**Deadly Gamble**
Rating: 4/5
In “Deadly Gamble,” author Linda Lael Miller introduces us to Charlie Parker, an accountant and partner in a private investigation firm in Albuquerque. When her old school friend Stacy North seeks help in finding her missing Rolex watch before her husband discovers the truth about her extramarital affair, Charlie is drawn into a web of lies and deceit. What starts as a simple search for a missing watch quickly escalates into a murder investigation when the suspected thief is found dead, and Stacy becomes the prime suspect.
As Charlie delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers a host of secrets and motives that paint a complex picture of the victim and potential suspects. With the help of her loyal canine companion, Rusty, Charlie navigates the dangerous waters of betrayal and revenge to uncover the truth behind the murder and clear Stacy’s name.
Miller’s storytelling is engaging and keeps readers on the edge of their seats as Charlie untangles the web of lies surrounding Detweiller’s murder. The characters are well-developed, and the twists and turns in the plot keep the reader guessing until the very end. The inclusion of a new foreword by the author upon the 20th anniversary of the series adds a nostalgic touch for fans of the ongoing mystery series.
“Deadly Gamble” is a thrilling debut in the almost-cozy mystery genre that will appeal to fans of suspenseful whodunits with a touch of humor and a lovable canine sidekick. With its engaging plot, well-crafted characters, and unexpected twists, this novel is sure to keep readers turning the pages late into the night. Pick up a copy of “Deadly Gamble” and immerse yourself in a thrilling mystery that will leave you guessing until the very end.