Still Life by Dani Pettrey from Bethany House Publishing

ISBN13: 9780764212956

My thoughts: The author, Dani Pettrey, has woven a multi-layered suspense story set in the Baltimore, Maryland area. Utilizing a cozy group of co-workers who probe until they find the culprits in the horrific criminal cases to which they have been assigned. Pettrey takes the reader into the world that makes up the lives of these men and women of valor.

The friendship, sense of humor, and romantic entanglements show they are human and how they cope with the grimness that is their daily world. Infused with faith that sustains and gives hope, the characters learn to overcome their past and go forth forgiven.

In Still Life the main thread dances around the photographic art show from which a main piece has been swapped out and in its place another piece depicting a posed model who appears to have been dead when the picture was taken. As the team pursues the art theft a darker, twisted crime becomes evident requiring intense probing.

While the team pursues this art crime, others of the team tackle a boating incident involving human trafficking.

Pettrey shows the reader how dark and depraved the human physic can become and yet she handles these issues with discretion. I don't care for reading about some of the elements of criminal depravity addressed in Still Life but the author writes without too much horrific detail.

About the book: Work hits too close to home for crime scene photographer Avery Tate when her best friend disappears. The only lead is a chilling photo of her--apparently dead. As Avery, her boss Parker, and his friends dig into the case, she's forced to confront her feelings for Parker when they come face-to-face with a dangerous criminal.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Beth House to facilitate a review of my opinions. I was not compensated.