A Very Private Grave by Donna Fletcher Crow
Why did Father Dominic give Felicity a wrapped-up journal just before he got himself murdered? And what was so significant about that cryptic notebook, which recorded his travels in the footsteps of the medieval Saint Cuthbert? Somebody – could it be a fellow member of the monastery, the American wife of the author of a controversial book about the Saint, the mysterious bird-watcher, or someone else? – seemed hell-bent on getting their hands on that diary, even if others had to die on the way.
Donna Fletcher Crow uses Felicity’s church history lecturer, Father Antony, to introduce us to a whole series of esoteric details of Saint Cuthbert’s deeds and travels, both before and long after his death. Together, the unlikely couple visit significant historic sites all across northern England and Scotland. In each place, they find a puzzling clue as to the essence or location of a historic treasure that Father Dominic hoped would finance his planned hospital for AIDS babies in South Africa.
The book is both racy and very informative, revealing the author’s in-depth knowledge of ancient English history. And the denouement is totally unexpected. Dramatic events prompt both Felicity and Father Antony to reflect upon, and ultimately acknowledge, painful truths from their pasts. However, the plot-line was disappointing, relying on ridiculously improbable coincidences throughout their journey.