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Aroostine Higgins #5
Crossfire Creek
A mother and her eleven-year-old daughter vanish from their Crossfire Creek home. The girl is vulnerable. The mother, impulsive. Tracker Aroostine Higgins is called in to find them, fast, before they're hurt ... or worse.
Aroostine assumes her Rue Jackman alias, packs up her truck, and hits the road with her dog Rufus by her side to do what she does Find the missing.
Unofficially, under the radar, and not necessarily entirely legally.
Meanwhile, Special Agent Patton Banks of the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch is tasked with solving the execution-style murder of a low-level criminal.
Officially, entirely legally, and as quickly as possible.
When Aroostine's search gets tangled up with Patton's investigation, the collision sets off a barrage ... and she's caught in the crossfire.
Don't miss this fifth-in-series thriller from USA Today bestselling author Melissa F. Miller.
Aroostine assumes her Rue Jackman alias, packs up her truck, and hits the road with her dog Rufus by her side to do what she does Find the missing.
Unofficially, under the radar, and not necessarily entirely legally.
Meanwhile, Special Agent Patton Banks of the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch is tasked with solving the execution-style murder of a low-level criminal.
Officially, entirely legally, and as quickly as possible.
When Aroostine's search gets tangled up with Patton's investigation, the collision sets off a barrage ... and she's caught in the crossfire.
Don't miss this fifth-in-series thriller from USA Today bestselling author Melissa F. Miller.
- GenresMystery
316 pages, Paperback
Published May 20, 2019
113 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Melissa F. Miller
91 books595 followersMelissa F. Miller is a multi-time USA Today bestselling author of mystery, thriller, suspense, and romance novels. Formerly a complex commercial litigator, Melissa graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in medieval literature and creative writing poetry and earned her JD, cum laude, from the Duquesne University School of Law, where she served as editor-in-chief of the Law Review.
After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.
After fifteen years, Melissa traded the practice of law for the art of storytelling, drawing on her legal background and love of research to craft fast-paced, twisty books for readers who believe light drives out darkness, love is brave, and kind is strong. She writes strong, resilient characters who tackle serious (and sometimes dark) issues and themes with heart.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and Novelists, Inc. When she’s not writing, you can find her tending her garden, doing yoga, or drinking coffee. Melissa currently lives outside Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, with her family and their rescues—a cat and a beagle. The cat’s in charge.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 24, 2019
I was privileged to receive an ARC of Crossfire Creek. Crossfire Creek takes us to North Carolina where Roo has been asked to track a missing 11 year old child and her mother – in a National Park. While the huge territory to cover seems daunting, Roo listens to her instincts and the hunt is on. There are interesting twists and correlating situations that remind Roo of her own childhood and dealing with being an "outsider". There are some scary encounters in nature – what you would expect in nature with Roo! Ms. Miller has woven a great tale and introduced her readers to yet another intriguing human condition and explored ways one might deal with it. She also introduces us to a law enforcement branch that I personally never knew existed. This is a quick read – more to the point, you won’t want to put it down until you finish it! I love all of Ms. Miller’s series and I always close the book feeling that the story is complete yet open for another adventure and already wishing for the next book!
July 9, 2020
By the end of book 4, “Called Home”, we had left Aroostine just as her career was taking an unexpected turn - from federal prosecutor to tracker of missing persons. In “Crossfire Creek”, Aroostine is back searching for a missing mother and daughter, on the run after witnessing a murder. Set in a National Park, the fifth instalment of the Aroostine Higgins series is another fast-paced, page-turning read that combines elements from legal thrillers, police procedural and murder mysteries. In fact, I find that to define Melissa F. Miller’s novels as ‘thrillers’ is reductive: her stories are equally plot and character-driven and these books owe a large part of their popularity to their characters, who are by now much loved by the author’s readership. The first novel in the Sasha MacCandless series - of which the Aroostine series is a spin-off - came out nine years ago and by now it’s safe to say Miller could put out a book in which Sasha mows the lawn and it would still be a success.
Sticking to Miller’s tried and tested formula of writing a story around a subject of interest, the plot in this book centres around a neurological condition called Prosopagnosia, i.e. the inability to recognise faces. Imagine witnessing a murder and knowing that you would not be able to identify the murderer? Exactly. Once again, thanks to this author, I learnt something new.
Just like its predecessor, Crossfire Creek doesn’t disappoint: readers can look forward to a fast-paced story with great characters, humour and unexpected guest appearances (watch out for the bear). And just as we are getting used to Aroostine-gone-rogue, things change once again. It’s a smart move that leaves readers wanting more while at the same time ensuring the longevity of a series that just keeps on surprising.
Sticking to Miller’s tried and tested formula of writing a story around a subject of interest, the plot in this book centres around a neurological condition called Prosopagnosia, i.e. the inability to recognise faces. Imagine witnessing a murder and knowing that you would not be able to identify the murderer? Exactly. Once again, thanks to this author, I learnt something new.
Just like its predecessor, Crossfire Creek doesn’t disappoint: readers can look forward to a fast-paced story with great characters, humour and unexpected guest appearances (watch out for the bear). And just as we are getting used to Aroostine-gone-rogue, things change once again. It’s a smart move that leaves readers wanting more while at the same time ensuring the longevity of a series that just keeps on surprising.
May 20, 2019
Another great read from Melissa F. Miller. Aroostine Higgins is pressed into service in her alter ego role as Rue Jackman—tracker, finder of the missing, and one unencumbered by legal niceties at times.
Her friend, tribal judge Carole Orr asks her to find Marlene Glasser and her daughter Joy-Lynn, eleven and afflicted with face blindness. Joy-Lynn witnesses a murder. Fearing that her daughter might have been spotted, Marlene goes to the police and reports that she saw the murder but did not see enough to recognize the killer. She and Joy-Lynn then go on the run.
Rue tracks the pair down and works with the Investigative Services Branch (referred to at times as the FBI of the National Park Service) as well a the local Park Ranger.
With as many twists and turns as you would find in a dense forest in one of our national parks, this story grabs you right from the beginning. I couldn’t bear to put it down once I started.
I appreciate getting an advanced copy for review purposes. I have always looked forward to books from this author. I await the next one about Aroostine as well as her other series
Her friend, tribal judge Carole Orr asks her to find Marlene Glasser and her daughter Joy-Lynn, eleven and afflicted with face blindness. Joy-Lynn witnesses a murder. Fearing that her daughter might have been spotted, Marlene goes to the police and reports that she saw the murder but did not see enough to recognize the killer. She and Joy-Lynn then go on the run.
Rue tracks the pair down and works with the Investigative Services Branch (referred to at times as the FBI of the National Park Service) as well a the local Park Ranger.
With as many twists and turns as you would find in a dense forest in one of our national parks, this story grabs you right from the beginning. I couldn’t bear to put it down once I started.
I appreciate getting an advanced copy for review purposes. I have always looked forward to books from this author. I await the next one about Aroostine as well as her other series
May 23, 2019
Joy-Lynn had made a promise, it changed when she heard the cry, a few minutes later heard the cry again. Curiosity for this eleven year old was strong, reasoning she would just look and then she would get the rangers.
A mother trying to take the advice and give her daughter some wings,now she is worried. She gets another promise from Joy-Lynn when she comes home. A story that haunts a person, how far does a parent go to protect a child. Ellis needs a good tracker and calls Aroostine. The meeting place with Ellis, instead turned to be a free pie, and the list from Ellis. Dealing with the Qualla and Cherokee people, a rare condition for a child. A story that tells of how far a love for a child, who had the magic to draw scenery but not faces. I found it to be strong compelling book that I wanted to read, the author did a great job. Special Agent with the ISB is offered, will Aroostine take, a woman who is allergic to rules , will that be in the next book. GivenARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
A mother trying to take the advice and give her daughter some wings,now she is worried. She gets another promise from Joy-Lynn when she comes home. A story that haunts a person, how far does a parent go to protect a child. Ellis needs a good tracker and calls Aroostine. The meeting place with Ellis, instead turned to be a free pie, and the list from Ellis. Dealing with the Qualla and Cherokee people, a rare condition for a child. A story that tells of how far a love for a child, who had the magic to draw scenery but not faces. I found it to be strong compelling book that I wanted to read, the author did a great job. Special Agent with the ISB is offered, will Aroostine take, a woman who is allergic to rules , will that be in the next book. GivenARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
June 19, 2019
Aroostine Higgins is called to track down a missing mother and her daughter who have disappeared after the daughter witnessed a murder. The daughter suffers from a condition the makes her unable to
see faces and the mother claimed that she was the witness. Aroostine is traveling under an alias and runs into a mess of jurisdictions and suspicions from the authorities but she finds the missing pair and tries to give them protection after the local sheriff discloses the mothere's identity and the killer is now chasing her as well. A good read, I like Miller's books and have read a number of them.
