The Devil's Safe (Three first Stella Fargo novels)

After Stella Fargo does an innocent favor for a widowed friend, three violent men try to kidnap and kill her.
They want the murdered husband’s hidden millions of dollars of drugs and money. The police suspect that she belongs to the drug syndicate and they threaten to arrest her. Her vindictive ex-fiancé learns of her troubles and uses the situation to try to force her out of her job and academic position.
When the three violent men murder the woman who was like a mother to her, she flees Seattle. She searches for a reason this is happening and uncovers dark family secrets, lies, and betrayals that plunge her into more danger.
Her only ally is a man with a criminal past. While he is kind and helpful, she does not know if he is a friend or an enemy.
Stella wants her life back, and only she can save herself or become one of the dead.

"... combines a fast-paced plot, engaging and dynamic characters, and breathless suspense to delight readers of thrillers and mysteries alike." 5 out of 5 stars — Book Review Directory
“This on-the-run crime thriller offers mystery fans dynamic leads, intense action, and surprising twists.” — Publishers Weekly Booklife Reviews