Temporarily working in the cold case division was supposed to mean less danger for state trooper Trey Jackson and his injured K-9 partner, Magnum—until they thwart an abduction. Now he must protect profiler Justine Stark, even as she blames him for her friend’s death ten years ago. Can he right past wrongs by finally solving the murder…and making sure Justine lives to find closure?
From Harlequin Love Inspired Courage. Danger. Faith.
Colorado native Sharee Stover lives in the midwest with her real-life-hero husband, three too-good-to-be-true children, and a ridiculously spoiled dog. A self-proclaimed word nerd, she loves the power of the written word to ignite, transform, and restore. She writes Christian romantic suspense combining heart-racing, nail-biting suspense and the delight of falling in love all in one. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Sisters in Crime, and Nebraska Writer’s Guild. Sharee is a triple Daphne du Maurier finalist, winner of the 2017 Wisconsin Fabulous Five Silver Quill Award, and her debut, Secret Past, won Best First Book in the 2019 National Excellence in Romance Fiction Awards. When she isn’t writing, Sharee enjoys reading, crocheting and long walks with her obnoxiously lovable German Shepherd. Visit her at www.shareestover.com.
'Would working Kayla's case expose everything Justine had spent her adult life escaping?'
I only recently discovered this author's work and I am now a huge fan. She certainly knows how to hit the ground running with the suspense and continue to ratchet it up throughout the book. Reading this one, I just kept casting about in my mind trying to figure out who the culprit was. That, dear reader, is the mark of a good suspense author. You can't figure it out until they decide to let you figure it out.
'Three days to solve a ten-year-old murder. Next they'd want him to explain the Bermuda Triangle.'
Stover populates this book with great characters, the two main ones especially great. We do see a few old friends from an earlier book, which was so nice. Even the bad guys are really good bad guys. Now good, mind you, but good bad guy characters. And the dog Magnum was a definite hero in this story. I loved him! Well done!
My thanks to Love Inspired Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. I was not expected to leave a positive review. The opinion here is entirely my own.
What a interesting mystery! Cold case mysteries have become my favorite over the years and this was an exciting one. I really enjoyed the twists and turns in this one, that kept me guessing as to the culprits. I was also happy Trey finally got his story after meeting him in "Silent Night Suspect." Justine was perfect for him. Fun read!
I received this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
She's done it again. Ms Stover does not disappoint with this novel. Cold Case Trail delivers a longer-novel feel in a short book. From the start, I was drawn in by Justine's fears that she tries to hide, and Trey's angst as he faces the need to protect the woman who blames him for her friend's death. The balance between their initial struggle to the sigh-worthy ending was handled expertly from the beginning to the end. I didn't put the book down once I picked it up and read the first page. I received this book as a gift, and no one asked me to review it.
This story pulls you down an exciting path….with romance, suspense and a K-9 hero!
I love a good mystery, especially with clues to be found in a journal! Cold Case Trail kept me guessing until the end…..about who was involved…..and about the safety of the characters. From reading other books written by Sharee Stover, I expected the action to be non-stop…..and the suspense was intense as the pages quickly turned!
What I didn’t expect was to fall in love with Magnum. Yes, I like dogs, but this K-9 jumped into my heart. I found the realistic depiction of law enforcement dogs fascinating….the absolute reaction to commands and the bravery in all situations. I have a new respect for the work these animals do.
Now on to the romance. Justine Stark, a forensic psychologist, is haunted by the murder of her friend ten years ago. While setting up kennels in an old barn for some foster dogs, she finds her late friend’s diary with intensifying entries leading up to to the murder. Hoping to profile the killer, she contacts law enforcement for assistance. Since Trooper Trey Jackson is handling cold cases while his K-9 partner heals from an injury, he is assigned to this old investigation. Though he wants to help, he finds the situation awkward because he was close to both the victim and Justine years ago.
The main characters overcome old emotions as the attraction between them grows. Trey is a perfect faith-filled hero….honorable, brave and protective. Justine is believable with her difficult challenges and strong attitude. The supporting roles, both good and evil, were well portrayed. And the assortment of animals added to the story….especially hero Magnum!
