Last week I reviewed the first book in Dani Pettrey's Chesapeake Valor series, Cold Shot. This week I'm back with the second book, Still Life, which is just as suspenseful and engaging as the first book.

Avery Tate never expected crime-scene investigator Parker Mitchell to hire her as his photographer, or that he would steal her heart. Unfortunately, he's not aware of her feelings and doesn't want a relationship, so for her own self-preservation she quits her job to get away from him. Now, six months later, she needs his help.

At a photography exhibit, a photo of her friend posing as if dead is displayed and Avery can't find her anywhere. Was Skylar posing or was she actually dead? Together Parker and Avery investigate her disappearance and stumble upon another crime in the process. But the morbid photographer is still out there and he has most of the answers they need. Parker vows to protect Avery at all costs. At the same time someone decides to use her in another deathly photo ... and he will do anything to get Avery.

One of the photographers likes to take morbid pictures. Avery had a tough childhood and she goes into that. One of the characters shares that he and his first love almost went too far but stopped.

I was so excited when I learned this was Parker and Avery's story! I saw some of their chemistry in Cold Shot and couldn't wait to see what their relationship would be like.

Avery is a strong, independent woman who didn't let her past define her life. Throughout the story she has to confront it though, and the author handles everything well. While Parker has his own struggles, he fights through them and doesn't allow them to prevent his relationship with Avery. I also enjoyed getting an update on all the other characters.

The suspense took a little time to build up, but once all the pieces were in place things moved quickly. The subplot with Tanner and Declan was also interesting; overall I was engaged throughout the whole book.

This book is best for teens and adults.

For those of you who have read Still Life, what did you think of it? For those of you who have not read it, would you? Tell me in the comments below!