Barb Han - Gut Instinct

Reunited…by a murderer

FBI agent Luke Campbell has never been more determined to catch the serial killer who’s eluded him for two years. Because this time the monster is after Julie, the ex he walked out on when he returned from Iraq, emotionally scarred and burdened by a secret. Now Luke will do anything—even risk his life—to protect Julie and regain her trust.

But it’s a tense race against time. Defying FBI rules, Luke keeps Julie by his side throughout a harrowing chase. Once they’re finally at a safe house, it’s clear to him that the passion they once shared hasn’t cooled. Can Luke redeem himself and keep evil away from the woman he refuses to let go of again?

“I’ll do whatever it takes to protect you. That much is true. This case has been hell.”

The weariness in his eyes caused her heart to stutter.

“I need to know you’re not going to disappear on me again.”

“You have my word.”

If only she could be certain. “You know I love you.”

“Then, believe in me. This is different.”

“How? What’s different this time?”

“I know what’s at stake.”

“But you’re hiding something now.”

She steadied herself for the lie.

“You’re right.”

If she hadn’t been sitting, his admission would’ve knocked her off balance.

“I can’t tell you everything, but as soon as this is over, I will. You have no idea how much I need you. I need to know you have faith in me.”

She answered with a kiss and a silent prayer he’d come back alive.

Gut Instinct

Barb Han

www.millsandboon.co.uk

BARB HANlives in North Texas with her husband, three beautiful children, a spunky golden retriever/poodle mix and too many books to count. When not writing, she spends much of her time on or around a basketball court. She’s passionate about travel. Many of the places she visits end up in her books. She loves interacting with readers and is grateful for their support. You can reach her at www.barbhan.com.

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CAST OF CHARACTERS Contents Cover Back Cover Text Introduction Title Page About the Author Cast of Characters Dedication Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Chapter Twelve Chapter Thirteen Chapter Fourteen Chapter Fifteen Chapter Sixteen Chapter Seventeen Chapter Eighteen Chapter Nineteen Chapter Twenty Extract Copyright

Julie Davis (formerly Julie Campbell)—She owns a landscaping business. When one of her appointments causes her to interrupt a serial killer, he’ll set his sights on her to finish the job.

Luke Campbell—Most of this FBI agent’s young career has been spent tracking a vicious serial killer. When the path leads him to the last place he expects, his ex-wife, he’ll learn exactly how much he’s willing to risk to save the woman he still loves—even if he’s left devastated a second time around.

Nick Campbell—This US marshal is a phone call away when his brother needs help. He’s willing to do whatever it takes to help track down the killer.

Reed Campbell—This Border Patrol agent will do anything to help his brother in his time of need. He has no qualms about using all his resources, either.

Detective Garcia—The detective and Luke are working together to rid North Texas of a deranged killer. But when he gets too close, his own life is put on the line.

Chad Devel—This twentysomething sous chef is a charmer who likes to party. But is he the killer known as Ravishing Rob, the murderer who captivates then decapitates?

Rick Camden—Chad’s half brother fits the profile of the serial killer, but the logistics don’t work. Could he manage to be in two states at once?

Bill Hightower—This reporter is a little too eager to score an interview with the FBI agent. Is he more involved than he’s willing to admit?

My deepest thanks to my editor, Allison Lyons, for challenging me and making me a better writer. To my agent, Jill Marsal, for her brilliant guidance and unfailing support. To Brandon, Jacob and Tori, for encouraging me to work hard and inspiring me to dream. To my husband, John, for walking this journey side by side with me—I love you. And a special thank-you to readers, and especially my girlfriend’s mom, Linda Tumino, for being so very passionate about books.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text Reunited…by a murderer FBI agent Luke Campbell has never been more determined to catch the serial killer who’s eluded him for two years. Because this time the monster is after Julie, the ex he walked out on when he returned from Iraq, emotionally scarred and burdened by a secret. Now Luke will do anything—even risk his life—to protect Julie and regain her trust. But it’s a tense race against time. Defying FBI rules, Luke keeps Julie by his side throughout a harrowing chase. Once they’re finally at a safe house, it’s clear to him that the passion they once shared hasn’t cooled. Can Luke redeem himself and keep evil away from the woman he refuses to let go of again?

Introduction “I’ll do whatever it takes to protect you. That much is true. This case has been hell.” The weariness in his eyes caused her heart to stutter. “I need to know you’re not going to disappear on me again.” “You have my word.” If only she could be certain. “You know I love you.” “Then, believe in me. This is different.” “How? What’s different this time?” “I know what’s at stake.” “But you’re hiding something now.” She steadied herself for the lie. “You’re right.” If she hadn’t been sitting, his admission would’ve knocked her off balance. “I can’t tell you everything, but as soon as this is over, I will. You have no idea how much I need you. I need to know you have faith in me.” She answered with a kiss and a silent prayer he’d come back alive.

Title Page Gut Instinct Barb Han www.millsandboon.co.uk

About the Author BARB HAN lives in North Texas with her husband, three beautiful children, a spunky golden retriever/poodle mix and too many books to count. When not writing, she spends much of her time on or around a basketball court. She’s passionate about travel. Many of the places she visits end up in her books. She loves interacting with readers and is grateful for their support. You can reach her at www.barbhan.com .

Cast of Characters

Dedication My deepest thanks to my editor, Allison Lyons, for challenging me and making me a better writer. To my agent, Jill Marsal, for her brilliant guidance and unfailing support. To Brandon, Jacob and Tori, for encouraging me to work hard and inspiring me to dream. To my husband, John, for walking this journey side by side with me—I love you. And a special thank-you to readers, and especially my girlfriend’s mom, Linda Tumino, for being so very passionate about books.

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight