Dr. Kristin Alberghetti is called to a cactus farm outside Aurora, California to examine several bodies that are found during some excavation of the property. Detective Malloy Cavanaugh is also on the case since he is with the Cold Case Division. Why is this being considered a cold case? Kristin identifies the bodies as having been buried at least twenty years ago. Kristin isn't happy to be working with Malloy, his reputation precedes him. Malloy is known as a playboy: love 'em, leave 'em and move on to the next conquest. But for now, she is stuck with him and keeps her defenses up to protect herself.

With not much to go on, Malloy and Kristin plunge into the case and pool resources and knowledge to find the serial killer. Kristin identifies the twelve bodies as being eleven females and one male. She finds that one of them has a prosthetic hip, which leads them to a name and the first break in this case. As they work together to solve this case, Malloy works to break down Kristin defenses and get to her heart. Can he solve both of these cases with good results?

Marie Ferrarella gives us another delightful "Cavanaugh" story in CAVANAUGH COLD CASE. This installment doesn't explain all the myriad family connections, but is still a good stand-alone cozy police mystery. Kristin and Malloy are strong, believable characters whose banter back and forth with their dialogue throws in an amusing twist. The plot is fairly predictable but has a surprising end. Having read several books in this Cavanaugh Justice series, I was disappointed that we don't get to attend one of the famous Andrew Cavanaugh gatherings in this story or catch up with other members of the family. But CAVANAUGH COLD CASE will make a charming, quick summer read if you enjoy this genre.