This morning was cold and rainy, and with a bit of down time I picked up The Secret of Seaside by Agatha Ball. I grabbed it for the cute little cat on the cover, who played a bit role in the book. This was released in March of 2017, and I believe is Ms Ball’s first full length book! It is also my first “cozy” mystery.
I will openly admit that I have never read one of these before, and had to Google what “cozy” meant. It feels like Nancy Drew for adults!?
In general, a small town person rises to the occasion and solves or helps to solve a mystery with the support of the local residents. This is the gist of the story – a tourist town post collegiate feels helpless after a local murder, for which the local cops are beyond useless – and starts to sleuth around.
It is a fairly simple story. The characters stay one dimensional but are likeable enough. It is about a three hour long read. The dialogue is written as it would be spoken and carries the story along. I can’t mention the murderer without a spoiler – I did not expect the last few chapters though. The conclusion felt rushed and could have been drawn out a little more, but I have no real complaints.
There were no loose ends, and I believe it correctly fits the bill as a clean, “cozy mystery”. If I have down time this winter I may read more, so to Mrs Ball: I appreciate the introduction! If this is your kind of story I would say grab a cinnamon roll and cozy up!
As always, please let me know if you stop in! I love feedback and talking books! This is a 100% unsolicited review with no compensation
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