One Split Second - a local sheriff's arrest for murder is linked to a cold case that is 45 years old.

Seattle police detective Tracy Crosswhite is contacted by her old friend, Sheriff Jenny Almond from Washington State’s Klickitat County, after being charged with the first-degree murder of Anthony Alvarez, a Vietnam veteran. Alvarez had been the prime suspect in the abduction and possible murder of teenager Jacquelyn Parker 45 years ago. Jenny's late father, Buzz, who was the deputy sheriff at the time, worked the case. While Alvarez was released due to lack of evidence, the community always viewed him with suspicion. Buzz always believed in him. After receiving a distressed call from Alvarez, Jenny goes to his home and hears gunshots. When Alvarez runs towards her, Jenny believes he is armed and shoots him. Tracy's attorney-husband, Dan, agrees to represent Jenny while Tracy investigates the case, which she believes is linked to the cold case of Jacquelyn Parker's disappearance. 

One Split Second is part of Robert Dugoni's Tracy Crosswhite series and can be read as a standalone, as this installment provides sufficient background information. Tracy is a compelling character, dedicated to solving cold cases, primarily involving the disappearances of young women. In addition to having a solid marriage, she is also a mother who juggles the challenges of being an outstanding and dedicated detective while not sacrificing the needs of her family. I enjoyed how the investigation unfolded and how the courtroom scenes played out.

Many thanks to Amazon Publishing for the gifted copy of this engaging book. 

Rated 4 out of 5 stars.

Mystery Thriller | Police Procedural.

Publication Date: Sept. 15, 2026.

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