see faces and the mother claimed that she was the witness. Aroostine is traveling under an alias and runs into a mess of jurisdictions and suspicions from the authorities but she finds the missing pair and tries to give them protection after the local sheriff discloses the mothere's identity and the killer is now chasing her as well. A good read, I like Miller's books and have read a number of them.
February 11, 2021
Aroostine takes on her Rue Jackman persona once again in an effort to track down a mother and daughter who had witnessed a murder. The twist is that the daughter is face blind and couldn't identify the killer anyway. Rue tracks the pair and finds them quite easily, and then the story unfolds from there. You just know disaster is going to strike, and you read, your heart pounding while you wait for the inevitable to unfold. A new love interest is developing....I mean the sparks are flying though neither party would like to admit to an attraction, and it's really too early after Joe's death anyway... down the road this relationship will change. Aroostine changes jobs AGAIN!
May 20, 2019
This story has Aroostine (using her alias, Rue Jackman) tracking down a scared mother and daughter, who are on the run after the daughter witnesses a horrible crime. They think disappearing is the only way to keep them both safe.
Aroostine uses her skills to track them down, but ultimately needs the assistance of National Park Services, and an agent who does not trust her.
This was a great read, as all Melissa's books are! The characters are complex but intriguing, and you can really feel their emotions throughout. The story is well written and just completely draws you in. Loved it!
Aroostine uses her skills to track them down, but ultimately needs the assistance of National Park Services, and an agent who does not trust her.
This was a great read, as all Melissa's books are! The characters are complex but intriguing, and you can really feel their emotions throughout. The story is well written and just completely draws you in. Loved it!
June 4, 2019
I just loved how everything unfolded as the story went along, while still leaving you guessing who was behind the murder Joy-Lynn witnessed. Aroostine Higgins takes on her persona of Rue Jackman to make sure the job gets done legally...or not. You can't help but love Rue for her tenacity of not giving up as well as being able to spot even the smallest of clues and keeping her cool. The mystery of not knowing who to trust as well as what will happen next keeps you turning the page, but be prepared for some tense times!
June 15, 2019
Great book!
Another wonderful Aroostine book that has her using her alias to track a missing mother and daughter. They're on the run from a killer. Aroosrine has to find them before the killer. It's even more interesting because the the daughter having face blindness and can't recognize the killer. At the end of the book, Aroostine is offered a chance for another career change. We have to wait for the next book to see what she decides. It's going to be hard to wait for the next book.
Another wonderful Aroostine book that has her using her alias to track a missing mother and daughter. They're on the run from a killer. Aroosrine has to find them before the killer. It's even more interesting because the the daughter having face blindness and can't recognize the killer. At the end of the book, Aroostine is offered a chance for another career change. We have to wait for the next book to see what she decides. It's going to be hard to wait for the next book.
September 26, 2020
Riveting book!
I read it in one sitting without putting it down. It was worth the loss of sleep. I have read all of the books in this series as well as the other two series written by Melissa Miller and I’ll continue to read her books as long as she continues to write them. They’re that good.
I read it in one sitting without putting it down. It was worth the loss of sleep. I have read all of the books in this series as well as the other two series written by Melissa Miller and I’ll continue to read her books as long as she continues to write them. They’re that good.
March 16, 2023
Rue book
Another great book by this author. It’s been a while since I had read and an Aroostine book. This book was good, had a good mystery and you didn’t find out who the actual culprit was until the end. I also learned about a different kind of medical condition that I wasn’t aware of before. All in all a very good book and I would recommend it.
Another great book by this author. It’s been a while since I had read and an Aroostine book. This book was good, had a good mystery and you didn’t find out who the actual culprit was until the end. I also learned about a different kind of medical condition that I wasn’t aware of before. All in all a very good book and I would recommend it.
