Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner
A Deadly Little Christmas
Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Mary V. Welk
Class/Genre: Mystery Medical Woman Main Character Amateur Sleuth
Series: Caroline Rhodes # 1
Kleworks, 1998, $10.00, 261 pp.
Trade Paperback
No one would expect a bomb in a psychiatric ward in an Illinois hospital. However, whoever donated the artificial Christmas tree to the patients of St. Anne's Hospital in tiny Rhineberg, added an additional present. The instant James plugged the cord into the socket, the explosion occurred, killing seven people.
Though all seem stretched for murdering people, the FBI manages to find several residents with possible motives. However, the best suspect is the nurse on bombed out Ward One, Caroline Rhodes. She had the means, the opportunity, and though a survivor refuses to discuss what happened. She also has a past. Caroline quickly understands that media and political pressure on law enforcement officials could lead to a sloppy investigation as occurred with the Olympic bombing. Knowing she must rely on herself to prove her innocence, Caroline begins her own inquires, not yet realizing the extent one person will go to eliminate any rivals.
A DEADLY LITTLE CHRISTMAS is a gem of a novel that should provide author Mary Welk instant recognition for a great debut tale. The fast-paced story line is filled with point and counterpoint, red herrings, and untruths that fool Caroline as well as the reader. The who-done-it is relatively simplistic, but the fun of the tale is watching efficiently sweet Caroline turn dangerous when confronted with taking the hit. This ability to make readers believe in the transformation without losing the inner essence of the lead protagonist is what makes Ms. Welk's novel a welcome addition to the mystery world. Fans of amateur sleuth mysteires will hope Caroline will make additional appearances in future works.
Harriet Klausner
Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner
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