Rosemary Mendes leaves her home in Port Silva to live in remote Trinity County in Northern California.  She hopes to find a less stressful way of life and to escape from her in-laws, who are pressing her for part of the insurance settlement from her husband's death.  Her peaceful life comes to an abrupt end with the discovery of the murder of Michelle "Mike" Morgan in her remote woodland cottage. Rosemary gives Mike's Labrador retriever, "Tank," a home and determines to uncover the dead woman's past to find reasons for her murder.   The local sheriff, Gus Angstrom, a widower, joins her in the investigation and becomes interested in her,  There are kidnappings and more murders before the two can determine the real culprit.

Run A Crooked Mile uses breathtaking descriptions to evoke the scenic Trinity Alps.  The story is well plotted with a solid cast of characters.  Rosemary is a strong and appealing heroine.  As for her in=laws, there are no redeeming characters; they are all despicable and lacking in honor.  The development of the closeness between Rosemary and Gus is most appealing.

This is an excellent book which will give the reader a few pleasant hours.