A Shameful Murder (A Reverend Mother Mystery)
In the debut of Harrison’s new mystery series, she departs from her well-received 16th century mystery series to create an engaging new heroine, Reverend Mother Aquinas, who oversees a school for the Cork poor in 1923 Ireland.
When the Reverend Mother discovers the body of an apparently well-to-do young woman washed up on the convent steps, she engages the assistance of one of her former pupils, Police Sergeant Patrick Cashman, and her old friend, Dr. Sher. Things, however, are not what they appear to be. As the plot thickens, what first seemed to be an easy resolution becomes more complex, deep and troubling. Why is this young woman dead? Why did she have a ticket for Liverpool in her evening bag? Although we know her name, details just don’t seem to jive.
Reverend Mother Aquinas is a glorious character. Although she is in her 70s, she finds unfailing strength in her students – particularly a former student who has become closely involved in the revolutionary movement and Patrick Cashman who is a talented detective – and in her quest for the truth. Poverty-stricken Cork is placed in stark juxtaposition to the wealthy and elite which had been the Reverend Mother‘s roots – so she knows the score.
This is a terrific read, carrying you along on the ride. Highly recommended.
