In the realm of romantic suspense, Riley Edwards' "Playing With Danger" emerges as a thrilling ride that mixes intrigue, passion, and high-stakes drama. The novel centers around the daring and dynamic duo, Grace Hart and Navy SEAL Griffin Black. Edwards does a masterful job at crafting a narrative that locks readers in with its intense pacing, character depth, and a well-engineered plot that keeps you guessing until the last page.

The story kicks off when Grace Hart finds herself embroiled in a sinister plot that threatens her life. A chance encounter introduces her to Griffin Black, a Navy SEAL, whose presence promises protection and stirs an undeniable attraction between them. Edwards artfully captures the chemistry between Grace and Griffin, balancing the burgeoning romance with the overarching threat that looms over them. Their interactions are charged with a blend of vulnerability and strength, making their relationship feel real and compelling.

Riley Edwards excels in building an ensemble of characters that are not just peripherals but integral to the narrative’s progression. Each character in "Playing With Danger" is meticulously developed, displaying unique traits that either complement or vividly contrast with the protagonists'. This approach not only enriches the storyline but also enhances the immersive experience of the reader. Characters such as assertive yet compassionate Veronica and the charmingly witty Bryan add layers to the narrative, providing both emotional depth and relief from the intense main plot.

The suspense element in the book is deftly handled. Edwards unravels the mystery and danger surrounding Grace in a piecemeal fashion, expertly maintaining tension and intrigue. What stands out is her ability to maintain this suspense throughout the book, intertwining it with the romantic storyline without overshadowing it. This balance is hard to achieve and is a testament to Edwards’ skill as a writer in this genre. The looming danger propels the plot forward, making it almost impossible to put the book down as the stakes continue to escalate.

One of the most commendable aspects of "Playing With Danger" is its pacing. Riley Edwards knows exactly when to drop a bombshell and when to pull back, allowing readers to catch their breath. This rhythmic pacing ensures that readers remain hooked, while also allowing enough room for character development. The flashback sequences are particularly well-placed, providing insights into the characters’ pasts that are both enlightening and relevant to their present motivations and actions.

However, while the novel scores high on intrigue and engagement, there are moments where the dialogue feels a tad forced, particularly in some of the romantic exchanges between Grace and Griffin. In a few instances, the lines do not quite deliver the emotional punch they intend to and instead come off as somewhat clichéd. Despite this minor hiccup, the overall narrative flow and the crispness of the majority of dialogues manage to overshadow these occasional lapses.

The thematic backbone of "Playing With Danger" revolves around trust, survival, and the redemption found in new beginnings. Riley Edwards cleverly uses her narrative to discuss these themes, interlocking her characters’ personal growth with the evolution of their relationships. The theme of trust, in particular, runs prominently throughout the book as both Grace and Griffin must navigate their past traumas and vulnerabilities to build a future together.

The book also does not shy away from providing graphic descriptions of violence which, while necessary for authenticity in the context of the story, might not sit well with all readers. Riley Edwards tackles the harsh realities her characters face unflinchingly, providing a narrative that feels as raw as it is romantic.

In conclusion, "Playing With Danger" by Riley Edwards is a highly engaging and compelling romantic suspense novel that succeeds in both thrilling and romancing its readers. With its strong characters, well-maintained suspense, and passionate love story, it offers a satisfying read for fans of the genre. While the dialogue may occasionally hit a false note, it does little to detract from the overall excitement and satisfaction derived from this high-stakes romantic thriller. Riley Edwards proves once again why she is a powerhouse in the romantic suspense genre.