She rents a guesthouse sight unseen from Doris Walters, a sometimes lucid, sometimes not, senior citizen. The real owner of the property, Jeffrey Walters, is not returning his stepdaughter’s calls. And Deputy Sheriff Graham Harrigan is trying to find out why.

Graham is trying to live down a reputation as a slacker, and he hopes finding Jeffrey will earn him a permanent spot in the Criminal Investigations Division. Colleen thinks she can show him up by solving the case on her own. Her methods would be frowned upon if she were still on a police force. The two form a partnership - effective, emotional, and passionate.

Odell’s characters are complex and endearing. Colleen can’t stop thinking like a cop, even though her experiences have left her with nightmares and insecurity. Graham is a good-looking ladies man who is suddenly feeling protective and confused. And he can cook. Both are complex, likable and clearly drawn. Harrigan’s new boss is both gruff and understanding. And Colleen’s new best friend Tracy helps her face up to the truth about herself, and a lot about men. The reader is left wanting to know more about all of them.

The mystery itself is both satisfying and complex. Real estate fraud, computer hacking, and birdwatching all play a part. The conclusion is both believable and highly moving. This is extremely well-written and a highly recommended read.

Overall rating:
Sensuality rating: Mildly sensual

Reviewer: Lynn Bushey
August 27, 2007