This is my first book by Elle Keaton and it certainly won't be my last! The mystery was well written and the introduction of the two main characters was very fun. The extent of the romance so far is just "we just met and you annoy me but also stop being hot, it's getting in the way of my annoyance." XD
I can't wait to continue this series and I want to check out the connected Veiled Intentions series too. I don't think starting here would matter if anyone is curious - I didn't feel like anything was missing or there were things I should have known.

(This was a voluntary review of a free advanced reader copy. Thanks to Dirty Dog Press, Elle Keaton, and NetGalley for that privilege!)

THE LAST GRIFT is a solid installment of a multi-part series. It’s a nascent love story wrapped in a suspenseful mystery. The main characters, Gabriel and Casey - and Casey’s lovable dog, Bowie - are intriguing; the plot is compelling, and I am waiting for more! Do I prefer reading the full story in one go? Yes, but I also must acknowledge that this is a very well-written book, one that I couldn’t put down. Well-done, Elle Keaton!

Good start to a new series but I admit to having an issue with Casey, I just couldn't warm up to him and couldn't find anything to like with him. I realized midway through the book that this wasn't going to end and it would be a continuation, which is fine, unexpected, but fine. Loved Elton and I would have loved more of Gabe's family, which is probably coming in the upcoming book.. 3.5

I liked but didn’t love this book, the story and characters were interesting, but the stakes in the book didn’t seem that high until Elton went missing. I think I would like to continue with this series, but I need to understand Gabe a bit more to really root for him. I would also like more tension between him and the ranger, since right now any sort of romantic interest in each other is happening in a tell not show kind of way.