More excitement similar to the first book, with many of the same people. I think you should read the first book of the series (Deception Cove) before this if you can, although this could be read standalone I think. But if you liked the first book, you'll probably like this one. ( )

I'll continue the series ( )

This is the sequel (2nd in a series) to "Deception Cove," starring ex-Marine Jess Winslow and ex-convict Mason Burke, plus - and most importantly - their rescue dog Lucy. Once again, there are lots of unsavory characters causing a lot of mayhem in their little town, and the two set out to solve a murder mystery, even as Burke himself is being framed for it. Although not quite as propulsive as the first book, it's still quite good. I look forward to the next installment. ( )

Lone Jack Trail is an excellent sequel by Owen Laukkanen featuring ex-con Mason Burke, an ex-Marine Jess Winslow, and Lucy, their shared therapy rescue dog. In the first book, they took on the local corrupt police force, and Jess is now the local lawperson. Mason is helping to renovate Jess's house, which was wrecked along with a loner kid he has taken under wing. A local, wealthy hockey hero returns to town having been paroled from prison for a dog fighting conviction, and Mason's disdain is palpable and public (since Lucy was rescued from a dog fighting ring.) When "Bad" Boyd washes up dead on a local beach with a hole in his head, Mason becomes the prime subject, putting Jess in an tenable position. Then, a witness comes forward saying she heard them arguing and the murder weapon is found under the boat where Mason is living. Mason flees, and finds the witness with her throat slashed, bringing in the state police for a manhunt. Initially worried about her judgment, Jess knows Mason would not have killed a witness and sets off to find the culprit and motive, placing herself in grave danger again. 4.5 stars, recommended.

Note: Special thanks to Hatchett Book Group for providing a complimentary copy for me to read. ( )

4-1/2 stars, actually... fairly good read. A little thin in places, but one of the better books I've read this year. ( )