Overview
Though their paths had diverged greatly, the monk and the chief of police were native Cape Codders who had been boyhood friends. The previous year, Bartholomew, initially a prime suspect in the investigation of the little harbor village's first murder in half a century, wound up providing pivotal assistance in solving the crime.Now he was needed again.
Ninety-nine percent of the time, Chief Burke has little more to deal with than drivers who are sure they were doing only 30, or who insist they've had only two beers.
But a woman has drowned under potentially horrendous circumstances, and the ten million dollars in diamonds she had with her has vanished.
The Chief badly needs the help of the monk whose friary overlooks the harbor, and whose gift of intuition is uncanny.
How this unlikely pair copes with an increasingly challenging and complex case makes for a swiftly paced, spellbinding read. It builds to a breathtaking climax in a delightful seaside town peopled with characters who will seem like old friends.
Synopsis
Though their paths had diverged greatly, the monk and the chief of police were native Cape Codders who had been boyhood friends. The previous year, Bartholomew, initially a prime suspect in the investigation of the little harbor village's first murder in half a century, wound up providing pivotal assistance in solving the crime.
Now he was needed again.
Ninety-nine percent of the time, Chief Burke has little more to deal with than drivers who are sure they were doing only 30, or who insist they've had only two beers.
But a woman has drowned under potentially horrendous circumstances, and the ten million dollars in diamonds she had with her has vanished.
The Chief badly needs the help of the monk whose friary overlooks the harbor, and whose gift of intuition is uncanny.
How this unlikely pair copes with an increasingly challenging and complex case makes for a swiftly paced, spellbinding read. It builds to a breathtaking climax in a delightful seaside town peopled with characters who will seem like old friends.
(September 2000) - Kate Mystery Books Newsletter
. . . maintains a superb balance between the tantalizing mystery and the unusual vocation of the reluctant detective.
Editorials
Beliefnet.com
This novel shows the maturation of Manuel as a mystery writer, offering readers memorable characters and perceptive theological insights.— (November 9, 2000)
Bookreporter.com
I found myself strangely drawn to the world of Brother Bartholomew and almost envious of it.Cape Cod Guide
Manuel weaves a complex tale of intertwined relationships, morality and conflict. This is another great read, complete with an exciting climax.CBA Marketplace
Highly recommend this title for mystery buffs who also relish spiritually insightful characters. —January 2001I Love a Mystery
This is a fascinating mystery, with well-developed characters and relationships and a very authentic feel for the Cape Cod ambience. —November 2000Kate Mystery Books Newsletter
. . . maintains a superb balance between the tantalizing mystery and the unusual vocation of the reluctant detective.— (September 2000)