If you like suspense stories with intense action and sweet developing romance, you’ll want to pick up Cold Case Trail by Sharee Stover. WARNING: You may not be able to put this book down!
Favorite quotes: “You’re right, Lord. Worrying won’t solve anything. You’ve got this case, and You’ve got us.” “But a healthy relationship encourages a couple to work together, ensuring their hopes are realized.”
*I was given a copy of this book with no requirement to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts.
Forensic Psychologist, Justine Stark has been working on the cold case of her best friend Kayla Nolan who was killed 10 years ago. While she has spent her time working as a Forensic Psychologist she has collected a long list of convicted murderers etc...that would love to bring her down. Due to constant threats over the years Justine has moved numerous times over the years. This time she has been lucky enough to fulfill a dream of hers, opening a dog and cat rescue. Trey Jackson, a Nebraska State Trooper, has been assigned to work on cold cases and the first one that he and his canine partner, Magnum, will work on is that of his friend Kayla Nolan that occurred 10 years ago. He remembers that night too well. She had called him numerous times but he was working and was not able to answer. He can't help it, he blames himself, if he would have just taken a minute and answered the phone maybe Kayla would still be alive. He decides to start with Justine. She had never let him explain why he did not pick up his phone but he was hoping that he would let him explain, not that it changes anything but he would like her to know that he has never forgiven himself. On his way to Justine's house a car came out of nowhere and he thought the crazy driver was going to plow right into him. He made a very quick U turn and pursued the car which he found abandoned on the side of the road, but he also saw that there was a man on the side of the road and he told Trey that he was carjacked. Once he requested the tags be run from the car on the side of the road, he went back over to the car and opened the trunk and found... Justine. Can Justine forgive Trey so that they can work together and solve their friend's death? If they both pray through the situation and maybe they will also find out who abducted her. Thank you Sharee for allowing me to participate as an early reader. I loved this story and fell in love with Magnum.
Second Chance romance with an enemies to more twist amped up the romance in this intense cold case suspense. From the heart-in-throat, attention-grabbing opening scene to the swoonworthy conclusion, this is one gripping read.
And there are dogs, people! Not only the handsome and debonair Magnum, K-9 extraordinaire, but Justine fosters a pack of strays she fondly refers to as 'the boys.'
There's plenty of danger, enough plot twists to rattle the most staid armchair detective and the kind of fast-paced energy Love Inspired Suspense novels are known for.
Sharee Stover's newest novel keeps you on the edge of your seat from the first page to the last.
Justine Stark and Trey Jackson are two intriguing characters, one a profiler, the other, a state trooper who happens to work with an incredibly brave K-9 partner, Magnum.
Not only does it keep you guessing who is "pulling the strings" on all the mayhem that has occurred it has a newly awakened romance blossoming as well.
It's an absolutely delightful and suspenseful read, perfect for reading on a vacation or the comfiest seat in your home.
I received this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post nor write a review.
Sharee does it again! This book was another amazing suspense story filled with love and hope! I loved the characters and seeing Taya again in this story. I couldn't put the book down, it started off with action and ended happily after a ton more action. Sharee keeps you on your toes as you try to navigate the suspect list and I can honestly say, I had the killer pegged wrong.
Another great suspense read from Sharee Stover! I always love to read about K-9 dogs and the services they do. Magnum (K-9) doesn’t disappoint. Strong characters, suspense, faith, forgiveness and non stop action make this an awesome read!
a page turning story to the end. trey is working cold case while his injured k9 heals, Justine is looking into the same cold case, and now someone is after her and anyone or thing around her. can they work together to find out who the bad guys are? and will they find that person in time ? if you like suspense and animals you will want to read the book i was given a copy of the book by netgally but this is an honest review
Sharee Stover's newest novel keeps you on the edge of your seat from the first page to the last.
Justine Stark and Trey Jackson are two intriguing characters, one a profiler, the other, a state trooper who happens to work with an incredibly brave K-9 partner, Magnum.
Not only does it keep you guessing who is "pulling the strings" on all the mayhem that has occurred it has a newly awakened romance blossoming as well.
It's an absolutely delightful and suspenseful read, perfect for reading on a vacation or the comfiest seat in your home.
I received this book from the publisher and was under no obligation to post nor write a review.
(Thank you to the author and publisher for an advanced reader copy of this book. All wording is my own opinion.)
Cold Case Trail by: Sharee Stover
Another great suspense read from Sharee Stover!
From the first page of chapter 1, you are intrigued. Trey Jackson and Justine Stark are taken on a wild ride throughout the story and Trey's K9, Magnum captures your heart. I found myself cheering for him and getting anxious whenever he would run into trouble!
What I loved about this story is you really have no idea what is going to happen next and you are left completely shocked in the end, as well as relieved over how it comes together.
If you like suspense, with faith and a little romance thrown in- this is a great read for you!
This is a well written book that is full of drama, suspense and romance. Trey and Justine's story will keep you on the edge of your seat. I loved Magnum, what a dog!! It is full of twists and turns and will keep you guessing until the end. Loved it! Thank you HARLEQUIN - Romance (U.S. & Canada) and Sharee Stover via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
If you like animals, you're gonna LOVE this book!! I don't know how Stover does it, but EACH book she writes has my attention GLUED to the pages...Cold Case Trail is no exception! Justine is reading her late friend's diary one night when she is attacked, turns out her best friend's diary is more valuable than she realizes. Despite the danger this revelation brings, Justine is DETERMINED to bring her deceased friend the justice she deserves.
Trey has been assigned to a cold case and is immediately thrown into danger as he reconnects with Justine to solve this mystery. Magnum is Trey's K-9 partner and a main character in this incredible story. Stover writes Magnum SO WELL that you would swear he's a REAL dog in this fictional story! And did I mention that Justine fosters six dogs of her own plus has a clever cat named Clover? Yeah, this is TRULY a dog's book making a page-turner even BETTER.
Trey stepped forward. "Patrol canine vehicles are equipped with a thermostat-control safety feature. If the interior exceeds the temperature, the windows automatically roll down." Justine rose again. "Every vehicle should offer that." SO true, every vehicle needs to feature this to protect dogs in cars, especially in the summer.
There are a few characters in this story whom I label absolutely cruel, jail time is too good for the likes of them. Justine and Trey handle every encounter, every threat, EVERY explosion, with dignity and patience beyond anyone's sanity. And that Magnum? Well, he's the TRUE hero of this story from the start. And what made me love this story even more, Justine and Trey were more concerned about the dogs' welfare than their own in every emergency. The way it's written is both a comfort and at the same time made me tangibly nervous. A perfect blend of emotions that made this story impossible to figure out but also filled with heart.
I've read a few popular books this year and none of them bless me like a Stover book does, and EACH Stover book is better than the last one! DO. NOT. MISS this new release, it will grab you and not let go until the last page.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts and comments are my own.
I loved the k9 Magnum, his handler Trey, and Justine in this suspenseful, fast paced book. I really enjoy reading books by this author and I especially love reading about k9 working dogs so I was very excited to read this book... and it didn't disappoint! Once you starting reading, you will not want to stop!
From the very beginning there was action, suspense, questions and a deadly game of cat and mouse. Justine is trying to re open an old case and find her friends killer after 10 years once she finds her old journal. Her previous friend Trey gets involved trying to help her solve the cold case which puts them both in the killers crosshairs. I liked reading about their memories, their love for dogs, trying to solve the case and renewing their friendship.
Great characters, riveting story line...friendship, faith, danger and forgiveness were all a big part of the story.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
All Justine Stark wants to do is solve the decade-old suspicious death of her best friend, Kayla. Little does she know that by discovering the diary of her friend would open Pandora’s box and threaten her life. State Trooper Trey Jackson is delivering the cold case files to Justine, when he stumbles upon her purely by accident in a most unexpected place. From then on, the two of them, who were friends years ago, become inseparable, both out of need for the case, and for Justine’s safety. One threat after another keep them running in circles, and I truly didn’t know who was behind all of the attacks, let alone the reason why Kayla died. I loved that this story was once again set in Nebraska, so the locations were very familiar to me and lent an extra dose of reality to the situations. I definitely recommend picking this book up if you enjoy realistic inspirational suspense. I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
Can she forgive him before it's too late for them?
There are Love Inspired Suspense authors that I've read and enjoyed for years and then there are newer ones that I'm quickly coming to like just as much. Sharee Stover is one of the latter, Cold Case Trail is the 4th book of hers that I've read in as many years and with each one I'm hooked a little more.
I'll admit that I had a little bit of a hard time with Justine for awhile, but it was her stubborn and kind of unreasonable belief that Trey was at fault for their friend's death that actually made her seem more real. I did like Trey, but, for me, Magnum was the character I loved best. I know, he's a dog but he was such a hero in Cold Case Trail that I just couldn't help myself.
Sharee Stover did a great job keeping the action hopping all throughout the story. Her characters didn't get a chance to take a breath and neither do readers. If you are a fan of the quick-reading Love Inspired Suspense novels I would would definitely recommend checking out this book and author...
(I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions are entirely my own.)
'The intruder sat on the windowsill. "He won't get in to save you." A flash of lightning silhouetted his terrifying presence. Thunder crashed, just as the man dropped the match, igniting the trail of gasoline. Like a speeding race care, the blaze zipped from the window to the door.'
Another riveting story by Sharee with danger from start to finish. Trey and Justine are both memorable characters and I want to take Magnum, his injured k-9 partner, home with me. It'll keep you guessing who the killer is until the end. Highly recommend.
This was a terrific read! As always, this author engages the reader in the plot of the story and the wonderful characters. This story has a bonus in the side kick being a dog.
I learned many things I didn’t know about K-9 units that was quite fascinating. I won’t share that here...read the book! I read it in one sitting. It’s one of those books that the pace keeps moving and I just did not want to put it down.
The plot was a good one, the characters wonderful ( my favorite obviously being the dog), and the mystery/suspense was intriguing. Another terrific story from this author!
I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Edge of the seat suspense! This story kept me reading into the wee hours of the night. I fell in love with Mags – he is adorable! The story is fast paced and full of surprises. “Three days to solve a ten-year-old cold case. Next they’d want him to explain the Bermuda Triangle.”
a page turning story to the end. trey is working cold case while his injured k9 heals, Justine is looking into the same cold case, and now someone is after her and anyone or thing around her. can they work together to find out who the bad guys are? and will they find that person in time ? if you like suspense and animals you will want to read the book i was given a copy of the book by netgally but this is an honest review
Merged review:
a page turning mystery to the end, trey is a state trooper working cold case , his partner magnum was hurt so he has to take it easy, now he has to protect a profiler that there is a past with. if you like suspense you will want to read the story, it has suspense romance second chances and Magnum i was given a copy of the book but this is an honest review
A special K-9 and his amazing handler. A young woman still searching for answers to her friend's murder ten years ago. A journal that may offer clues to this cold case. Throw in non-ending action and villains that MUST be stopped, and the result is a thriller that keeps you invested until the very end!
I loved seeing the working relationship between Justine Stark and Trey Jackson, and Magnum is the best dog ever. The possibility of a deeper connection between these two wounded individuals, and the underlying themes of faith and forgiveness, help make this a riveting read. Sharee Stover is a master at writing Christian romantic suspense and I recommend Cold Case Trail to all who enjoy this genre.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
This book is packed with non-stop action. Justine finds a journal that her friend Kayla left for her before she died. Although ruled an accidental overdose, Justine is sure Kayla was murdered. She believes that this discovery will lead to finding who is responsible.
Trey's K9 partner was injured while on the job, so the two of them have been working cold cases. This leads him to Kayla's case and he decides to find out what actually happened to her. Trey, Justine, and Kayla were all friends years ago and their history lends to some tense moments between the two of them as they begin to work together.
Cold Case is an interesting story that lovers of suspense will enjoy. I received a complimentary copy of this book though NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Working in the cold case division would be a tough job but his K-9 partner needs time to heal from injuries sustained in the line of duty. No one found the killer 10 years ago but State Trooper Jackson will do everything he can to help profiler Justine Stark find the killer now. Justine, now a forensic psychologist, will leave no stone unturned as she digs in to find her friend's killer. Kayla's death was ruled suspicious, but apparently not suspicious enough to warrant a decent investigation. Now that Justine is doing her own investigation things are heating up quickly.
This is a fast paced suspense laden mystery! Highly recommend!