Caprock Canyon, Texas - Present Day

Caprock Canyon Police Department is the last chance for disgraced Chicago cop Marty Hogan. After getting caught on film beating a suspect almost to death, Marty managed to stay out of jail, if not keep her job. No matter that the suspect brutally killed a child, Marty's actions gave the city a black eye, and they gave her the boot. Now, she finds herself heading to nowhere Texas, probably to work with podunk officers for whom detective work is finding their chewing tobacco.

When Police Chief Clay Settlemeyer meets Marty Hogan, he can tell she's a cop on the edge. Always a believer in second chances, having needed one himself earlier in his career, Clay is willing to offer a hand to Marty. But is it for an officer in need or a beautiful damsel in distress?

The hits keep coming for Marty as she learns that her best friend and ex-partner was tortured and killed in Chicago. Even worse, she might also be a target because of the events that got her fired from the force. Worried that this will send Marty over the edge, Clay decides to make sure his newest officer doesn't self-destruct. But what happens when moral support becomes something much more explosive?

From the depths of despair, something new and beautiful blossoms in Linda Castillo's OVERKILL. All Marty Hogan ever wanted to be was a cop. Coming from a family of peace officers, it's all she's ever known. When one act strips it all away, Marty is left afloat on the shipwreck that is her life. Clay has been where Marty is and worries that she may be beyond help, especially when she almost immediately alienates the other men on their small force. There is something about her that calls to him, and he knows he has to be careful not to step over the line with a subordinate. But when Marty is in danger, Clay can't continue to deny his feelings.

Secondary characters add to the background and suspense, but the tale is really Marty and Clay's. Readers know from the beginning who the bad guys are, and the thrill is wondering when the police will figure it out...and if they will do it before more people die.

Well-written with a wonderful blending of angst, suspense, and romance, check out OVERKILL.

Kathy Samuels