About Melody

(Chapter 1 sample at the end of synopsis)

Two stories of deadly passion intertwine in this gripping mystery by bestselling author Stacy-Deanne, who weaves a thrilling tale of love and death. Melody Cruz is certain her sister's new boyfriend, the wealthy, charming, and handsome Keith Taylor, has a dark past that he will do anything to hide. Wanting to protect her sister, Melody works to uncover Keith's secrets, not realizing that in doing so, she is sacrificing her own safety -- because Keith will go to any lengths to keep himself in control.

At the same time, a man named the "Albany Predator" has been brutally raping black women throughout the city, and Melody is convinced that her best friend is the rapist's next target. Detectives Brianna Morris and Steven Kemp are placed on the case, determined to bring this sadistic felon to justice. But when things couldn't get any more complicated, all evidence is turned around to reveal a surprising prime suspect.

Full of forbidden desire and unwavering strength in the face of danger, Melody is a chilling tale that will leave readers breathless as they navigate all the plot twists and turns. Struggling to survive until the end, the diverse cast of characters will be left questioning their loyalties, their passions, and how far they might be willing to go to protect the ones they love.

In stores everywhere now!


Chapter One

Melody Cruz hated to make assumptions. Yet what else could she think? She smelled his overpowering cologne, still she didn't turn around. She could feel Keith's presence as he entered her bedroom. Already this had been too much.

"What are you doing in my room?" She cuddled her bare bosom.

"Answer me, Keith!" He didn't. "What's your problem?" What was his problem? Here she stood half-naked while his eyes fondled every part of her body. "Just go away, please." She shook. "Please go back into the living room."

She had no idea what to make of this. He'd been one of the most attractive men she'd ever seen. His alluring green eyes rested within his creamy tanned skin. His magnificent dark hair completed the picture of perfection. Yet something about Keith Taylor seemed off. Even his good looks weren't enough to keep Melody's mind off his latest action.

She sensed that her being frightened turned him on. He took deep, hollowed breaths. She imagined him smirking. His handsome face flushed with demented delight. How could she feel this way about a man she'd just met? What did he want? Something about him brought out fear that she couldn't explain. Already she felt his mind controlling her emotions.

She still refused to look at him. Even at twenty-three years old Melody felt uncomfortable about being naked in front of men. A familiar self-consciousness awoke inside of her. Her body shut down beyond her control.

Keith panted loudly through deep grunts. Melody's knees knocked, her fingers sweat and her body ached from anxiety.

"Mmm...beautiful," he whispered. She heard him crack his knuckles, while she envisioned cracking his neck. Suddenly the breathing sound disappeared. His cologne drifted from the room. She took a deep breath, realizing he'd left. She retrieved her blouse and went to the hall. She wanted to glance down the stairs before locking her bedroom door. "Oh my God," she sighed. Talk about a lasting first impression.