In this fourth novel in Lee Harris' Christine Bennett series, the reader finds the ex-nun enjoying New York's St. Patrick's Day festivities with her soon-to-be fiance Jack and his police friends, Scotty and Ray, and their wife and girlfriend. After the men march in the parade, they join the women at the annual policeman's party at the pier on the south end of Manhattan. They continue the party at a local pub on Scotty's beat.
Murder on St. Patrick's Day
All is fine until Scotty and Jack go to get the cars. Suddenly shots ring out and Scotty lies motionless on the ground. The next day, the third friend -- Ray -- is arrested for Scotty's murder. Assured that they have the killer, the police end their investigation. Jack, however, is unconvinced and asks Christine to see what she can learn about the murder.
Christine Investigates
Christine quickly learns that Scotty is not all he claimed to be. His birth certificate is missing and his military service is fictitious. What's more: bullets and an incriminating note have been found in Ray's apartment. Before she finds the truth, her life will be threatened as will her faith in New York's finest.
The St. Patrick's Day Murder is an enjoyable cozy novel, one is a series of holiday-themed mysteries by Lee Harris. Christine is a likeable protagonist and Ms. Harris is skilled at weaving an intricate, yet believable plot.
About Lee Harris
Lee Harris is the author of a series of murder mysteries, featuring Christine Bennett and revolving around holidays. The first in this series, The Good Friday Murder, was nominated for an Edgar Award. The most recent of these is the 2007 Cinco de Mayo Murder. Ms. Harris also writes the Manhattan Mystery series.
