Iris Johansen is known for writing suspense/romance novels and “The Face of Deception” is no exception. It reads a bit like a CSI episode with a conspiracy theory twist. Eve Duncan, the heroine, is familiar with crime and pain.Her daughter was murdered. She took her pain and channeled it into becoming a forensic artist who helps re-create faces from human remains. A mysterious man (ala Bill Gates) approaches her with a secret job and a big offer. Will Eve help the mysterious man? What will she get caught up in? 

The conspiracy theory aspect is a bit over the top, but if you can forgive that, you will find it to be a fairly fast-paced and light read. The romance is more hinted at than actually acted out (which may disappoint some readers. This is no steamy Nora Roberts or Jude Deveraux novel). And Johansen is clearly setting herself up for an Eve Duncan series (which seems to be the trend anymore, does anyone just write one stand-alone romance novel anymore?).

If you’re looking for suspense/romance combo, you might also check out Julie Garwood or Tami Hoag. If you just want steamy, go for Elizabeth Lowell.