One Was a Soldier by Julia Spencer-Fleming

This is the latest in the Clare Fergusson/Russ Van Alstyne series. As with most series, there is a slow development of character and relationships but I think this one would stand alone very well. Fergusson is an Episcopal priest, just returned from National Guard duty in Iraq. Van Alstyne, the chief of police and now a widower, has been waiting anxiously for her return. These two are the main focus of the story but this novel differs from earlier ones in that supporting characters get equal story time. Five newly returned veterans, including Fergusson, gather in a support group. They are all coping in different ways with the damage they brought back with them. The author does an amazing job of looking at the problems of returning home with physical and mental problems and trying to pick up the life they left. Against this, there is a murder to be solved. I think this is the best novel of the series and I couldn't put it down. I'm looking forward to the next one ( )