May 20, 2019
I received an eArc for this book.
As always, Melissa brings a beautiful, thrilling, fast paced and unputdownable book to her readers. The story is interesting and intriguing at the same time. Looking forward to going on a new adventure with Aroostine soon.
As always, Melissa brings a beautiful, thrilling, fast paced and unputdownable book to her readers. The story is interesting and intriguing at the same time. Looking forward to going on a new adventure with Aroostine soon.
May 22, 2019
This 5th addition to the Aroostine Higgins series is great. It is a fast paced mystery/thriller full of twists and turns. The storyline is very well developed and entertaining. I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review
August 2, 2019
Extraordinary!
Love, love, love this book. It was a real page turner. Stayed up all night! Just when I thought I had it figured out it took a twist or turn. If you haven't rad this series they are a must read. Can't wait for the next one.
Love, love, love this book. It was a real page turner. Stayed up all night! Just when I thought I had it figured out it took a twist or turn. If you haven't rad this series they are a must read. Can't wait for the next one.
August 28, 2019
Outstanding
As always spellbinding and just scary enough to keep me reading to the end. I very much enjoy the main character. I will keep on reading all publications in this series.
As always spellbinding and just scary enough to keep me reading to the end. I very much enjoy the main character. I will keep on reading all publications in this series.
Read
November 5, 2019Interesting premise
Roo searches for a missing child and mother in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. There is always a murder involved and threats from nature. Will keep you reading long into the night!
Roo searches for a missing child and mother in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. There is always a murder involved and threats from nature. Will keep you reading long into the night!
December 2, 2019
Great stories
I have loved all the Aroostine Higgins novels. Can't wait for the next one. I always learn something from these novels. Aroostine is smart, brave & totally believable.
I have loved all the Aroostine Higgins novels. Can't wait for the next one. I always learn something from these novels. Aroostine is smart, brave & totally believable.
January 31, 2023
Crossfire Creek
I love Aroostine,she is brave,smart and fearless. I hope there are more her books. The characters are believable and interesting and the
plot eager to follow. I've got one more of hers to read and I will look at the rest of her,the author,series.
I love Aroostine,she is brave,smart and fearless. I hope there are more her books. The characters are believable and interesting and the
plot eager to follow. I've got one more of hers to read and I will look at the rest of her,the author,series.
May 20, 2019
I consider myself very lucky to be an ARC reader for this amazing author! Another excellent Aroostine story that leaves you wanting more! I love her adventures.
May 26, 2019
Melissa F. Miller
Another excellent book from Melissa F. Miller. I enjoy all of her books and I highly recommend them. Great job!
Another excellent book from Melissa F. Miller. I enjoy all of her books and I highly recommend them. Great job!
June 22, 2019
Love her books and so well written they keep you captivated from the first page to the last .
July 24, 2021
This is a great series….love Aroostein and all the characters….
January 23, 2022
Excellent as usual. Very interesting how telling the truth would definitely have been a better option.
January 23, 2023
Enjoying this series and the progression of the lead character, Aroostine Higgins. Best to read them in order.
June 21, 2024
I enjoy Miller’s Aroostine Higgins series. I always look forward to the next. Always a good mystery without the gore.
January 27, 2026
Aroostine (or Rue Jackman) is interesting, but this story had less tracking than others in the series. I think she is more lawyerly, too, and now may have a budding romance.
August 22, 2022
I had an ARC of this book, and it was a privilege to read it. It took me more books to get into the character of Aroostine, compared with Miller's other book series' characters. But this one sealed the deal. I've enjoyed watching her grow more confident in her abilities over the course of the five books. I was disappointed in one turn of events, but it was important to the flow of the story, so I'll just live with it! It happens near the end of the story, and I don't want to spoil it, so I'm keeping mum. And there's another turn of events that looks pretty promising down the road. I like how Miller explores so many ideas in her novels, this time prosopagnosia (face blindness). Always thought-provoking. As developed in this book, it becomes so much more than not recognizing faces. Anyway, if you're a Melissa F. Miller fan, or if you're not, check out this book for a fascinating and well-done story.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews