Away to Me

George, beloved sheepdog trainer, was shot and killed while standing in an open field, not an accident, but murder. Maddie McGowan, his friend and protégée who’s still recovering from her own traumatic past, is devastated by his loss. She has a PhD in animal behavior and works with problem dogs in her small Wisconsin town: dogs that bite the mailman, are terrorized by thunder, etc. But while her connection with animals is strong, her way with people…not so much. She bonds with a shelter dog that is near death, recognizing his K-9 training, though he is unclaimed by law enforcement. There is a connection to illegal drugs, and despite threats and outright attacks, she can’t step back. Maddie is an admirable character, strong and determined, willing to sacrifice all for her animals, finding the solution in the end. There’s something special about a mystery that introduces readers to a subject they know nothing about. McConnell offers an enjoyable story and—bonus!—knowledge of sheepdogs that you never knew you were missing.