Heartshot introduces Steven Cahill's fictional Posadas County in the southwest corner of New Mexico. Cahill's warm and expert style enhances reader appreciation of his protagonist, Bill Gastner, middle-aged undersheriff of this rural county. Gastner's experience and wisdom include deep understanding of tradition and human nature as well as appreciation of the gifts of subordinates and the developing technology that makes the job easier and more successful. This addictive series of police procedurals follows the personal and professional development of the characters through time while examining significant social issues as they impact a region seemingly remote from the outside world. I am reminded of Steve McQeen's 87th Precinct novels.