Murder Is Only Skin Deep

Retired English teacher Jean Smiley responds to her friend Beth’s frantic request for help in learning the identity of “C,” a woman responsible for the end of Beth’s thirty-year marriage. In the process of trying to assist her longtime friend, Jean uncovers some disturbing facts about a supposed accidental drowning of another friend who was a part of the “old gang” of high school days. If a book dealing with murder can actually be a “feel good” book, this one is. The characters are old friends who, though mostly middle-aged and retired, lead active, productive lives, and Jean, the protagonist, is a woman with principles and quiet faith. Her relationships with family and friends and even her cat, Mrs. Robinson, are heartwarming and sometimes inspiring. People who are tired of explicit violence and sex, but who still enjoy reading a mystery novel, should enjoy Murder Is Only Skin Deep.