Patricia Sargeant

She's investigating a series of murders. He's investigating her. When rookie homicide detective Crystal Rashaad's partner is murdered, it's a chilling echo of a cold case that's personal for her. This is her first big investigation, so she seeks guidance in profiling the killer from Special Agent Lucas Gilchrist. He's eager to get close to Crys--because he's trying to prove she's a corrupt cop. Even as he searches for proof of her guilt, though, he's drawn to her brilliance and boldness. Solving a string of homicides may be easier than winning Crys's forgiveness when she learns Luke's secret... From Harlequin Romantic Suspense: Danger. Passion. Drama. Feel the excitement in these uplifting romances, part of the Justice Hunters series: Book 1: Behind the Badge

Can a lawman save her from an unstoppable killer? Perfect for fans of: ?? Workplace romance ?? Forced proximity ??? Small-town romance – Stumbling upon a body in a wildlife habitat is far from routine for game warden Tisha Fletcher. The victim is the third local woman found strangled to death. Assigned to lead the manhunt for a serial killer who leaves no evidence behind, Special Agent Glenn McElligott enlists Tisha’s help. As the body count rises, Glenn can’t allow his feelings for the widow to overshadow the emerging truth behind the murders… Who’s the real target? Celebrity chef Maxwell Powell III is on a working holiday at the Coltons’ exclusive resort to write a cookbook. His assistant, Alexis Reed, cannot ignore the powerful attraction sizzling between them…just as Max is drawn to Alexis’s candour and her beauty. But when they become targets in a series of attacks, it’s not clear who the perpetrator is after—Max or the woman he’d guard with his life!

A stalker is threatening their lives... But who is the real target? Celebrity chef Maxwell Powell III is on a working vacation at the Coltons' exclusive Arizona resort to write a cookbook. Although Alexis Reed's assignment as his assistant could help her career, she cannot ignore the powerful attraction sizzling between them. Just as Max is drawn to both Alexis's candor and her beauty. But when they become targets in a series of attacks, it's Max's protective instincts that kick into high gear. And the terrifying realization that it's not clear who the perpetrator is really after--Max or the woman he'd guard with his life. From Harlequin Romantic Suspense: Danger. Passion. Drama. Feel the excitement in these uplifting romances, part of The Coltons of Arizona series: Book 1: Colton's Last Resort by Amber Leigh WilliamsBook 2: Colton's Deadly Trap by Patricia SargeantBook 3: Colton at Risk by Kacy CrossBook 4: Colton's Reel Danger by Kimberly Van MeterBook 5: Colton's Vow by Charlene ParrisBook 6: Colton Reunion by Addison Fox

Can they find the killer? Perfect for fans of: ?? Second chance ?? Forced proximity ?? Workplace romance –- Determined to make his own way, Jose Gonzalez wants no part of the family business. Helping South Beach Security find land for its growing K-9 division should be easy, and working alongside search-and-rescue specialist Sara Hernandez is an unexpected perk. But when they find two bodies on the property he purchased, everything changes. Will the serial killer they’re tracking rob them of a future together? He needs her help…and wants her love! Hezekiah Touré cares about two things: looking after his younger brothers and managing the Touré Security Group. To protect his family, he agrees to go into hiding with PI Celeste Jarrett after a serial killer threat. Sharing a safe house might lead to sharing her bed, but can he convince her to trust him again? Or will the wounds she suffered in the past drive them apart again?

He needs her help... And he wants her love. Hezekiah Tour cares about two things: looking after his younger brothers and managing the Tour Security Group. To protect his family, he agrees to go into hiding with Celeste Jarrett after a serial killer threat. As a private investigator, Celeste has information Zeke's family can use. As a woman he tried to love, she's always been hard to reach. Sharing a safe house might lead to sharing her bed, but can he convince her to trust him? Or will the wounds she suffered in the past drive them apart again? From Harlequin Romantic Suspense: Danger. Passion. Drama. Feel the excitement in these uplifting romances, part of The Tour Security Group series: Book 1: Down to the WireBook 2: Her Private Security DetailBook 3: Second-Chance Bodyguard

