A series of brutal murders in the Arizona desert forces Joanna Brady to confront a dangerous killer while balancing her responsibilities as sheriff. Joanna Brady, the sheriff of Cochise County, faces a complex investigation when a body is discovered in the desert, leading her into a web of local secrets and long-buried grievances. She must navigate the physical challenges of the rugged terrain and the logical constraints of a case where evidence is sparse and suspects are guarded. The narrative framework utilizes a third-person perspective that shifts between the investigation and the personal life of the protagonist, highlighting the tension between her professional duties and her role as a mother. Opposing her are elusive criminals who exploit the isolation of the landscape to conceal their activities.

Readers frequently highlight the author's ability to ground the mystery in the specific geography and culture of the American Southwest. Discussion often centers on the evolution of Joanna Brady as a character, noting her growth from a grieving widow to a seasoned law enforcement official. Critics often point to the balance between the procedural elements of the investigation and the domestic challenges faced by the protagonist. The pacing is generally described as steady, allowing for both suspenseful moments and character-driven reflection. Many readers appreciate the consistency of the series and the realistic portrayal of the difficulties inherent in small-town policing.