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Trailing Justice
She hiked into the
remote forest
. . . and
hasn’t been seen since
.
Prosecutor Kori Hutchins has spent her career making sure justice is served. But when her sister vanishes in the mountains of Blue Ridge Hollow, her courtroom skills mean nothing. There’s no evidence, no witnesses, and no one willing to listen . . . until park ranger Wyatt King and his search and rescue dog, Thunder, step in.
Wyatt knows these mountains—and their dangers. But what begins as a search for a missing hiker quickly turns into something far more sinister. The clues don’t add up, and the trail twists in ways it shouldn’t. As a brutal blizzard barrels toward the hollow, time is running out.
Out in the wilderness, justice is hard to find—and far more dangerous to chase. Because Mackenzie’s disappearance isn’t just a mystery. It’s a warning.
And someone will do anything to make sure the truth stays hidden.
Prosecutor Kori Hutchins has spent her career making sure justice is served. But when her sister vanishes in the mountains of Blue Ridge Hollow, her courtroom skills mean nothing. There’s no evidence, no witnesses, and no one willing to listen . . . until park ranger Wyatt King and his search and rescue dog, Thunder, step in.
Wyatt knows these mountains—and their dangers. But what begins as a search for a missing hiker quickly turns into something far more sinister. The clues don’t add up, and the trail twists in ways it shouldn’t. As a brutal blizzard barrels toward the hollow, time is running out.
Out in the wilderness, justice is hard to find—and far more dangerous to chase. Because Mackenzie’s disappearance isn’t just a mystery. It’s a warning.
And someone will do anything to make sure the truth stays hidden.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
442 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2026
About the author
Christy Barritt
358 books1,765 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
April 2, 2026
What a fast-paced read Trailing Justice is. It drew me straight in from the straight with a missing person or two, a park ranger and his K9 SAR dog Thunder, and a lawyer searching for her estranged sister who hasn't returned from her hike. Trailing Justice has twists and turns, a snowstorm, and danger as Wyatt, Thunder, and Kori search for Kori's sister. Wonderful mystery.
May 3, 2026
Christy Barritt's book Trailing Justice nailed it!! Kori and Wyatt seem to be like-minded in matters concerning justice and in-justice. Or, simply put, right vs. wrong. Both have truly experienced having to start over on their own. Both have experienced the loss of people who mattered so much to them. And, both of them rely on God above to steer them through the rough waters and the deepest, darkest valleys. Kori and Wyatt are absolutely characters this book needed. Their deep need to clarify everything, magnify what they don't understand and care for those around them are big draws on their hearts. But, the fact that they're living by faith is seen in all they do. Tragedies of the past are let go because they're relying on Jesus to set them free from bondage and sin. I thoroughly enjoyed this book because of the action and clarity of hearts to help others. This book drew me in multiple times and held me captive until the very end. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars and I am excited to begin the next one in the series!! All of my thoughts and reactions to this story are my own.
April 10, 2026
3.5 stars
"Come alone and come now. Everything depends on it."
Ominous words, texted by someone with evil intentions who had successfully lured Kori Hutchins' sister out along a mountain trail where Mackenzie had subsequently disappeared. When Kori arrives in Blue Ridge Hollow to file a missing persons report, she goes directly to the district ranger office and meets Ranger Wyatt King along with his search and rescue dog Thunder. Assigned to look into the young woman's whereabouts, Wyatt cannot help but notice that someone is intent on thwarting their efforts and that Mackenzie's disappearance is not the only odd occurence happening in the small town.
As circumstances grow increasingly dangerous, Wyatt maintains a thoughtful, steady presence, prompting Kori to wonder whether or not her successful large city legal practice is where she wants to spend the rest of her days. First things first, find her sister!
A gripping return to Refuge Cove!
"Come alone and come now. Everything depends on it."
Ominous words, texted by someone with evil intentions who had successfully lured Kori Hutchins' sister out along a mountain trail where Mackenzie had subsequently disappeared. When Kori arrives in Blue Ridge Hollow to file a missing persons report, she goes directly to the district ranger office and meets Ranger Wyatt King along with his search and rescue dog Thunder. Assigned to look into the young woman's whereabouts, Wyatt cannot help but notice that someone is intent on thwarting their efforts and that Mackenzie's disappearance is not the only odd occurence happening in the small town.
