Accused (Pacific Coast Justice) by Janice Cantore

ABOUT THE BOOKDetective Carly Edwards hates working in juvenile—where the brass put her after an officer-involved shooting—and longs to be back on patrol. So when a troubled youth, Londy Atkins, is arrested for the murder of the mayor and Carly is summoned to the crime scene, she's eager for some action. Carly presses Londy for a confession but he swears his innocence, and despite her better judgment, Carly is inclined to believe him. Yet homicide is convinced of his guilt and is determined to convict him.

Carly's ex-husband and fellow police officer, Nick, appears to be on her side. He's determined to show Carly that he's a changed man and win her back, but she isn't convinced he won't betray her again.

As the investigation progresses, Carly suspects a cover-up and strikes out on her own, uncertain whom she can trust. But when danger mounts, she begins to wonder if she made the right choice.

MY THOUGHTSThis was a great read. There was just enough action and mystery to keep me turning page after page. Pulling in several different areas of the police department as well as civilians made this more interesting. I loved not being able to distinguish the good guys from the bad guys until they were revealed at the very end.


I felt that the crime/mystery portion of the book was definitely overshadowed by the religious aspects of the book. Carly is a nonbeliever since the death of her father and finds herself surrounded by people with great faith who want her to have the same beliefs she does. Carly's personal struggle overpowered the main plot of the book, although I definitely believe it was worth it. Carly's struggle alone would have made for a good book. Strong conflict and well-written characters, you won't want to put this one down!