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Granite Harbor
A small town in coastal Maine is shaken to its core by a serial killer in this crime novel from Peter Nichols, bestselling author of The Rocks
In scenic Granite Harbor, life has continued on―quiet and serene―for decades. That is until a local teenager is found brutally murdered in the Settlement, the town’s historic archaeological site. Alex Brangwen, adjusting to life as a single father with a failed career as a novelist, is the town’s sole detective. This is his first murder case and, as both a parent and detective, Alex knows the people of Granite Harbor are looking to him to catch the killer and temper the fear that has descended over the town.
Isabel, a single mother attempting to support her family while healing from her own demons, finds herself in the middle of the case when she begins working at the Settlement. Her son, Ethan, and Alex’s daughter, Sophie, were best friends with the victim. When a second body is found, both parents are terrified that their child may be next. As Alex and Isabel race to find the killer in their midst, the town’s secrets―past and present―begin bubbling to the surface, threatening to unravel the tight-knit community.
At once a page-turning thriller and a captivating portrait of the social fabric of a small town, Granite Harbor evokes the atmosphere of HBO’s Mare of Easttown with a villain reminiscent of Thomas Harris’s Silence of the Lambs.
In scenic Granite Harbor, life has continued on―quiet and serene―for decades. That is until a local teenager is found brutally murdered in the Settlement, the town’s historic archaeological site. Alex Brangwen, adjusting to life as a single father with a failed career as a novelist, is the town’s sole detective. This is his first murder case and, as both a parent and detective, Alex knows the people of Granite Harbor are looking to him to catch the killer and temper the fear that has descended over the town.
Isabel, a single mother attempting to support her family while healing from her own demons, finds herself in the middle of the case when she begins working at the Settlement. Her son, Ethan, and Alex’s daughter, Sophie, were best friends with the victim. When a second body is found, both parents are terrified that their child may be next. As Alex and Isabel race to find the killer in their midst, the town’s secrets―past and present―begin bubbling to the surface, threatening to unravel the tight-knit community.
At once a page-turning thriller and a captivating portrait of the social fabric of a small town, Granite Harbor evokes the atmosphere of HBO’s Mare of Easttown with a villain reminiscent of Thomas Harris’s Silence of the Lambs.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2024
338 people are currently reading
21792 people want to read
About the author
Peter Nichols
10 books106 followersPeter Nichols is the author of the bestselling novel The Rocks, the nonfiction bestsellers A Voyage for Madmen, Evolution's Captain, and three other books of fiction, memoir, and non-fiction. His novel Voyage to the North Star was nominated for the Dublin IMPAC literary award. His journalism has been nominated for a Pushcart Prize. He has an MFA degree from Antioch University Los Angeles, and has taught creative writing at Georgetown University, Bowdoin College, and New York University in Paris. Before turning to writing full time, he held a 100 ton USCG Ocean Operator’s licence and was a professional yacht delivery skipper for 10 years. He has also worked in advertising in London, as a screenwriter in Los Angeles, a shepherd in Wales. He has sailed alone in a small boat across the Atlantic and is a member of the Explorers Club of New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 814 reviews
April 30, 2024
I highly suggest that you SKIP the official synopsis for this novel as it reveals something that doesn’t happen until almost the THREE QUARTER mark of the book-and I think the story would have had MUCH MORE of an impact on me-if I hadn’t known what was coming!!
*SPOILER FREE REVIEW *
Life in Granite Harbor Maine, will never be the same after a local teenager's body is found brutally murdered in “The Settlement” the town's historic archaeological site.
The body has been hung from a handmade wooden structure, with a gruesome clue left INSIDE the corpse which has been sliced open.
And, it will be up to Alex Brangwen, the town's sole detective to solve the case.
This will be his first murder case, newly trained after a failed career as a novelist, and his skills as a detective are rudimentary. He will have to use his writer’s imagination and consider all possibilities no matter how unusual- if he hopes to succeed.
Adding to the pressure- the Victim was a friend of his daughter.
This isn’t a bad story, and I quite enjoyed the chapters when Alex was investigating BUT -I have a couple of reasons why it’s just a 3 star read for me, IN ADDITION to the synopsis giving away too much.
First, as we get to know the residents of this small Coastal town, it seemed obvious to me who would be guilty of MURDER.
Second, there is gratuitous animal harm, and if you follow my reviews, you know that I don’t want to read about that. A dog dies in an accidental death, which explains some of the plot, BUT there wasn’t a need to describe the deaths of fish, toads or Coyotes to further the plot after that. (SKIP CH 34 to avoid content the Publisher warns about if you are triggered by animal abuse)
If you go in blind, or if they make the book’s synopsis more succinct by publication date, and you aren’t bothered by animal death-you just might enjoy this one more than I did!
NOW AVAILABLE
Thank you to Celadon books for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
*SPOILER FREE REVIEW *
Life in Granite Harbor Maine, will never be the same after a local teenager's body is found brutally murdered in “The Settlement” the town's historic archaeological site.
The body has been hung from a handmade wooden structure, with a gruesome clue left INSIDE the corpse which has been sliced open.
And, it will be up to Alex Brangwen, the town's sole detective to solve the case.
This will be his first murder case, newly trained after a failed career as a novelist, and his skills as a detective are rudimentary. He will have to use his writer’s imagination and consider all possibilities no matter how unusual- if he hopes to succeed.
Adding to the pressure- the Victim was a friend of his daughter.
This isn’t a bad story, and I quite enjoyed the chapters when Alex was investigating BUT -I have a couple of reasons why it’s just a 3 star read for me, IN ADDITION to the synopsis giving away too much.
First, as we get to know the residents of this small Coastal town, it seemed obvious to me who would be guilty of MURDER.
Second, there is gratuitous animal harm, and if you follow my reviews, you know that I don’t want to read about that. A dog dies in an accidental death, which explains some of the plot, BUT there wasn’t a need to describe the deaths of fish, toads or Coyotes to further the plot after that. (SKIP CH 34 to avoid content the Publisher warns about if you are triggered by animal abuse)
If you go in blind, or if they make the book’s synopsis more succinct by publication date, and you aren’t bothered by animal death-you just might enjoy this one more than I did!
NOW AVAILABLE
Thank you to Celadon books for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
January 15, 2024
The gruesome murder of a local teen sends shockwaves across the close-knit community of Granite Harbor, a coastal town in Maine. The body of the teenager was discovered strung up for display in a local historic tourist attraction known as The Settlement. Former novelist turned Detective Alex Branwen is tasked to lead the investigation. The nature of the crime has also attracted the attention of the FBI who suspect that a serial killer is at large. Alex, whose teenage daughter was friends with the victim, must leave no stone unturned in trying to find out whether a criminal in is their midst even if it means ruffling more than a few feathers. A second murder , also a teenager, changes the direction of the investigation and Alex must race to find the killer before anyone else ends up dead.
Granite Harbor by Peter Nichols is a dark, gritty, immersive read. The narrative is shared from the perspectives of Alex and Isabel Dorr, a resident of Granite Harbor and single mother of a teenage son who was friends with the two murder victims, with chapters detailing the killer’s past (not revealing the identity) interspersed throughout the present-day narrative. The pace is slower in the beginning but picks up as the story progresses. The characters are well thought out (even the unlikeable ones) and the author skillfully captures the dynamics of a small town and the interpersonal connections of both the adults and the teenagers and how the brutality of the crimes and suspicions threaten to fracture those connections. While the identity of the killer was not entirely unpredictable, I thoroughly enjoyed the suspenseful build-up, the surprise along the way, and the dark, atmospheric vibe and finished the book in a day. There are a few aspects that I wish had been explored in more detail , but this did not detract from my overall reading experience. This was my first time reading Peter Nichols, but it surely won’t be my last.
Many thanks to Celadon Books for the gifted copy of Granite Harbor. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The expected publication date for this novel is April 30, 2024.
Please note that certain content (animal cruelty, gruesome descriptions of the crimes) might prove disturbing for some readers.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Granite Harbor by Peter Nichols is a dark, gritty, immersive read. The narrative is shared from the perspectives of Alex and Isabel Dorr, a resident of Granite Harbor and single mother of a teenage son who was friends with the two murder victims, with chapters detailing the killer’s past (not revealing the identity) interspersed throughout the present-day narrative. The pace is slower in the beginning but picks up as the story progresses. The characters are well thought out (even the unlikeable ones) and the author skillfully captures the dynamics of a small town and the interpersonal connections of both the adults and the teenagers and how the brutality of the crimes and suspicions threaten to fracture those connections. While the identity of the killer was not entirely unpredictable, I thoroughly enjoyed the suspenseful build-up, the surprise along the way, and the dark, atmospheric vibe and finished the book in a day. There are a few aspects that I wish had been explored in more detail , but this did not detract from my overall reading experience. This was my first time reading Peter Nichols, but it surely won’t be my last.
Many thanks to Celadon Books for the gifted copy of Granite Harbor. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The expected publication date for this novel is April 30, 2024.
Please note that certain content (animal cruelty, gruesome descriptions of the crimes) might prove disturbing for some readers.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
March 25, 2024
My thanks to Celadon books, Peter Nichols and Netgalley.
So, I initially had a difficult time with this story. Honestly? I think it was mostly due to the fact that I had a few surgeries, on top of some stupid heart monitor and the knowledge of how soon the next "medical adventure" will be. Dudes and dudettes..I'm just fucking exhausted. Scared. And also 😟 worried.
What's really messed up though? I just finished this book, and I can't remember a single damned thing. Nothing.
3 middle of the road, can't remember shit, stars.
I do know that I didn't hate it!😜
So, I initially had a difficult time with this story. Honestly? I think it was mostly due to the fact that I had a few surgeries, on top of some stupid heart monitor and the knowledge of how soon the next "medical adventure" will be. Dudes and dudettes..I'm just fucking exhausted. Scared. And also 😟 worried.
What's really messed up though? I just finished this book, and I can't remember a single damned thing. Nothing.
3 middle of the road, can't remember shit, stars.
I do know that I didn't hate it!😜
March 14, 2024
3.5. A small Maine Coastal town, a failed novelist turned to police work, and a terrible, horrifying killing. Four friends, one the cops daughter, watch terrified as it seems that a serial killer has them in his target. Everyone knows everyone I this town, many of them work at the Settlement, an archeological site, where those employed dress up in costume and show the visitors how life was lived in the past. No strangers have come to town. But as parents try to keep their children safe, they all wonder, could the killer already be in their town?
Gritty and quite gruesome, graphic descriptions of the murders. Also, animal cruelty. Tough read, but I really enjoyed a few of the characters, so I just skipped over the parts that I didn’t want to read.
ARC from Netgalley.
Gritty and quite gruesome, graphic descriptions of the murders. Also, animal cruelty. Tough read, but I really enjoyed a few of the characters, so I just skipped over the parts that I didn’t want to read.
ARC from Netgalley.
June 3, 2024
Granite Harbor survives on tourist. A beautiful coastal town, peaceful and relaxing for visitors to get away and refresh. That is until a serial killer starts murdering teenagers in the town. Alex Brangwen is the town detective and he must find the killer. But Alex isn’t a “real“ detective. He is just the guy who got the job when writing books wouldn’t pay the bills. Alex also has a teenage daughter, so he wants to catch the killer to keep her from harm.
This book was a slow start. I almost quit several times. There was just so much character backstory. I kept telling myself it must be necessary for the story to play out. I’m gonna say 40% of the back stories are helpful, but the rest was just filler. Some characters were amazing and some substantial characters were lacking in background so that was frustrating.
All In all I’m glad I stuck with it. About halfway through the Book got real good, the details started coming together, there were twists and turns and lots of surprises. It also has a great ending – so stick with it!
This book was a slow start. I almost quit several times. There was just so much character backstory. I kept telling myself it must be necessary for the story to play out. I’m gonna say 40% of the back stories are helpful, but the rest was just filler. Some characters were amazing and some substantial characters were lacking in background so that was frustrating.
All In all I’m glad I stuck with it. About halfway through the Book got real good, the details started coming together, there were twists and turns and lots of surprises. It also has a great ending – so stick with it!
May 11, 2024
While I appreciate the effort put into this novel, it unfortunately didn't resonate with me. Nonetheless, I'm sure others may find it more enjoyable.
Overall, not for me.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Peter Nicholas, and Macmillan Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
Overall, not for me.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Peter Nicholas, and Macmillan Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
May 22, 2024
**Many thanks to @CeladonBooks and Peter Nichols for an ARC of this book provided via NetGalley!**
THUD.
No, that isn't the sound of a large chunk of granite being hurled into a harbor. (And yes, though that has little to do with this book, that IS one of the images that came to mind when I first heard this title.)
I'm sad to say that instead, that THUD heard round the world....was the sound of my head slamming into the wall after finally (and I mean FINALLY) finishing this book.
The premise of Granite Harbor is quite simple, albeit not that unique: a serial killer has ravaged a small coastal town (yes, you guessed it: Granite Harbor) and the denizens of the town are desperate to get the maniac off the streets. In a historical landmark known as The Settlement, where reenactments take place, a body has been hung for all to see...with a cryptic message INSIDE, spilling out. (Ick.) With such a small population, there aren't many who are willing (or ABLE!) to take on the case...save for the town's only detective, Alex Brangwen. As a former novelist, he's feeling more than a bit shaky and insecure about being able to suss out the killer...but with no other volunteers, he bravely steps up to the plate to give it his best shot.
Meanwhile, the mother of one of the murder victim's friends, Isabel Doerr, might be living the single parent life...but she's more than willing to try to assist Alex in finding the perp. Her child wasn't the only friend of the victim that's close to the investigation: Alex's DAUGHTER is also part of this former trio, making these two fast allies against the evil that is lurking in the shadows of Granite Harbor. Could these two have just the insight needed to get to the bottom of this bizarre and disturbing case? Is anyone inside - or outside - of the Settlement safe? Or is the first murder only the beginning -- and perhaps an ominous warning -- of the horrors to come?
I'll be honest, it's been a minute since I had the pleasure of putting this book in the rear-view mirror...and even after the WEEKS that have passed and time to reflect and step away...I have to admit that of ALL the adjectives that come to mind?
'Pointless' is probably the first.
The story starts with a long, plodding description of some characters interacting at the Settlement before the body is found, leading me to believe that reenactment was going to be a MAJOR part of this story. Well...it isn't. I suppose it served as atmosphere (?) to put our characters here, but they could just have well been hanging out in someone's backyard for all of the effect they had on me. What authors like Stephen King do SO well when describing places like Maine is to set the scene and allow what is already a creepy environment sort of get under your skin and function as another character - always lurking, menacing, in the background. Nichols instead worked so hard to try to make this book sound Literary with a capital L that any chance for this sort of brooding creepiness to take center stage got lost amidst a sea of clipped sentences and 'fancy sounding' words.
And trust me, there is PLENTY of that to go around. We spent so much time randomly diving into backstory (like the mostly irrelevant backstory of Alex's wife, for example) that I figured it just had to be leading somewhere, and all of the attempts at highbrow wordsmithing would SOMEHOW pay off. Nichols gives us gems like "His dour, mordant Mancunian wit" AND phrases like "He noticed the play of pronounced but firm buttocks beneath the flapping vent of her jacket."...on the same page. The writing is truly all over the place, and I had a hard time keeping pace with what the 'tone' of the book was supposed to be throughout. I kept waiting for things to get scary, or interesting...but they were just sort of off-putting and strange. There's nothing wrong with a literary book that weaves a mystery in, but I'm not even sure I can call this THAT... I truly just don't know WHAT to call it.
Nichols also needs to take a page from the psychological thriller writers of the world and figure out HOW to end a chapter. The number of times this book sort of randomly trails off, seemingly mid-thought, felt like he just decided he was done writing for the day and said, "Eh, I'll just start a new chapter in the morning." I honestly just didn't get it. I'm not saying each chapter's ending needs to feel like a punctuation mark on everything preceding it, or even necessarily be leading somewhere specific...but I think most readers would agree the reading experiences FEELS much better when this happens. I didn't find the 'twists' (if you could call them that) that surprising, the perp that surprising or interesting, and the number of times I thought "is this ever going to end" was innumerable.
There is also a bit of animal cruelty that is pretty horrible (even for me, and as much as I adore animals I usually am able to stomach reading fictional stories about such things) and yet AGAIN...I just questioned WHY. There is a fine line between disturbing and distasteful, and Nichols all but steamrolled that division here. I think what bothers me most about it is that most of the ickiest parts of the book felt sort of gratuitous and frankly, didn't serve the plot at all. There is even a section of the book where characters have bowel movements on another character's face in order to degrade them...so you've been warned. 🤮 (And now I had to think about it again....as if reading it the first time wasn't punishment enough!)
Though there is something chilling about the daggerlike font on this striking cover, something eerie about the stillness of the open water at sunset, and something menacing about the silent figure lingering at the end of this seemingly deserted pier...if I were stranded at the end of the same creepy pier, no help or hope in sight, and my choice was to a) revisit this book...or b) take a plunge into frigid waters below?
...
Somebody PLEASE hand me a lifejacket! 🏊♀️
2.5 stars
THUD.
No, that isn't the sound of a large chunk of granite being hurled into a harbor. (And yes, though that has little to do with this book, that IS one of the images that came to mind when I first heard this title.)
I'm sad to say that instead, that THUD heard round the world....was the sound of my head slamming into the wall after finally (and I mean FINALLY) finishing this book.
The premise of Granite Harbor is quite simple, albeit not that unique: a serial killer has ravaged a small coastal town (yes, you guessed it: Granite Harbor) and the denizens of the town are desperate to get the maniac off the streets. In a historical landmark known as The Settlement, where reenactments take place, a body has been hung for all to see...with a cryptic message INSIDE, spilling out. (Ick.) With such a small population, there aren't many who are willing (or ABLE!) to take on the case...save for the town's only detective, Alex Brangwen. As a former novelist, he's feeling more than a bit shaky and insecure about being able to suss out the killer...but with no other volunteers, he bravely steps up to the plate to give it his best shot.
Meanwhile, the mother of one of the murder victim's friends, Isabel Doerr, might be living the single parent life...but she's more than willing to try to assist Alex in finding the perp. Her child wasn't the only friend of the victim that's close to the investigation: Alex's DAUGHTER is also part of this former trio, making these two fast allies against the evil that is lurking in the shadows of Granite Harbor. Could these two have just the insight needed to get to the bottom of this bizarre and disturbing case? Is anyone inside - or outside - of the Settlement safe? Or is the first murder only the beginning -- and perhaps an ominous warning -- of the horrors to come?
I'll be honest, it's been a minute since I had the pleasure of putting this book in the rear-view mirror...and even after the WEEKS that have passed and time to reflect and step away...I have to admit that of ALL the adjectives that come to mind?
'Pointless' is probably the first.
The story starts with a long, plodding description of some characters interacting at the Settlement before the body is found, leading me to believe that reenactment was going to be a MAJOR part of this story. Well...it isn't. I suppose it served as atmosphere (?) to put our characters here, but they could just have well been hanging out in someone's backyard for all of the effect they had on me. What authors like Stephen King do SO well when describing places like Maine is to set the scene and allow what is already a creepy environment sort of get under your skin and function as another character - always lurking, menacing, in the background. Nichols instead worked so hard to try to make this book sound Literary with a capital L that any chance for this sort of brooding creepiness to take center stage got lost amidst a sea of clipped sentences and 'fancy sounding' words.
And trust me, there is PLENTY of that to go around. We spent so much time randomly diving into backstory (like the mostly irrelevant backstory of Alex's wife, for example) that I figured it just had to be leading somewhere, and all of the attempts at highbrow wordsmithing would SOMEHOW pay off. Nichols gives us gems like "His dour, mordant Mancunian wit" AND phrases like "He noticed the play of pronounced but firm buttocks beneath the flapping vent of her jacket."...on the same page. The writing is truly all over the place, and I had a hard time keeping pace with what the 'tone' of the book was supposed to be throughout. I kept waiting for things to get scary, or interesting...but they were just sort of off-putting and strange. There's nothing wrong with a literary book that weaves a mystery in, but I'm not even sure I can call this THAT... I truly just don't know WHAT to call it.
Nichols also needs to take a page from the psychological thriller writers of the world and figure out HOW to end a chapter. The number of times this book sort of randomly trails off, seemingly mid-thought, felt like he just decided he was done writing for the day and said, "Eh, I'll just start a new chapter in the morning." I honestly just didn't get it. I'm not saying each chapter's ending needs to feel like a punctuation mark on everything preceding it, or even necessarily be leading somewhere specific...but I think most readers would agree the reading experiences FEELS much better when this happens. I didn't find the 'twists' (if you could call them that) that surprising, the perp that surprising or interesting, and the number of times I thought "is this ever going to end" was innumerable.
There is also a bit of animal cruelty that is pretty horrible (even for me, and as much as I adore animals I usually am able to stomach reading fictional stories about such things) and yet AGAIN...I just questioned WHY. There is a fine line between disturbing and distasteful, and Nichols all but steamrolled that division here. I think what bothers me most about it is that most of the ickiest parts of the book felt sort of gratuitous and frankly, didn't serve the plot at all. There is even a section of the book where characters have bowel movements on another character's face in order to degrade them...so you've been warned. 🤮 (And now I had to think about it again....as if reading it the first time wasn't punishment enough!)
Though there is something chilling about the daggerlike font on this striking cover, something eerie about the stillness of the open water at sunset, and something menacing about the silent figure lingering at the end of this seemingly deserted pier...if I were stranded at the end of the same creepy pier, no help or hope in sight, and my choice was to a) revisit this book...or b) take a plunge into frigid waters below?
...
Somebody PLEASE hand me a lifejacket! 🏊♀️
2.5 stars
May 15, 2024
In scenic Granite Harbor, life has continued on―quiet and serene―for decades. That is until a local teenager is found brutally murdered in the Settlement, the town’s historic archaeological site. Alex Brangwen, adjusting to life as a single father with a failed career as a novelist, is the town’s sole detective. This is his first murder case and, as both a parent and detective, Alex knows the people of Granite Harbor are looking to him to catch the killer and temper the fear that has descended over the town.
Isabel, a single mother attempting to support her family while healing from her own demons, finds herself in the middle of the case when she begins working at the Settlement. Her son, Ethan, and Alex’s daughter, Sophie, were best friends with the victim. When a second body is found, both parents are terrified that their child may be next. As Alex and Isabel race to find the killer in their midst, the town’s secrets―past and present―begin bubbling to the surface, threatening to unravel the tight-knit community.
I don’t really know what to think of Granite Harbor. An odd mix of slight police procedural and thriller, the claustrophobic feel and eerie setting was a total home run. I also was head over heels for the raw characters who displayed flaws and foibles that made them authentically genuine and true. Best of all was Nichols’s characterization of the teens in the book. From their realistic problems with their parents to their rash behavior or ride-or-die friendships, I saw how the plot could have unfolded exactly as it did.
Despite a slow burn start where there was many a detail that just wasn’t needed, by the halfway point I was wholeheartedly pulled into the story. Immersive and mesmerizing, I found myself riding shotgun with the accidental detective (who was by far my favorite character) as he searched for the killer in this surprising whodunnit. From its suspenseful buildup to the shocking, adrenaline-pumping climax, I was unable to guess even a piece of the puzzle.
At the same time, however, this gritty, dark tale had some very disturbing scenes—namely concerning graphic animal abuse and distressing serial killer behavior. Chapter 34, in particular, was hard to stomach. Did it pertain to the plot? Most definitely. But I found the grotesque and explicit descriptions unnecessary all the same. Along the same vein, the excessive details throughout the book was definitely a distraction. I didn’t care what kinds of literature the characters liked or the foods that they ate. Although I guess it did give them well-rounded identities even if it was rather boring.
By the time I finished, though, I was thoroughly wrapped up in the story. Did I find myself skimming quite a bit in the beginning? Well, yes—but that didn’t dissuade my admiration in the least. Told via multiple POVs—including the killer’s—the plot came alive with their palpable fear. Even the town of Granite Harbor became a living, breathing entity thanks to the evocative descriptions. All in all, it was a good read. Just maybe check out my trigger warning before you grab a copy for yourself. Rating of 4 stars.
Thank you to Peter Nichols and Celadon Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: April 30, 2024
Trigger warning: bullying, animal abuse, drug use, suicide, torture
Isabel, a single mother attempting to support her family while healing from her own demons, finds herself in the middle of the case when she begins working at the Settlement. Her son, Ethan, and Alex’s daughter, Sophie, were best friends with the victim. When a second body is found, both parents are terrified that their child may be next. As Alex and Isabel race to find the killer in their midst, the town’s secrets―past and present―begin bubbling to the surface, threatening to unravel the tight-knit community.
