Breakaway — Laura Crum

Veterinarian Gail McCarthy has been working with horses for years and will in fact take over the practice when her boss retires. She has seen many different problems, but nothing could have prepared her for her newest call.

Early on a Saturday morning, Gail receives a disturbing phone call from a local woman. The woman, Nicole believes that her mare has been sexually violated during the night and wants Gail to come take a look. Gail confirms Nicole's suspicions and urges her to call the police. Whoever would do this to a horse is clearly a dangerous person and shouldn't be at large, but Nicole refuses to take any action.

However, the situation turns more dangerous. One night when Gail and her best friend Kris return from dinner, Kris finds her 15 year-old daughter knocked unconscious and their horse violated. Gail is determined to find answers before more lives are put at risk. It takes some ingenuity and the help of a friend on the police force to uncover the perpetrator, who may also be wanted for murder.

In this sixth addition to the series, Veterinarian Gail McCarthy manages to solve the puzzle while battling personal problems and even learns more about herself in the process.

Laura Crum, a horse lover and trainer for over twenty years, uses her knowledge of horses and her fine writing skills to create another memorable entry in this charming series set in the foothills of the beautiful Sierra Nevadas.