Backtrack

Arliss Cutter #8

by Marc Cameron

On the deceptively calm waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage, a generations-old vendetta catches up to Deputy U.S. Marshal Arliss Cutter in New York Times bestselling author and former U.S. Marshal Marc Cameron’s chilling new wilderness thriller for fans of Paul Doiron, CJ Box, Taylor Moore, and William Kent Krueger.

1977. D Wayne Cutter is a former U.S. Army Green Beret, part-time horseshoer, and a full-time Texas deputy sheriff with a second grandchild on the way when a quiet Sunday morning ends in murder and a manhunt. The theft of five million dollars in diamonds from an armored truck leaves two guards dead, one outlaw tracked down and taken out by Cutter, and another, Ricky Lee Pink—two-hundred-forty pounds of teenage rage—sentenced to life. The diamonds were never recovered. And Pinky never forgot that heist gone violently wrong.

2026. Following in the righteous footsteps of his late grandfather, Deputy U.S. Marshal Arliss Cutter gets word that Pinky has been granted release. Nursing a grudge for decades, Pinky vows to avenge the murder of his criminal mentor and find the whereabouts of the stolen gems that he believes is a buried Cutter family secret. Boarding an Alaskan cruise ship, and joined by two miscreant cellmates and his penpal girlfriend, Pinky aims for Anchorge—home to his ultimate target: everyone Arliss holds near and dear. Arliss must move fast because Pinky has the edge. And he has the mind to make the last living Cutter pay.

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Mystery Thriller, Fiction, Action, Suspense, Crime

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 28, 2026

About the author

A native of Texas, Marc Cameron is a retired Chief Deputy US Marshal who spent nearly thirty years in law enforcement. His assignments have taken him from rural Alaska to Manhattan, from Canada to Mexico and points in between. A second degree black belt in jujitsu, he often teaches defensive tactics to other law enforcement agencies and civilian groups. Cameron lives in Alaska with his wife and BMW motorcycle.

Reviews

[Ryan Davison · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's Texas, 1977, and a group of lethal men aim to knock off an armored car in a heist that would yield them a fortune in diamonds. It all goes pear-shaped, and a shootout as nightmarish as Mr. Pink's escape in Reservoir Dogs is followed by an intense white-knuckled car chase, culminating in Texas Deputy Sheriff D Wayne Cutter taking down one of the thieves with clever words and even better shooting. His heroic action saves a hostage, but enrages the surviving robbers to a new height of fury. In the chaos of burning rubber smoke and blood spray, the location of the diamonds becomes a mystery. The reader is left to mull over if it was an inside job, perhaps one of the first officers on the scene, or even Wayne Cutter himself who grabbed the stones? For all the uncertainty in Backtrack's opening, we know ferocious characters exist on both sides of the law.

Another timeline occurs in present day, as Deputy U.S. Marshall Arliss Cutter, grandson of D Wayne, receives a call from one of his four ex-wife’s (only half a Liz Taylor's). She’s on a cruise and feels the uncomfortable sensation of being followed. Cutter is in possession of warrants he needs to chase down near Anchorage, the boat’s port of call, so he decides to orbit nearby and observe. Apparently, one of the robbers from the 1970’s Texas timeline, a hulking massive psychopath, was just a kid then, but now in his 60's, the deranged con has dreamed of revenge for more than four decades upon anyone with the Cutter name. The family is an unaware target and in incredible danger.

If you're raising an eyebrow at a book with that opening. a shoot-em-up deserving of a five-star rating, you're within your rights. But, rest assured, from plotting, pacing, emotional range, characterization, quality of prose, tone, atmosphere, the crossing of two timelines, quite literally all elements in Backtrack, are executed with supreme artistry. I'd not encountered an Arliss Cutter novel before (there are eight previous), but it works wonderfully as a standalone. Wayne Cutter might be the kind of man that does not name his horses or lose sleep over killing other violent men, but the level of tenderness he demonstrates while helping the woman he dearly loves hold onto to dignity as she dies of cancer might crumbled you with emotion.

This is an action novel with amazing action sequences, yes indeed, but our author provides every character, even small ones, with authentic humanness and elegant vulnerability. Backtrack is the bar with which “action” novels released in 2026 should be measured. The finale is so good you'll likely read it twice.

Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for a review copy.

[Bam cooks the books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 8th book in the series has a dual timeline which works quite well in the story. We 'backtrack' to Texas 1977, where D Wayne 'Grumpy' Cutter is at work for the Parker County Sheriff Department. He's on the case of a deadly diamond heist from an armored truck. And in present-day Alaska, US Marshall Arliss Cutter gets a call from his third ex-wife Joellen telling him that she is on a cruise ship to Alaska and has the feeling she is being followed. Arliss and his partner Lola make sure to be on hand when the ship docks in Ketchikan. What ties these two storylines together is quite interesting, the mystery is intriguing and there's of course some thrilling action. This could probably be read as a standalone, although it's such a great series that I'd recommend reading them all.

Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc via NetGalley.