Game Time DecisionBrooklyn Monarchs Book VHe only has one shot to prove his love ... At thirty-seven years old, Marlon Burress doesn't need a game clock to know he's coming to the end of his NBA playing days. After fifteen years with the Miami Waves, the franchise has traded him to their division rival, the Brooklyn Monarchs. Even worse, his new team signed him to only a one-year contract. But before he walks away from basketball, Marlon needs a new plan. As he considers settling down, his thoughts turn to his greatest challenge yet: winning back his former college sweetheart. Zerleena Chase spent her entire college career as Marlon's cheerleader. After he graduated, Marlon made a fast break to his basketball dream, leaving her on the sideline. It took Zerleena years to find her own voice. Now that her satellite radio show is gaining national recognition, Marlon has bounced back into her life, expecting her to play on his team once more. But this time, Zerleena 's taking center court. If Marlon wants a second shot at her love, he's going to have to prove that Zerleena has always been his most valuable partner.

One-on-one is the hottest play ... A passion for the game is what it takes to win. But off the court, it takes a different kind of savvy to heat things up. . . He's part problem-solver and part dream-maker. There's not a crisis he can't avert. And handling the NBA's most explosive team has put public relations ace Troy Marshall at the top of his game. It also gives him a chance to give back to the community. But one determined reporter is messing with his flow. And he'll need way more than skill and charm to win this tempting one-on-one. Andrea Benson's instincts tell her that something major is going on behind-the-scenes with this franchise. And a headline story is the only way she can regain the career and good name she let slip away. But Troy's sincerity is throwing her for an unexpected -- and very seductive -- loop. Can they trust each other enough to uncover the truth -- or will too many secrets be their breaking point? Reviews"Basketball power couple Jaclyn and DeMarcus return in this strong sequel to Fast Break" -- Publishers Weekly

Keeping ScoreEvery moment is hot - on and off the court ... To be a pro basketball champion takes endless drive and passion. But being a winner on the court often means losing off the court. . . He's an NBA legend, considered the best of the best. Now veteran player Warrick Evans is determined to lead his team all the way to the championship. It's his last shot before he retires, but the media can't get enough of his story - and all the attention is turning his teammates against him, not to mention his wife. Dr. Marilyn Devry-Evans has always stood by her man, even when it meant standing in his shadow. Now she wants to focus on her own career, and on scoring her own dream job. But with the spotlight bearing down on them, Marilyn is reaching her breaking point. Especially when a secret comes to light - one that could destroy not only her career, but her marriage. Reviews"A keen understanding of the human heart gives this mature romantic story a realistic tone. The dialogue is explosive, seductive, and pleading as it artfully shows the silent strength of the characters." - Publishers Weekly "(Sargeant) paints the separate lives of her characters with extreme detail. ... Keeping Score is a playbook for a happy and stronger married life." - USA Today "The writing is clever and funny, and the rooting interest for the lead couple is high. Readers will love the depth of emotions that this couple shares with us." - RT Book Reviews

Fast Break: Brooklyn Monarchs, Season 1, Book IThe only way to win is to lose control ... It's 24/7 money, fame, and game on-and off-the court. But the real action is behind the scenes in Patricia Sargeant's sizzling pro basketball series, where the stakes are everything and winning means playing for keeps. . . He's a two-time MVP and three-time championship winner. He lives to be the best. And now that he's a first-time coach, DeMarcus Guinn will lead the NBA's worst team to the top his way - or no way at all. But the team's fiery franchise owner, Jaclyn Jones, is fighting him at every turn. And their unexpectedly seductive one-on-one is the kind of game time he can't resist. Turning her family's team into winners is Jaclyn's only hope of saving them and her community. She's used to being in control, but DeMarcus's determination - and the way he makes her feel - are like no moves she's ever seen. And with everything they care about on the line, they'll have to play to win . . . or lose their hearts. Excerpt, Fast Break: Brooklyn Monarchs, Book IDeMarcus's mind spun at Jaclyn's contrasts. Sweet and spicy. Bold and bashful. He wanted to taste her, all of her. He tightened his hold on her thigh and pressed his hips hard into hers. Jaclyn broke their kiss. "Marc. Wait." DeMarcus froze. His left hand pressed her breast; his right hand cupped her thigh. His body ached. "All right." Jaclyn opened her eyes. She pressed her hand against his chest, creating more room between them. "I'd be lying if I said I didn't want you. What an understatement." Her chuckle was breathless and awkward. "But things are complicated enough for both of us without adding a sexual relationship." DeMarcus made himself release her. He turned away from Jaclyn's scent and breathed deeply to clear his mind. "You're right. You're my boss. This isn't a good idea.""I'm glad we can be sensible about this." She didn't sound glad. Small comfort. DeMarcus collected his jacket from her kitchen chair before facing her again. His palm tingled from the feel of her. His body ached from the taste of her. "Yes, we can be sensible. But for how long?" Reviews for Fast Break: Brooklyn Monarchs, Book I"Sexy, fun, and fast-paced ... a slam dunk " - Kate Angell, USA Today best-selling author"A fun read ..." - Publishers Weekly

