The Second Mile

I picked up my copy of this Christian fiction murder mystery from a sale bin. The cover intrigued me. I judged it to be an interesting read. I was correct, thus proving that you can judge a book by its cover. Written in first person narrative, this novel chronologically follows Pippa Hunnechurch's investigation of the murder of Barry Goodwin, beginning with his apparent suicide. I found the characters quite believable. Pippa is British, now living in Ryde, Maryland and working as a headhunter. She retains some British customs. For instance, she often has a "cuppa." Her love interest is James, a gentleman who speaks with a Southern drawl. His birthday party turns into a birthday tea party with sweets and savories. British foods are discussed in detail. In addition, I liked the description of the crackers provided for the guests. I remember popping a cracker and trying to wear he flimsy hat inside. There is a theme of going the extra mile--going beyond what is required, and that's where the title comes in to play. The reader follows Pippa as she chronologically goes the second mile to uncover clues that solve this mystery of Barry Goodwin's death.

I thoroughly enjoyed this second installment of Pippa Hunnechurch's ongoing struggle to survive in the business world despite onslaughts of evil. Pippa is a delightful character, and I'd love to have a "cuppa" with her, as well as her amazing gun-toting, bible-quoting partner Gloria, anytime. The plot was intricate enough to keep me guessing to the end. I highly recommend it.

After her husband and child died in an automobile accident, Pippa left England and moved to Ryde Maryland where she opened up Hunnechurch & Associates, Executive Recruiters. Her business is doing well until one of her placements, Barry Goodwin supposedly kills himself, and in his e-mail suicide note blames Pippa.At first, nobody realizes that someone who did not want him making the flaws of the CM-7 heart replacement valve public murdered Barry. When Pippa realizes Barry might have been murdered she tries to ferret out the killer in hopes of salvaging her floundering business. After a while her motives change and Barry's quest becomes her mission even if it puts her in danger from a killer who has no mercy.THE SECOND MILE is a clever amateur sleuth novel that stars a very feisty and strong-willed heroine whose faith sustains her in times of crisis. The mystery is complex with enough suspects to keep reading guessing until the climax is reached. Ron and Janet Berney have written a mystery series that will have wide appeal to more than just fans of the sub-genre.Harriet Klausner