As circumstances grow increasingly dangerous, Wyatt maintains a thoughtful, steady presence, prompting Kori to wonder whether or not her successful large city legal practice is where she wants to spend the rest of her days. First things first, find her sister!
A gripping return to Refuge Cove!
June 11, 2026
Still good but...
This is the third book I've read of this series in as many days, and while I still enjoyed it, I am growing tired of the non-endings. Yes, the immediate conflict is somewhat resolved, but the way the author wrote these books you're left feeling dissatisfied with the conclusions. Christy Barritt is skilled at building tension and intriguing plot twists but I don't think she does as well at delivering solutions. Also, the characters aren't ever allowed to get seriously hurt. Now I'm not a masochist or anything but the "main character armor" is very strong here and a little silly at this point as far as believability goes. I will read the next one but I don't know if I'll finish the series.
This is the third book I've read of this series in as many days, and while I still enjoyed it, I am growing tired of the non-endings. Yes, the immediate conflict is somewhat resolved, but the way the author wrote these books you're left feeling dissatisfied with the conclusions. Christy Barritt is skilled at building tension and intriguing plot twists but I don't think she does as well at delivering solutions. Also, the characters aren't ever allowed to get seriously hurt. Now I'm not a masochist or anything but the "main character armor" is very strong here and a little silly at this point as far as believability goes. I will read the next one but I don't know if I'll finish the series.
April 1, 2026
When D.C. lawyer Kori Hutchens' estranged sister MacKenzie goes missing in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Kori takes a leave of absence from her job and travels to Blue Ridge Hollow to find her. Events cause her to reevaluate her life and goals. There she obtains the assistance of Park Ranger Wyatt King and his K-9 partner Thunder. The plot is exciting, twisted, and suspense-filled and kept me turning the pages. Kori and Wyatt are both strong, admirable characters. Different law enforcement agencies work together to find MacKenzie and uncover the meaning of other questionable activities taking place.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A missing person, or two (or more??). A snowstorm. A worried sister. A k9 SAR dog and it’s owner. A treacherous mountain trail. And someone that doesn’t want to be found. Time is running out and the twists just keep coming.
Trailing Justice, the third book in the Refuge Cove Series by Christy Barritt is full of twists and turns you don’t expect, along with fabulous quotes, suspense and maybe even a smattering of romance. I literally have notes with quotes from it and couldn’t put it down, finishing it in two days time.
Trailing Justice, the third book in the Refuge Cove Series by Christy Barritt is full of twists and turns you don’t expect, along with fabulous quotes, suspense and maybe even a smattering of romance. I literally have notes with quotes from it and couldn’t put it down, finishing it in two days time.
March 31, 2026
Secrets hide in the mountains and can be dangerous! Kori Hutchins comes to Refuge Cove to search for her sister. But an average lost hiker search turns into something more serious. Ranger Wyatt King and his dog Thunder help Kori but soon realize there is more going on. Lots of action and suspense, twists and turns, and enough snow to make you feel cold as you read. When the answers begin to surface, you won't believe who is involved - and why. I received an advance copy from the author but all opinions are my own.
April 2, 2026
Her sister disappeared on a hike in the wilderness. Now Kori Hutchins determines to find her and reconnect after their estrangement. Only there’s more to the situation than she realizes, and she is swept into a treacherous scenario. Park Ranger Wyatt King and his dog assist Kori in this challenging endeavor, amid danger and drama. I found it hard to figure out who was behind the threats and attacks. This fast-pace suspense will keep you engaged and racing to the finish, hoping the characters will survive unharmed. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
May 5, 2026
Good plot
The book is well written and covers a topic that has been popping up quite often on my for you page. People living off the grid. I liked the way Christy tells a story. It paints a picture in your mind. And I love that her books are Christ focused without preaching at you. Her characters live their faith daily and that is something to aspire to.
I loved the quote “I grew up in a place like this. A place full of family and front porches and people who showed up for each other.”
The book is well written and covers a topic that has been popping up quite often on my for you page. People living off the grid. I liked the way Christy tells a story. It paints a picture in your mind. And I love that her books are Christ focused without preaching at you. Her characters live their faith daily and that is something to aspire to.
I loved the quote “I grew up in a place like this. A place full of family and front porches and people who showed up for each other.”
