Death in the Grotto

Ben starts as suspect, and is drawn into the investigation of the death of a young woman he has dated. His journey takes him through a post-modern University, as he struggles to find out how the girl died. Suspects include a priest, a linebacker, and a professor of philosophy.

The story is interesting, and the writing is crisp, often funny, and more than a little poignant. As the death is unraveled, Ben begins to grow up, and finding the murderer becomes as much a quest to understand as a quest for justice. Vivid characters, interesting situations, and a wonderful sense of place make this book a sharp commentary as well as a good read.