"Swan Peak" is a novel that displays James Lee Burke's rich character portrayals, detailed descriptions of the natural surroundings in western Montana and the author's ability to write a suspenseful story.

Dave Robicheaux, wife Molly, and friend Clete Purcel are vacationing in Montana after going through the devastation of hurricanes Rita and Katrina in New Orleans.

When two double murders take place, the local sheriff is overwhelmed and Dave and Clete offer their services.

Ridley Wellstone, a wealthy former Texan, owns land around Swan Lake and wants to drill test wells for oil and natural gas. He lives with his brother, Lyle, and Lyle's wife, country and western singer, Jamie Sue Wellstone.

When Ridley sees Dave and Clete, he accuses them of working with the person who has filed an injunction against his drilling. Even though Dave and Clete tell him he's wrong, Ridley begins to resent their being near his home.

In a parallel story, Jamie Sue's former boyfriend and father of their child, Jimme Dale Greenwood, is in jail for a minor offense. He faces an intollerable situation with guard Troyce Nix and when it escallates, Jimmy Dale escapes and makes his way to Montana and Jamie Sue.

As we learn more of what is going on at the Wellstone ranch and of the people who have been murdered, we see why Dave Robicheaux is such a popular character. He's humble and not perfect. He's an alcoholic who attends regular meetings. However, he's also a protector of the poor and less fortunate who have been taken advantage of by wealthy opportunists who believe that they are above the law. In addition, he's a voice for the murdered and will stop at nothing to find their killer.

With the excellent characterization and an entertaining story, James Lee Burke is once again, at the top of his game.