In these trying economic times when we as readers decide to treat ourselves to a new book we are hoping for a guaranteed good read, and something that might end up on our keeper shelf and become a re-read.

RUNNIN SCARED by Cheryl Norman is quite likely the one that fits that description. As I sat and read about Ashley and the struggles she faced trying to break away from an abusive ex-husband I found myself lost in the story and unable to set it aside.

Ashley Adams has at least one goal in the new life that she's working at establishing, and that is to run a marathon. She's worked hard at her training, and even as she and her running partner Max are shot at and poisoned she continues to be determined to achieve the goal of completing the marathon.

However, as the story unfolds and bad things continue to happen the police can't help but wonder is Ashley a victim or a suspect. Is her ex husband Peter really stalking her or is she trying to blame him to pull suspicion away from herself.

Rick Edwards is the detective in charge of Ahsley's case, but he soon finds himself unable to totally separate business from personal interest.

RUNNING SCARED is the first book I've read by Cheryl Norman but it certainly won't be the last. I thought the story was well written with easy to follow plot twists that were smooth flowing.

When the climax hit it was every bit as exciting as the beginning of the book, and the closing page was as satisfying as the first page. When I finished RUNNING SCARED I thought would this book make my keeper shelf? The answer is without a doubt!