Paddy and Mr. Punch : Connections in Irish and English History Book

Two plots collide in the 5th Karl Alberg mystery. The book begins with a tense scene between Charlie O'Brea and his wife Emma -- and then jumps ahead, one year later. Emma seems content, Charlie seems . . . haunted. One stormy night, Charlie doesn't return home and Emma is worried. When there's still no word from him the next day, Emma contacts his office, only to discover that he no longer works there. On compassionate leave after the death of his father, Staff Sergeant Karl Alberg agrees to investigate.

Outside of town, a troubled young man loses his temper when he thinks that a pretty college girl has insulted him. He tries to make amends afterwards but, again feels slighted. He wants to teach her a lesson. A devastating series of choices will bring him directly to Emma.

Another excellent story from Wright. The Charlie/Emma storyline slowly reveals its secrets through reflections on the past, mostly from Emma, whose only goal in life was to be the best wife ever. Eddie's storyline is simply horrifying. Karl faces questions about his future and his relationship with Cassandra.

If you like atmospheric, psychological suspense, this is an excellent series to try.