Rare Earth by Cecil Dawkins

A Southwestern Regional Mystery of Vanishing Bodies, Mining Claims, and Mountain Lore

In the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico, former judge and cattle rancher Gin Prettifield stumbles upon a bear attacking a dying man in the wilderness. When Gin returns to the remote location with a forest ranger, the body has vanished without a trace, leaving behind bloodstains and conflicting physical evidence.

Investigating the disappearance, Gin discovers the victim was tied to a rare earth mineral claim that threatens local landowners and environmental preserves. Navigating mountain wilderness, land speculators, and local rivalries, Gin uncovers a scheme to exploit New Mexico's natural resources.

Why You’ll Love This Book

Cecil Dawkins crafts an atmospheric Southwestern mystery featuring a resilient, mature female sleuth. Combining regional New Mexico landscape detail with environmental land-dispute plotting, this novel appeals to fans of Tony Hillerman, J.A. Jance, and Nevada Barr.