John Doe Cold Case by Amanda Stevens @HQIntrigue

During the search for 4-year old Kylie Buchanan in the last story, human remains were discovered in the caverns in Black Creek, Florida. By the time Kylie’s investigation was solved, it was determined that those remains were of a male adult. Now Police Chief Nash Bowden and Detective Eve Jareau must determine the man’s identity and who killed him. However, during their meeting with the forensic anthropologist, Eve discovers she may know exactly who that man is.

The story resumes pretty much where the last one left off with Nash still reeling from his ex-wife’s arrest. Eve wants the opportunity to work this cold case but holds back telling him of her suspicions about the identity of John Doe because she believes he will then remove her from the investigation. She and Nash have been attracted to each other for years but have resisted acting upon their feelings but find it tougher now that they’re working so closely together. As the clues start pointing to people close to her, Eve makes decisions I found curious and threatened her safety and the case.

I liked the story and it’s again strong on atmosphere and mystery. The romance between Nash and Eve is definitely low key and in the background but the case was very interesting. All clues pointed to Eve’s relationships and I was disappointed in how she handled the challenges. While there was a resolution to the John Doe case, questions still remain about what happened to Maya Lamb who was abducted almost 30 years ago. But, it was satisfying knowing what really happened that night and whodunit. I’ll have to wait for the next book for that conclusion.

Book Info

• Release Date: January 25, 2022
  
• Series: Procedural Crime #2
• Page Numbers: 238
• Publisher: Harlequin Intrigue

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