In Carr's third Virgin River novel, Mike Valenzuela is on his way to visit family in L.A. when he learns that Brie, Jack Sheridan's youngest sister, has been raped and beaten by the defendant in a high-profile rape case she had unsuccessfully prosecuted. Mel, Virgin River's midwife, begins to suspect that a serial date rapist is preying on the girls of the community after plying them with drink and drugs, and soon Mike is on the case as Virgin River's constable. Readers of Carr's series will be delighted to see how Preacher and Paige are faring in their new marriage, and how life is treating Jack, Mel, and little David. The combination of realistic romance and tough topics such as rape and the war in Iraq makes this a fine read. And the introduction of Paul, another member of the band of U.S. Marine buddies, and a general's pregnant daughter raises hope that the series will continue.