I don’t really know what to think of Granite Harbor. An odd mix of slight police procedural and thriller, the claustrophobic feel and eerie setting was a total home run. I also was head over heels for the raw characters who displayed flaws and foibles that made them authentically genuine and true. Best of all was Nichols’s characterization of the teens in the book. From their realistic problems with their parents to their rash behavior or ride-or-die friendships, I saw how the plot could have unfolded exactly as it did.
Despite a slow burn start where there was many a detail that just wasn’t needed, by the halfway point I was wholeheartedly pulled into the story. Immersive and mesmerizing, I found myself riding shotgun with the accidental detective (who was by far my favorite character) as he searched for the killer in this surprising whodunnit. From its suspenseful buildup to the shocking, adrenaline-pumping climax, I was unable to guess even a piece of the puzzle.
At the same time, however, this gritty, dark tale had some very disturbing scenes—namely concerning graphic animal abuse and distressing serial killer behavior. Chapter 34, in particular, was hard to stomach. Did it pertain to the plot? Most definitely. But I found the grotesque and explicit descriptions unnecessary all the same. Along the same vein, the excessive details throughout the book was definitely a distraction. I didn’t care what kinds of literature the characters liked or the foods that they ate. Although I guess it did give them well-rounded identities even if it was rather boring.
By the time I finished, though, I was thoroughly wrapped up in the story. Did I find myself skimming quite a bit in the beginning? Well, yes—but that didn’t dissuade my admiration in the least. Told via multiple POVs—including the killer’s—the plot came alive with their palpable fear. Even the town of Granite Harbor became a living, breathing entity thanks to the evocative descriptions. All in all, it was a good read. Just maybe check out my trigger warning before you grab a copy for yourself. Rating of 4 stars.
Thank you to Peter Nichols and Celadon Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: April 30, 2024
Trigger warning: bullying, animal abuse, drug use, suicide, torture
May 3, 2024
This was a very interesting book. The beginning was written in a way that felt detached and I wasn’t sure the style was for me. As the book got more intense (there are trigger warnings for this one, not just death but animal abuse, sex abuse, torture. If you can’t do the animal abuse I think it’s chapter 34 you can skip although I do think that chapter is relevant to the story others seem to disagree and skipped it). This book is a bit more graphic that your typical mystery or thriller. There are also a couple of far fetched elements, but overall it was a fast paced and gripping story. Once the story really got going it was defintely one I didn’t wan to put down. Alex is a detective in a small Maine town after following his wife (now ex wife) to America. He didn’t ever expect to be in law enforcement but he needed a steady job with benefits. Alex is caught off guard when he comes across a dead body and unlike his prior experiences this dead body was murdered and a kid who went to school with his teenage daughter. Sprinkled in between the present day are past tense chapters from the unnamed killer explaining his upbringing and giving his perspective to the murders. I definitely will be interested in reading more from this author. It was a bit gruesome but that doesn’t bother me with a good thriller.
March 25, 2024
Mmmmmm what can I say. The premise of this book was really good! It did have a lot of suspense, but I just wasn’t feeling it. I felt like there were some plots holes and I didn’t enjoy the characters. It was a bit far fetched.
This was an ARC review. Thank you to Celadon books for the opportunity.
This was an ARC review. Thank you to Celadon books for the opportunity.
February 18, 2024
Thank you to the publisher, Celadon Books @celadonbooks, and Netgalley @netgalley for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Granite Harbor is a quiet and serene town, until a local teenager is found brutally murdered.
Alex is adjusting to life as a single father and is the towns sole detective. Alex knows the people of the town are looking to him to solve the murder.
Isabel is a single mother attempting to support her family. She finds herself immersed in the case because her son Ethan, and Alex’s daughter, Sophie, were best friends with the victim. They both are fighting to find the killer in their midst. When secrets are revealed, can they keep their tight-knit community, that way?
This was a dark and immersive read. I struggled to get into this one as the pacing was on the slower side and there are lots of characters to get to know, so I did have a hard time. After about the halfway mark, things clicked, the pacing picked up, and I really started getting into the story. I enjoyed that we got the killers perspective, without knowing who the killer was, which was an added perk. With plenty of characters, there are some I liked and some I really didn’t like at all, but they were all thought out and developed. I also enjoyed the look into the relationships between teens and their parents, it was well done. This book was a little gory at times, but I didn’t find it off putting, it was well done and flowed nicely with the story. It was vivid and I easily pictured it, which wasn’t necessarily a good thing, but the writing was wonderful. I think the author did a great job with the complex characters in the story, and the reveal was fun.
If you are looking for a character driven, atmospheric mystery, then check this one out.
Granite Harbor is a quiet and serene town, until a local teenager is found brutally murdered.
Alex is adjusting to life as a single father and is the towns sole detective. Alex knows the people of the town are looking to him to solve the murder.
Isabel is a single mother attempting to support her family. She finds herself immersed in the case because her son Ethan, and Alex’s daughter, Sophie, were best friends with the victim. They both are fighting to find the killer in their midst. When secrets are revealed, can they keep their tight-knit community, that way?
This was a dark and immersive read. I struggled to get into this one as the pacing was on the slower side and there are lots of characters to get to know, so I did have a hard time. After about the halfway mark, things clicked, the pacing picked up, and I really started getting into the story. I enjoyed that we got the killers perspective, without knowing who the killer was, which was an added perk. With plenty of characters, there are some I liked and some I really didn’t like at all, but they were all thought out and developed. I also enjoyed the look into the relationships between teens and their parents, it was well done. This book was a little gory at times, but I didn’t find it off putting, it was well done and flowed nicely with the story. It was vivid and I easily pictured it, which wasn’t necessarily a good thing, but the writing was wonderful. I think the author did a great job with the complex characters in the story, and the reveal was fun.
If you are looking for a character driven, atmospheric mystery, then check this one out.
January 14, 2025
‼️ TW: animal abuse - specifically chapter 34‼️
I was drawn to this book because of how gorgeous the cover is! This book is primarily from the perspective of our lead detective/author Alex, but there are scattered chapters from other perspectives. I had a hard time keeping track of these characters -even up until the end. It wasn’t that there were even too many, but some were too similar (ie typical teenagers- I kept getting Ethan and Shane confused!! ) or those I had zero connection to (Morgana). I wasn’t really too invested in this book until about 40% in where we really start to dive into the killer’s MO. This was a slow burn for sure, which typically are not my favorite. It was an interesting enough plot , but also didn’t blow me away.
I would say this book is comparable to the likes of SA Cosby for the atmospheric small town murder setting. However, I felt more connected to SA’s writing style, but it might just have been the setting. I’m from New England, so I don’t always love books that are set there because I have my own preconceived notions or connections to places such as Maine (where this book takes place).
As mentioned above, this does depict animal abuse. I didn’t find it so bad that I had to stop reading, but I have seen a lot of reviews where people said it was too much for them. Many have mentioned skipping chapter 34. Now I understand why, but it is entirely the reason and development of the killer’s killing mindset and I think it would make the book less enjoyable/harder to grasp the plot without having read this chapter.
This will take the right reader to really enjoy. Most likely the best audience would be someone who doesn’t read a lot of thrillers and appreciates a slow atmospheric burn AND can tolerate some level of animal abuse.
📖 Huge thank you to @Celadonbooks and @Netgalley for this ARC copy in exchange for an honest review 📖
I was drawn to this book because of how gorgeous the cover is! This book is primarily from the perspective of our lead detective/author Alex, but there are scattered chapters from other perspectives. I had a hard time keeping track of these characters -even up until the end. It wasn’t that there were even too many, but some were too similar (ie typical teenagers- I kept getting Ethan and Shane confused!! ) or those I had zero connection to (Morgana). I wasn’t really too invested in this book until about 40% in where we really start to dive into the killer’s MO. This was a slow burn for sure, which typically are not my favorite. It was an interesting enough plot , but also didn’t blow me away.
I would say this book is comparable to the likes of SA Cosby for the atmospheric small town murder setting. However, I felt more connected to SA’s writing style, but it might just have been the setting. I’m from New England, so I don’t always love books that are set there because I have my own preconceived notions or connections to places such as Maine (where this book takes place).
