Steam and Secrets (Ellie Martin National Park Mysteries Book 3)

STEAM AND SECRETS
A National Parks Mystery

When a winter photography retreat turns deadly, a retired teacher and her extraordinary dog must expose a conspiracy that threatens America’s wilderness.

Ellie Martin thought early retirement meant peaceful adventures and beautiful photographs. She was wrong.

When federal geologist Frank Brewster is found dead in Yellowstone’s thermal pools during a winter photography workshop, everyone assumes it’s a tragic accident. Everyone except Watson, Ellie’s brilliant terrier-lab mix, whose uncanny instincts detect something far more sinister brewing beneath the surface.

What starts as a simple investigation quickly escalates into a deadly conspiracy involving:

• Systematic fraud in federal environmental assessments
• Multi-million dollar energy development contracts
• Professional assassins masquerading as respected scientists
• A network of corruption reaching the highest levels of government

As Ellie and Watson dig deeper, they uncover evidence that Frank’s “accident” was actually a carefully orchestrated murder—the latest in a series of eliminations targeting honest federal consultants whose research threatens powerful energy interests.

But when the killers realize their conspiracy has been exposed, Ellie and Watson become the next targets.

Racing against time through Yellowstone’s dangerous winter landscape, they must gather evidence while dodging chemical weapons, surveillance teams, and a brilliant geologist who’s spent months perfecting the art of undetectable murder.

Perfect for fans of:

• Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache series
• Donna Andrews’ Meg Langslow mysteries
• Clean, cozy mysteries with heart and humor
• Environmental themes and national park settings
• Animal companions who steal every scene

STEAM AND SECRETS delivers:

✓ Clean, family-friendly mystery – No profanity, violence, or adult content
✓ Brilliant amateur detective duo – Ellie’s analytical mind + Watson’s extraordinary instincts
✓ Stunning national park setting – Yellowstone’s winter wonderland comes alive
✓ Complex but solvable mystery – All clues are fair play for readers
✓ Environmental protection themes – Protecting America’s wilderness from corruption
✓ Character growth and heart – Ellie’s journey from grief to purpose continues
✓ Humor and warmth – Light-hearted tone despite serious stakes
✓ Standalone story – Newcomers welcome, series fans rewarded

Book 3 in the beloved National Parks Mystery Series
Following the acclaimed adventures in Yosemite (Shadows in the Valley) and the California Redwoods (Whispers in the Mist), Ellie and Watson return with their most dangerous case yet.

Get ready for a mystery that will:

• Keep you guessing until the final page
• Make you want to book your next national park adventure
• Leave you eagerly anticipating Ellie and Watson’s next case
• Remind you why honest science and environmental protection matter

Perfect for cozy mystery lovers who enjoy clean reads, memorable characters, and mysteries that matter.