In "Lip Service," Virna DePaul crafts an intriguing tale that intertwines themes of romance, suspense, and personal transformation. This contemporary romance novel not only captures the essence of passion but also delves deep into the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. The story is set against a backdrop of normalcy, which is brilliantly eclipsed by extraordinary circumstances that challenge the characters' perceptions of love and loyalty.

The protagonist, Ava Daniels, is a skilled public relations consultant who excels at managing her clients' images, yet she struggles with her own self-image. Ava's layers are meticulously peeled back as DePaul explores her psyche, making Ava a relatable and compelling character. Her journey is tangled with that of Luke Rogan, a former undercover cop turned security expert, whose gruff exterior and soft heart make him an intriguing love interest. The chemistry between Ava and Luke is palpable, and DePaul does an excellent job of weaving their attraction into the narrative without overshadowing their individual developments.

DePaul's writing style is fluid and evocative, capturing the emotional intensity of each scene with precision. The dialogue is sharp, laden with tension that drives the narrative forward. This is particularly evident in the banter between Ava and Luke, which serves as a catalyst for their relationship dynamics. The author's use of dual perspectives enriches the story, providing insights into both Ava and Luke's thoughts and feelings, which adds depth to their character arcs.

The subplot of the novel involves a stalker, which introduces an element of suspense and urgency to the storyline. This subplot is skilfully integrated with the main romantic plot, enhancing the overall pace and engagement of the novel. DePaul handles the suspense with finesse, doling out just enough information to keep the reader guessing while ramping up the stakes for Ava and Luke’s burgeoning relationship.

One of the standout features of "Lip Service" is its exploration of themes such as identity, trust, and vulnerability. Ava’s professional prowess juxtaposed with her personal insecurities provides a fertile ground for exploring these themes. Her interactions with Luke, fraught with emotional hurdles, further highlight these aspects. It’s through these interactions that DePaul skilfully discusses the importance of vulnerability and trust in relationships. The growth of both characters as they navigate these challenges is both satisfying and believable.

However, the novel is not without its flaws. At times, the pacing seems uneven, particularly in the middle section where the romantic tension, although deliciously agonizing, might feel prolonged for some readers. Additionally, the resolution of the stalker subplot, while effective, seems somewhat rushed compared to the careful build-up, and might leave readers wanting more depth or complexity in its conclusion.

Moreover, DePaul introduces a supporting cast of characters that add richness to the primary narrative. These characters, from Ava’s engaging assistant to Luke’s stoic partner, are not merely peripheral but offer substantial contributions to the storyline and main characters’ development. Their interactions and individual stories provide layers to the main narrative, ensuring that the reader’s engagement remains high throughout.

In conclusion, "Lip Service" by Virna DePaul is a compelling blend of romance and suspense, driven by well-fleshed out characters and a strong narrative voice. Ava and Luke’s story is as much about finding love as it is about personal growth and facing one’s demons. DePaul’s adept handling of complex themes through an engaging story of love and danger makes this book a rewarding read for fans of the genre. Despite a few pacing issues and a somewhat truncated conclusion to the suspense subplot, "Lip Service" delivers a satisfying balance of steamy romance and thrilling suspense, making it a recommendable read for those who enjoy contemporary romances with a twist of intrigue.