As mentioned above, this does depict animal abuse. I didn’t find it so bad that I had to stop reading, but I have seen a lot of reviews where people said it was too much for them. Many have mentioned skipping chapter 34. Now I understand why, but it is entirely the reason and development of the killer’s killing mindset and I think it would make the book less enjoyable/harder to grasp the plot without having read this chapter.
This will take the right reader to really enjoy. Most likely the best audience would be someone who doesn’t read a lot of thrillers and appreciates a slow atmospheric burn AND can tolerate some level of animal abuse.
📖 Huge thank you to @Celadonbooks and @Netgalley for this ARC copy in exchange for an honest review 📖
August 26, 2024
Granite Harbor by Peter Nichols takes place in a small town in Maine. Three teenage boys have been close friends for years. One of them is brutally murdered and Granite Harbor’s only detective is tasked with investigating this horrible crime. This will be his first murder investigation and he is not exactly brimming with confidence or guidance from his superiors. He is also the single father of a teenage girl who was a friend of the victim. The townspeople are horrified and want answers before another murder is committed. There will be more crimes and more mayhem. I found Granite Harbor to be over-the-top violent. There is cruelty to animals, abuse of children, and blood and gore. If this is not your favourite genre, do not pick up this book. Having said this, the author does capture the attention of the reader from the very start and the tension builds to the end and I would like to read other novels by Peter Nichols. This story is reminiscent of some of Stephen King’s writing, and not only because it takes place in Maine. Recommended if you enjoy horror fiction.
March 18, 2024
One day a local teen is found murdered in the Settlement, a historic, archeological site in Granite Harbor, Maine. Alex, the town’s detective and a former novelist, faces his first murder investigation. The murder hits close to home as the victim was friends with Alex’s daughter Sophie. When a second teen is killed in the same way, Alex turns to his ex-girlfriend, Isabel, for help, also hoping to keep her son Ethan from becoming the next victim.
In many ways, this is a story I’ve read before. It’s a straightforward, police procedural following a serial killer in a small town.
But I was unprepared for the graphic, horror elements. This really is a mash-up of both mystery and horror. The murders are graphic and disturbing, and involve animal cruelty.
I don’t mind graphic horror. In some cases it really works for me. And I have to admit to wanting to read to the end and know what happened. It’s a book that you can fly through, if the horror elements don’t get in your way.
But there was something off for me in the characterization. For one, the way the children were described felt like the author didn’t have children or have experience with them.
One example, Alex is described as having to buckle and unbuckle his daughter when she was in first through fifth grade when he’d drop her off at school. By 4, my kids had unbuckled themselves and we’re practically jumping out of the car before I could turn it off! Even the teenagers were described as caricatures: extremely moody and uncommunicative, sullen and withdrawn. I’ve worked with many teens as a teacher and kids are way more nuanced and complex than this.
I also had issues with the chapters from the serial killer perspective. This person also didn’t feel real. I understand they were really messed up, but their character felt just surface level to me.
I did half read/ half listen to this on audio as well. At first I found the audio narrator hard to listen to as he has a more monotone way of reading and does a very strange accent for Alex who is British (I guess the audio narrator was attempting a British accent?), but I did get more used to it and liked listening to it by the end.
If you enjoy plot-heavy police procedurals, if you find it fascinating getting into the head of a serial killer, or if you want a fast-paced mystery you can fly through, I’d recommend picking this one up.
*Thank you to Celadon books for the physical arc and Macmillan Audio for the alc. All opinions are my own.
In many ways, this is a story I’ve read before. It’s a straightforward, police procedural following a serial killer in a small town.
But I was unprepared for the graphic, horror elements. This really is a mash-up of both mystery and horror. The murders are graphic and disturbing, and involve animal cruelty.
I don’t mind graphic horror. In some cases it really works for me. And I have to admit to wanting to read to the end and know what happened. It’s a book that you can fly through, if the horror elements don’t get in your way.
But there was something off for me in the characterization. For one, the way the children were described felt like the author didn’t have children or have experience with them.
One example, Alex is described as having to buckle and unbuckle his daughter when she was in first through fifth grade when he’d drop her off at school. By 4, my kids had unbuckled themselves and we’re practically jumping out of the car before I could turn it off! Even the teenagers were described as caricatures: extremely moody and uncommunicative, sullen and withdrawn. I’ve worked with many teens as a teacher and kids are way more nuanced and complex than this.
I also had issues with the chapters from the serial killer perspective. This person also didn’t feel real. I understand they were really messed up, but their character felt just surface level to me.
I did half read/ half listen to this on audio as well. At first I found the audio narrator hard to listen to as he has a more monotone way of reading and does a very strange accent for Alex who is British (I guess the audio narrator was attempting a British accent?), but I did get more used to it and liked listening to it by the end.
If you enjoy plot-heavy police procedurals, if you find it fascinating getting into the head of a serial killer, or if you want a fast-paced mystery you can fly through, I’d recommend picking this one up.
*Thank you to Celadon books for the physical arc and Macmillan Audio for the alc. All opinions are my own.
March 18, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Apr. 30, 2024
Granite Harbor is an idyllic small town on the coast of Maine. Or at least, it was, until the body of a local teenage boy is found mutilated and strung up. Alex Brangwen has just returned to Granite Harbor, hoping to start over after a failed marriage and a failed writing career, and inadvertently lands the job as a police detective. The murdered boy is Alex’s first murder case and the entire town is desperate for answers. The pressure mounts as days go by with no answers and a second body is found, turning the entire town against each other. Alex needs to find out who is doing this- because his teenaged daughter, Sophie, may be the next victim.
Peter Nichols is a new author for me, although he has quite a strong following after the release of his novel, “The Rocks”. Nichols uses his knowledge as a former yacht captain and boatsman in developing his stories, as both “Rocks” and his new one, “Granite Harbor” take place in and around water and heavily involve boats and boating. Of course, Nichols would use the state of Maine as the idyllic backdrop as, if you read any Stephen King, it also serves deliciously as the perfect setting for gruesome murder.
“Granite Harbor” is narrated primarily by Alex, but other main characters make occasional appearances such as Isabel, a mother of a teenaged son living in Granite Harbor and, of course, our murderer as well. All of the characters have a connection, as is common in small towns, and although Nichols does his best to introduce his players to the reader, I felt that they had backstories I was missing out on. “Harbor” felt, in parts, like a sequel where the personal histories of the characters had been told in a previous novel.
I loved the absolutely disgusting method the serial killer used to murder his victims (I won’t give anything away), and, although I didn’t know who he was right away, Nichols lets the murderer tell his story, which I ferociously devoured. The murderer seemed to have a very loose motive that set him about his killing spree but the twisted backstory of the unique method he used kept me pulled in. I never would’ve guessed the murderer because he played such a small role in the story, but I always enjoy an unexpected ending, however it is delivered.
Overall, Nichols’ “Granite Harbor” is a creepy read, with a very twisted serial killer stalking teenagers, and I enjoyed my first foray into Nichols’ world. I’m intrigued enough to keep an eye out for his next release.
Expected publication date: Apr. 30, 2024
Granite Harbor is an idyllic small town on the coast of Maine. Or at least, it was, until the body of a local teenage boy is found mutilated and strung up. Alex Brangwen has just returned to Granite Harbor, hoping to start over after a failed marriage and a failed writing career, and inadvertently lands the job as a police detective. The murdered boy is Alex’s first murder case and the entire town is desperate for answers. The pressure mounts as days go by with no answers and a second body is found, turning the entire town against each other. Alex needs to find out who is doing this- because his teenaged daughter, Sophie, may be the next victim.
Peter Nichols is a new author for me, although he has quite a strong following after the release of his novel, “The Rocks”. Nichols uses his knowledge as a former yacht captain and boatsman in developing his stories, as both “Rocks” and his new one, “Granite Harbor” take place in and around water and heavily involve boats and boating. Of course, Nichols would use the state of Maine as the idyllic backdrop as, if you read any Stephen King, it also serves deliciously as the perfect setting for gruesome murder.
“Granite Harbor” is narrated primarily by Alex, but other main characters make occasional appearances such as Isabel, a mother of a teenaged son living in Granite Harbor and, of course, our murderer as well. All of the characters have a connection, as is common in small towns, and although Nichols does his best to introduce his players to the reader, I felt that they had backstories I was missing out on. “Harbor” felt, in parts, like a sequel where the personal histories of the characters had been told in a previous novel.
I loved the absolutely disgusting method the serial killer used to murder his victims (I won’t give anything away), and, although I didn’t know who he was right away, Nichols lets the murderer tell his story, which I ferociously devoured. The murderer seemed to have a very loose motive that set him about his killing spree but the twisted backstory of the unique method he used kept me pulled in. I never would’ve guessed the murderer because he played such a small role in the story, but I always enjoy an unexpected ending, however it is delivered.
Overall, Nichols’ “Granite Harbor” is a creepy read, with a very twisted serial killer stalking teenagers, and I enjoyed my first foray into Nichols’ world. I’m intrigued enough to keep an eye out for his next release.
March 16, 2024
I had high expectations for this novel as I loved the excerpt. Unfortunately, Granite Harbor just fell flat.
The plot follows a whodunit trope. But the pacing was slow and the exciting parts were pretty sparse. With choppy transitions between chapters, I got lost several times where I didn’t know the timeline — past or present.
There were numerous characters. Too many to keep track of. And the different timelines didn’t help. The character count was just one of the reasons that I didn’t enjoy the novel as much as I wanted to.
I just felt that the narrative didn’t have to be so long winded. So by 46%, I was just bored. I skimmed a few chapters, then skipped to the end which wasn’t satisfying or redeeming. Two stars.
I was invited to read a DRC from Celadon Books through NetGalley. And I also won an ARC from Celadon Books through the Bookish First Raffle. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
The plot follows a whodunit trope. But the pacing was slow and the exciting parts were pretty sparse. With choppy transitions between chapters, I got lost several times where I didn’t know the timeline — past or present.
There were numerous characters. Too many to keep track of. And the different timelines didn’t help. The character count was just one of the reasons that I didn’t enjoy the novel as much as I wanted to.
I just felt that the narrative didn’t have to be so long winded. So by 46%, I was just bored. I skimmed a few chapters, then skipped to the end which wasn’t satisfying or redeeming. Two stars.
I was invited to read a DRC from Celadon Books through NetGalley. And I also won an ARC from Celadon Books through the Bookish First Raffle. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
March 15, 2024
Granite Harbor is a slow-burn, atmospheric, crime thriller set in small town USA. I really liked some of the characters and I liked the fact that some parts were told from the killer's past POV.
But unfortunately, this one wasn’t for me. I was thankful that the publisher warned me about the use of violence and especially to avoid Chapter 34. But the book contained so much graphic violence and animal abuse that it took away from the story. I also found the conversations to be a bit too unrealistic and cheesy. But just because I didn't love this one, doesn't mean you won't. I can see a lot of readers actually enjoying this one.
Granite Harbor by Peter Nichols will be available on April 30. Many thanks to Celadon Books for the gifted copy!
But unfortunately, this one wasn’t for me. I was thankful that the publisher warned me about the use of violence and especially to avoid Chapter 34. But the book contained so much graphic violence and animal abuse that it took away from the story. I also found the conversations to be a bit too unrealistic and cheesy. But just because I didn't love this one, doesn't mean you won't. I can see a lot of readers actually enjoying this one.
Granite Harbor by Peter Nichols will be available on April 30. Many thanks to Celadon Books for the gifted copy!
March 4, 2024
A serial killer in a small town? Sign me up please! Unfortunately, I am going to do a little complaining. Alex Brangwen, a failed novelist turned detective in the small town of Granite Harbor is left to find the killer of a young man in his daughter’s friend group. The killing is gruesome to say the least. I absolutely love how the antagonist of the story goes unnamed and we get his horrific background throughout the story. The reader will become empathic and I hung on piecing together clues. How the killer goes about his killing is so unique. I haven’t read anything like it before. Brilliant.
SPOILERS BELOW
So here is my ‘complaint’ (1) Isabel and her ‘visions’ - this was kind of vague and just popped in there. I would have been more likely to believe it was a woman/mom’s intuition. (2) I really wanted to put a connection from the killer to his most recent victims and we did not. (other than casually knowing them – like the early victims he was ‘righting a wrong in his eyes)
I wish I could give like a 3.5 This is hands down my favorite and most read genre.
SPOILERS BELOW
So here is my ‘complaint’ (1) Isabel and her ‘visions’ - this was kind of vague and just popped in there. I would have been more likely to believe it was a woman/mom’s intuition. (2) I really wanted to put a connection from the killer to his most recent victims and we did not. (other than casually knowing them – like the early victims he was ‘righting a wrong in his eyes)
I wish I could give like a 3.5 This is hands down my favorite and most read genre.
May 23, 2024
Granite Harbor
Peter Nichols
reviewed by Lou Jacobs
readersremains.com | Goodreads
Peter Nichols, novelist and journalist, hones his skills with a dark and grisly mystery-thriller. The “big bad wolf” serial killer preys upon the small town of Granite Harbor, a previously sleepy and quaint town in coastal Maine. His ritualistic murders shock the sensibilities of this backwater community.
The scene is set in the twilight of evening, with three obvious boyhood friends casually skateboarding through the serene streets of Granite Harbor. One of the boys, Shane, veers off, homeward bound. Unfortunately, there is an unseen driver of a pickup truck that follows him. The reader is treated to a taste of the driver’s inner demons as multiple psychic visions invade his mind. Shane is later found desecrated on the grounds of the Living History Settlement, a local resurrected archaeological site where a few of the townspeople work as historic re-enactors.
He is found strung up in a door-like frame with a single surgical slit down the center of his body. The crime scene investigators will find no other clues as evidence, other than the sudden emergence of a toad from the wound. Although told through many points of view of the colorful cast of community characters, the main focus is Alex Brangwen. He is a failed novelist with two successful books to his credit and a failure to launch his third. He is an ex-pat from Manchester, England, whisked away to Maine by his then-pregnant wife, Morgana.
Ultimately, his marriage fails, and he finds himself a single parent struggling to accept a failed career as a novelist. After taking a job in the local police department, he is soon made the town’s sole detective. The Chief has every confidence in him; after all, “a writer is similar to a detective.” This is Alex’s first murder case, and the town looks to him for immediate resolution.
His daughter Sophie was one of Shane’s closest friends, along with Jared and Ethan. When Jared goes missing and is found murdered in the same gruesome manner, the town is thrown into a hysterical frenzy. Along the way, we will learn of the anxieties and secrets of many of the town’s locals. The reader is privy to the unnamed killer’s viewpoint, background, and motivations through multiple intervening chapters. Prepare to be creeped out by these weird circumstances.
Nichols weaves together multiple viewpoints with escalating intrigue and suspense. His narrative is dark, grisly, and cinematic. Infused in the plot are themes: the struggles of teen parenting; dealing with failed careers; second chances; and struggles of everyday life.
I personally found myself alternating between my Kindle and the audio version, narrated by Peter Ganim. An accomplished actor in both classic and contemporary forms, Ganim has a rich baritone voice that he can frequently modulate to lend itself to various characters in an extremely engaging fashion. This story will appeal to aficionados of both detective and serial killer novels. To me, this was pleasantly reminiscent of the HBO series Mare of Easttown.
Thanks to NetGalley, Celadon Books, and Macmillan Audio for supplying an Uncorrected Proof and Advance Audio version of this wonderful novel, in exchange for an honest review...
Published at MysteryAndSuspenseMagazine.com .....
March 10, 2025
A dark and thrilling mystery. This book definitely had some triggering and sensitive chapters that were just not for me. Other than that, I enjoyed the characters and storyline.
April 25, 2024
The quiet town of Granite Harbor is rocked when a serial killer strikes, killing 2 people ! Author Peter Nichols writes an outstanding novel for anyone who loves some gore of sorts and sickening rituals in their plan to kill. Honesty makes you wonder how he came up with the plot.
Have I intrigued you? Or are you already running?
Family, friends and small community make up the town of Granite Harbor. The towns historical archaeological site, the Settlement is where community members work and tourist abound. Upon the discovery of a teenage death, life in Granite Harbor will never be the same. A one town detective who is also an author and parent is trying to unravel the mystery while keeping his own teenage daughter safe.
