“Mizushima does an excellent job of developing [Mattie and Robo] as characters, allowing readers to feel a personal connection to them both. Overall a great debut for an up-and-coming mystery writer.”

“A deftly crafted mystery that is all the more impressive considering that Killing Trail is author Margaret Mizushima’s debut…Solidly entertaining from beginning to end.”

“Winning heroine…Strong debut…A realistic view of how a K-9 team works, treating Robo as an important character, but never stooping to anthropomorphism. And it’s impossible not to fall in love with Robo.”

“Debut author Mizushima’s classic police procedural adds a fresh angle involving the work of K–9s. The appealing Robo knows what he’s doing, he just needs to train Mattie to trust him. Sue Henry fans will love.”

“The interactions between Mattie and Robo will tug the heartstrings of every dog lover…Mizushima’s debut reflects both her skill as a suspense writer and her respect for animals. The shocking conclusion will stay with readers while they wait for the next story in the series.”

“This series kickoff…reveals just enough about ancillary characters to suggest untapped opportunities while fleshing out solid backgrounds to make a cozy cozy.”

“Margaret Mizushima’s Killing Trail introduces a fine new crime-fighting team, Mattie Lu Cobb and her partner, Robo, who happens to be a dog. They’re put to the test in Timber Creek, a small town in Colorado, and the result is a satisfying mystery with a couple of cops you’re going to be glad to meet. Check it out.”

“Compelling characters, both human and canine, make Killing Trail a standout first novel. Officer Mattie Cobb battles external danger and her own troubled past as she and her K-9 partner race to catch a killer. Mattie is both caring and relentless, and everyone should have a partner like Robo.”

“A terrific debut with a refreshing detective duo—Deputy Mattie Lu Cobb and Robo, her K-9 partner! Margaret Mizushima has crafted a compelling and savvy mystery that explores the big secrets in a small western town. I was cheering on Mattie and Robo every step of the way.”