Although I'm not a fan of her romance novels, I've read a number of Nora Roberts' mysteries and fantasy trilogies and I think she's a very prolific and good writer. I found this book to be no exception. I loved Nate's quirky sense of humour and his interactions with the many colourful characters in the small Alaskan town where he moves to pick up the pieces of his life and start over again. I love my female heroines to be strong and independent, but sometimes Meg was just a little too prickly and aloof for my taste. She did soften toward the end, though, and allowed her growing feelings for Nate to puncture that tough exterior. And, someone who loves her dogs as much as she does certainly deserves likeability points, in my opinion! Ms. Roberts' vivid descriptions of the Alaskan solitude and breathtaking beauty were very well-done. The mystery kept me guessing to the end and wondering who the murderer was out of all the possible suspects. All in all, I found this to be a very enjoyable read.