The New Iberia Blues by James Lee Burke

Detective Dave Robicheaux has been a policeman for many years in his beloved Louisiana.  Things have changed over the years, of course,  His best friend, Clete Purcel, ran afoul of the police force and is now working as a private investigator instead of as Robicheaux's partner.  His new partner, Bailey Ribbons, is beautiful and young and he isn't sure exactly what to make of her.

Robicheaux goes to visit Desmond Cormier, another friend from way back.  Desmond is one of the few who left and found fame and fortune.   He is a movie director and his movies have gained awards.  Now he is back shooting a film in Louisiana.  The movie business is bringing money to the area but Dave isn't sure it isn't also bringing trouble.

Cormier has surrounded himself with men that Dave isn't sure he likes.  There is Antoine Butterworth, who has a reputation as a sadist.  Lou Wexler is a lawyer and money man but Dave isn't happy that his daughter. Alafaire, is dating him.  While visiting Cormier, Dave spots a body in the water and it turns out to be a young woman who has been crucified and set afloat on a cross.  Desmond and Antoine, who are also there, claim to not see anything, nor know anything that can help in the investigation.

More bodies follow.  Most are women who have interfaces with the movie folks, but there are other men around who could be involved.  Hugh Tillinger is an escapee from the Texas death row, where many think he was about to be executed for murders he did not commit.  Then there is the creepy Chester Wimple, who is a mob hitman and one of the scariest villains around.  Who is responsible for the murders?

This is the twenty-second Dave Robicheaux novel in the series.  Dave is getting older and having survived three wives, feels he is too old for love.  His feelings for Bailey are a surprise to him.  Clete has his back as always, and the friendship between Dave and Clete is a bright spot in the narrative.  Robicheaux's love for his native Louisiana shines through as does his fierce love of family and friends.  This book is recommended for mystery readers.