Review: "The Sapphire Affair" by Lauren Blakely (Suspense Romance, Contemporary Romance, Mystery)

	The Sapphire Affair (#1) by Lauren Blakely Publisher: Montlake Romance Series: Jewel The Sapphire Heist (#2) (affil.) Genre: Suspense Romance, Contemporary Romance, Mystery Publication Date: July 12, 2016 (Affiliate links)
Description from Publisher: Bounty hunter Jake Harlowe knows how to track a criminal. So when a group of swindled shareholders hires him to trail their former CEO, Jake expects a quick trip to the Cayman Islands to close another case. Until a devastatingly beautiful woman gets in the way. Steph Anderson is visiting the Caymans for a rock climbing and dive trip—or so she tells Jake. She’s really trying to find out whether or not her stepfather embezzled money from his company. The last thing Steph needs is the distraction of a sexy, charming man whose kisses drive her wild. Soon, the pair discover they’re after the same target—and millions in jewels. While Jake can’t be certain Steph isn’t working for her stepfather, and Steph can’t be certain Jake isn’t after the diamonds for himself, they can agree the heat between them is intense, and neither can deny the passion for long. But the morning after, Steph discovers that she just might have slept with the enemy, and now she’ll have to outwit him to get everything she needs…
My Rating:	Heat Rating:
I received a digital ARC from the publisher through NetGalley.com for an honest, unbiased review. This in no way influenced my review. My opinion is my 100% own. Ah, a cliffhanger!! I need more! :P This started out with fantastic intrigue as we meet Jake and get a taste of what he does. Likewise, Steph's introduction was also very appropriate and fitting of her character. The world really comes alive for you, in such a way that you can almost hear and smell the waves and salty air. This is primarily set in The Cayman Islands, but does have some Paris and Miami in the beginning, which are just as richly described and felt. The Caymans is a really great setting for this type of book. It's certainly not without its romance and chemistry either. From the moment Jake and Steph meet, there are undeniable fireworks and their playful and flirtatious banter is damn fun. They share several sizzling moments together throughout, as well as many moments that build a bond between them. The mystery of the stolen/embezzled money is another fantastic layer, woven well. I did figure out where the money went before Jake did, but really only just before. That being just the beginning is exciting and I really can't wait for the next installment! Overall, I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys international adventures with sexy fun. It reminded me of the Romantic Comedy Adventure movie "Fool's Gold" (Kate Hudson, Matthew McConaughey), which is a definite guilty pleasure of mine.