[Dave Weller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received my advance copy of Backtrack by Marc Cameron a month or so ago, so I decided to advance it on my Want to Read list. I am pleased that I did, as this was, in my opinion, the best of the Arliss Cutter series. It seems that Marc Cameron improves each novel as he progresses in the series. Backtrack is, in reality, a book within a book. I read the first six novels in the series, and in the earlier books Arliss frequently refers to his grandfather, Grumpy. Grumpy raised Arliss and his brother, Ethan, in Florida; and Grumpy was the source of many homespun sayings of wisdom. Before Grumpy worked as a marine patrolman in Florida, he was a deputy sheriff in Texas, and this period of his life is integral to this book. Arliss is a US marshal in Alaska, and the outer layer of this book involves him, his US marshall partner Lola, his new wife Mim and his adopted children. Most of the early going takes place in Texas and revolves around an attempted robbery of a shipment of diamonds in an armored car that resulted in the death of three security guards. This phase of the book is centered on Grumpy and is very riveting with a climactic conclusion, but then the novel shifts to Alaska, and some of the players in the diamond heist story become key players in another climactic conclusion. Like I said, two plots for the price of one. All the characters are well done, especially Arliss Cutter. Arliss is always by the book just like his grandfather. He is very stoic on the outside, but he hides his emotions. I love the witty banter between Arliss and Mim as well as the respectful relationship between Lola and Arliss. The Texas portion of the storyline is very well done, and it provides the author with an opportunity to write about the state where he grew up. During the Alaska stage of the book, the narrative takes the reader through Ketchikan and Skagway, and it includes seaplanes and cruise ships; two experiences fairly unique to Alaska. I look forward to more Arliss Cutter from Marc Cameron.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

The eighth installment in the Arliss Cutter series can be read as a standalone, but there is a lot of back story and reintroduction to characters. While this story is deftly handled true appreciation might be better served by being familiar with some of the previous books and they are all phenomenal. If you are a fan of the series, BACKTRACK is not to be missed.

A here and then story dealing with a crime committed in Texas in 1977 and its potential repercussions about to explode in Alaska in the present. The tension is palpable, like having a rabid tiger at your back, you feel something but are unaware of the danger about to pounce, and claw and destroy. Each timeline is expertly detailed and feels true to its time and place. The insertion of certain characters showcases the author’s ability to seamlessly mold the inherently complex plot.

Few people write this genre as well as Marc Cameron and I am always eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series. Thanks to Kensington Publishing Corp and NetGalley for a copy. All opinions expressed are mine.

[francis kingzett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another very good addition to the Arliss Cutter series. Mr Cameron changed things up a bit with dual alternating time lines. Switching between the current time and the late 1970's. Providing a back story for his deceased grandfather who has been mentioned constantly throughout the series. Not a fan of non-linear plots but Mr Cameron does it very well.

New readers can read this book without reading previous books in the series but afterwards will want to start at the beginning with the first book. They are very entertaining and as a former law enforcement officer myself I can say that they accurately portray LE tactics and jargon. much better than the vast majority of books out there.

As far as the plot the description provided by the publishers is succinct, accurate and better than any amateur reviewers would be. Enjoy.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marc Cameron has weaved another excellent installment of the Arliss Cutter series, this time with a hefty chunk of the book flashing back almost fifty years to a case Grumpy (his grandpa) was involved with in north Texas, where I have lived for most of my life. Not only does Cameron showcase the amazing beauty of Alaska, he completely nails the attitude and speech of Texas.

This is a terrific series with strong, distinct characters who are flawed but immensely likable. Lola and Arliss have a purely platonic working relationship that is both hilarious and comfortable. It was a delight to see Grumpy as a younger man. Everyone needs a D Wayne Cutter in their lives. The side story of people with brands on the back of their necks is continued but not resolved so look out for book #9 next year.

I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone, especially those who love crime novels.

Not family friendly due to light profanity and the violence typical for this genre.

Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[M · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a reader with #8 in my rear view mirror-it is very nice to see the character Lola be given a personality and some good coverage with her partner-U.S. Marshall Arliss Cutter. An excellent plot with two timelines-one in 1977 and the other current-an awesome way for a new reader to catch up on SOME of “Grumpy” Rules and the backstory of each‼️ A great page turner. Enjoy

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC. This was a quick read and I enjoyed the fast-paced action and the story structure. However, I didn't understand Pink's motivation/fixation in the later part of the story -- for me, there wasn't enough of a foundation to sustain or support the later crimes. In addition, the use of metaphors in the first part of the book felt somewhat distracting and overwrought (as the action heated up, I didn't notice this as much).

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC through good reads giveaways. This author was new to me and it’s safe to say I am now a huge fan.

Jumping into a series that is already on book 8 can often leave a lot of gaps and confuse the reader but this author did it seamlessly! I was able to pick right up into the storyline and make sense and connections of previous storylines without confusion. So if you have not read previous books in the series, this can absolutely be a stand alone read.

There are a lot of characters to keep track of as you try to solve the mystery of where did the diamonds go?! As a reader, I was able to navigate the multiple timelines and character arcs with ease. I was engaged with how everyone ties into the story and how their role/storyline may be larger than first let on. I was constantly asking myself “what am I missing?” Which is exactly what I want from this genre!

The story kept a nice pacing. I wouldn’t say it was a fast page turner but it never dragged on or made me feel like it was work to get through. A perfect upcoming summer mystery with the flawless blend of intrigue and twists.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Marc Cameron, and Kensington Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Marc Cameron has long established himself as one of the most dependable and accomplished voices in modern crime fiction. Drawing on his extensive law-enforcement experience, he consistently crafts authentic, action-packed stories that place readers squarely in the middle of the investigation. In this latest Arliss Cutter novel, Cameron takes an ambitious approach, intertwining a present-day case with an investigation from 1977 involving Arliss’s grandfather, D. Wayne “Grumpy” Cutter. What begins as two seemingly independent stories gradually reveals a deeper connection, creating a compelling narrative that rewards readers with suspense, emotion, and plenty of surprises along the way.

In 1977, Wayne Cutter was serving as a Texas deputy sheriff and adjusting to the news that he is about to become a grandfather for the second time. Before he can celebrate, however, he is drawn into the aftermath of a violent armored-truck robbery in which millions of dollars’ worth of diamonds are stolen and two guards are murdered. The ensuing manhunt leads Cutter to the capture of teenager Ricky Lee Pink, a key figure in the crime. Nearly fifty years later, in 2026, U.S. Marshal Arliss Cutter is dealing with troubles of his own in Alaska when his ex-wife, Joellen, contacts him with concerns that she is being watched while aboard a cruise ship bound for the state. Reluctantly stepping in to help, Arliss soon discovers that Ricky Lee Pink has resurfaced, carrying old grudges, dangerous intentions, and unfinished business connected to the long-lost diamonds. What follows is a tense and explosive pursuit that links two generations of Cutters in unexpected ways.

Cameron excels at constructing layered procedural thrillers, and this novel showcases that talent at its finest. The dual timelines are handled with remarkable precision, each storyline building suspense independently while steadily moving toward a satisfying convergence. Clues are revealed at exactly the right moments, keeping readers engaged without ever exposing too much too soon. Every lead deepens the mystery, every revelation raises new questions, and the pacing remains exceptional throughout. Short, tightly focused chapters propel the story forward with urgency, making the novel difficult to put down.

Both Wayne and Arliss Cutter emerge as outstanding protagonists. Though separated by decades, they share many of the qualities that make the Cutter family so compelling: intelligence, resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Watching each man navigate the challenges of his era creates an engaging parallel that enriches both narratives. Cameron also surrounds them with a strong supporting cast whose personalities, authenticity, and contributions add depth to the story while continuing to expand the larger Cutter universe.

Cameron remains a master of misdirection, skillfully controlling the flow of information and keeping readers off balance throughout. Just when the investigation appears to be heading toward clarity, another twist emerges to challenge assumptions and raise the stakes. The use of two timelines further enhances this effect, ensuring that readers are constantly reassessing what they know and how the pieces fit together. The tension builds steadily toward a conclusion that is both surprising and immensely satisfying.

Rich in atmosphere, sharp in execution, and driven by two compelling investigations, this is a thriller that captures the reader’s attention from the opening pages and never lets go. It serves as both an excellent introduction to a younger Wayne Cutter and another strong chapter in Arliss Cutter’s ongoing story. Marc Cameron once again demonstrates why he remains one of the genre’s most reliable storytellers, delivering a gripping procedural filled with action, intrigue, and memorable characters. Fans of the series—and crime fiction readers in general—will find much to admire in this outstanding installment.

Kudos, Mr. Cameron, for a dual police procedural that packs a punch.

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars ⭐️

I am a huge fan of Mr. Cameron and have enjoyed all of his prior series, including the first seven books of this particular series. This book, however, does something that I cannot remember ever happening before. We go back in time - not just for a memory or two - but REALLY back.

The year is 1977 and we actually were able to go back and experience some important events in the life of one D. Wayne Cutter, Parker County Sheriff's Investigator. For those new to this series, another name that you might know him by is "Grumpy". He was the famous grandfather of Arliss and Evan Cutter, who raised the boys on his own when their father passed away. We actually were able to quietly watch, just like a fly on the wall, the events that occurred when there was an armed robbery that went VERY wrong. The assailants were after the armored truck carrying $5 Million dollars in loose diamonds ($15 million dollars in today's market).

What I loved most about this "back in time" storyline was the fact that Grumpy's wife "Nana" was still alive, even though she was fighting a losing fight against a very aggressive cancer. There were several ties between the storyline in the "past", and then the events happening in the "now" or the "Present". The one that jumped out at me was the fact that Nana was knitting some booties for a baby and at the beginning of the "now" timeline, we are told about some booties that were knitted by their grandmother - even though the boys never knew her. And they were going to be perfect for Arliss and Mim's new baby - fifty years later.

So basically the storyline begins where some people are following a woman as she is on a cruise ship in Alaska. The woman - JoEllen Cutter - is Arliss' third ex-wife and she ends up calling him to let him know that she thinks someone is following her. She thought of him because they are in Alaska, but changes her mind when she thinks about it - deciding that she is probably blowing things out of proportion. And so it begins.

Arliss being Arliss, can not let things go, at least until he checks things out and deems that JoEllen is safe. He and his partner Lola Teariki fly down to Ketchikan on other Marshal business and then take the time to meet his ex-wife on the ship.

It just so happens that in 1977, the heist went wrong and not only were several people killed, but the diamonds also went missing. For almost 50 years, certain people have assumed that a certain someone took the diamonds and in their mind there is a score to settle.

As usual, Mr., Camerons books are filled with drama and action from the very beginning. Things like the tension level and the drama behind what the bad guys are willing to do to find the missing diamonds only grows as the book hurls faster and faster towards the final climax.

This book has the perfect balance of character development - both of the "bad guys" that we just met at the beginning of the book and the main characters that we have come to know and love the more we got to know them. Mr. Cameron has the excellent ability and talent of being able to peel away layers upon layers of characteristics that we thought we already understood - but now realize that we only thought we knew them.

The book is told in alternating timelines as the story from the past is slowly parsed out and we begin to understand the events, and the ramification of these events in the events also unfolding in the "present". I enjoyed every minute of this storyline and found myself eager to see what was going to occur the closer we got to the climax.

I listened to the audiobook version of this Audio ARC/ALC that was narrated by David Chandler. He seemed to give a wonderful performance, and the entire production was very well done.

Thank you to NetGalley and to RBmedia | Recorded Books for the opportunity to listen to and review this Audio ARC/ALC. This book will be out for publication on July 28, 2026.

