I’m a big fan of the local Friends of the Library where I’ve picked up a few gems during their extraordinary $6 bag sales. The Night Watchman is one of those gems.
Mynheir has created an incredibly flawed character in Ray Quinn whose physical and emotional pain is felt throughout the story. His adjustment (or lack thereof) from a top-notch homicide detective to a disabled night watchman is told in a way that anybody could relate. I’m a fan of good and bad characters, especially if they are well developed and Mynheir doesn’t disappoint. Even the supporting characters had a fun feel to them (especially Crevis).
The story itself is fast paced and builds in suspense through each chapter. While this is a detective mystery, complete with a full cast of good and bad characters, the focus on Quinn’s character really shines. This book is also billed as Christian fiction though it is not in your face or carelessly thrown in just to make a point. Instead, the points are well integrated into the book through supporting characters.
Ultimately, this was a well-written, first-person detective story that was entertaining from cover to cover. A nice distraction to the day and a great find while supporting the local libraries.