‘Solemn Graves’ a standout in WWII series

As the years go by and more WWII veterans pass away, historical fiction takes on a new importance. Such is the case with the enthralling series about U.S. Army investigator Billy Boyle by James R. Benn. Meticulously researched, Benn’s WWII novels rise above entertainment to give readers a deep insight into the machinations of war and the people affected by it. Through fiction, Benn allows readers to connect with those times in ways that most textbooks cannot.

As Benn shows time and again, the methods, technology and strategies have changed, but war’s emotional cost seldom wavers.

“Solemn Graves,” Benn’s 13th in this series, continues those high standards. Set a month after D-Day in 1944, Boyle arrives in Normandy to investigate the murder of Maj. David Jerome, the commanding officer of a signals company. The major was found in a villa close to the front lines where he had been housed during a covert assignment. Maj. Jerome’s mere presence there was to have been top secret — he was advising the “Ghost Army,” troops charged with creating “phantom action” to distract and misinform the Germans.

Benn invigorates “Solemn Graves” with a complex and somber look at life in the midst of war where betrayals can come from your neighbor, who may be a Nazi spy, and gunfire is constantly in the background. Benn’s hallmark of meticulous research shines as he delivers a view of how the residents treat those accused of

collaboration horizontale, women who trade sex with German soldiers in exchange for food or other items.

In a series known for excellence, “Solemn Graves” stands out.

James R. Benn will discuss “Solemn Graves” at 7 p.m. Dec. 1 at Murder on the Beach, 273 Pineapple Grove Way, Delray Beach, 561-279-7790, murderonthebeach.com.