[Benny The Bookie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like clockwork, every summer for the last three years, I am treated to another novel in the Arliss Cutter series, and like every other summer, I devour the novel in a few days. There is nothing better during the hot days in July than immersing myself in another Alaskan tale of our favorite US Deputy Marshall. I am so happy that I was provided this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher Kensington in exchange for my honest review. I hope more readers will discover this series, so fans of the series can look forward to more Arliss Cutter adventures in the future.

In 1977 Texas, Dwayne, “Grumpy” Cutter, grandfather to Arliss Cutter, at this time is a Parker County Sheriff’s investigator. It is Sunday, and he is at a truck stop having breakfast with other lawmen thinking about his wife, who is fighting cancer, and who is getting ready for church when his Sunday morning is disrupted. An armored truck is being robbed down the road, an event that will threaten thirty years later the lives of Arliss Cutter, his family, and friends.

One of the robbers, who was fifteen-years old at the time of the heist, Ricky Lee Pink, is out for revenge. Ricky was big for his age at fifteen, but now many years later, he is a beast of a man, a man who likes to use box cutters to get what he wants. Also, there is missing fifteen million dollars worth of diamonds from the armored truck heist in 1977. Rick and his new crew think Arliss knows where these diamonds are. Ricky cannot wait to question him or anyone associated with him, including his ex-wife Ursula, who happens to be on an Alaskan cruise ship. Ursula reaches out to Arliss because she thinks someone is following her.

This novel, like other novels in the series, shows the series’ strength. The novel is a good blend of action and sentimental melodrama. The series’ strength is the blend of Hallmark-esque melodrama and action. For me, the portion of the novel set in 1977 with Dwayne Cutter exemplifies this. Here we have an older Texas lawman that is familiar with the violence around the job, who is involved with investigating an armored truck heist as the bodies start to pile up and is also dealing with at home a wife fighting cancer who may not have much longer to live. To be honest, I would have been happy if this was just a Grumpy Cutter novel. I hope we will get to see more Texas adventures of Grumpy Cutter in the future.

The novel, like others in the series, takes time to develop the antagonists to where we may be disgusted and revolted by their actions, but can clearly see their human motivations of how they developed into evil monsters, and will become ultimately tragic.

The portion of the novel in the present with Arliss Cutter and Ricky Lee Pink in Alaska was solid, but Grumpy, who does appear in flashbacks in other novels of the series, was a pleasant surprise full of emotional weight, while still being an excellent small-town Texas crime story.

Without having familiarity with Alaskan cruise ships, the action sequences at times were difficult to follow on the cruise ship. They were exciting, but there was minor frustration with trying to get a grasp of the setting where these scenes occurred on the ship.

Overall, another solid novel in the series. I hope others will discover this series. For myself, I will be waiting and hoping next summer I will be able to enjoy another novel set in Alaska, a beautiful state, that I hope someday I will get to visit. Who knows, maybe even on an Alaskan cruise line if I am lucky.

[PamG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Action, a vendetta, and a manhunt are featured in Backtrack by Marc Cameron. This eighth book in the Arliss Cutter series has pulse-pounding scenes and ruthless criminals. This novel features dual timelines. One is set in 1977 in and near Parker County, Texas. It features D. Wayne Cutter, a Parker County sheriff’s investigator and Deputy Lawrence Johnson. An armored car is held up by three criminals and there are multiple fatalities and the diamonds being transported are missing. The second timeline is current times and is set in Anchorage, Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, Alaska. This timeline features Supervisory Deputy United States Marshal, the head of the Fugitive Task Force in Alaska, as well as his partner Deputy U.S. Marshal Lola Teariki. The two stories collide when Arliss’s ex-wife is on a cruise to Alaska and feels like she’s being followed.

Arliss and Lola are very different characters. Cutter is experienced, uncomfortable with compliments, a fantastic tracker, no-nonsense, and somewhat surly. However, he can also be overprotective and has a way of connecting with innocent victims. Cutter is also observant and a bit of a perfectionist as well as being a very visual person which helps him in locating and apprehending criminals. He has a compulsion to save the day and has a great memory. Lola works out a lot, is talkative, has a bubbly personality, and wants assignments that are new and interesting. She also wants to glean all possible knowledge from Cutter. She’s smart, capable, loyal, and confident. However, she also tends to run off on her own. Wayne has an unbendable code that he taught Arliss. He’s honest, loves his wife, and is a good teacher. They have flaws and virtues just like everyone else.

As always, Cameron does a great job of world-building and making the reader feel like they’ve been transported to the very different locations in this novel. This powerful page-turner kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The plot moves at a fast pace with an action-packed ending. Just when a reader thinks the situation can’t get any worse, it does. The plot is somewhat complex with scenes from different areas of the country that eventually link up and provide some twists along the way. The author’s experience with the U.S. Marshals Service gives this book and the series authenticity. The investigative procedures, tracking strategies, and action scenes were immersive.
Themes include murder, fugitive apprehension, secrets, family relationships, friendship, and vengeance. It was great to get the character backstory of Wayne Cutter who helped to shape a young Arliss. The novel sets up a thread for the next book in the series. At the back of the book is a recipe.

Overall, this tense, exciting, gripping, and high-octane book takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster. If you enjoy action thrillers that have both strong male and female characters, then this may be the series for you. I can’t wait to find out what is next for Arliss and Lola. Readers that enjoy action crime thrillers will likely enjoy Cameron’s writing. This is an outstanding series.

Kensington Publishing - Kensington and Marc Cameron provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for July 28, 2026.
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My 4.48 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.

