My rating: 3/5
A delightful Christian historical fiction mystery, with a zealous Black female lead character, a suspenseful plot, and a bit of romance. Count me in! All That Is Secret by Patricia Raybon is book one in the Annalee Spain Mystery series that takes readers on a riveting journey of crime solving and exposing of secrets, while artfully integrating themes of forgiveness, redemption, and faith in this page-turning suspenseful tale.
Luke 8:17 (NKJV): For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light.
Annalee Spain is ambitious and intelligent, with a life as a theologian professor in Chicago teaching the New Testament by day and indulging in countless Sherlock Holmes novels by night. When she receives a cryptic telegram requesting her to return to her hometown of Denver, Colorado to solve the mystery of the recent suspicious death of her father, she decides to make a life changing decision that will lead her back home. Upon her return, she soon discovers that several horrendous crimes have been committed that have gone unsolved, and Annalee feels compelled to solve these crimes. Upon her arrival, she meets the person who sent her the telegram, a handsome local pastor, who takes an interest in helping her solve the crimes. His presence in her life will result in helping her restore hope, despite experiencing grief, and open the possibility of true love. As she begins to investigate the crimes, she finds herself as the main target of a dangerous plot to kill her.
Written with a setting that includes the time-period of the 1920’s, the author effortlessly captures the style, culture, and lifestyle during that period, especially depicting the prominent role of the church to the Black community as well as the negative effects of racism to the populace. Christian faith content is beautifully illustrated within the text, as readers witness Annalee, the well-respected theologian professor, grapple with the idea of religion versus relationship with God. I loved how the author portrays a vulnerable Annalee as she transitions from having difficulty establishing a prayer life and relying on God in difficult situations, to establishing a personal relationship with Christ through prayer and faith.
Intriguing and exciting, All That Is Secret is a Christian mystery story that was enjoyable to read. With memorable characters and an enthralling plot, I recommend this novel.
