Cruel Sanctuary

This fascinating look at street life and the life of a Jesuit priest, makes for an easy and enjoyable read. The story opens with a dramatic murder and doesn't stop until the last page. You see the life of young street kids and the life of a parish priest and how they intertwine. Fr. Reynolds takes you through the complex maze of life with a very human approach. You know the people when you are through with the book. You identify with their trials and heartaches, their lifestyles and burdens. Just a very enjoyable book that will keep you up late to finish.

Father Brad Reynolds, S.J. has created a winning protagonist in this mystery set amongst the pews of St. Joseph's -- and the downtown streets where the homeless youth's struggle to survive. It is nice to have a mystery that tugs the heartstrings a bit without trying to "preach." (Sorry, pun intended)I haven't read the author's two previous mysteries, but you can bet I'll be searching them out after reading this one. It is rare that a contemporary mystery can have a plot that still surprises, and motives that become apparent only in the last few pages. Deftly handled, I look forward to reading more of Father Brad Reynolds' mysteries! Highly Recommended.