[Donne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series and always look forward to catching up with Arliss, Lola, Mim and the rest of the cast of characters that make up this series, especially now that Arliss is going to be a daddy. OMG!!! So exciting. This one was a weird one too! While I always enjoy the “Grumpy stories”, in this one, Marc Cameron transports us back to 1977 TX, where and when Grumpy (Arliss and Ethan’s grandfather) was a TX deputy and before he adopted and raised Arliss and Ethan by himself.

The book summary lays out the entire primary storyline of the 1997 murders and manhunt and the 2026 vendetta by Ricky Pink to track down and kill Arliss, the last living Cutter, and recover the diamonds that Ricky is sure that Grumpy stole. What the book summary doesn’t say is that Ricky is tracking down Arliss through his ex-wife #3, Joellen, who is still using her married name and is on an AK cruise ship. Both Arliss and Lola are tasked with protecting Joellen in hopes of capturing Ricky and his cohorts. This does not sit well with Lola, who is clearly team Mim and very protective of Arliss and makes it very clear to Joellen that she is onto her and her silly flirtations. LOVE LOLA!!!

The story flips back and forth between the two timeframes and we get to know Grumpy in a whole other way, seeing him when he was younger and a deputy in TX and before his wife, Lucy, died of cancer. I also loved the scenes of Arliss’s homelife with a very pregnant Mim and the kids and Arliss the dutiful hubby and expectant daddy. Omg! I can’t wait until the next installment when little Lucy is born. Anyway, the ending was a wild and crazy scene right out of an old western, only on the streets of Skagway, AK.

The continuing character development of the primary characters of Arliss, Lola, Mim was well done, as well as with a couple of other characters like Grumpy and Ricky Pink. The pacing was steady to fast, especially in the second half. The storyline was interesting, but once again, kind of weird in the dual timeframes. Cameron has never done that with previous installments and was a different, but a good decision in the end. The writing was classic Cameron and on par with the series. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.4 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

#NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #Backtrack

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Backtrack is the eighth book in the Arlis Cutter crime mystery series by Mark Cameron, Arliss CUTTER is a US marshal and on his return trip from London he gets off the plane and calls his new wife Mim who used to be married to his brother Eathan before he tragically died she tells him that his ex-wife the third one Joellen is trying to get in touch with him and because he hasn’t spoke to her since their divorce he decides to give her a call. She tells him she thinks she’s being followed but maybe not. she is on a cruise to Alaska and knew he lived there so thought she would just let him know and oh by the way she met a man in line a police officer from Minnesota just FYI. Arliss being Arliss despite Joelle‘s misgivings decides to meet her ship when it docs. in the second POV it’s 1977 and Arliss’s grandpa Dwayne “grumpy“ cutter is a detective down in Texas. While having breakfast he learns a truck carrying $5 million worth of diamonds stopped in the middle of the highway and all the guards were killed. Carter and rookie detective LJ get to the road block where they find a car that refuses to turn off its engine and before it’s over Cutter will have taken one of their lives while the other ran free or at least for a while he did. This starts a chase that will last and extend all the way to modern day Alaska. One of the geniuses from the original robbery not only claims Arlis has the diamonds but that he’s going to get the diamonds and kill Arliss after he gets them this was a really good book I love this author’s books I love books like this by other authors my only issue is in books when there’s a heist or a bunch of money that goes missing for people to come back years later wanting to get the money back as if whoever had it still has it all intact that would be my only negative like always I loved the characters love the storyline and I’m definitely going to start the series from the first book because it seems a lot has happened and I want to know what that was. This is a book I definitely recommend one of your top-tier Crime mystery reads but then again you can never go wrong with a mark Cameron thriller. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,

[Frank · Rating 3 out of 5]

Backtrack is the 8th book in Marc Cameron’s Arliss Cutter series. I’ve now read books 5-8 with Bad River being my favorite.

Much of Backtrack takes us out of Alaska, with a major part of the story being about Arliss’s grandfather, D. Wayne Cutter, a sheriff in Texas, working a 1977 case involving a robbery gone wrong which resulted in $5 million of missing diamonds and two murders. One of the robbers gets killed by Cutter while the other, a teenager named Ricky Lee Pink, avoids the death penalty due to his age. He’s got nothing but time on his hands to stew about the lost diamonds and the cop who killed his friend.

Back in the present day, Arliss learns that his ex-wife believes someone is following her onto a cruise ship bound for Alaska. He, along with his partner Lola, drops everything to go investigate what might be going on. Of course, the two stores come together in the second half of the book and did not disappoint.

While I have enjoyed all four of the books which I have read (and I’ve already purchased two of the earlier books to circle back to one day), I rate this one a little lower than the previous ones. For me, and I readily admit this is personal preference, too much of the story takes place in the past and too much outside of Alaska. My favorite parts of the book tended to involve Cutter’s relationships with Lola, as well as Min, his wife. I believe the stories of Cutter’s personal and work interactions, along with cases in the harsh environments of Alaska, are what draw me in again and again. I did enjoy learning more about his grandfather and his deputies, more so than I did Cutter with his ex-wife (to be fair they obviously got divorced for a reason).

The Arliss Cutter audiobook series is narrated by David Chandler. I’ve enjoyed his work on the series before and do again here. That said, while I normally listen at a 1.25 speed, I found that I enjoyed Backtrack more at 1.5.

Thanks to RBmedia and NetGalley for providing me the opportunity to listen to Backtrack. I did enjoy it and may read it again one day. The above opinions are my own.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can evil live in the body of a 15-year-old teenager?

