If Anything Should Happen

This solid series launch from Hill (Last Words) introduces Kit Doyle, a California talk-radio host who specializes in trying to solve unsolved crimes. One case continues to rankle Kit and her on-air partner, Gnarly Farley: the murder of Alex Brantingham, the member of a prominent local family. Both partners are frustrated by a lack of evidence in the case, despite a suspect, Frank Vera, under arrest. Kit is determined to uncover the truth, especially after an anonymous caller insists that Vera is innocent. Meanwhile, the sudden death of Kit’s mother, who has left behind a secret letter with a bombshell, turns her life upside down. Kit finds herself in the middle of a personal mystery she must solve at all costs—even if it means putting aside her work and possibly losing her job. Realistic characters and a fast-paced plot are a plus, but multiple story arcs vie for the reader’s attention—at the expense of Kit’s own story. Agent: Laura Dail, Laura Dail Literary Agency. (Nov.)