Holy Comfort

by: C.R. Compton

Published by: Hilliard Harris Books

Reviewed by Nancy Farrier

Arriving for her workday at the Church of the Holy Comforter, Page Hawthorne finds the body of their much-loved, charismatic priest, Miles Costello. Sickened at the sight of blood and the smell of the burning coals heaped on his head, Page notifies the authorities.

Detective Roy Merton and his partner are called to investigate the murder. What they uncover is a twisting path of deception and intrigue.

Holy Comfort contains a good mystery with plenty of red herrings to leave the reader wondering. The opinions of the various church workers and laypersons add uncertainty as to who is telling the truth. The eclectic mix of suspects is intriguing.

Merton, the lead detective, causes tongues to wag when he develops an interest in Page. He takes her out under the thin guise of ferreting out information. Suggested as the murderer from several sources, Page isn't sure who she can turn to, especially when a second body is discovered in the church.

Although Holy Comfort contains a good mystery, any reader who is looking for a light read about church people will be surprised. The language and morals of these supposed Christians is shocking. Even those involved in working at the church or attending Bible study there have appalling morals, which they are not afraid to flaunt in front of anyone.

Despite the interesting mystery, I would hesitate to recommend Holy Comfort. The blasphemy, lewdness, and immorality that was rampant among the church people proved too hard for me to accept.

Armchair Interviews says: Mixed review--so buyer beware.