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A Haunting Refrain |
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 A Haunting Refrain byPatricia H. Rushford Bethany House Publishers 254 pages, 1998 ISBN 1556617321 Reviewed by PJ Nunn Helen Bradley is juggling a recent re-marriage after eight years as a widow, extensive remodeling of her house and trading in her badge and gun for a career as a travel writer. As if those changes weren't enough, she is summoned to a family meeting at Uncle Paddy's castle. When Helen arrives, the housekeeper informs her that the resident castle ghost is trying to kill Uncle Paddy. It doesn’t take long to figure out that all is not well. Before they even reach the castle, Paddy has been assaulted and Helen’s formerly congenial cousins are at odds with each other. Virtually everyone present attributes the unexplained disturbances to the ghost. But when Paddy dies during the night, Helen is certain his killer is of the flesh and blood variety. Local law enforcement agrees, although the Sheriff resents Helen’s assistance. Unfortunately, almost everyone staying at the castle has a viable motive. Can Helen sort through the superstition and find the truth? A Haunting Refrain is truly a unique book. Rushford has successfully combined Christian and supernatural elements with a good mystery, something I’ve rarely seen. The character of Helen Bradley is roundly drawn, although the primary focus is on the story itself. Supporting characters are realistic with just enough background to provide a suspicion of guilt. Perhaps it has to do with expectations, but A HAUNTING REFRAIN was a pleasant surprise – a one-sitting read. Highly recommended. |
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