A Mortal Terror: A Billy Boyle World War II Mystery

(Paperback)

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Description

Two officers from the American troops stationed in Caserta, Italy, have been found murdered. The Mos are completely different and it seems like the officers had no connection to each other except for one frightening fact - each body was discovered with a single playing card: the lieutenant, the ten of hearts; the captain, the jack of hearts. The message appears to be clear: if the murderer is not apprehended, the higher ranks will be next. Billy is sent to Italy for the investigation and amidst the terror, must keep his cool as the killer calculates his next move...

Reviews

Praise for A Mortal Terror

A fast-paced saga set in a period when the fate of civilization still hangs in the balance."
The Wall Street Journal

"Captivating . . . Benn does a superb job of simultaneously capturing the personal anguish of war and creating a splendid adventure novel."
Library Journal, Starred Review

Solid wartime adventure, well grounded in historical detail, and boasting a challenging mystery to boot.
Booklist

A thrilling, fast-paced book, a great yarn wonderfully told. The mystery ploy is top notch with the who, why, and how aspects of the murders as puzzling and suspenseful as anyone could wish . . . Author Benn skillfully blends the mystery of the murders and the violence of the war into one fantastic, satisfying whole. If you haven't already been hooked by this series, this book will do it and have you reaching back for the previous five.
Mystery Scene


Praise for the Billy Boyle series

"Spirited wartime storytelling."
The New York Times Book Review

"An instant classic."
Lee Child

"What a great read, full of action, humor and heart."
Louise Penny

"Terrific . . . Razor sharp."
Joseph Finder

Author Bio

James R. Benn is the author of the Billy Boyle World War II mysteries. The debut, Billy Boyle, was named one of five top mysteries of 2006 by Book Sense and was a Dilys Award nominee. A Blind Goddess was longlisted for the IMPAC Dublin Literary Award, and The Rest Is Silence was a Barry Award nominee. A librarian for many years, Benn lives in Connecticut with his wife, Deborah Mandel.