"Fast moving mystery with positive focus"
Former Navy Chaplain, Father Brendan Quinlan tends to be a
bit different than some priests but was a dedicated and
faith-filled pastor. While the congregation prepares for
Easter, a child notices blood on the shroud-draped cross
and the police are called. Someone has crucified twenty-
two year old Steve King who was like a son to the priest. Detective Matthew Diel leads the investigation into the
murder and is unsure if he is pleased to find someone from
his past. Ex-cop Chloe Ryder is an attorney member of St.
Simeon Catholic Church and rushes to Father Brendan's
defense. When he starts receiving threatening calls, she
reluctantly joins forces with Matt to solve the case.
Soon they realize that Steve's death was not the target;
rather it is Father Brendan who faces death. Could it be
for something he knows from his time in the Navy? Father
Brendan cannot say even though this horrible crime has
tested his faith. This police procedural (or maybe political thriller?)
builds tension by events and conspiracy without
denigrating the victims. I was pleased to have the
priesthood, Catholic Church and Christian faith portrayed
in a positive manner. The story was a fast moving and
captivating mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed. I have been told heroine Chloe Ryder is in Lee's previous
books WITH MALICE and BREAKING ALL THE RULES. I did not
feel a story lapse by not having read earlier titles. As
Chloe and Matt never 'tie-up' all the loose ends; I
believe we will have the pleasure to hear more from them
in future stories.
Courtesy:
eBOOKISLE
Reviewed by Cy Korte
Posted June 24, 2003
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