He knows how to win her surrender ... She Wants What He's Got . . . Valerie Parker is desperate to win the affection of her emotionally distant father and land a promotion at his advertising firm. Her biggest obstacle is junior partner Steven Crennell, a dazzling former NBA star who scores all the big accounts. But Valerie's attempt to outshine her charismatic rival unexpectedly leads her straight into his arms. She's Everything He Needs . . . Steven hopes to dispel the playboy stereotype left in the wake of his NBA career. Between battling his ex-fianc e and focusing on his work, finding his soul mate isn't on the agenda - until he meets his match in Valerie. And when competition leads to explosive passion, he learns that the game of life - and love - involve a very different set of rules. Praise for Heated Rivalry"The age-old romantic conflict of opposing lovers is fresh and exciting in the skillful hands of Patricia Sargeant. Heated Rivalry steams the page from the beginning to the satisfying end." - Donna Hill, Essence best-selling author"When ex-NBA star Steven meets advertising executive Val, The Taming of the Shrew never read so well - or so sexy." - Shirley Hailstock, best-selling author"Patricia Sargeant not only touches the heart, she touches the soul of the reader." - Karen Kelley, USA Today best-selling author"Heated Rivalry sparks with sexual tension." - Janice Maynard, USA Today best-selling author"An absorbing ... emotional journey with broad appeal." - Publishers Weekly"Heated Rivalry by Patricia Sargeant lives up to its title with a riveting plot and memorable characters." - Romance In Color"Drama with a hint of humor is rife in Sargeant's latest. Readers will savor this right to the end." - RT Book Reviews"There were several storylines happening simultaneously, and Sargeant does a great job of weaving them all together." - Urban Reviews"HEATED RIVALRY is a treat and worth the read for the true romantic." - The RAWSISTAZ ReviewersExcerpt: Heated RivalrySteven finished his burger. "Tell me about volunteering at Miami Children's Hospital." Valerie placed her napkin on the table. "What do you want to know?""Everything. What do you do there?""I volunteer in the recreation room. I'm the Crayon Lady." Valerie laughed and her features lit up. Her full lips parted, showing perfect white teeth. Her eyes twinkled and danced. A warm feeling started in the pit of Steven's stomach. He could listen to her laughter and gaze at her smile for years. "Let me guess. You draw with them.""Once or twice a week since high school.""When I was in high school, I went to every basketball camp in Miami-Dade County.""I saw you when you played for the Miami Waves. You were like art." Steven watched Valerie return her dishes to the cart. He stood to do the same. "I don't think anyone's ever said that about me." Valerie turned, almost bumping into him. She was caught between his body and the cart. Steven held his ground. Her heat drew him closer. He breathed her scent, lavender and vanilla. He wanted to bury his hand in her ebony hair. Her eyes mesmerized him. Steven reached around Valerie and laid his dishes on the cart." What type of art?" His voice was husky. He hadn't intended it to be. What was she doing to him?" Modern." She answered without hesitation. "Bold and powerful. Full of energy and contrasts.""Funny. That's what I feel around you. Restless energy and conflicting reactions." She searched his gaze. "What conflicting reactions?" He couldn't resist any longer. Steven reached out and filled his hands with her hair. It was soft and warm. "Your vulnerability draws me closer, but your temper makes me want to run and hide." Her smile teased him, tempted him. "Do I frighten you?" She reached out and squeezed his left bicep. "A big, strong professional athlete?""Sweetheart, you bring me to my knees." Steven leaned in and pressed his lips to hers.