June 1, 2026
Bitterness and strife come from hurts that aren’t dealt with
This was another great book! I love this family and this series. Christy does an amazing job of storytelling and building characters that you fall in love with. Christy also is really good at showing how God is in the small things and the big things. All the trouble and confusion and heartache mixed in with chaos and intrigue is what made it impossible to put this book down. I read it in a day again, just like the last one and I look forward to the next one! This is a book definitely worth reading.
This was another great book! I love this family and this series. Christy does an amazing job of storytelling and building characters that you fall in love with. Christy also is really good at showing how God is in the small things and the big things. All the trouble and confusion and heartache mixed in with chaos and intrigue is what made it impossible to put this book down. I read it in a day again, just like the last one and I look forward to the next one! This is a book definitely worth reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had a BETA copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Prosecutor Kori Hutchins usually doesn’t take time off work, but does when her sister goes missing after a solo hike. Park Ranger Wyatt King and his dog Thunder assist in the search for Makenzie, but keep coming up without finding her and other emergencies interfere. An intriguing book with suspense, an anti-government group, forgiveness, and second chances.
April 25, 2026
Grace extended is grace received
Wyatt loves his job, search and rescue, Kori loves her job, justice served. This story is one of how God looks out for his servants and his plans can't be derailed. Its a story of forgiveness over bitterness, justice over vengeance, hope when you don't feel it and peace in the storm. Love Christy Barritt's stories and glad I stumbled onto this series.
Wyatt loves his job, search and rescue, Kori loves her job, justice served. This story is one of how God looks out for his servants and his plans can't be derailed. Its a story of forgiveness over bitterness, justice over vengeance, hope when you don't feel it and peace in the storm. Love Christy Barritt's stories and glad I stumbled onto this series.
April 3, 2026
I have enjoyed every one of your books.
Christy, I look forward to all your new releases. I think I read every book of yours. I have enjoyed Refuge Cove series. I can’t figure out how you pump out all these books and they’re so good. If someone asked me who my favorite author was, I believe I would say it was you.
Linda Perkins
I hope your mother’s doing OK.
Christy, I look forward to all your new releases. I think I read every book of yours. I have enjoyed Refuge Cove series. I can’t figure out how you pump out all these books and they’re so good. If someone asked me who my favorite author was, I believe I would say it was you.
Linda Perkins
I hope your mother’s doing OK.
April 13, 2026
Best in the series so far.
Trailing Justice takes a turn from the high-stakes continued unfriendly neighbor bullies as focus centers on new threats. Danger crouches behind facades, which takes a team to unravel and confront.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
Trailing Justice takes a turn from the high-stakes continued unfriendly neighbor bullies as focus centers on new threats. Danger crouches behind facades, which takes a team to unravel and confront.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
April 17, 2026
Timely
Wow! This could have come right out of the news!
Skin-prickling suspense of an anti-government organization overtaking property and people. A life lost.
Thankfully, we have a burgeoning love story to give some relief from the suspense.
Extremely well written and attention grabbing!
Wow! This could have come right out of the news!
Skin-prickling suspense of an anti-government organization overtaking property and people. A life lost.
Thankfully, we have a burgeoning love story to give some relief from the suspense.
Extremely well written and attention grabbing!
May 4, 2026
Great read.
I don't usually spend 5 hours of reading a book. I just couldn't put it down one day until I realized it was after midnight and I'm still reading this suspense book. So many twist and turns. You have to read books 1 and 2 to know how everything fits together. On to book 4.
I don't usually spend 5 hours of reading a book. I just couldn't put it down one day until I realized it was after midnight and I'm still reading this suspense book. So many twist and turns. You have to read books 1 and 2 to know how everything fits together. On to book 4.
June 19, 2026
When her sister disappears, lawyer Kori Hutchins must find her. In the remote yet beautiful mountain woods she discovers more than she expected. Can she find her sister, and both get out alive? Christy Barritt has written a great new book set in a beautiful background. She describes it so you can really picture it in your head! A must read!
June 27, 2026
Fantastic
This was another fantastic Christian romantic suspense book! I loved Kori and Wyatt! From to opposite worlds, they would have to work together to find Kori's sister and figure out what is going on in the woods. This book had great suspense with a slow burn romance throughout. I loved it!!
