Coercive Power by D. L. Keur

Chief Deputy Mike Murphy is in trouble. The military is doing its best to press gang him back into uniform. He needs a lawyer, one really well-versed in military law. Meanwhile, somebody is trying to run a newcomer off their land in escalating incidents of violence. When that violence turns to attempted murder, Mogollon County Sheriff's Office mounts a counter-offensive and discovers subversive coercion is in full play.

CLEAN, SAFE READING - No profanity, no gore, no sex, and NO DOGS DIE!
No AI, no ghostwriters, guaranteed. All original D. L. Keur
EDITORIAL REVIEWS
Coercive Power is a taut, character-driven mystery that blends small-town sheriff drama with high-stakes personal battles. It’s got grit, heart, and a slow-burn tension that pays off big by the end. Mike “Midnight” Murphy is the linchpin—flawed, stoic, and fiercely loyal to his dog, King, and to his fractured family. The K-9 element with King isn’t just a gimmick, it’s integral to Mike’s identity and the plot, which I love. -Pete Erickson, beta reader and dog lover.

The story’s clean reading promise holds true without feeling restrictive. The pacing builds steadily, peaking with visceral moments. The final chapters tie up the case quite neatly. -Bev Gregson, mystery reader and GSD mom.

These are people I'd like to meet and work for. The story is riveting, and so believable that it seems like it's real life to me. The author puts you right there. -J. Eberly, crime reader