The colored lights on the snow gave it a holiday appearance, but the dead woman’s body in the yard added a grisly touch. How did Ina Bell Patrick die?
Who killed her? And why?
The dead woman had no direct heirs, so two nephews and a niece stood to inherit. Dr. Laura Morris was left to make all the arrangements, attorney Roger Morris could certainly use the money, and Zack Morris had disappeared two years earlier. Then there was neighbor and “best friend” Fay Autrey, who was certain the woman intended to leave her some money—a great deal of money.
The police were still looking for the killer who left the frozen body in the snow when it became apparent someone was trying to pick off the heirs, one by one. Who would win the race—the police or the killer?
Dr. Richard Mabry is a retired physician, past Vice-President of the American Christian Fiction Writers, and the author of five published novels of medical suspense. His books have been finalists in competitions including ACFW’s Carol Award and Romantic Times’ Inspirational Book of the Year, and have won the Selah Award from the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference.
Richard’s non-fiction book, The Tender Scar: Life After The Death Of A Spouse (Kregel Publishers), has ministered to multiple thousands of grieving individuals. His meditations and short pieces have appeared in The Upper Room, In Touch, and several other periodicals.
When Richard is not writing, he spends his time reading, working fruitlessly to improve his golf game, and defending his title as the world’s best Granddad. He and his wife live in north Texas and are active members of Stonebriar Community Church, pastored by Dr. Chuck Swindoll.
My Impressions:
Richard Mabry is known for his medical suspense, but Silent Night, Deadly Night, his new novella length book, is a departure from what his fans may expect. Yes there is a doctor in the house, but this book is a puzzling whodunit complete with a dead body and lots of suspects. Set during the days between Christmas and New Years, this book is the perfect quick read for the busy holidays.
Dr. Laura Morris’ aunt has been found dead covered in snow in her front yard. As the victim of homicide, the detectives are on the case in the small Texas town of Hilton. Danger abounds as the case takes one twisting turn after another.
Surprises lurk behind every door and around every corner in this plot driven novella. The characters are suitably suspicious, and the reader is not let in on all the behind the scenes sleuthing. Silent Night, Deadly Night is a quick read with just a few pages over 100, so it left me wanting more — more mysteries from Richard Mabry. If you are short on time this holiday season, but want an engaging read, then by all means check out Silent Night, Deadly Night.
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
To purchase this book, click HERE. (It is currently FREE for Kindle Unlimited.)
(Thanks to the author for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Beckie, thanks for the review. Glad you enjoyed the novella. Merry Christmas to you and all your readers.
You are very welcome. Looking forward to more mysteries!