Deborah Adams — All the Deadly Beloved

Ballantine 1995 Paperback, 226pp. SOMEONE'S BEEN NURSING A MURDEROUS GRUDGE AGAINST THE TOWN'S FAVORITE R. N. Everybody swears that no one would ever lay a hand on Jesus Creek's angel of mercy, nurse Patrice Gentry. But the reality is there for all to see--Patrice's red T-bird in the nursing home parking lot with her dead body inside. Police Chief Reb Gassler knows that though the victim may have been an angel, Jesus Creek isn't heaven and the charming widower, Dr. Steve Gentry, hasn't sprouted wings. In fact, he's said to be sleeping with more women than seems possible for a doctor with a full-time practice. While Reb hunts for the truth, a killer lurks in the shadows--and Jesus Creek teeters on the ragged edge. 'Jesus Creek, Tennessee, is so vividly drawn that I feel as if I can take a stroll through town. Deborah Adams has created a series rich in provocative themes and artful plots.' --Joan Hess. (ISBN: 9780345392220). Good.