With no real proof, FBI Special Agent Adam Grant suspects a serial killer is targeting animal abusers. His hunch leads him to Gardenia Hill, a premier animal sanctuary in South Carolina, begun by Red Sutter, a fierce advocate for animals and animal rights. Red Sutter has passed away, and the sanctuary is now run by her niece, Greer. Adam's and Greer's first meeting goes well. Overseen by her terrier, Shamus, Greer tells Adam, "The Shamus test is very important, and you passed with flying colors." While Greer always knew her aunt was prominent in the world of animal rescue, being known worldwide, even testifying before Congress, she did not know that Red was a consultant for the FBI. Greer agrees to help the charming FBI man, mostly by searching old files, but she does not know Adam is hunting a serial killer. Adam becomes a regular visitor to Gardenia Hill, realizing his hunch has led him not only to a shy Husky named Polly, but to the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with. But before that happens, Adam will see firsthand what goes on in the world of animal welfare. He sees the challenges of dealing with abuse, neglect, puppy mills and dog fighting, and the loving care that Greer and her team provide for the animals 24/7.
With the help of tech whiz, Felix McKinley, more murders are coming to light, and Adam finally convinces the FBI that his theory is valid. Fliers are sent to sheriffs and police departments which show just how big a case this is. The fliers bring results, and Adam is convinced there is more than one killer.
Gardenia Hill is proving to be a sanctuary for Adam himself, as well as the animals, when he is drawn more and more into life there. Not just Greer, not just the wonderful animals, but the array of characters whose welcome is enticing. Adam struggles with the idea that the FBI may not be his ideal career, and now that struggle has led him to picturing a life here, helping animals, working to make things better, and to be with Greer, who is already making Adam part of her life. They have so much in common and the leap from friendship to romance is inescapable.
Meet not only Greer and Adam, not only the animals with their own special stories, but Della, the woman who loves Greer like a daughter, and who sees the busy household runs smoothly. A superb cook, Adam becomes Della's biggest fan. Meet Freddy Gaines, an unexpected lady sheriff and her beautiful German Shepherd, Ginny. It is Ginny that leads them to the first real break in Adam's hunt for the killer, but by the time they get to the man's home, he and his dogs are gone!
Research and computer analytics uncover something shocking and unexpected. Will they ever unravel the threads of this complex case? While Adam's heart is with the animals, he is sworn to uphold the law. The pursuit for answers leads to unexpected places, unexpected people, with mystery and intrigue at the forefront of this complicated case.
Reds Law is a riveting exploration of the harsh realities of animal cruelty, expertly woven with insight into the everyday heroes who fight the abuse and cruelty with love, compassion and respect. An absorbing and enlightening read for all.