A novel of suspense, love and tragedy, all in one. A mother’s instinct, another mother’s intuition of sorts might just save Granite Harbor and the lives of so many other people.
I think this novel was descriptively written and might be quite entertaining for those who seek a psychological hair-raiser and metaphorical twist.
A 3 star for me, there were a couple far fetched parts and just a little too grisly for me but just might be up someone else’s alley.
I recommend this novel for those who are up for it !
Thanks to Celadon Books and NetGalley for this eARC in return for my honest review
Have I intrigued you? Or are you already running?
Family, friends and small community make up the town of Granite Harbor. The towns historical archaeological site, the Settlement is where community members work and tourist abound. Upon the discovery of a teenage death, life in Granite Harbor will never be the same. A one town detective who is also an author and parent is trying to unravel the mystery while keeping his own teenage daughter safe.
A novel of suspense, love and tragedy, all in one. A mother’s instinct, another mother’s intuition of sorts might just save Granite Harbor and the lives of so many other people.
I think this novel was descriptively written and might be quite entertaining for those who seek a psychological hair-raiser and metaphorical twist.
A 3 star for me, there were a couple far fetched parts and just a little too grisly for me but just might be up someone else’s alley.
I recommend this novel for those who are up for it !
Thanks to Celadon Books and NetGalley for this eARC in return for my honest review
April 19, 2024
First time author for me that I decided to read after seeing some decent hype and good ratings. Not having read the synopsis, I had no idea what the book was about except it had a peaceful looking cover and clean title. I felt the book was ok overall for plot/characters and it was well written. Most interesting for me was the mystery of not knowing what to expect so writing this review in the same ‘no synopsis’ manner. 🎲
Thank you to both Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to both Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2024
3.5 ⭐ This is a good crime fiction about a gruesome murder of a teen that takes place in the small coastal community in Maine, Granite Harbor. The town's detective, Alex, is on the case. Then, when another teen is found dead, the case changes course. Alex needs to find out who's committed these murders before someone else ends up dead. And Alex's teen daughter was friends with the victim, which makes the case even more personal, and he's determined to figure it out.
The characters are fleshed out, and the mystery is gripping. It's a slow burn through the first half but picks up throughout the second half. I suggest going in blind. That's what I did after reading that in another review, and I'm glad I did. Be warned though…there is animal death in chapter 35. I don't like reading about animal deaths so that was something I wish wasn't in it. I did enjoy the book and if you enjoy crime thrillers, you'll want to check this out.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The characters are fleshed out, and the mystery is gripping. It's a slow burn through the first half but picks up throughout the second half. I suggest going in blind. That's what I did after reading that in another review, and I'm glad I did. Be warned though…there is animal death in chapter 35. I don't like reading about animal deaths so that was something I wish wasn't in it. I did enjoy the book and if you enjoy crime thrillers, you'll want to check this out.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 6, 2024
I received this book as part of a GoodReads Giveaway and I was hooked from page 1. If you are interested in novels about a small town serial killer, check this book out.
April 28, 2024
I've had a lot of firsts this year. First time reads that is. Another new to me author that I will be looking out for. This book was great.
This is a dark story but it has a lot of things that I didn't expect. From fear to laughter to holding my breath. Yes there is a serial killer out there murdering teen boys. Cutting them open. Yes the killer is evil to the core. Yes he went through a lot in his life. Not an excuse for what he is doing though. I have to admit that I laughed in parts in a scene close to the end. I could not help it and believe anyone reading will do the same. Though I felt bad for the woman and I kind of felt bad for the killer during that scene. It didn't last long though. The feeling bad for him. I also had the killer narrowed down to two people, him being one of them. I was right and it did not at all in anyway take away from the story.
This town is rocked by the murder of a teenage boy. A boy who wasn't even missed by his so called family. "Aw he's just staying with a friend." Yeah right. What mother does not know where her child is. Well obviously this one didn't. I did not like her at all. My heart broke for Shane. He did not deserve anything that happened to him. Most importantly being killed. He had a horrible life at, well I would not call it home, that house. He was well loved by his friends though.
When Shane's body was discovered the other teens in his life were scared. Who could have done such a horrid thing. Who might be next. Though they should maybe have taken it a bit more series. A killer was among them. When the next boy is murdered the two remaining, Ethan and Sohpie, are truly terrified. Ethan is convinced that he will be next. Sohpie's dad is a detective and her mother is a nut. She is still so afraid though. She and Ethan decide to stick together. To leave town and find a safe place but it's not meant to be....
This book is a story of such deep loss. You will see what makes a serial killer. Or at least this one. The depths a mother will go for her child. To keep that child protected. The people in the town of Granite Harbor, Maine are faced with something dark and sinister. Why is this happening in their small town. Who's child is next???
Thank you #NetGalley, #PeterNichols, #CeladonBooks, for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.
FIVE big stars and I highly recommend it.
This is a dark story but it has a lot of things that I didn't expect. From fear to laughter to holding my breath. Yes there is a serial killer out there murdering teen boys. Cutting them open. Yes the killer is evil to the core. Yes he went through a lot in his life. Not an excuse for what he is doing though. I have to admit that I laughed in parts in a scene close to the end. I could not help it and believe anyone reading will do the same. Though I felt bad for the woman and I kind of felt bad for the killer during that scene. It didn't last long though. The feeling bad for him. I also had the killer narrowed down to two people, him being one of them. I was right and it did not at all in anyway take away from the story.
This town is rocked by the murder of a teenage boy. A boy who wasn't even missed by his so called family. "Aw he's just staying with a friend." Yeah right. What mother does not know where her child is. Well obviously this one didn't. I did not like her at all. My heart broke for Shane. He did not deserve anything that happened to him. Most importantly being killed. He had a horrible life at, well I would not call it home, that house. He was well loved by his friends though.
When Shane's body was discovered the other teens in his life were scared. Who could have done such a horrid thing. Who might be next. Though they should maybe have taken it a bit more series. A killer was among them. When the next boy is murdered the two remaining, Ethan and Sohpie, are truly terrified. Ethan is convinced that he will be next. Sohpie's dad is a detective and her mother is a nut. She is still so afraid though. She and Ethan decide to stick together. To leave town and find a safe place but it's not meant to be....
This book is a story of such deep loss. You will see what makes a serial killer. Or at least this one. The depths a mother will go for her child. To keep that child protected. The people in the town of Granite Harbor, Maine are faced with something dark and sinister. Why is this happening in their small town. Who's child is next???
Thank you #NetGalley, #PeterNichols, #CeladonBooks, for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.
FIVE big stars and I highly recommend it.
December 26, 2023
The titular town is home to a quaint Maine community, part of which is the Granite Harbor Living History Settlement. The Settlement replicates and reenacts how 16th century settlers would have lived and worked based on an archeological site there. When a teenage boy’s body is discovered at The Settlement, brutally mutilated, it’s Detective Alex Brangwen’s job to find the killer.
The victim’s best friend also happens to be the son, Isabel, of one of the settlement actresses, and Alex and Isabel used to date. It’s difficult to avoid the myriad connections made in a small town. I really enjoyed how Nichols introduces us to various characters of Granite Harbor, teasing out how they may be culpable. Hallucinogenics, trippy toads, and even some telepathy aid Alex in his investigation. I especially liked his backstory: how a moderately successful British novelist ended up as a New England detective. His ex-wife was as unstable as you would have expected someone named Morgana to be. Overall, the character development was great, the mystery was dark and disturbing, and we got a fascinating glimpse of how a serial killer is made.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via a Goodreads Giveaway.
The victim’s best friend also happens to be the son, Isabel, of one of the settlement actresses, and Alex and Isabel used to date. It’s difficult to avoid the myriad connections made in a small town. I really enjoyed how Nichols introduces us to various characters of Granite Harbor, teasing out how they may be culpable. Hallucinogenics, trippy toads, and even some telepathy aid Alex in his investigation. I especially liked his backstory: how a moderately successful British novelist ended up as a New England detective. His ex-wife was as unstable as you would have expected someone named Morgana to be. Overall, the character development was great, the mystery was dark and disturbing, and we got a fascinating glimpse of how a serial killer is made.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via a Goodreads Giveaway.
July 30, 2024
Wow! I never expected to blow through more than half of this book in one day but here we are.
