The Reticence: (A Suspense Mystery Thriller) Book 1 (Nantahala River)
When I stumbled across The Reticence by Levi Fuller, I was instantly drawn in by its promise of mystery and suspense, tinged with the warmth of sisterly camaraderie. The magical setting of the Nantahala River paired with the urgency of a small-town murder piqued my curiosity, and I couldn’t resist diving into what I assumed would be a thrilling journey filled with twists and turns.
The story introduces us to sisters Margo and Marcia Fleming, who are not only investigators but also a testament to familial bonds in the face of peril. What I particularly loved about their dynamic is how their personalities complement one another; they’re adept at digging into elusive cases, yet they share moments of vulnerability that resonate deeply. The tragic murder of a beloved teen sets the stage for their latest pursuit, and Fuller does a remarkable job of blending the emotional weight of this loss with the frenzied search for the truth. As Margo and Marcia delve deeper, it becomes clear that this case is anything but straightforward. I found myself engrossed, often holding my breath as I awaited the next revelation.
However, there’s an undeniable element of frustration in how the narrative is structured. At just 82 pages, what appears at first as the beginning of an intriguing story feels more like an extended prologue, leaving readers feeling a bit unfulfilled. Many reviewers voiced similar sentiments, with one candidly describing it as “the first few chapters of a book,” which resonates with my own experience. While the writing style is engaging—Fuller’s prose flows effortlessly, drawing readers into the small-town atmosphere—one can’t help but wish for more substantial closure.
A standout moment for me was when one of the sisters finds herself a target during their investigation. The suspense was palpable at that moment, and I could almost hear my heart racing along with the characters. One review beautifully encapsulated this experience, stating, “Great clean suspense story. Just enough story to wet the whistle to go to the next book.” And while I wholeheartedly agree, it would have been nicer to have a more rounded conclusion to patiently savor.
Despite its brevity, The Reticence successfully sets the stage for what could evolve into a captivating series. It’s a tantalizing taste for those who enjoy cozy, character-driven mysteries, as well as a reminder of the complexities that weaved family bonds within the backdrop of crime-solving.
In closing, I think this book is ideal for readers who appreciate a mix of suspense, sisterly love, and the promise of more to come. While I felt a bit shortchanged by the lack of a complete narrative arc, I’m curious to see how Fuller develops this story in future installments. So if you’re intrigued by a cliffhanger that leaves you breathless, I’d say give The Reticence a chance—and prepare to want more!
You can find The Reticence: (A Suspense Mystery Thriller) Book 1 (Nantahala River) here >>