Now, driving through Red Cliff Canyon, a farm worker notices that one of the largest petroglyphs, the Drowning Man, has been stolen. In an unlikely twist, Father John, pastor of the local mission, is approached by an Indian, offering to ransom the petroglyph back to the Reservation for a quarter of a million dollars. In spite of admonishments against it, FBI agent Gianelli is contacted. Gianelli is hoping that Travis will be willing to tell more about his involvement in the first theft that will lead to whoever is masterminding the larger thefts.

Travis, while willing to admit his part in the first thefts, continues to maintain his innocence in Raymond’s death. He is willing to deal and contacts attorney Vicky Holden. Vicky and Father John have a very close relationship and she joins with him to piece together the events of seven years ago and fit them in with the current theft. Secrets run as deep, however, and even after the thefts are solved, there is one loose end to tie up - Vicky.

As always, Margaret Coel has perfectly captured the essence of the west and Arapaho culture. Readers are instantly transported to a life where ancient traditions and beliefs meld seamlessly with modern culture.

Father John is a very open character, remembering his struggles with alcoholism, but realizing they are what brought him to his current assignment, one he would give his life to protect. He has very strong feelings towards Vicky, but suppresses them because of his vows. Vicky is tenacious, and even after the thefts have been solved, she is still not satisfied that everything has been neatly wrapped up. This feeling almost costs Vicky her life, but it puts an end to the case once and for all.

While the atmosphere is spot on, the mystery and the characters transcend the setting making The Drowning Man a thoroughly enjoyable mystery for all.

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry