Artist's Proof

Gordon Cotler attracted national attention and praise for his political thriller, Prime Candidate. In Artist's Proof, the Edgar Award-winning author combines an appealing detective and a wide cast of supporting characters into an intriguing mystery set in the art world. Taking an early retirement from the NYPD, Sid Shale has moved into a shabby beach house to devote his time to painting. His artistic career is looking bright: a wealthy Texan is interested in one of Sid's pricier works. But suddenly, the quiet beach community is rocked by the murder of a 16-year-old girl. Since Sid's portfolio contains nude sketches of the victim, soon he is the prime suspect. Sid must struggle to keep his perspective as his search for evidence takes him from glitzy art dealers to gruff off-duty cops. Narrator Richard Poe infuses the suspense with a full palette of dramatic tension and wry humor. And his adept performance highlights Gordon Cotler's masterful ear for dialogue.