The Hand That Feeds You

In this second book of the series (after Riding for a Fall), veterinarian Andi Pauling's manages to control her life efficiently, and to do so with gusto even when confronted with two grisly deaths, a horrifying case of child abuse, a pornography ring, brutal dog fights, recalcitrant employees, a new business partner and a crucial contact who has multiple personalities--not to mention the angst of an unexpected new love affair for herself. Roberts offers an evocative Southern California desert setting that includes an Indian reservation with a thriving casino. Even though the climax is over the top and the basic plot has a little much in common with her first book, the story moves right along at an easygoing clip, interspersed with humor and non-technical explanations of medical procedures. (June)