Midnight Beach

by Linda Wells

A family betrayal has brutal consequences in this sexy romantic suspense novel. High school teacher and mother Leigh Prentiss is living her dream life with her husband, Garrett. But when he abandons the family’s trip to their luxurious Florida beach house, she suspects her marriage is struggling. To make matters worse, her recently divorced younger sister, Kristen, joins the vacation and convinces Leigh that all men eventually cheat. As incriminating facts pile up, Leigh discovers it's not only Garrett keeping secrets from loved ones. Unsure of who to trust, she befriends former marine and stockbroker, Jack, as she unravels the truth. But will it be in time to save her marriage? Or will she fall in love with someone else? When a murder rocks the entire family, all bets are off, and happily ever after will go to whomever finds their way through the lies—alive.

Genres: Romance, Thriller, Fiction, Mystery

285 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 20, 2023

About the author

Linda Wells grew up in Florida and attended the University of South Florida in Tampa. After college, she went on to travel the world as a flight attendant. Like the heroine in her latest novel, Midnight Beach, Linda loves reading mysteries under a beach umbrella and swimming beyond the breakers. She also loves writing mysteries set in her treasured home state of Florida.

Now living in the Midwest, her dreams to launch a writing career finally took flight. Wells is the author of four thrillers: Dead Love, Dead Promise, Cypress Lake, and Midnight Beach. She is hard at work on her fifth.

Linda belongs to several writers' organizations, including Romance Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. Find out more by visiting Linda at lindawellsbooks.com.

Reviews

[Jamie Gould · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not one that likes to give spoilers so I’ll give you my take.
This was a busy book and I feel like each set of people could have a book about themselves.
My attention was held and I was guessing the whole time on who did it.
The ending leaves you thinking about how many people could have done it ! Great read!

[Kat Dixon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up Midnight Beach by Linda Wells one quiet evening, expecting a light read before bed. Instead, I found myself so utterly captivated that I stayed up all night, flipping pages with increasing urgency as secrets, lies, and betrayals unfolded like a perfectly choreographed storm. This is one of those rare books that leaves you thinking about it long after you’ve closed the cover.

Leigh Prentiss, the protagonist, drew me in with her relatable struggles—her love for her family, her fear of losing it all, and the vulnerability that comes with betrayal. Wells masterfully captures Leigh’s emotional highs and lows, making me feel every ounce of her suspicion, hope, and heartbreak. As Leigh befriends the enigmatic Jack and delves into the murky truths surrounding her husband Garrett and sister Kristen, the suspense kept me on edge.

And then came the murder. It hit like a thunderclap, transforming the story into a gripping mystery where the stakes soared, and everyone felt like a suspect. The twists were sharp and satisfying, and the emotional tension never let up.

If you love romance woven with suspense, unexpected betrayals, and a fast-paced mystery that refuses to let you go, Midnight Beach is your next must-read. Trust me—you won’t sleep until you’ve devoured it.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I give Midnight Beach top marks for keeping me guessing “who done it” until the very last page. There are quite a few characters with skeletons in their closets: infidelity, shady business deals, blackmail, possible felonies. And judging by the glimpses of these characters’ thoughts and emotions the book provides, any one of them could be capable of murder. To add to the intrigue, we don’t find out “who it was done to” until late in the game, making it even harder to figure out who the killer might be.

Although an ominous threat of impending murder winds through the pages, the book is not just a murder mystery. There is also a sweet romance brewing between Leigh, a high school English teacher, and Jack, a hunky, sensitive ex-marine who is now the waterfront safety manager at Midnight Beach. Leigh’s relatable interactions with her teenaged son and seven-year-old daughter also add drama and complexity to the story line. Additionally, I really enjoyed the author’s realistic descriptions of the beach and seaside town where much of the action takes place. I could practically smell the salt air, feel the sand under my feet, and hear the seagulls squawking. All in all, an atmospheric, engaging page-turner.

[Jared Fowler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wells' romance novel hits home in a number of areas:

Intriguing Mystery: I appreciate the book's ability to maintain a sense of mystery throughout the story, with a variety of complex characters harboring secrets that could point to them as potential culprits. The delayed revelation of the victim adds an extra layer of suspense to the narrative.

Diverse Characters: The story features characters with diverse backgrounds and hidden pasts, including infidelity, shady business dealings, blackmail, and potential felonies. The author provides insight into their thoughts and emotions, keeping the readers guessing about who the murderer might be.

Romantic Subplot: In addition to the murder mystery, the book includes a sweet romance between Leigh, a high school English teacher, and Jack, a waterfront safety manager at Midnight Beach. This romantic element adds depth to the story.

Family Dynamics: The interactions between Leigh and her teenaged son, as well as her seven-year-old daughter, contribute to the drama and complexity of the storyline. It seems like the book explores not only the mystery but also the dynamics of family relationships.

