A Cozy Mystery with Heart: Review of Murder by the Seaside (Patience Price Mysteries Book 1)
When I first stumbled upon Murder by the Seaside by the talented K. L. H. (a.k.a. Kelly Hartsock), I was instantly intrigued by its premise. A down-on-her-luck FBI alum reinventing herself as a Counselor at Large on a charming island? Sign me up! The vibrant blend of sun-soaked days and the dark shadow of murder promised a delightful juxtaposition I couldn’t resist.
The story revolves around Patience Price, whose life takes an unexpected turn after being downsized from her job at the FBI. Setting up in a small coastal town, she finds her peaceful reinvention interrupted when a figure from her past—her high school crush, Adrian Davis—is accused of murder. As fate would have it, Adrian’s mother seeks Patience’s help, leading her down a path filled with nostalgia, unresolved feelings, and the lurking danger posed by an actual killer.
What struck me most about this book was its enriching examination of second chances—both in love and life. Patience is an incredibly relatable character. Her internal struggles and witty observations about her new role bring depth to the narrative. The chemistry between her and her former coworker, who joins her in unraveling this mystery, adds an enjoyable layer of tension. K. L. H. doesn’t shy away from playful banter and romantic tension, which left me laughing and rooting for their developing bond.
The pacing of the narrative flowed smoothly, keeping me hooked without feeling rushed. Hartsock’s writing carries a cozy charm, filled with vivid descriptions of island life that made me long for a beach day, complemented by her sharp humor that offered lighthearted moments amidst the suspense. One memorable quote that resonated deeply with me was, “Karma has a way of settling scores, even when we least expect it.” It captures the essence of the book and made me reflect on the serendipitous ways life intertwines our past and present.
For fans of cozy mysteries looking for a mix of intrigue and warmth, this book is a delightful choice. Murder by the Seaside stands out as a story about community, rediscovering oneself, and tackling the mysteries life throws our way—sometimes, quite literally!
In conclusion, if you’re seeking a light and engaging read with a protagonist who’s all too relatable amid the chaos of murder, give Murder by the Seaside a try. I finished the book feeling not only entertained but also uplifted, eager to witness what Hartsock has in store for Patience in the next installment. This charming mystery will capture your heart, just as it did mine.
You can find Murder by the Seaside (Patience Price Mysteries Book 1) here >>