Liane Mahugh’s Pioneering Secrets tells the story of a quiet town turned upside down by the sudden death of a bright young girl, Sarah Mills. The book opens with a jarring scene, Sarah is shot while refilling a birdfeeder outside her home. What follows is an emotional and twisting investigation led by Detective Corey Sayers, a transplant from Toronto, who teams up (and sometimes butts heads) with spirited history teacher Andie Dawn and local reporter C.J. Corbin. As the mystery deepens, so do the connections between townsfolk, past secrets, and the quiet menace hiding in their seemingly peaceful community.

What struck me right away was how easy it was to settle into the world of Rolling Brook Falls. Mahugh writes with a natural rhythm that blends small-town charm with creeping dread. The characters feel like people you’d know. They’re messy, stubborn, kind, and sometimes secretive. I loved the chemistry between Corey and Andie. Their banter had bite, but there was warmth too. Andie is refreshingly sharp, never the damsel, and Corey’s dry humor adds a solid counterbalance. But it’s the pacing of the mystery that really kept me flipping pages. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another twist came along to knock me sideways.

The writing style is simple and sometimes veers into telling more than showing, especially in emotional moments. But honestly, I didn’t care much because I was hooked. Mahugh’s strength lies in her sense of place and character. She layers the mystery well, balancing clues and red herrings in a way that keeps you second-guessing. The emotional undercurrent, especially in how Sarah’s death ripples through her friends, family, and the community, is done with real heart.

Pioneering Secrets is more than a whodunit. It’s a look at grief, trust, and the secrets people carry. I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries with an edge, especially readers who like character-driven stories with a splash of romance and a whole lot of heart. If you’re in the mood for a mystery that feels both personal and suspenseful, this one’s worth your time.

Pages: 147 | ASIN : B0DVGQGSZ3