This new Arliss Cutter novel starts with a bang and continues at an accelerating pace. The action begins in Texas in 1977 with D Wayne Cutter (aka Grumpy, Arliss’s grandfather) speeding to an armoured car robbery that explodes into violence. After the bullets and dust settle, teenager Ricky Lee Pink, aka Pinky, is left to face justice. Pinky is a rage-filled pustule and has an utter disregard for human life. A brutal killer, brooding for 40 years in prison hasn’t improved his mood. He gets out determined to find the missing diamonds and get revenge on D Wayne’s family.

In present-day Alaska, Arliss Cutter is a Deputy U.S. Marshal tasked with hunting down fugitives. He recently married the love of his life, Mim, and they are awaiting the birth of their child. He is happier than he has ever been, but with an underlying worry that it isn’t real and won’t last. Arliss was raised by his stern but loving grandfather, Grumpy. Grumpy was an excellent lawman, first as a deputy with the Parker County Sheriff’s Department, and then with the Florida Marine Patrol. Much of Arliss’s rules of life and law come from his grandfather. Arliss is passing down these teachings to his twin nephews as Grumpy’s Man-Laws. I love the man rules and Arliss’s interactions with his wife, family, and friends. His partner, Lola Teariki, is also a favourite of mine. She is such a kick-ass go-getter!

Backtrack is a thrilling eighth book in the Arliss Cutter series. I was totally immersed in Grumpy’s backstory. The action both in the present day and the past is non-stop and gripping. Marc Cameron’s descriptions of the wilderness and the US Marshals Service ring with experience and authenticity. I highly recommend this book to readers who love law enforcement heroes pitted against Mother Nature and desperate criminals. If you like C.J. Box, Paul Doiron, William Kent Krueger or Dana Stabenow, you will find this an exciting read.

Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for access to an advanced reader copy.

[Denice Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I lived in Alaska for 30 years. Believe me when I say Marc Cameron's Arliss Cutter series is genuine. Cameron was a US Marshal; his details of the policies and processes the Marshals must follow are accurate. This adds an "extra, extra" to the books. Backtrack is book #8 in this excellent series.

The plotline of Backtrack follows a different direction from the previous books. Told in two timelines, readers learn how D Wayne Cutter, Grumpy to his grandsons, became their guardian and how he moved from Texas Ranger to Florida's maritime law enforcement. The first chapters tell the story of a 1977 armored car robbery in which Wayne was the first responder at the scene. Gunfire is exchanged as the robbers flee the scene, leaving several people dead or injured. When the investigators start processing the scene, they discover that the 5 million dollars in diamonds targeted in the robbery are missing. After searching every step of the robbery, the diamonds are not found, and the last living robber, Ricky Lee Pink, is sentenced to life in prison. Personal reasons, including the death of his wife, force Wayne to move to Florida and assume custody of his grandsons.

In 2026, Pink's life sentence is shortened, and he is released from prison. "Pinky" has always blamed Wayne Cutter for the death of his robbery partners and the disappearance of the diamonds. He decides Arliss will pay for the actions of his grandfather. The story from this point proves again why it's a bad idea to threaten Arliss' family or friends. Readers are treated to some truly beautiful scenes from Alaska as Arliss and Lola work their magic. The story is another 5 star read.....especially with a baby at the end.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of this series since book one and this book is a great addition to the series! This book works on a duel timeline telling the backstory in the past that later concludes in the present.

In 1977, D. Wayne Cutter, also known to Arliss as Grumpy, is working for the Parker County Sherriff's Department when an armored truck was robbed of 5 million dollars worth of diamonds and killing the three guards in the truck in the process. As D. Wayne works the case the body count increases as the thieves look for the diamonds that they lost in the heist. He eventually gets his man who later goes to prison but the story does not end there.

Flash ahead to the present and the story of the past collides with the future when Arliss's third ex wife contacts him with suspicions that someone is following her and she is on an Alaskan cruise. Arliss is on a routine warrant serving when her cruise docks and discovers that she is indeed being followed. Can Arliss protect her from this unknown threat and figure out what is going on?

This story is a well written story that had me hooked from the start. I loved being able to learn more about Grumpy than what has been shared by Arliss throughout the series. The similarities between Arliss and Grumpy are remarkable even though these two storylines take place 50 years apart. There were some twists in the story that I was not expecting and I also liked that we get a glimpse into Arliss's current life with Min and his impending fatherhood.

Overall, this is a great read that I had a hard time putting down once I started it. It makes a great addition to this series and left me curious to see what is in story for Arliss in the future. I would recommend this book to others.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

464 pages

5 stars


Mr. Cameron has surpassed all of my expectations and hopes in penning this book. I cannot praise this novel enough. It is suspenseful, exciting, reads quickly and the characters, although familiar, surpass themselves. It was an especial delight to get to know both D. Wayne “Grumpy” and his lovely wife Lucy. L.J. Johnson was an added bonus. A little shaky at first, he blossomed into a fine man and officer.

Deputy US Marshall Arliss and his partner Lola are still the solid professionals that I’ve come to know and love.

In this installment of the series, in addition to learning about D. Wayne and L.J., we are treated to an awful incident of an armored car robbery. The action is taut and harrowing. The perpetrators are awful people who rampage though the county causing death and mayhem.

Flashing forward, Arliss receives a message from one of his former wives that she is being followed. Arliss and Lola investigate and indeed JoEllen is in danger. The reader is treated the a tour of Alaska, and a huge cruise ship named Polar Star as it travels the coast line of Alaska. (Interestingly enough, my husband was stationed on the Polar Star Icebreaker when he was in the Coast Guard.)

The chase is exciting, interesting and features several colorful locations in coastal Alaska.

I loved this thrilling book. I will definitely read it again. Mr. Cameron’s books are top notch, both in entertainment and writing.

