The Wisdom of Father Dowling

Fans of McInerny's Father Dowling novels (Ash Wednesday , etc.) will welcome this collection of 15 short stories featuring the compassionate priest of St. Hilary's church in Fox River, Ill., and such beloved supporting characters as his feisty indispensable housekeeper, Marie, and his friend, police captain Phil Keegan. Included are tales of murder and betrayal, long hidden crimes and secrets that are discovered when bodies are found—or in some cases unearthed from old graves. The motives vary from calculated greed to embarrassment, and are as human as Father Dowling. Among the highlights are “The Giveaway,” “The Dunne Deal” and “Hic Jacet.” Maintaining his sense of humor throughout, Father Dowling is never satisfied until he discovers the truth and understands the motive behind every crime he encounters. (Jan.)