Shadow of Murder — Lauren Carr

This newest title in the author's Mac Faraday murder mystery series offers Carr's most intricate plot to date - full of twists and turns guaranteed to keep readers up until the wee hours. While still full of the humor, fun critters, and touch of romance that are her trademark, the author has also woven in a dark supernatural element that whispers through to the startling ending. - review by Marilyn R. Wilson, best-selling author, and speaker, Olio by Marilyn. You can't move to the next chapter of your life, without tying up loose ends in the previous.True crime blogger, Erica Hart starts a new chapter in her life with a bang when a dark shadow darts into the mountain road to send her SUV off a cliff and to the bottom of Deep Creek Lake. Spencer's newest addition to the police force, Dusty O'Meara assumes it was a bear. Erica is not so sure.Soon afterward, contractors discover Konnor Langston's body at the bottom of an abandoned swimming pool at the new summer home of Mac Faraday's son.With Police Chief David O'Callaghan away on paternity leave, Deputy Chief Dusty O'Meara must lead the investigation in his first murder case since moving to Spencer. Not only does Dusty have to work under the shadow of the legendary Mac Faraday, but he also has to match his wits with Erica, who is determined to find justice for Konnor, her childhood friend.Mac isn't so difficult. Even Gnarly, the town's canine mayor, is manageable if his authority is well-respected and he is kept entertained.Erica Hart, Dusty finds, is more of a challenge. It wouldn't be so difficult if she wasn't so irresistible.