Maya left the Marines after the tragic loss of her K-9. She is back in her hometown to hopefully heal and move on with her life. She has experienced a lot of loss and trauma - even before her time in the Marines. But coming home almost immediately hits her with even more loss and trauma. She immediately thrust into an environment where she doesn't know who to trust.

The villains in the story are not exactly a secret - but the way it is shown really works for the story and advances the overall narrative. I also liked the relationship building between Maya and her grandfather - and Josh. Even though they don't spend a lot of time together on the page - it felt authentic and emotional. Particuarly in the face of everything else that was happening.

This definitely falls in line with other romantic suspense series - think Stephanie Plum or Eve Dallas. This book touches on a possible romantic relationship between Maya and Josh - but doesn't go too far down that road. That makes sense in terms of the trust building between them and all of the baggage they both bring to the table. So if that type of thing is your jam - this will be a great read for you. The story leaves us with some hope - and some clear forecasting for where things are headed.

There is definitely some sensitive content to be aware of - drug use, alcoholism, loss of a family member, abuse, and a boat load of PTSD.

I received this through NetGalley as an ARC, but these opinions are all my own.

This story centers around former K-9 Marine handler Maya Thompson. After she lost her K-9 partner in Afghanistan due to an IED, she decides her military career is over. The guilt of the death of her dog, the loss of her grandmother, the guilt of not attending the funeral, and her grandfather still not forgiving her for not attending said funeral, has Maya spinning out of control. Alcohol has become her vice.
Now back home in Colorado, Maya has started a job as a US Forest Service law enforcer and hope it works out.
What she never expected was to have her best friend Doug, another US Forest Service law enforcer, killed by a bomb, and she becoming once again a K-9 handler. Something she never wanted to do again.
In the midst of finding out the reason for the bomb, it becomes evident that drugs are being produced in the ranch close to the forest.
Can Maya trust Josh Colten, the deputy sheriff her grandfather has her working with? What secrets are Josh and her grandfather, the Chief sheriff, keeping? Who can she trust? Was Doug involved with the drugs?
The story was engaging and the characters well developed. A whodunit that keeps you guessing from the beginning to the end. Some issues are left unresolved, so this reader assumes a series might be developed .
Aside from the plot, this story is a reminder of the danger and stress those in the military and law enforcement deal in their lives and how it affects the individuals and their loved ones.
It’s also a story about forgiveness. Not only from others but also from themselves.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Carina Press. The opinions expressed are solely my own.