Step into the thrilling world of the Timber Creek K-9 Mystery series, where a sharp-witted deputy and her loyal German shepherd tackle crime in the rugged Colorado Rockies! Created by Margaret Mizushima, this captivating series blends heart-pounding police procedurals with the unbreakable bond between K-9 Deputy Mattie Cobb and her dog, Robo, set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop. Perfect for fans of crime fiction and dog lovers alike, Timber Creek K-9 Mystery delivers suspense, heart, and a touch of small-town charm.
With its unique focus on working dogs and richly developed characters, the series has carved a niche in the mystery genre, inviting readers to solve intricate cases alongside Mattie and Robo. Whether you’re drawn to twisting plots or the emotional depth of human-canine partnerships, this series promises an adventure you won’t forget.
How Timber Creek K-9 Mystery Began
Margaret Mizushima, a former speech pathologist turned author, drew inspiration from her life in Colorado and her husband’s veterinary practice to craft the Timber Creek K-9 Mystery series. The idea for the series sparked during a conversation her husband had with a client, leading Mizushima to create Mattie Cobb, a resilient deputy, and Robo, her expertly trained K-9 partner. Launched in 2015 with Killing Trail, the series reflects Mizushima’s love for crime fiction, her fascination with working dogs, and her deep connection to the Colorado landscape.
Mizushima’s background in speech therapy and her experience assisting with veterinary emergencies enriched her storytelling, giving authenticity to the series’ characters and settings. Her goal was to weave suspenseful mysteries with emotional depth, making Timber Creek a standout in the crowded mystery genre.
The Heart of Timber Creek K-9 Mystery
The series kicks off with Killing Trail (2015), where Mattie and Robo investigate a young girl’s murder in the mountains, uncovering secrets that threaten their small town. In Stalking Ground (2016), a missing woman’s body is found during a snowstorm, pulling Mattie into a chilling case. Hunting Hour (2017) raises the stakes when a local girl vanishes, and Burning Ridge (2018) sees Mattie grappling with a personal connection to a gruesome discovery. Each book delivers a standalone mystery while deepening the arcs of Mattie, Robo, and veterinarian Cole Walker.
At its core, the series explores themes of trust, resilience, and community. Mattie’s troubled past and her bond with Robo highlight the healing power of partnership, while the vivid Colorado Rockies setting—from misty forests to snowy peaks—acts as both a stunning backdrop and a character in its own right. Mizushima’s style blends fast-paced action with heartfelt moments, offering readers a balance of gritty crime-solving and emotional stakes.
The series’ focus on K-9 units sets it apart, with Robo’s tracking and detection skills bringing authenticity to the procedurals. Fans praise the realistic portrayal of police dogs, drawn from Mizushima’s research and her life surrounded by animals, making each case feel immersive and believable.
Why Timber Creek K-9 Mystery Resonates
The Timber Creek K-9 Mystery series has captivated readers with its blend of suspense, character-driven storytelling, and love for working dogs. Its critical acclaim, including nominations for the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award and Colorado Book Award, underscores its impact in the mystery genre. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon rave about the series’ ability to balance intense investigations with heartfelt connections, often comparing it to C.J. Box’s Joe Pickett novels.
By spotlighting a female K-9 handler and her dog, Mizushima brings diversity to the genre, appealing to readers who crave strong, relatable protagonists. The series’ enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport readers to Timber Creek, where every case feels personal, and every bond—human or canine—matters.
- First Book: Killing Trail (2015)
- Latest Book (as of 2025): Dying Cry (2025)
- Awards: Finalist for Colorado Book Award, RT Reviewers’ Choice Award nominee
- Setting: Fictional Timber Creek, Colorado
Grab Killing Trail and dive into the Timber Creek K-9 Mystery series’ world of suspense, loyalty, and Rocky Mountain adventure!