The Winter Dark by J.S. Cook

Title: The Winter Dark
Series: N/A
Author: J.S. Cook
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: Novella (104 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (September 10th, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts
Blurb: Veteran police chief Eli Gallagher doesn’t ask for much, but he does insist that his officers uphold the “serve” part of “serve and protect.” Conscientious young Deputy Stan Leach takes Eli’s motto to heart, maintaining a high standard of personal accountability.

When Eli’s long-distance boyfriend, Gilbert Nees, telephones from Philadelphia, Eli thinks he intends to further cement their relationship. Unfortunately, Gilbert’s news is anything but good. But Eli doesn’t have time to wallow, because a violent act results in murder in the small town of Morristown, Mississippi.

But as Eli and Stan uncover evidence, their personal lives begin to unravel. Stan, working closely with Chief Gallagher, grows increasingly attached to Eli and learns what it really means to be an advocate of justice.
Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5432
Reviewer: Portia
Review: This book confused me, at first. I really couldn’t get a handle on exactly whose story it was. On one hand, Stan is kinda sorta in a relationship, yet crushing on his boss. Eli is taking a trip to see some unknown man, but we aren’t sure of the nature of their relationship. But, all of that is becomes unimportant as crime hits their small town.

This is one of those books at a). I’d like to see turned into a movie and b). MADE me turn the page to find out what was going to happen. For a while, the mystery overtook the romance, but I don’t mind when that happens.

And “The Proposal” made me forgive any other issues I had with the work. It was just toooo sweet.

I would recommend this title to readers who like a bit of romance in their mysteries, grouchy lawmen, and fake Yankees.