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One of the chief complaints of avid readers is that there just isn't enough time to
read everything we'd like. And that lament is usually followed by the admission
that we have tall stacks of unread books leaning precariously next to our favorite reading
chairs. This may go a long way toward explaining why Robert Barnard isn't on the tip of
the tongue when readers enumerate their favorite mystery writers, but sadly, there are
some who've never even heard of him. Hopefully, this reader/reviewer can do her small part
to help correct that situation.
Barnard has written around 25 novels and numerous short stories. He's the winner of the
Nero Wolfe Award as well as the Anthony, Agatha, and Macavity Awards, and he's received
eight nominations for the Edgar award. An impressive resume for someone whose novels
aren't commonly found on that all-important bestseller list in the prolific American
market. His latest suspense, UNHOLY DYING, exemplifies the classic qualities that most of
us look for in our mysteries: fascinating characters, interesting settings, pertinent
dialogue, and an intriguing puzzle offering any number of potential resolutions.
UNHOLY DYING takes place in Shipley, a quaint English town where life appears less
complicated on the surface, but factor in the human element and anything is possible. As
in most small towns, the church is a pivotal institution, which is why the town is in
shock when their Catholic priest is rumored to have fathered a child by a 19-year-old
resident and stolen church funds for her benefit. Rumors turn into headlines when a Leeds
scandalmonger by the name of Cosmo Horrocks decides to further his tabloid career by
publishing the scandalous story. Suspended from his duties, and facing the painful fact
that his Bishop seems intent on believing the worst, Father Pardoe hides away in the home
of a sympathetic parishioner while events run their course.
The villain Cosmo Horrocks is a despicable character in more ways than one, so when he's
found bludgeoned to death it doesn't surprise anyone who knew him. In fact, most anyone
who knew him could be considered a suspect. His life was devoted to cruelty, and he
relished it. He victimized his wife and children and coworkers, and threatened to reveal
the secret affairs of those who offered to add substance to rumors. Even the estranged
parents of the pregnant girl had reason to hate him for manipulating their words and
exposing them to public scorn. And, of course, there's Father Pardoe, who fears losing his
career should the vicious gossip actually make it into the national tabloids.
Barnard's faithful and familiar constables, Police Inspector Mike Oddie and Sergeant
Charlie Peace, step in to investigate the murder, and at this juncture, the ugly truths
begin to slowly seep to the surface. Barnard has populated Shipley with an ample
cross-section of emotionally troubled human beings --- bullies, adulterers, scammers, and
thieves as well as the seemingly happy couple next door and the gossipy old biddy down the
street. Every character remains bold and relevant, beckoning the reader toward the
inescapable discovery that Shipley could be our town, our neighbors, a mirror image of
society as a whole. His astute observations on human behavior are evident in the realistic
portrayals of people acting and reacting as the storyline builds to the final chapter.
Those of you who are fortunate enough to have sampled his work will enjoy this latest
suspense. Those of you who haven't will find another superb author to add to that wobbling
stack.
--- Reviewed by Ann Bruns (BkPageWC@aol.com)
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