Gut instinct leads small-town reporter Claire Abbott to fires, car accidents, and every other manner of rural crime and mayhem. When a local teen goes missing in the wilderness, Claire's sixth sense intensifies and sends her on a deadly rescue mission that places her at the heart of the story. Claire's kooky mom and a couple of hunky rescue workers make appearances, but their personalities are secondary to the action in this fast-paced thriller. Anderson-Dargatz is perhaps best known for the lyrical novel A Recipe for Bees (2000). Here, she takes a decidedly more breezy approach, with hints of romance and a paranormal twist. Some readers may wish that they were given a little more time to explore Claire's intuitive powers, but suspense fans will appreciate diving right into the action. The ensuing snow-capped climax makes for an exciting and easy read for adult language learners, crossover teen readers, and anyone who doesn't have time for another epic. The plot zips along like a favorite TV crime drama but, thankfully, without commercials.

Gr 8 Up-Claire is a 20-something young woman with a nose for news. Her incredible instincts have helped her to become a successful reporter, oftentimes arriving for a scoop before the police. On her way to a dinner date, she senses a major story and is sidetracked. A young girl named Amber has gone missing in the woods. When Claire arrives at the search-and-rescue headquarters, she has a psychic vision of where Amber has been taken. When the squad refuses her help based on "visions," Claire must do whatever it takes to make sure that Amber gets home safe. She is a relatable character, and her psychic ability grows at just the right pace for a short series opener. For new adult readers who prefer hi-lo books and reluctant or struggling teen readers. Patrick Tierney, Dr. Martin Luther King Elementary School RI