Art and Beauty follows detective Jon Dak, a likable protagonist and private investigator. The story unfolds in a Soho art gallery, where Dak acts as a security guard on the night of an exhibition. It doesn’t take long for the detective to put his skills into action over the gallery’s owner and her soon-to-be ex-husband. A host of other intriguing characters fill the plot of this fast-paced, engaging story, including the gallery owner’s son, Dak’s friends in the police force, and his level-headed girlfriend, Katie. The fascinating and complex characters are highly entertaining, especially in the well-drawn and alluring backdrop of New York City’s world of glamour and modeling.

The story gains momentum as Dak becomes extremely cautious within a reckless and unpredictable society where he must face drugs, smuggling, kidnapping, and murder. I enjoyed how the plot grew more intense as Dak went to great lengths to protect himself while trying to solve the case. The narration is consistent, easy to follow, and gripping. His short phrases and blunt demeanor capture Dak’s crisp and easy manner.

Art and Beauty by Bruce Price is a worthwhile read with a rich and exciting plot and characters that readers will enjoy following. It’s a riveting crime fiction novel that will keep you turning one page after another, with gripping action and plot twists from beginning to end.

Pages: 325