His mind should be on the case…  But he can’t stop thinking of her

When Stefanie Nguyen discovers a dead body at the annual Founder’s Day celebration, police detective Campbell Sawyer picks up the case.

Could the murder be related to a cold case his father worked? Or to a sinister cult?

Despite his goal of keeping things strictly business, Campbell is deeply drawn to Stefanie as he investigates the mystery. Can he keep her safe as the danger escalates?

Titles in the Criminal Case Files series include:  Explosion at the Marina ~ Carnival Cold Case ~ Targeted at Christmas ~ Ranger in Pursuit ~

This story may contain language, violence, and/or sexual situations intended for an adult 18+ audience.

Title:  Carnival Cold Case
Series:  Criminal Case Files #2
Author:  R. Barri Flowers
Published:  March 31, 2026
Publisher:  Harlequin Intrigue
My Rating:  4.5 stars

Carnival Cold Case is the second title in the Criminal Case Files series, bringing us an intense and dangerous situation for Stefanie and Campbell as the clues lead in different directions, and perhaps, even into the past.  What might be just as dangerous in a far different way is Campbell’s reaction to the woman who discovered that dead body… keeping Stefanie safe while fighting his strong attraction to her is distracting at the least, and, most likely, life-changing for them both in the long run.

I enjoyed Carnival Cold Case.  Even though I picked up the series at this point, it was very easy to follow Stefanie and Campbell’s romance.  Their story is well-written, emotional, and intense, as the clues don’t always add up to whether this is only a current case or a deadly connection to Campbell’s father’s cold case investigation years ago.  There are twists, turns, and a few surprises before the ultimate conclusion to this story.  I’d not hesitate to recommend this one to any reader who loves a good mystery, putting puzzle pieces together, and an intense romantic journey.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

This title is available at Amazon