From a New York Times bestseller, a “perfect vacation” romance between a volcanologist and his assistant on Hawaii’s Big Island is “highly recommended”(Library Journal).

Paradise calls to Chase Wilcox. A man of science, he is drawn to the lush beauty of the island of Hawaii—while escaping the destruction of his own personal world. Here where warm breezes caress the skin—and where dangerous fires rage unseen beneath the earth's surface—Chase plans to immerse himself in his work . . . and somehow heal and forget. The last thing he needs or wants is love.

But the island is home to many unexpected wonders, which is why Nicole Ballard could never leave it. A research assistant, an artist, and a dancer who goes by the stage name of Pele, she, too, hides a secret pain, releasing her pent-up sensuality to the accompaniment of native drums before a mesmerized audience. Nicole has never met a man quite like Chase, strong, intense, and brilliant. And he, in turn, is fascinated by this remarkable woman who seems to be a breathtaking force of nature in her own right.

Joined on an important scientific project that carries them into the verdant heart of a tropical wonder land, Nicole and Chase will be forced to confront their own inner darkness, while resisting a powerful attraction between them. But in the shadows of Kilauea, all restraints will be broken, as emotions flow as hot and free as molten lava. And desire will erupt, as unpredictable as the living volcano, transforming the very landscape of their lives.

“I’ll buy any book with Elizabeth Lowell’s name on it.” —*New York Times–*bestselling author Jayne Ann Krentz