All the Missing Pieces

Cowles (Delicate Escape) dazzles in this twisty romantic suspense novel. Ever since Ridley Sawyer’s twin sister Avery vanished from a fraternity party on the eve of their college graduation, Ridley’s life has been defined by the mysterious loss. Five years later, Ridley channels her trauma into her work as a popular true crime podcaster, solving cold cases from the comfort of her beloved VW van, accompanied by her judgmental cat, Tater. Now she heads to Shady Cove, Calif., to investigate a suspected serial killer and interview Emerson Sinclair, whose abduction fits the killer’s pattern but who alone managed to escape his clutches. Emerson also happens to be the sister of gruff local sheriff Colt Brooks. While Ridley and Colt clash at first, passion ignites as they join together to search for answers. After an attempt on Ridley’s life, they realize the case might not be so cold after all and the stakes rise exponentially. Cowles keeps the surprises coming a mile a minute, culminating in the unmasking of a villain readers truly won’t suspect. The quirky Shady Cove locals only add to the fun, especially bar owner Trey and eccentric activist Celia. With a perfect balance of romantic tension and spine-tingling mystery, this is a must-read. (Jan.)