Granite Harbor is without a doubt one of the best thrillers I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Who is this Peter Nichols, where did he come from, and why have I never heard of him before??? In this novel, Nichols has crafted an absolutely expertly put-together crime novel, with perfect pacing, a perfect build, all culminating in a heart-pounding crashing ending. He utilized no cheap tricks that have become rampant in the genre; no big twist (the kind that often ends up feeling contrived), no gratuitous sex or perfectly likable characters. He doesn’t need to, because everything is so nailed down and well executed here, the characters are fantastically realized, the setting is vivid, the story is dark and violent, and the creativity is spot on. This isn’t really a whodunnit I don’t think—by the time the killer is revealed, you’ll probably have a pretty good idea who it is. But it doesn’t matter, because the compelling characters are driving this book.
If you like the crime novels, or “thrillers”, this is a great example of how good they can be in the right hands. Looking forward to reading more from Nichols.
4.5/5
Granite Harbor is without a doubt one of the best thrillers I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Who is this Peter Nichols, where did he come from, and why have I never heard of him before??? In this novel, Nichols has crafted an absolutely expertly put-together crime novel, with perfect pacing, a perfect build, all culminating in a heart-pounding crashing ending. He utilized no cheap tricks that have become rampant in the genre; no big twist (the kind that often ends up feeling contrived), no gratuitous sex or perfectly likable characters. He doesn’t need to, because everything is so nailed down and well executed here, the characters are fantastically realized, the setting is vivid, the story is dark and violent, and the creativity is spot on. This isn’t really a whodunnit I don’t think—by the time the killer is revealed, you’ll probably have a pretty good idea who it is. But it doesn’t matter, because the compelling characters are driving this book.
If you like the crime novels, or “thrillers”, this is a great example of how good they can be in the right hands. Looking forward to reading more from Nichols.
4.5/5
March 20, 2024
Granite Harbor by Peter Nichols
Thank you so much Celadon Books for my gifted ARC and Macmillan Audiobook & NetGalley for the free audiobook.
Blurb:
A small town in coastal Maine is shaken to its core by a serial killer in this crime novel.
✨My thoughts:
Holy cow, did I love this book. It was an engaging page turner that I got through pretty quickly. When I wasn’t able to physically read it, I was listening to it! It isn’t necessarily fast paced but its a book I couldn’t look away from. Well except for chapter 34, I simply cannot stomach animal abuse so if your the same way, I’d say just skip it altogether. I’d say this is dark story but one that keeps you engrossed throughout. If you have trouble in the beginning, stick with it because it will pay off. Getting the perspective of the killer was creepy but I loved it. This is a book I definitely want a finished copy of to keep in my shelves! Granite Harbor is out April 30th, so keep your eyes peeled!
Happy reading 📖
Thank you so much Celadon Books for my gifted ARC and Macmillan Audiobook & NetGalley for the free audiobook.
Blurb:
A small town in coastal Maine is shaken to its core by a serial killer in this crime novel.
✨My thoughts:
Holy cow, did I love this book. It was an engaging page turner that I got through pretty quickly. When I wasn’t able to physically read it, I was listening to it! It isn’t necessarily fast paced but its a book I couldn’t look away from. Well except for chapter 34, I simply cannot stomach animal abuse so if your the same way, I’d say just skip it altogether. I’d say this is dark story but one that keeps you engrossed throughout. If you have trouble in the beginning, stick with it because it will pay off. Getting the perspective of the killer was creepy but I loved it. This is a book I definitely want a finished copy of to keep in my shelves! Granite Harbor is out April 30th, so keep your eyes peeled!
Happy reading 📖
March 10, 2024
I've not read other books by this author, but if this one's any example, I'd enjoy them thoroughly. Despite my intense dislike of reading when I go to bed at night, I was so engrossed and close to the exciting end that I just couldn't wait till morning to finish it.
The coastal Maine small town of Granite Harbor isn't large, but one of its attractions is The Settlement, an archaeological historic site that employs docent-reenactors to guide visitors. But one not-so-fine day, they get an unexpected, and certainly unwelcome, visitor: a dead body hanging in one of the structures - clearly a murder - complete with a clue that suggests this death may not be a one-off. To the scene comes relatively newbie Detective Alex Brangwen, a British transplant and sometime novelist whose writing hasn't been sufficient to pay the bills.
Alex has troubles of his own, including dealing with a rebellious teenage daughter, Sophie, who mostly lives with his ex-wife Morgana. Sophie is friends with Ethan, the son of Isabel Dorr, one of the Settlement reenactors, and two other local teens, Jared and Shane. Understandably, everyone is particularly devastated when the murder victim turns out to be one of the teens. Needless to say, the parents of the other teens - including Alex and Morgana - are on pins and needles wondering which child might be next.
And then their worst fears become real.
Chapters follow the progress of the investigation, with flashbacks to show prior events leading up to the murders (but leaving readers, of course, clueless as to who did the dirty deeds until the very end). All told, it's an exciting adventure complete with some rather gory details and hints of the occult - certainly well worth reading. Many thanks to the publisher, via a Bookish First raffle win, for a free copy of this book to read and review.
The coastal Maine small town of Granite Harbor isn't large, but one of its attractions is The Settlement, an archaeological historic site that employs docent-reenactors to guide visitors. But one not-so-fine day, they get an unexpected, and certainly unwelcome, visitor: a dead body hanging in one of the structures - clearly a murder - complete with a clue that suggests this death may not be a one-off. To the scene comes relatively newbie Detective Alex Brangwen, a British transplant and sometime novelist whose writing hasn't been sufficient to pay the bills.
Alex has troubles of his own, including dealing with a rebellious teenage daughter, Sophie, who mostly lives with his ex-wife Morgana. Sophie is friends with Ethan, the son of Isabel Dorr, one of the Settlement reenactors, and two other local teens, Jared and Shane. Understandably, everyone is particularly devastated when the murder victim turns out to be one of the teens. Needless to say, the parents of the other teens - including Alex and Morgana - are on pins and needles wondering which child might be next.
And then their worst fears become real.
Chapters follow the progress of the investigation, with flashbacks to show prior events leading up to the murders (but leaving readers, of course, clueless as to who did the dirty deeds until the very end). All told, it's an exciting adventure complete with some rather gory details and hints of the occult - certainly well worth reading. Many thanks to the publisher, via a Bookish First raffle win, for a free copy of this book to read and review.
February 10, 2024
There's a serial killer on the loose in this murder mystery thriller. Peter Nichols' Granite Harbor engages readers with his strong and relatable characters and suspenseful plot.
Not much happens in the small coastal town of Granite Harbor until the sudden, unexpected murders of two teenage boys. Investigator Alex Brangwen becomes very alarmed since his daughter Sophie is friends with these boys, and it's his first murder case. Teens are true to form in this novel, unaware of the killer's motive or the dangerous situation. Many characters' backstories, even the killer, are revealed as readers try to determine who the murderer is. But the story ramps up as the identity is revealed, and it's a race to find this nut job before they kill again.
My favorite character is Isabel, an empath, mother, and widow who has witnessed tough times—the loss of her husband at sea, her job, and her reputation. Determined and forgiving, she forges ahead and is critical to tracking down the killer. Granite Harbor describes how a small town deals with a major disruption that almost destroys it. Peter Nichols’ pacing and characterization make this an intriguing novel. I thank NetGalley for allowing me to read and review it. #NetGalley #Granite Harbor #thriller #murdermystery
Not much happens in the small coastal town of Granite Harbor until the sudden, unexpected murders of two teenage boys. Investigator Alex Brangwen becomes very alarmed since his daughter Sophie is friends with these boys, and it's his first murder case. Teens are true to form in this novel, unaware of the killer's motive or the dangerous situation. Many characters' backstories, even the killer, are revealed as readers try to determine who the murderer is. But the story ramps up as the identity is revealed, and it's a race to find this nut job before they kill again.
My favorite character is Isabel, an empath, mother, and widow who has witnessed tough times—the loss of her husband at sea, her job, and her reputation. Determined and forgiving, she forges ahead and is critical to tracking down the killer. Granite Harbor describes how a small town deals with a major disruption that almost destroys it. Peter Nichols’ pacing and characterization make this an intriguing novel. I thank NetGalley for allowing me to read and review it. #NetGalley #Granite Harbor #thriller #murdermystery
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