A throroughly enjoyable and gripping psychological thriler, which will have you not wanting to put this down.

**Playing with Fire** by Mary Burton is a riveting, suspenseful crime thriller that dives deep into the complexities of obsession, danger, and redemption. Known for her skill in blending psychological depth with high-stakes suspense, Burton delivers a fast-paced, emotionally charged narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

### Plot Overview

*Playing with Fire* follows **Olivia St. Martin**, a fire marshal who is called in to investigate a series of deadly fires in the Virginia area. These fires appear to be the work of an arsonist, but as Olivia delves deeper into the case, she uncovers chilling connections to her own past. She’s no stranger to fire — in fact, a tragedy from her childhood, involving a fire that killed her family, has haunted her for years.

As Olivia's investigation intensifies, she begins to suspect that the fires are not just random acts of arson, but are deeply personal. The closer she gets to the truth, the more dangerous the situation becomes, and she starts to wonder if someone from her past is orchestrating the fires in an attempt to draw her in. Alongside **Detective Reid Novak**, Olivia must confront the demons of her past while trying to stop a killer who seems to be playing a deadly game.

The plot is filled with twists and turns, escalating tension, and a slow-burn mystery that ties together Olivia’s personal history and the present-day arson cases in a compelling and suspenseful way. As the stakes rise and Olivia’s personal and professional worlds collide, she must use her expertise in fire investigation to prevent further destruction and find the person responsible.

### Strengths

1. **Complex, Multi-Dimensional Protagonist**: Olivia St. Martin is a standout character — strong, determined, and deeply scarred by her past. Burton does an excellent job of developing Olivia’s character, making her someone readers can empathize with despite her flaws. Her traumatic history and the emotional toll of her work add layers to her character, making her both relatable and compelling. Her journey of self-discovery and redemption is one of the emotional core drivers of the story.

2. **Atmosphere and Setting**: The setting of *Playing with Fire* — a series of deadly fires, each with increasing intensity — creates a tense atmosphere that is palpable throughout the novel. The imagery of fire, destruction, and the threat of imminent danger is both literal and metaphorical, weaving into the narrative of Olivia's own internal struggle with guilt and loss. Burton’s vivid descriptions of the fires and their aftermath contribute to the suspense, adding a sense of urgency and danger that pulls the reader deeper into the story.

3. **Strong Pacing and Suspense**: As is characteristic of Burton's work, the pacing in *Playing with Fire* is tight and relentless. The plot moves swiftly, with enough twists and turns to keep readers on their toes. There are constant revelations that keep the stakes high, and Burton does a great job of balancing moments of emotional depth with the rising action of the investigation. The back-and-forth between Olivia's past and present creates an excellent sense of mystery and urgency.

4. **Romantic Subplot**: While the primary focus of the book is on the investigation and Olivia's past, there is a slow-burn romantic subplot between Olivia and Detective Reid Novak. Their relationship is realistic and develops naturally as they work together to uncover the truth behind the fires. While the romance doesn’t overshadow the suspenseful elements of the plot, it adds an emotional layer to the narrative, providing a source of support for Olivia as she navigates the trauma from her past.

5. **Psychological Tension**: Burton effectively builds psychological tension throughout the novel. The idea of the arsonist’s obsession with Olivia and the way it ties into her past is disturbing and creates an underlying unease that permeates the story. As Olivia begins to connect the dots between the fires and her own history, the reader is drawn deeper into the mind of the killer — and into Olivia’s own psychological journey.

### Weaknesses

1. **Predictability of the Villain**: Some readers may find the identity of the antagonist a bit predictable. The signs leading up to the revelation aren’t especially subtle, and experienced thriller readers may pick up on clues earlier than intended. While this doesn’t necessarily ruin the story, it might take away some of the surprise element for those looking for a more elusive twist.

2. **Secondary Characters**: While Olivia and Reid are well-developed, some of the secondary characters in the novel feel less fleshed out. Certain supporting roles, such as members of the investigative team, may feel one-dimensional or underexplored, serving mainly to drive the plot forward rather than adding depth to the narrative. However, this is a relatively minor issue, as the focus remains firmly on Olivia and her personal journey.

3. **Pacing Lulls**: While the majority of the novel is fast-paced, there are moments in the middle where the investigation seems to stall or drag. Some of the repetitive nature of Olivia's internal conflict with her past may slow the action down, although these sections are necessary for character development. Still, readers who prefer constant action may feel these moments are a bit of a lull in the narrative.

### Conclusion

*Playing with Fire* is a compelling and emotionally-charged thriller that will keep readers captivated with its suspense, well-crafted characters, and gripping plot. Mary Burton has delivered another excellent addition to the psychological thriller genre, combining elements of crime, mystery, and personal redemption in a way that feels fresh and satisfying. Olivia is a complex, flawed, and sympathetic protagonist whose journey through both literal and metaphorical fire makes for an engaging and thought-provoking read.

Fans of intense, character-driven thrillers with a blend of psychological depth and suspense will find much to enjoy in *Playing with Fire*. While some elements may be predictable, the emotional weight of Olivia’s story and the tension of the investigation more than make up for it. This book is perfect for readers looking for a fast-paced mystery with rich character development and a touch of romance to balance the darker themes of the plot.

First of all I need to say that this book was previously released as The Arsonist. I'm not a fan of the names of books being changed as on several occasions it has led to me buying a book I've already read.
Having said that this is a thrilling read with both the search for a sadistic killer and the romance between the two main characters given equal billing. Not a book that will keep you up all night as it's not that long but it is perfect to read on a plane journey or by the pool.

I enjoy Mary Burton books as they are enjoyable romances with a crime story as the background.
In this Michael Gannon is an ex fire investigator who has retired after catching the serial arsonist Nero. Darcy Sampson is a journalist who is trying to find the background story to Nero. Suddenly fires with Nero’s signature start up again.
The story kept me engaged including the twists.
Thanks to HQ and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#NetGalley #PlayingWithFire

Loved it! As usual you are taken on a rollercoaster ride throughout the story. The twists are spectacular and keep you flipping pages as fast as you can. A great cast of characters and a vivid plot create an amazing story.

Another quicker Mary Burton book, but still good. No matter the length she always has a perfect mix of mystery and romance and usually some family drauama/trauma!

AWESOME thriller dealing with an investigation into an arsonist who was presumed killed in one of his own fires. Well written with enjoyable characters amidst lots of suspense. RECOMMEND this & all of this authors' thrillers. Thanks to#NetGalley & #HQ Digital for this ARC in return for my honest revieew.

I really wanted to like this but I just couldn't connect with the characters. I felt the romance aspect totally overwhelmed the crime/investigation part. Just not for me.

What a fireball thriller! I’ve read and enjoyed many of the author’s stories in past and couldn’t miss the opportunity to read this one either.

A killer that was assumed to be dead a year ago, seems to come back to life in the new, more settled small town.

The characters connected right from the start and while this book is quite short, maybe half of what I’m used to read, it made for a good story overall. I had my theories proven in the end, although it was clear who the arsonist was early in the story. But that didn’t take from my enjoyment one bit.

Looking forward to read more soon by the author.

Very grateful for my review copy

I was issued this title by NetGalley for my honest review.

This is the first book from Mary Burton for me. I found it to be a good story, and I enjoyed the characters. My only complaint would be that--it seems it should have been a lot easier to identify the bad guy. It took until near the end for the good guys to say "that's the guy"! There seemed to be a whole lot of facts pointing in that direction earlier in the book.

I am interested in reading another book from Mary Burton.

Playing with Fire is a thriller that will have you turning the pages so quick to see what happens next. Mary Burton is a mastet of writing and this FOR SURE won't be the last book I read of hers.

Fabulous read! So the one thing I love about this author’s book is that they don’t drag out. No drama, no angst, but a veritable thriller.

What did I like? Darcy and Gannon just clicked well. Once the chemistry started they were adults about it and made concessions for each other. Their combined efforts saved a bunch of lives as they hunted down the arsonist together. A winning duo!

Would I recommend or buy?? I’ve bought many books by this author and loved them all. Her books suck you in and give you a thrill. Loved it !! Five stars!

I received a complimentary copy to read and voluntarily left a review!

I love Mary Burton books and was pleased to get this copy from NetGalley. This is a short book, 15 chapters, but pretty fast paced and filed with lots of twist and turns. I could see this turned into a longer novel if the author so desired.. More on Gannon's background, more on Darcy's life as a child. Just more. All in all I did enjoy it

Playing with Fire is a thriller that will have you turning pages as fast as you can to find out what happens next. There’s a serial arsonist, that a year earlier, supposedly died in one of his own fires. A newspaper woman and the original Arson Investigator don’t believe the serial arsonist is dead. As the arsonist starts setting fires again, Darcy and Gannon are on the chase. Can they find the arsonist before they become one of his victims?

Mary Burton is a master of writing exciting thrillers that will keep you on the edge of your seat as the action is non-stop.

Thank you to #netgalley and #HQ for allowing me to read the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed above are my own..

Read his full review on <a href="https://rosepointpublishing.com/2022/05/20/playing-with-fire-by-mary-burton-bookreview-womens-crime-fiction/"<a> Rosepoint Publishing.</a>

A firebug is terrorizing the Washington, D.C. area. Michael Gannon is an investigator whose primary mission is to apprehend the perpetrator.

Nine fires and twelve people dead later, the man is identified only by the name “Nero”. However, in one of the fire scenes, a man found in a fetal position with evidence of the accelerants used on many of the fires leads the coroner to surmise the firebug has been caught in one of his own fires.

The issue with the current string of arsons is a reporter who discloses confidential investigation information to help spark interest in his bylines. The arsonist realizes that the investigation may be getting too close and stops to let the dust clear.

Darcy Sampson is a reporter who decides to leave the DC area and return to her hometown. Michael Gannon has retired and chooses her hometown. They meet at the strange scene of a fire in her hometown.

Nero, the arsonist, misses the fires and the competition between him and Gannon. He happens to choose the same small town for his next fire. The competition is on for another incredible run. Can the newspaper reporter and Gannon become successful in stopping the arsonist? This is a fast-paced and gripping novel. Recommended! 4.5 stars – CE Williams

We received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author and publisher through NetGalley that in no way influenced this review. These are his honest opinions.

Fast paced and full of suspense I read this one in one sitting. It has great characters. There's just the right amount of romance. Gannon and Darcy work great together in more ways then one. I was surprised by the reveal. It wasn't what I was expecting. And that ending! It left me with my mouth hanging open.

Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

As an earlier work by Mary Burton, this book has a lot of problems. There are timing inconsistencies, the romance felt rushed, and it was, overall, disjointed. It just didn't flow. I've also read elements of this plot before. In other words, it just didn't grab me and make me care, but it did turn out to be a good Romantic-Suspense, in some spots at least.

Darcy Sampson has been contacted by the sister of Nero, an arsonist who set fires in DC and died in his last one. The sister claims her brother is not Nero. As a journalist, this could be an explosive story. Maybe even Pulitzer worthy. Only problem - no proof. Her boss gives her one week to follow this lead and see if it goes anywhere. Her first step is to pick the brain of the arson investigator, Michael Gannon. He left DC after that last fire and happened to relocate to Darcy's small hometown in Virginia where he reinvented himself as a builder of custom motorcycles. Darcy finds things with her family are not much different than when she left.

Michael Gannon left DC believing in his gut that Nero was still alive. The case took so much from him that leaving and becoming someone else was his way to survive. Now the fires are happening again, and a smart and sexy reporter is putting words to his greatest fear - Nero isn't dead.

Previously published as The Arsonist 3-Stars

Though I remember reading Play With Fire previously under a different name, I enjoyed reading it again.
The main characters are Darcy and Gannon who work together to find out what is going on with the fires going on in their town. Darcy is a journalist and Gannon is a retired arson investigator. They start working together to find out who the arsonist is.
A nice romantic suspense that will keep you entertained.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for an advanced e-copy of Playing with Fire. I will say that I have been a Mary Burton fan for a long time so I was excited to read it.

This book was so good that I read it in one day. I literally could not put it down. It was a fast-paced thriller, and I was on the edge of my seat as I read it. I was so engrossed in the story that it felt like I was there. The characters were well developed and likable, and it made me root for them. I was successful in guessing who the killer/arsonist was. However, it was not obvious. The story does end on an exciting cliff-hanger. If you enjoy reading a book so good that you can't put it down, then add Playing with Fire to your reading list.

It was fire!

This was the first Mary Burton book I’ve read but I can guarantee it won’t be my last.

If you’re looking for some steamy romance paired with your fire cat and mouse game, this story is for you.

I loved the quick pace of the story so much. It starts a year ago when fire investigator, Gannon is led to believe nemesis, Nero has died in his last fire. Then we fast forward to today where reporter Darcy returns home to track down retired investigator Gannon to get his take on the possibility of Nero having faked his own death. Soon fires are popping up all over the town. Is Nero back? Will Gannon trust Darcy enough to help her before it’s too late?