KILLING INNOCENCE

In this sequel, a body found in the snow leads Denver investigators to a human trafficking ring.

Jack Fariel and other detectives plod through a blizzard to reach a late Jane Doe. The falling snow covers all evidence at the crime scene, but they eventually identify the woman via fingerprints. Lucia Santiago lived with and worked as a housekeeper for businessman Ken Harrowsmith and his wife, Ruth. Cops unearth dirt on the churchgoers in little time. Ken, for one, had been sleeping with Lucia, possibly since she was 14. It turns out the Harrowsmiths may have ties to human trafficking, as do other members of Stoney Gate Church—namely the pastor. Jack hunts for details on other young women who’ve worked for Ken and Ruth. They’re all undocumented immigrants and currently missing. When a vicious attack occurs and another dead body turns up, Jack and his fellow detectives have their work cut out for them. A host of seedy characters populate Clark’s bleak novel, and multiple narrative perspectives animate baddies like Ken and others. Clark skillfully manages the large cast and multiple plot threads, even with a handful of cops discussing various victims and suspects. The murder mystery, however, sometimes stalls. For example, Jack’s lengthy interrogation of Ken grows a little tiresome without advancing the case. The author treats the topic of human trafficking with intelligence and respect. While parts of the story may make some readers uncomfortable (like a 12-year-old victim), Clark brings awareness to the issue without resorting to graphic or excessive violence.

Grim but absorbing subject matter bolsters a standard whodunit.