The Manchineel (Unabridged‪)‬

Just as nature evolves to protect itself against predators, a woman grows into a deadly force. Elyse Santiago seeks a fresh start far from the traumas of her past in Miami and ventures to Los Angeles. There, she cultivates a social media persona and shares lessons on life and nature from her garden. Yet, behind her smile she’s haunted by the voice of her childhood abuser—a ghost from her past she thought she’d silenced forever. Surviving on her own in Los Angeles proves challenging for Elyse. She’s broke and unemployed when her path crosses with Ben, a handsome Hollywood attorney at a top talent agency. 

As they collaborate professionally, an undeniable attraction blossoms. But, Ben is trapped in an abusive marriage with Ana, the daughter of his powerful boss. Escaping Ana’s grasp threatens to destroy Ben’s life, endangering his career, lifestyle, and reputation. For Elyse, no moral boundary or personal risk can deter her from claiming Ben entirely as her own. As they grow closer, the very foundation of their lives begins to shift, entwining them in a web of passion, betrayal, and murder.