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The River Murder
Harbour Grace
Newfoundland
June 1884
Sergeant Sean Ryan, an officer with the Terra Nova Constabulary, is transferred from St. John’s to police the very troubled and tense Catholic community of Riverhead, Harbour Grace, a place he thought he had left behind him. Just five months ago, the now-infamous religious riot known as the Harbour Grace Affray saw five men tragically killed—a lone Catholic, Patrick Callahan, and four Protestants.
Only a week into his new posting, Sean is thrust into action. Shockingly, Thomas Callahan, son of the popular Catholic man who had died in the Affray, is found shot and left for dead in the raging Bannerman River. The young policeman then discovers that Leah Thomey, his ex-lover, is still living in Riverhead, having given up her dream of a professional life in the Boston States. Sergeant Ryan is troubled to learn that Leah had become romantically involved with the deceased Thomas Callahan.
The young Catholic cop is challenged to find out who killed Thomas Callahan, the only son of Patrick Callahan, while he faces resistance from an untrusting public—including members of his own family.
Newfoundland
June 1884
Sergeant Sean Ryan, an officer with the Terra Nova Constabulary, is transferred from St. John’s to police the very troubled and tense Catholic community of Riverhead, Harbour Grace, a place he thought he had left behind him. Just five months ago, the now-infamous religious riot known as the Harbour Grace Affray saw five men tragically killed—a lone Catholic, Patrick Callahan, and four Protestants.
Only a week into his new posting, Sean is thrust into action. Shockingly, Thomas Callahan, son of the popular Catholic man who had died in the Affray, is found shot and left for dead in the raging Bannerman River. The young policeman then discovers that Leah Thomey, his ex-lover, is still living in Riverhead, having given up her dream of a professional life in the Boston States. Sergeant Ryan is troubled to learn that Leah had become romantically involved with the deceased Thomas Callahan.
The young Catholic cop is challenged to find out who killed Thomas Callahan, the only son of Patrick Callahan, while he faces resistance from an untrusting public—including members of his own family.
271 pages, Paperback
Published August 25, 2023
2 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
February 7, 2024
I enjoyed this book. I had lots of theories of who dunnit and couldn’t wait to pick it up to read. I have always liked nl stories but when inspired by true events I enjoy them even more!
December 30, 2024
I enjoyed this book a lot, even the reveal of “whodunit” and why. I did, however, find the ending was too fast - so much build up and then it was just over.
The romantic ending also left a little to be desired… it was not believable.
The romantic ending also left a little to be desired… it was not believable.
May 4, 2024
I think Patrick’s writing gets better each book. Looking forward to the next one.
April 14, 2025
Lots of local history.
November 24, 2023
The unexpected death of Thomas Callahan, just five short months after the seemingly accidental shooting of his father, throws the community of Riverhead into a tailspin. Has the troubled man committed suicide or is something more sinister afoot?
Sergeant Sean Ryan, the first on the scene, suspects foul play. His initial suspicions are soon confirmed by the medical examiner and thus begins a terse and dangerous investigation into a murder most foul. Not only must Sergeant Ryan perform his duties as an officer of the law, but he must also contend with the presence of the one that got away, Leah Thomey. He still has strong feelings for her and her romantic involvement with the murder victim has really thrown him for a loop.
This book is very well done, dialogue is fantastic, and the plot is intricate enough to keep the reader guessing all the way through. The ending, when it comes, is shocking and unexpected; the sensitivity with which it was written was very much appreciated.
I am a big fan of Patrick J. Collins and his writing style. If you are as well, you will not be disappointed by this newest offering. A well thought out Newfoundland crime novel, The River Murder is sure to satisfy.
Sergeant Sean Ryan, the first on the scene, suspects foul play. His initial suspicions are soon confirmed by the medical examiner and thus begins a terse and dangerous investigation into a murder most foul. Not only must Sergeant Ryan perform his duties as an officer of the law, but he must also contend with the presence of the one that got away, Leah Thomey. He still has strong feelings for her and her romantic involvement with the murder victim has really thrown him for a loop.
This book is very well done, dialogue is fantastic, and the plot is intricate enough to keep the reader guessing all the way through. The ending, when it comes, is shocking and unexpected; the sensitivity with which it was written was very much appreciated.
I am a big fan of Patrick J. Collins and his writing style. If you are as well, you will not be disappointed by this newest offering. A well thought out Newfoundland crime novel, The River Murder is sure to satisfy.
January 27, 2024
What a great read !
This book was very well written and you never know when to stop
You can’t put it down
Really enjoyed it
Always great reading books based out of Newfoundland and the publisher flanker press
Good job to the author on this novel I really enjoyed the story line and the plot twist
Highly recommend
This book was very well written and you never know when to stop
You can’t put it down
Really enjoyed it
Always great reading books based out of Newfoundland and the publisher flanker press
Good job to the author on this novel I really enjoyed the story line and the plot twist
Highly recommend
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews