First published 2011
Bernie receives an invitation to deliver the keynote address at the Great Western Private Eye Convention. The honor comes with complications when the convention's head organizer harbors hidden intentions for Chet. Back in their regular work, the detective duo takes on a missing person case involving a boy who vanished from a wilderness camp in the mountains. The child's mother suspects her ex-husband of kidnapping their son. Chet uncovers evidence that shifts the investigation toward unexpected and perilous territory. Personal challenges multiply when a stray puppy appears at their home, bearing a striking resemblance to Chet. The arrival creates emotional complications that interfere with their professional duties. The missing boy case proves more demanding than any they have tackled before. Bernie and Chet must rely on their partnership in ways they never have previously as romantic entanglements clash with the pressures of their most difficult investigation.
Genres: adventure, mystery, crime, contemporary
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: found-family, partnership
Setting: Great Western, Mountains
320 pages · Hardcover · Atria Books