Books matching: seaside mystery
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- #1
Save:A beautifully written, haunting YA mystery that’s best experienced with as little prior knowledge as possible - perfect for those who love poetic prose and jaw-dropping twists, but might disappoint if you expect heart-pounding action or relatable characters.
'We Were Liars' by E. Lockhart is a story about a privileged family, the Sinclairs, who spend their summers on a private island off the coast of Massachusetts. The book follows Cadence, one of the Sinclair grandchildren, as she returns to the island after a traumatic accident during the summer of fifteen, trying to recover her memories. The plot revolves around the mystery of what happened to Cadence and her friends, known as the Liars, during that fateful summer. The writing style is described as beautifully written, haunting, and with a twist that keeps readers engaged until the end.
The novel is a coming-of-age story with elements of privilege, family dysfunction, love, friendship, and secrets. The narrative unfolds delicately, revealing the story bit by bit as Cadence remembers the events surrounding her accident. The book delves into themes of race, power, greed, and features a shocking twist ending that catches readers by surprise, making it a captivating and heartbreaking read.
Dad was a middling-successful professor of military history. Back then I adored him. He wore tweed jackets. He was gaunt. He drank milky tea. He was fond of board games and let me win, fond of boats a...May 2014•262 pages - #2
Save:A lyrical, unsettling, and emotionally resonant tale about childhood's magic and monsters - The Ocean at the End of the Lane is a modern fairytale that lingers long after you turn the last page.
'The Ocean at the End of the Lane' by Neil Gaiman is a dark and enchanting tale that explores the blurred lines between reality and fantasy through the eyes of a seven-year-old boy. The protagonist revisits his childhood home and is transported back to a time filled with mystical occurrences, terrifying secrets, and the enduring power of friendship. Gaiman weaves a narrative that seamlessly blends magical realism with elements of childhood nostalgia, creating a haunting and whimsical story that captivates readers from start to finish.
Through vivid prose and evocative storytelling, Gaiman delves into themes of innocence, fear, friendship, and the complexities of memory. navigates through the protagonist's journey of self-discovery as he confronts the mysteries of his past and the hidden truths that shape his present reality. With a touch of melancholy and a hint of wonder, 'The Ocean at the End of the Lane' takes readers on a mesmerizing exploration of the human experience, where the boundaries between imagination and truth blur in a world filled with magic and mystery.
There was a table laid with jellies and trifles, with a party hat beside each place and a birthday cake with seven candles on it in the centre of the table. The cake had a book drawn on it, in icing....June 2013•256 pages - #3
Save:Get your tissues ready! Second Chance Summer is a beautifully written, bittersweet story about learning to face life, loss, and love. Highly recommended if you’re up for an emotional, realistic, and ultimately hopeful journey.
Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson is a poignant novel about Taylor Edwards and her family spending one last summer at their lake house in the Pocono Mountains after receiving devastating news about her father's health. The story revolves around Taylor reconnecting with her past, facing unresolved relationships, and navigating through grief and second chances. The writing style of the book is emotionally engaging, focusing on themes of family, friendship, love, and loss, while portraying raw and realistic emotions that resonate with readers.
I EASED OPEN MY BEDROOM DOOR TO CHECK THAT THE HALLWAY was empty. When I was sure that it was, I shouldered my purse and closed the door behind me quietly, then took the stairs down to the kitchen two...May 2012•486 pages - #4
Save:Live and Let Chai, the first book in the Seaside Cafe Mystery series by Bree Baker, is set in the fictional seaside town of Charm in North Carolina's Outer Banks. The story follows Everly Swan, who returns to her hometown and opens a tea shop and cafe. When a local councilman is found dead near her cafe, Everly becomes a suspect and sets out to clear her name by finding the real murderer. The book is filled with quirky characters, a charming setting, and a mix of mystery, romance, and humor. Readers are taken on a journey through the town of Charm, experiencing the warmth and coziness of the community as Everly navigates through the murder investigation.
The plot of Live and Let Chai unfolds with many twists and turns, keeping readers engaged and guessing until the end. The writing style is descriptive, creating a vivid picture of the town of Charm and its inhabitants. The characters, especially Everly and her eccentric aunts, are well-developed and relatable, adding depth to the story. The book seamlessly weaves together elements of mystery, small-town charm, and a touch of romance, making it a delightful read for fans of cozy mysteries.
July 2018•352 pages - #5
Save:A binge-worthy, atmospheric whodunit that cleverly keeps you guessing - ideal for fans of modern, character-driven mysteries (though the twists and structure aren't for everyone).
'The Guest List' by Lucy Foley is a suspenseful thriller set on a remote Irish island where a wedding turns deadly. The plot unfolds through multiple character perspectives, revealing secrets, lies, and motives for murder. The writing style is described as engaging, with a fluid timeline, clever plotting, and a gripping atmosphere reminiscent of Big Little Lies.
In an instant, everything is in darkness. The band stop their playing. Inside the marquee the wedding guests squeal and clutch at one another. The light from the candles on the tables only adds to the...March 2020•344 pages - #6
Save:A haunting, hypnotic classic that’s all about atmosphere, secrets, and psychological tension - a must-read for lovers of gothic drama and slow-burn suspense, but might not grab you if you crave action or straightforward heroines.
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is a gothic mystery novel that revolves around the second Mrs. de Winter, who marries the wealthy widower Maxim de Winter and moves to his grand estate, Manderley. The shadow of Maxim's late wife, Rebecca, looms large over the household, with the housekeeper Mrs. Danvers and other characters adding to the mysterious and suspenseful atmosphere. The story is filled with plot twists, dark secrets, and a haunting sense of doom that keeps readers engaged until the shocking ending.
Last night I dreamed I went to Manderley again. It seemed to me I stood by the iron gate leading to the drive, and for a while I could not enter, for the way was barred to me. There was a padlock and...January 1938•449 pages - #7
Save:A stormy, immersive slice of gothic suspense: perfect for those who crave moody settings and bold heroines, but may test your patience if you prefer intricate plotting or subtle characters.
"Jamaica Inn" by Daphne du Maurier is a gothic novel set in Cornwall, featuring the young protagonist Mary Yellan who goes to live with her aunt and uncle at the eerie Jamaica Inn after her mother's death. The inn, once a respectable place, is now home to evil deeds and mysterious characters like smugglers and thieves. Mary uncovers dark secrets and must navigate through a suspenseful and atmospheric plot filled with danger and intrigue. The writing style is described as suspenseful, dark, and powerful, with vivid descriptions of the Cornish moors and a gothic atmosphere reminiscent of classic literature.
It was a cold gray day in late November. The weather had changed overnight, when a backing wind brought a granite sky and a mizzling rain with it, and although it was now only a little after two o’clo...1935•363 pages - #8
Save:The Water Mirror by Kai Meyer is a fantasy novel set in an alternate Venice of the late 1800s, filled with magic, mermaids, and an evil Egyptian empire. The story follows Merle, an orphan apprenticed to a magic mirror maker, and her friend Serafin, the magic weaver's apprentice, as they uncover a plot to allow the Egyptians to conquer Venice. The book is praised for its well-told story, interesting characters, and unique magical elements such as stone lions and flying dragons. However, some readers express disappointment in the incomplete ending and the need to read the rest of the series for closure.
THE GONDOLA CARRYING THE TWO GIRLS EMERGED FROM one of the side canals. They had to wait for the boats racing on the Grand Canal to pass, and even then, for minutes afterward there was such a jumble o...2001•272 pages - #9
Save:An imaginative, fast-paced adventure through Ancient Egypt that’s heavy on action and grand storytelling - just don’t expect subtlety or strict historical realism. If escapism and spectacle are what you’re after, this is a memorable, fun read.
'River God' by Wilbur Smith is set in ancient Egypt and tells the story through the eyes of a talented slave named Taita. The plot focuses on the forbidden love between a young girl and boy amidst an invasion of Egypt, leading to a tale of true love and the challenges faced to protect it. The writing style is described as accessible and engaging, with a mix of romance, adventure, and action that brings ancient Egypt to life vividly.
The Nile that flows through this story has both of us in her thrall. We have spent days of delight voyaging together upon her waters and idling upon her banks. As we are, so is she a creature of this...1993•704 pages - #10
Save:A fun, dark, and sometimes outlandish thriller - great for suspense fans who don’t mind a wild ride with some implausible turns. Not Swanson’s finest, but still a quick, entertaining read if you’re in the mood for popcorn thrills.
Every Vow You Break by Peter Swanson is a thrilling novel that follows the story of Abigail, a bride who has a one-night stand during her bachelorette weekend. As she embarks on her honeymoon with her wealthy husband, Bruce, on a secluded island, she discovers that the man she had the affair with, Scottie, has followed her. The plot twists and turns as Abigail's perfect life unravels, revealing dark secrets and sinister revelations that keep readers guessing until the end. Swanson's writing style is described as engaging, with a slow burn suspense that builds up to a gripping climax, making it a page-turner for fans of the psychological thriller genre.
She first spotted him at Bobbie’s Coffee Shop on Twenty-Second Street. He was at a window seat, idly looking at his phone, a white mug in front of him. Abigail was on her way to the office for her hal...March 2021