I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington Publishing - Kensington for forwarding this book to me. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took me a minute to catch the meaning behind the title, but once that little lightbulb flicked on, I had to give Marc Cameron credit for the clever play on words and setting the tone for the direction with this installment. The problem is that once you move past that initial spark, the book starts feeling… stretched. Not in a “slow burn tension” way, but in a “wait, why is this 100 pages longer than the others?” way, and can we get to the point already.

About halfway through, the seams start to show. It reads like Cameron had two separate story ideas with Grumpy’s backstory on one side and Arliss’s ex-wife on the other, and neither quite had the weight of a full novel. So, he stitched them together, hoping they’d harmonize. They don’t. Instead, you get a book that feels like it’s constantly shifting lanes, and you’re left wondering which plot you’re supposed to be emotionally invested in.

None of this is bad writing. Cameron still knows how to build a scene, and he still knows these characters. But the pieces don’t meld, and the pacing suffers for it. The heart of the series is usually Lola’s sharp, dry snark, and that doesn’t even show up until the last quarter. It’s like waiting for your favorite character to enter the room, only to realize they were sidelined for most of the story.

By the end, I found myself wanting this to be over and for the series to return to what it does best: Arliss and Lola working in rhythm, solving problems with grit and humor, without all the unnecessary detours. I am sure, somewhere along the way, Grumpy had a rule about that.

[coffeebooktress · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arliss Cutter is back, and this time he is on a case connected to his grandfather, Grumpy. In 1977, D. Wayne Cutter investigated an armored truck robbery of five million dollars in diamonds and the murder of the drivers. Now, US. His ex-wife calls Marshall Arliss Cutter because someone is following her. Reluctantly, Arliss investigates and gets caught up in an investigation that goes all the way back to 1977.

This is not my usual type of book. A few years ago, my father asked me to help him find some books to read. I love to find books for other people, and I am always willing to read with them. I came across this series and began reading it with my dad. Sometime around the third book, I became hooked on the series, and I have now read more books than my dad. This book has similar elements to the other books in the series, with Arliss doing his best to protect everyone around him. You can expect fights, survival in Alaska, tracking of criminals, and touching moments. It is best to read the books in order because Arliss’s personal life has a continuous storyline, but you could read this book and then go back. I especially loved the connection to his grandfather because I have fallen in love with Grumpy’s sayings. I loved the flashbacks, and now I feel like I understand Grumpy even better. Both cases were intriguing, but I loved the portions that focused on the past. If you love books about the US Marshals or police investigations, you need to start this series. I am excited to buy this one for my dad.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I had the pleasure of listening to the audio ARC of Backtrack through NetGalley, and once again, David Chandler delivered a phenomenal performance. He’s one of my favorite narrators, and he truly brings Arliss Cutter and the entire cast of characters to life.

Backtrack is another outstanding addition to Marc Cameron’s Arliss Cutter series. I had just finished Book 7 and assumed I’d have to wait until next year for the next installment, so I was thrilled to discover an ARC was available!

This time, readers get a deeper look into Arliss’ family history through his grandfather, D. Wayne “Grumpy” Cutter. The decades-old case involving an armored truck diamond heist, murder, and a convicted killer with a long memory creates the perfect foundation for a tense, fast-paced story. I especially enjoyed learning more about Grumpy’s past and how those events come full circle in the present.

Marc Cameron is a master storyteller. He has a remarkable ability to weave together action, suspense, memorable characters, and just the right amount of humor. The pacing never lets up, and I found myself wanting “just one more chapter” until I reached the end.

Somehow, each Arliss Cutter novel manages to top the one before it, and Backtrack is no exception. If you’ve been following the series, you won’t want to miss this one.

Five stars! Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this outstanding audiobook before its release. I already can’t wait for the next Arliss Cutter adventure.

[Rebecca Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Help! I cannot get enough of this series! Superb, and engaging.

The Past - Wayne Cutter is just a small town cop, doing his job, But one particular case is going to become one that will leave several dead, a fortune in diamonds missing, and one convict determined to see the end to the Cutter line, after he gets the diamonds, of course.

Current - Arliss Cutter is walking straight toward fatherhood, and he is not sure how it is going to go. On his way back from a overseas case, his very pregnant wife informs him that one (yes, just one) of his ex-wives has called. She thinks she is being followed. Cutter and his partner then head toward where the cruise ship will be docking to check out the situation, without the ex-wife knowing, and stumble onto another case. This case, however, is going to reach back to his grandfathers law days, and the determined convict who is now out of prison, and looking for revenge.

I don't think I will ever get tired of the Cutter series. I have listened to them on Audible more than 3 times, and will be going through again, shortly before this one releases onto audio (and I have already pre-ordered), so that I can live the entire experience again.
These books simply just keep delivering excellence each time, and this is one of my top series of all time. Marc Cameron does a great job bringing the Alaska tundra to life, and delivering amazing mysteries along the way.

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another installment in Arliss Cutter and if you have not picked up this series I encourage you to do so. I can't wait for a network to pick this one up to put into a streaming series. Starts in 1977 with a heist of 15 million diamonds gone wrong with many of the thieves either killed or ending up in the slammer. One thief a 15 year old who is quite large for his age is tried as an adult but put into prison for life without parole. Then Texas let's him loose after 40+ years since he was a teenager imprisoned but he seeks his revenege. So the dual time lines end up coming together. Readers learn how D Wayne Cutter, Grumpy to his grandsons, became their guardian and how he moved from Texas Ranger to Florida's maritime law enforcement. In 2026, Pink's life sentence is shortened, and he is released from prison. "Pinky" has always blamed Wayne Cutter for the death of his robbery partners and the disappearance of the diamonds. He decides Arliss will pay for the actions of his grandfather. The story from this point proves again why it's a bad idea to threaten Arliss' family or friends. Readers are treated to some truly beautiful scenes from Alaska as Arliss and Lola work their magic. Action, a vendetta, and a manhunt will keep the reader engaged and up too late at night trying to find out how it ends. Many thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

They say that revenge is a dish best served cold.

