A woman dying of an overdose that is definitely not accidental, missing girls, corrupt police, and sex slaves are all part of this fast-paced series debut introducing former disgraced police officer Daniel Whelan and his retired police dog, Taz. Daniel, now driving a truck delivering feed to local farms, is called out after hours with Taz to look for two young girls who have run away. The youngest girl is found, but the other remains missing. Only afterward does Daniel question whether the two men who reported the girls missing are relatives or criminals. His police instinct demands that he investigate further. VERDICT This mystery is not as violent or dark as it might sound. Stacey, whose other crime novels revolve around horse racing à la Dick Francis (Cut Throat), does a good job developing characters who grab your attention. Recommended for fans of serious British mysteries, especially those who read S.J. Bolton or Ann Cleeves.—Susan Hayes, Chattahoochee Valley Libs., Columbus, GA

This stellar first in a new series from British author Stacey (Cut Throat) introduces Daniel Whelan, a 28-year-old former police officer, and his retired police dog, Taz. Daniel has left his wife and his eight-year-old son, Drew, to begin a new life in Devon, working as a delivery man for a farm supply company. When two sisters, 15-year-old Katya and 12-year-old Elena Reynolds, go missing on Dartmoor, Daniel can't refuse joining in the hunt. A glove of Elena's provides a scent for Taz, a German shepherd, to follow. That the girls' father, judging from his accent, might be Eastern European provides a possible clue to their fate. Meanwhile, Daniel must deal with the effect his separation has had on Drew as well as the consequences of his dismissal from the police force. Vivid descriptions of Devon complement a compelling mystery, which builds to a dramatic conclusion. Even nondog lovers will eagerly await the next installment featuring Taz and his handler. (June)