He needs to keep the gorgeous competition out of his head...and his bed. Former FBI agent Abe Royal believes in hard work, justice, and a suit for every occasion. He's hot on the trail of an elusive book thief when he realizes he's being followed...by a sultry, cunning stranger. Ambitious, young detective Sloane Argento has just been handed the case of a lifetime. It's a challenge she's prepared to meet head-on. Until she finds herself in a sexy game of cat-and-mouse with the devastatingly handsome competition. Tempting the sinful devil hidden beneath his cool façade might just become as much a priority as capturing the criminal. Abe's stoic restraint shows cracks every time Sloane gets too close. He needs distance, rules to protect himself. But when teaming up is the only way to race the ticking clock, he's left wondering just how long he can deny his attraction to this risky, red-hot distraction. The Codex Series (books must be read in order): #1 BEHIND THE VEIL #2 UNDER THE ROSE #3 IN THE CLEAR