Frasier Island by Susan Page Davis

Lieutenant George Hudson loves his solitary life on the remote Frasier Island relishing his role protecting his country while sheltering his own hurts from the scrutiny of others.

Ensign Rachel Whitney's dream of working with the enigmatic Lieutenant on Frasier Island finally comes true but the cold welcome she receives quickly dissipates her enthusiasm and she battles to prove her value on the three person team, charged with surveillance, a monotonous and individual task.

An unexpected attack on the island causes George to rethink his own cold war against the attractive and capable ensign, finally sharing with her the true secret of the island and the peril America faces if it is exposed. As the danger increases Rachel and George find it harder to hide their true emotions but protocol prohibits them from speaking out!

When I first realised this novel was about a remote island inhabited by three people I wondered how interesting the story could be! But Susan Page Davis quickly put my fears to rest creating a fascinating setting, providing detailed descriptions of the island itself and the rather monotonous job of camera, sonar and radar surveillance, making it an absorbing read. Frasier Island will appeal to suspense and romance lovers alike with Susan balancing the two perfectly. The suspense is gripping starting slowly to enable good back story detail then picking up the pace in line with the increased tension arising from Rachel and George's attraction and their efforts to disguise their feelings. The main characters are strong yet the insecurities which drive their behaviour provide necessary realism to their personalities often missing from romantic suspense. Rachel is driven to succeed but has a sensitive side revealed by her pursuit of art which she indulges during her free time wandering the island. George has an aloof and commanding presence but the soul of a hero, committed to protecting his country and doing what is right. I can't say more but the ending is a delight!

Frasier Island is reminiscent of Dee Henderson's Uncommon Heroes series but Susan has a voice all her own and I will look forward to reading her next release, Finding Marie.