Diversion by Cindy Goyette

An excellent addition to the Probation Case Files mysteries, Diversion follows the main character, probation officer Casey Carson, as she accompanies a group of teenage delinquents on a diversion wilderness journey. Although it’s the third book in the series, it also works well as a stand-alone read.

Author Cindy Goyette expertly creates intrigue with her attention-grabbing prologue, then smoothly transitions to Casey’s personal and professional life. The suspense builds at break-neck speed as personal conflicts amongst the teens, natural dangers in the woods, and an escaped murderer transform an adventure into an ordeal. One threat after another assaults the campers, as author Goyette delivers a breathless plot with chapters that literally leave the reader hanging and wanting more. 

The multiple points of view help to keep the story moving at a fast pace from one exciting scene to another. Goyette effectively uses a first-person point of view for her main character, along with third-person points of view for her two love interests, allowing the reader into the mind of each of the main players. I enjoyed the romantic sub-plot, with Casey’s dilemma of having to choose between two men she loves and the complications that affect her decision. Emotions run high with personal stakes added to the struggle to survive the elements and human threats.

The beautiful but treacherous wilderness setting comes alive without an excess of description. The force of a raging river, vegetation that impedes the hikers’ progress, majestic but barely-traversable mountains, and a raging fire are easy to visualize, putting the reader right into the scenes. That in itself would be enough to make this book an exciting read, but when it becomes evident that the murderer on the loose is connected to the camping party, the sense of urgency escalates. If you are looking for a mix of adventure, danger, romance, and crime thriller, Diversion fits the bill perfectly.