Reviewed by: Ceil Carey

Ministry Title: Co-president of ECLA and long time book discussion leader

Introduction

Title: A Hidden Springs Mystery Series: Murder at the Courthouse and Murder comes by mail

Author: A.H. Gabhart

Publisher: Revel

Publication Date: October 20, 2015; May 17, 2016

Format: Paperback

Length: 336 pages; 352 pages

OVERVIEW

Nothing ever happens in Hidden Springs, Kentucky! Or say they so until the body of a stranger turns up at the courthouse and following that, another dead body, this one a local that everyone knows. Deputy Michael Keane is the protagonist in these mysteries, a likable and very low key main character who thought his new job would be stress free and relaxing. With two murders on his hand now every citizen seems to have a theory of “whodunit”. But following these leads is his job, no matter how crazy they might sound, and surely one of them will lead him to the killer.

In the second in the series, Murder comes by mail, Deputy Keane saves a man from suicide and is touted by the whole town as a hero. When Michael becomes convinced that the man he saved has gone on to become a murderer, he feels like anything but a hero and must protect those he loves in Hidden Springs from being the next victims.

Gabhart fills her books with odd but lovable characters although at times her use of their idiosyncrasies is rather repetitive.  The books are clean but not necessarily gentle reads as evidenced in the second title where there are some rather violent murders. There is just a hint of romance, also, which may be developed in ensuing books. This series is not overtly Christian yet there is Christianity woven into the plots to some extent.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5)

4

Suggested Audience

Teens and adults who are mystery fans. Men and women both should enjoy these books.

Christian Impact

Christian advice is given to our protagonist in the form of his aunt who is a staunch but feisty Christian. This helps to keep him centered although our hero is not yet fully committed to the Lord (more books to follow).

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