One Little Lie

Coble (Sunset Cove) opens her new Pelican Harbor series with this thrilling inspirational set on the Alabama coast and centering on troubled detective Jane Hardy. When Jane’s father retires as sheriff, Jane is appointed his interim replacement. But when her father is arrested for a murder he says he didn’t commit, she must face public scrutiny while trying to clear his name and prove her worth as a woman in a traditionally male role. She begrudgingly enlists the aid of new-to-town documentary filmmaker Reid Dixon, whose calmness under pressure helps her get more information. But little does she suspect they have a shared past in the small town where she grew up. Their sleuthing uncovers an underworld of Alabama cults, and as they investigate, Jane and Reid begin to examine their own demons—and the dark secrets of those they thought they knew. Jane and Reid grow closer, but a lie from the past emerges to threaten their bond. Coble explores themes of the legacy of sin, salvation through faith, and redemption. There are just enough threads left dangling at the end of this well-crafted romantic suspense to leave fans hungrily awaiting the next installment. (Mar.)