on your side. A former FBI agent, the intuitive private investigator with a Yale law degree is a quarter Cherokee. He can shoot the wings off a mosquito at 100 yards, read a suspect like a restaurant menu, and catch the eye of a lady.

In Capitol Murder, Jake meets Atlanta attorney Scarlett Kavanaugh when the husband (a U.S. Senator) of her estranged twin is found dead. Authorities suspect the wife was involved. She needs help proving her claimed innocence. A savvy Harvard law graduate, Scarlett is a formidable match for Jake with her poise, intelligence, sharp tongue, and independence. Thrown together in the quest for who was responsible for the death of the man with many enemies, Jake and Scarlett often trade witty banter. However, Scarlett's respect for Jake's skill grows—especially in the face of danger.

As Jake investigates, Scarlett is at his side throughout. While they begin to work as a team, neither admits the relationship is anything more than strictly professional.

JUDITH ERWIN