I am a longtime fan of author Carol Ericson, and her new “Target: Timberline” series gets off to a great start with “Single Father Sheriff”. Cooper Sloane never imagined that accepting the position of sheriff in the rural community of Timberline, Washington would lead to so many changes in his life. With his wife’s passing away, he was left with the care of their young daughter, Steffi. Torn between duty and parenthood, he juggles them both as best he can. Coop’s easygoing demeanor belies his sharp instincts and powers of observation—he is as dedicated a lawman as he is a dad. When Kendall Rush returns to Timberline to settle her aunt’s estate, she is haunted by the still-unsolved kidnapping of her twin sister, Kayla, when the girls were just five years old. Two other local children were also taken, and the case became known as the “Timberline Trio”. Twenty five years later, several other children are now missing, and the cases are eerily similar. As strange and dangerous events begin to target Kendall, Coop becomes her protector. The attraction between them is immediate and sparky, but they both know that Kendall wants to leave Timberline behind in her rear-view mirror as soon as possible. Kendall’s life lies in Arizona—could Coop and his daughter be part of an unexpected new future—one filled with happiness? The case hits all too close to home when Steffi becomes a victim of the kidnapper--will they all survive to find out if a dream can come true? Lovers of romantic suspense will enjoy this well-paced story.

Book Copy Gratis Author ( )

Kendall Rush returns to Timberline, Washington, to sell her aunt’s house after her aunt’s death. Twenty-five years ago Kendall’s sister was kidnapped in this house. Kendall’s sister and the kidnapper, along with two other kidnapped children, were never found. Now there is a kidnapper once again at large in Timberline, and Sheriff Cooper Sloane thinks Kendall might be able to help in the investigation.

This was an enjoyable enough read. The main characters were likable and had good chemistry. I enjoyed the secondary cast, as well, with many potential suspects for the kidnapper. The suspense was well done, and the dreary rainy weather provided a fitting atmosphere for the story. The only thing that bothered me was how little time Coop spent with his young daughter, Steffi, considering that there was a kidnapper of children on the loose. I’d have thought he wouldn’t want his daughter out of his sight. Still, this was an entertaining time-passer. ( )