The First Death is technically the #4 book in the Columbia River Series by author Kendra Elliot but it can be read as standalone. According to the Goodreads profile this series brings together characters from Kendra Elliot’s other series but as I’ve not read any of those either, it didn’t affect my enjoyment of this book. The story has the much loved tropes of cold case meets present day and male and female investigators working together to solve a grisly crime. The main character, Rowan is in search and rescue and her delightful dog Thor is sure to me a much loved part of this book. For those concerned, nothing bad happens to the dog. Overall, this one was a fast-paced, heart-breaking at times thriller that doesn’t let up. I enjoyed the relationship between the two main characters and hope that the author gives us more in future books. I’m a new fan of this author and look forward to read more in the future.