Ryder Creed is used to dangerous situations. As a former Marine and K9 handler in Afghanistan, the motto "First in, first to die" has almost proven too close for comfort. Ryder, now the co- owner of K9 CrimeScents, is well aware of the dangers facing him and to his beloved rescue dogs when they head to a massive landslide in North Carolina.

In SILENT CREED, New York Times bestselling author Alex Kava paints a stark picture of the massive devastation of a landslide site and the tremendous impact it has on humans, structures, and the environment. This is nicely balanced by the kindness and support shown by Ryder and other characters. Ryder is a strong and rugged protagonist with a heart full of compassion for the people and dogs he rescues.

SILENT CREED is the second book in the Ryder Creed mystery series. Kava fans will relish the involvement of FBI forensics expert Maggie O'Dell (of the eleven book Maggie O'Dell series) as she's also called in on the search and rescue operation, but with a different mission. This exciting mystery about a government cover-up reads very well as a standalone novel, or as a great introduction to this highly-acclaimed author. After reading an exciting book, I always hunger for more so I am glad to now check out some of Kava's earlier novels.

SILENT CREED has a strong plot, a well-written narrative and lots of dangerous situations and dilemmas involving the classified DARPA research facility damaged in the landslide. Other interesting themes are nicely intertwined into this story, including the ethical dilemma of weighing the interests of the few over the lives of many.

I am sure Kava fans, both existing and new, will find this fast-paced mystery with its relatively short chapters to be highly engaging and captivating. Personally, I found SILENT CREED a hard book to put down. The surprising ending definitely could lead to more. If you like dog rescue books or a good mystery, look no further than SILENT CREED. Enjoy!