Marc Cameron’s latest installment in his Arliss Cutter series is a fantastic wilderness thriller resulting from a generations-long vendetta hatched from a heist gone wrong. There’s nothing quite like a long prison sentence to germinate the seeds of retribution. Will Arliss end up paying for his grandfather’s actions?

This dual timeline hops between 1977 with Arliss’s grandfather and present day and features a fantastic cast of characters and a setting that I’ve come to love. Cameron really brings Southeast Alaska alive for the reader and avid cruisers will appreciate references to popular tourist spots on an Inside Passage cruise. The justice unfolds with Cameron’s impeccable precision and the journey there is filled with the author’s signature humor and narrative style.

I loved the reminder about the horseshoe nail; to pay attention to the little things. I smiled at Mim stashing an emergency chocolate bar in Arliss’s backpack as my husband does the same for me! I didn’t miss the Gumpyisms as much as I thought I would and I loved getting a fuller picture of the Cutter family.

I was so excited to dive back into the world of Arliss Cutter. I’m a big fan of Cameron’s action-packed plots populated with complex characters and thought-provoking themes.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dual timelines. 1977 and present day.
Dual lawmen. Grandfather and Grandson.
Same crazy stuff happening…. Still… years apart.

We open with a multimillion dollar gem transport… and murder. D. Wayne Cutter is on the scene… but many who arrive do not make it home…

This thread continues throughout the book… but the names and faces change somewhat along the way.

And the grandson, Arliss, is a Marshall with a rep for getting things done… just like his grand daddy did!

He’s had a rough time with his love life, but seems to have finally settled down.

And now, there seem to be people out to get him! 😳

This was non-stop action. Crazy scenarios that you feel like you are a part of. And way too many guns and shootings for any one man (or woman!) But wow! This was terrific!

#Backtrack by @MarcCameron and narrated wonderfully by @DavidChandler.

This one has not been released yet. Look 👀 for it on July 28, 2026!

Thanks so much to #NetGalley, @RecordedBooksAudio and @RBMedia for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
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My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!!

And as always, thanks for reading along with me! 📚⭐️📖🩷

[Steven Netter · Rating 5 out of 5]

READ MY FULL REVIEW AT Best Thriller Books

Backtrack is a phenomenally written book filled with action, suspense, emotion and family. A brilliantly crafted tale of past and present. Another home run from the pen of the great Marc Cameron!

For 7 previous books in this series, readers have gotten a glimpse into the man known as Grumpy Cutter, Arliss’ grandfather who raised him. Now in Backtrack, the brilliant usage of dual timelines allows us to see Grumpy in action, learn more about what made him tick, and see the beginnings of his wisdom that he passes down to Arliss. And it’s even more fantastic as fans of this series could have hoped for. Shootouts, manhunting, tracking, showing a young deputy the ropes, going through the emotional situation with his wife, and more is not only a way to provide insight into how Arliss turns out the way he does, but gives us the gift of getting to know Grumpy at a deep level.

The result of these two storylines coming together is one hell of a fun story that advances reader’s understanding and appreciation of these characters. Furthering the depth of connection we have with them. And solidifying this as one of the best law enforcement thriller series in the genre today.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Backtrack is the eight book in the Arliss Cutter series. Throughout the series memories of Grumpy, the grandfather who raised Arliss and his brother, loom large. This book features Grumpy as much as Arliss by telling the story of how D. Wayne Cutter foiled an armored car robbery while he was a deputy sheriff in Texas. The heist gone wrong comes to a violent end, and one of the young criminal survivors harbors a lust for vengence that will later threaten the lives of Arliss and his family.

I have read all of the books in this series as they are published, and I did not enjoy this one as much as the others. It is quite long, and the pacing during the first three quarters of the book which alternate between Grumpy's story and Arliss' in the present day lagged a bit. When the two storylines converge the action picks up considerably. As always Marc Cameron does an excellent job of creating bad guys who are really, really bad, and Arliss' character continues to develop as he prepares for fatherhood late in life.

I am excited for the next book in this series, as there are hints that it may involve a cult-like group that Lola has been itching to bring down.

Thank you to Kensington and NetGalley for advanced access to this book. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[The Page Judge · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was not your typical Arliss Cutter novel and we are the better for having read it. With one exwife reaching out to Arliss for help, a story intertwined with the current story, and a pregnant Mim back home, we read less about Arliss this time around.
But with a story from Grumpy's Sheriff days in Texas, we finally see a little more of the man that impacted Arliss so much. We see his character on display as he investigates a deadly theft in Texas with a new partner.
To read more of Grumpy's story was highly enjoyable. I didn't realize that it was missing from the novels, but now that it has been introduced, I want more. I could even go for a standalone D Wayne Cutter novel.
Although it seems like two novels in one, they flow together perfectly. Arliss with Lola in tow, rushes down to help ex-wife #3, who reached out to Arliss with the fear that she was being followed.
In typical Cutter fashion, he inserts himself as a defender to protect Joellen.

In typical Marc Camerion fashion, we learn more about the nature of Alaska throughout his novel. After reading all of the Cutter books, I feel I could visit Alaska and recognize a lot of it.
This story is gripping and the flipping between the two stories really keeps you reading. You need to know what happens next.
Probably my favorite novel in the Cutter series.