SOLVED. Looking for Mystery Novel about a college professor who takes an indefinite leave of absence to solve the murder of a former student. [s]

[Lindsey Smith]

I'm searching for a book about a socially awkward college professor who finds himself in the midst of a murder investigation. He travels to a northern state where one of his former students was doing a research project and ends up dead. He becomes suspect number one, until it becomes clear that the woman was killed by a bear.

(view spoiler)[ Local legend talks about an animal that stands on it's hindlegs and attacks unsuspecting hikers. The professor, along with the help from a waitress from a nearby diner, figures out that this urban legend is actually a serial killer who disguises himself as a bear and kills people in the woods. Things get dangerous for the prof and his lady friend as they get closer to discovering the killer. The killer has a parking lot full of his victim's cars hidden in the forest (hide spoiler)]

I read the book this year on Kindle. I'm pretty sure that it was some sort of Kindle Unlimited/ Prime book. I've tried searching in my Amazon account with no luck. Thanks in advance!

Hopefully this is enough information to help!

[WyoLady 93]

Could it possibly be The Naturalist by Andrew Mayne? It is a book I actually have on my to read list.

[Lindsey Smith]

Yes it is! Thanks Cheryl!!!

[WyoLady 93]

Lindsey Smith wrote: "Yes it is! Thanks Cheryl!!!"

You are very welcome!

[El]

The Naturalist for the click in case anyone is looking for it in the future. Glad you found your book, Linsdey!