Clear Motives is a thrilling story. There are some themes that mirror real life - including small town attitudes towards outsiders and the attitude of too many cops towards members of the LGBT community, especially trans individuals. I love that Nick doesn't back down no matter what gets thrown at him. Threats, violence, he pushes through in search of the truth, to give a voice to those who had theirs taken away. I have to admit I was holding my breath and my heart was racing for a good bit of this book, and I hope to read more books starring Nick in the future! ( )