Ratings1
Average rating3
Love and murder are in the air this Valentine’s day in Maggie Blackburn’s third Beach Reads mystery, perfect for fans of Eva Gates and Miranda James.
When Beach Reads bookshop hosts a Valentine’s Day event, “Romance by the Sea,” bookseller Summer Merriweather has no idea that the guest author is under investigation for her own husband’s murder. When that same author is found dead at the local bed and breakfast, nobody assumes it’s natural causes–there were plenty of people who wanted her dead.
As Summer searches for the truth about the author’s stranger-than-fiction life, Summer finds suspicious indications of shady behavior in the author’s belongings. But the casual sleuthing is quickly derailed when Summer’s friend Glads gets hauled in for the murder, and they launch a full-blown investigation to clear her name.
As Summer and company pick through the scant clues to solve the case, they may find more treachery and heartbreak than they bargained for.
Featured Series
3 primary booksBeach Reads Mystery is a 3-book series with 3 primary works first released in 2020 with contributions by Maggie Blackburn.
Reviews with the most likes.
Book Review: A Killer Romance by Maggie Blackburn
Rating: 3 Stars
In Maggie Blackburn's “A Killer Romance,” love and murder collide in a cozy mystery set during a Valentine's Day event at the Beach Reads bookshop. As bookseller Summer Merriweather delves into the mysterious death of a guest author, she uncovers a web of secrets and lies that lead her on a thrilling quest for the truth.
One of the standout features of this novel is its charming setting by the sea, providing a picturesque backdrop for the unfolding drama. Blackburn's portrayal of Summer as a Shakespeare scholar adds depth to her character, making her not just a sleuth but a relatable and intriguing protagonist.
While the mystery itself is well-crafted and keeps readers guessing until the end, the book could have benefitted from tighter editing. Some readers may find the repetitive mentions of Summer's ankle pain and drug choices to be excessive, detracting from the overall flow of the story.
Despite these minor flaws, “A Killer Romance” offers an engaging plot with likable characters that will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries. Blackburn successfully weaves together treachery, heartbreak, and unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final reveal.
Overall, “A Killer Romance” is a solid addition to the Beach Reads mystery series, perfect for those looking for a light-hearted yet suspenseful read to enjoy on a cozy evening.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️