This was another fantastic Christian romantic suspense book! I loved Kori and Wyatt! From to opposite worlds, they would have to work together to find Kori's sister and figure out what is going on in the woods. This book had great suspense with a slow burn romance throughout. I loved it!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Grab your helmet and buckle up for the ride with this one! Definitely worth the read. Another intriguing plot, fantastic characters (familiar and new), and enough edge of your seat events to keep you turning the pages.
April 3, 2026
I love this series! I couldn’t sleep last night until I got up and finished it.
There is everything you want in a book. Faith, suspense, troubles and a dog of course.
I can’t wait for the next book to come out.
There is everything you want in a book. Faith, suspense, troubles and a dog of course.
I can’t wait for the next book to come out.
April 3, 2026
This book kept me on the edge of my seat - fast paced, intense, plenty of twist, romance, and emotional. I enjoyed this third book in the Refuge Cove series - each could be read as a stand alone, but I enjoy watching the various relationships develop and grow.
April 4, 2026
Fantastic.
What a wonderful work of Christian fiction. This is book 3 of a 4 book series. The series is set in a beautiful mountainous area and each one has a lot of suspense and love.
I've pre-ordered my last in the series and look forward to the conclusion.
What a wonderful work of Christian fiction. This is book 3 of a 4 book series. The series is set in a beautiful mountainous area and each one has a lot of suspense and love.
I've pre-ordered my last in the series and look forward to the conclusion.
April 6, 2026
Couldn’t put this book down!!
What an exciting book to read! It keeps you wanting to just read one more chapter n then the next n so on. Love Christy’s books. Think I have read all of them. Can’t wait for Refuge Cove Book 4!
What an exciting book to read! It keeps you wanting to just read one more chapter n then the next n so on. Love Christy’s books. Think I have read all of them. Can’t wait for Refuge Cove Book 4!
April 10, 2026
Refuge Cove #2
The refuge cove story continues when Mackenzie takes a jobs observing forest cameras to study. When she is taken by an anti-government group. Forrest Ranger takes the case from her sister. This is an excellent suspense novel!
The refuge cove story continues when Mackenzie takes a jobs observing forest cameras to study. When she is taken by an anti-government group. Forrest Ranger takes the case from her sister. This is an excellent suspense novel!
May 1, 2026
Fast paced.
I always enjoy Reading the author's books. This 1 is so fast paced and goes from 1 subject to the next. I could not put it down. 1 of the best I've read from her! Can't wait to go on to book 4.
I always enjoy Reading the author's books. This 1 is so fast paced and goes from 1 subject to the next. I could not put it down. 1 of the best I've read from her! Can't wait to go on to book 4.
May 10, 2026
Trailing justices
This is the third book in the Refuge Cove series, and it's a doozy. Blizzards, home grown terrorists, and a lost woman and kidnapped man...all combined for heart stopping suspence and a gratifying ending. Read it!!
This is the third book in the Refuge Cove series, and it's a doozy. Blizzards, home grown terrorists, and a lost woman and kidnapped man...all combined for heart stopping suspence and a gratifying ending. Read it!!
May 23, 2026
my favorite one yet in this series!
Hooray! This heroine didn’t stupidly chase a dog into trouble! Actually, I really enjoyed this one. The plot was riveting and kept me guessing. I really like Kori and Wyatt’s journeys and especially enjoyed the theme of forgiveness.
Hooray! This heroine didn’t stupidly chase a dog into trouble! Actually, I really enjoyed this one. The plot was riveting and kept me guessing. I really like Kori and Wyatt’s journeys and especially enjoyed the theme of forgiveness.
May 23, 2026
Love this series
I've read the first three books in this series and they are all wonderful. The characters feel like real people and I want to know more about their lives. I hope this series about the King Family will continue for a very long time.
I've read the first three books in this series and they are all wonderful. The characters feel like real people and I want to know more about their lives. I hope this series about the King Family will continue for a very long time.
June 6, 2026
Christy Barrett never disappoints
Fast-paced drama, realistic romance, and characters you will care about.
This whole series is a lot of fun and will keep you wanting to know more for hours!
Fast-paced drama, realistic romance, and characters you will care about.
This whole series is a lot of fun and will keep you wanting to know more for hours!
June 11, 2026
These are casual reads, but engaging and well written. I love that I can just read these and enjoy the story and getting lost in their world, which is exactly what I need at the end of the school year.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews