Suspense/Intrigue
Starting Over
By Jenn L
Oct 8, 2007 - 7:14:29 AM

Colleen McDonald has fled in an attempt to escape a past that haunts her. After enduring her recovery from a bullet wound and the death of her partner, she realized that the life she had built was crumbling around her. Summoning up her courage, she packed her life up and traveled across the country to start over. She never expected that renting her cottage would thrust her into the middle of a police investigation.

Deputy Sheriff Graham Harrigan can’t really explain why the disappearance of Jeffery Walters nags at him, but it can’t hurt to head out to Mr. Walters’s home and investigate his stepdaughter’s concern. On the surface, everything seems normal, but beneath he feels like pieces are missing. With encouragement from his department, he’s given the reins to investigate it further.

This case could very well get Graham the position of detective he’s been working toward, but he slowly realizes that all is not as it seems, starting with the mysterious Colleen McDonald. As this sheriff and former police officer race against time and each other, will they be able to find Jeffery, or is it too late?

Ms. Odell pens a tale full of nail-biting suspense that will have you on the edge of you seat. STARTING OVER is a novel with many layers and hidden secrets that slowly paint a picture so clear and obvious that you can’t believe you didn’t see it sooner. With plenty of possible scenarios and motives for Jeffery’s disappearance, no one in this fast paced novel is exempt from suspicion.

However, beneath the intrigue and suspense is a love story so heart-warming yet painful that I found myself in tears at times. Expertly intertwined with the missing persons case, the slow build of love and trust between Graham and Colleen was believable and never felt forced or contrived. STARTING OVER is a fabulous example of the Romantic Suspense genre and Ms. Odell proves that she is a force to be reckoned with. STARTING OVER is a must-have for fans of this genre and a definite keeper.