Captivation Creek (Haven Brothers, 5) by Claire Kingsley

Friends-to-lovers small town workplace romantic suspense from USA Today bestselling author Claire Kingsley.

He'll help her solve a mystery, but they can't risk their hearts.

A devastating injury ended Theo Haven's pro-football career, but he's made a good life for himself in his hometown. The high school teacher and football coach might be single, but that's by choice. And his work bestie, Penelope? She's one of the best parts of his job, but they're just friends.

No, really. Not the sort of friends who are secretly pining for each other or destined to hook up. Just… friends.

Art teacher Penelope Fallbrook is stuck in a rut. When a locally renowned artist dies suspiciously, she channels her restless energy into amateur sleuthing. Who better than her best friend Theo to help her search for the truth?

When Penelope's life comes crashing down, Theo is there, picking up the pieces and offering a place to stay. Best friends become roommates, and living one room away might be too much temptation.

As they dig deeper into the mystery of the artist's death, secrets unravel. Are they searching for a murderer? Or uncovering the work of a serial killer?

And Penelope might be in danger of becoming the next victim.