cover image In Blacker Moments: A Kate and Ray Fredrick Mystery

In Blacker Moments: A Kate and Ray Fredrick Mystery

S. E. Schenkel. Aka Seattle, $16.95 (266pp) ISBN 978-0-945265-43-6

This low-key debut, and the publisher's first mystery title, overcomes patches of stiff writing to introduce a charming middle-aged couple from Tanglewood, Mich., who investigate threats on the life of a nun. Chief of Detectives Ray Fredrick witnesses a hit-and-run accident that nearly kills Sister Theresa Loomis, a friend of his wife Kate's. But he can't locate the green Pontiac he saw, and Sister Theresa, a school principal who also runs the Meals-on-Wheels program, insists she has no enemies. Ray suspects she is keeping something back, but he's soon taken up with other worries: his favorite uncle Homer is dying of cancer, and a colleague with whom he has serious differences is about to become Chief of Police. Then the janitor at Sister Theresa's school is beaten by a man found hiding in the boys' lavatory; Uncle Homer dies and Sister Theresa is fatally shot at his memorial service. Taking vacation time in order to decide whether to quit or stay in the department, Ray flies to Washington state with Kate to see if he can find a clue to Sister Theresa's murder in her past. Schenkel's Ray and Kate are full of charm and vigor; readers will welcome their next appearance. (Apr.)