The Shelter of Darkness

The year is l945 and John Winthrop, a man with leprosy has fled to northern New York with his step-daughter Jenny. Into John and Jenny's life comes a young woman, Annie Conroy, who is pregnant and fleeing an abusive husband. John decides to give her shelter, even though her presence in his home turns some of his neighbors against him and limits his income from selling produce. On the day Annie goes to have her baby, John confronts Al on the street. Al wants Annie back, and when Annie resists, John threatens him with a gun and rescues Annie. After Annie has her baby, John returns to his farm, and discovers behind the barn the body of Al Conroy. Al has been shot with John's gun. Now John has to prove his innocence when every bit of evidence points to him as the killer, and while the real killer is still out there, looking for blood.
A Gripping Read "I read this book in one setting. It takes place mid 20th century and is the story of how people overcome severe limitations and sorrows." (Amazon review)
If You Like a Good Story With Well-Developed Characters, The Shelter of Darkness Fills the Bill "Mooers has the gift of pacing, building tension and bringing her characters to life but also feeling protective of them. We're rooting for them and distressed for them at the same time. Her ability to write in several voices is as satisfying as reading Alexander McCall Smith. Take the time to read her. You'll be glad you did." (Amazon Review)
Good Book "I really enjoyed this book. It has lots of information (about the leprosarium in the US) that I never knew existed. The author knitted together a good story of a loving unrelated family. Easily readable and left me with a feeling that more stories from this family will come. I hope so." (Amazon review)
"(The character of Al) brought great tension to the story and when they found his body, well, it only got better until ending on a wonderful heartwarming note. This is a wonderful book. I thoroughly enjoyed it." (Goodreads review)