Atmospheric Setting: I appreciate the author's skill in describing the beach and seaside town where much of the story unfolds. The vivid and realistic descriptions help immerse readers in the setting, making it feel tangible and engaging.

Overall, I enjoyed the novel's ability to blend mystery, romance, family dynamics, and atmospheric descriptions to create an engaging and atmospheric page-turner. It is a book that offers a well-rounded reading experience for those who enjoy suspenseful novels with multifaceted characters and a vivid setting.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Beach by Linda Wells is a fast paced thriller full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing up until the very end. Throughout this book, we follow Leigh, who is going through some major life changing events—a rift in her marriage, conflict with her sister, and meeting a new handsome man while on vacation at their beach house in Midnight Beach.

What I loved most about this book was the fact that I could empathize with all of the characters, at least to some degree. Wells writes characters in a way that makes it simple to insert ourselves into their lives and imagine a world in which these events were happening directly to us, the reader. I love being able to get lost in a story, and this book does that effortlessly. When I thought I had the unexpected murder that occurs during this summer trip figured out, another surprise was thrown into the story that threw my theories out of the water.

I’d recommend Midnight Beach to anyone who loves a fun, quick, fast paced novel full of mystery and romance—this one won’t disappoint you!

[Eric Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I usually don’t read romance books because it’s something that I don’t normally get into. However, this one caught my eye, and decided to give it a try. The book was good and I like how the characters are well-written, coming off as legitimate and understandable. The story starts off with Leigh, the wife of Garrett, who is her husband. Things seem “off” between them and she then meets Jack, who seems interested in her. Things go awry when you learn of the plan of Leigh’s sister Kristen’s husband Evan. All is not as it seems with them, and as the book progresses you find out the duplicity and machinations of Evan and others in the story. Tragically Leigh seems to be the innocent one in all of this and you feel a sense of sorrow for her predicament in the whole situation. This is why this is a good book to read as the author makes it relatable to the characters, while soap opera-Ish, doesn’t go overboard and is a good read for a romance book.

[DBK Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Midnight Beach” is about an unexpected and unfortunate murder with a bit of a twist of romance thrown in the mix. Leigh had expected that there was turmoil in her marriage when hurst words were thrown about the morning of their vacation. Her divorced sister Kristen has recently joined them for the vacation and convinces Leigh that all men will eventually cheat.
The author designs a cohesive world with coherent characters that use real world principles and problems. I’m not a huge fan of romance novels but with the twist of a comprehensive mystery on top of that, it made me want to read to see what happens till the end. There were moments that it threw me over the edge as each page was turned to push the story forward. The world building and the characterization of the characters makes a visual and impressive story, that makes you want to read it. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a thrilling mystery with a bit of romance in the pot.

[Madison Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Beach by Linda Wells is a rollercoaster of direction pulling your senses every which way. A story of love and pain and deception, every emotion drawing you closer to the main character.

Turning to her sister, Kristen, who sums up his sudden leaving to being a cheater, but Leigh suspects something more and deeper. Deception seems to run deep and the truths are beginning to surface. Jacks new addition to her life seems to blur the lines and yet seems too good to not be there.

Linda Wells makes an absolutely seamless effort drawing together the theme of this story, as well as creating a wholesome environment describes in a sense that you can be standing there like a shadow in the midst of all of the drama, yet being within reach of these characters.

Linda wrote a heart-throbbing thriller with an addicting, never-want-it-to-end flavor. Beach vacation gone wrong, Linda saves the day with this incredible book.

[AnnieIsReading · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one, it was an exciting thriller! A perfect summer read!👍

[Luz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Linda Wells' novel "Midnight Beach" is a thrilling rollercoaster ride of emotions, deceit, and heart-pounding suspense that will captivate fans of both romance and mystery genres. From the very first page, the author sets the stage for an enthralling tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last word.

Wells masterfully weaves a narrative of suspicion, betrayal, and unexpected alliances that keeps readers eagerly flipping the pages. The novel's genius lies in its ability to seamlessly blend passionate romance with heart-stopping suspense. As Leigh struggles to navigate a world of hidden truths and deceit, the chemistry between characters adds an extra layer of complexity and depth to the story.

One of the most enticing aspects of "Midnight Beach" is the way Wells hooks you from the outset. The prologue teases the reader with a tantalizing glimpse into a suspenseful and mysterious event, leaving you yearning for answers throughout the entire story. This brilliant narrative choice ensures that the novel remains a page-turner, keeping you guessing and invested in the characters' fates.

As the plot unfolds, "Midnight Beach" takes readers on a thrilling ride through twists and turns, leading to a crescendo that culminates in a shocking murder that rocks the very foundation of Leigh's world. The stakes are high, and Wells skillfully maintains the tension, leaving you breathless as you race to uncover the truth alongside the characters.

[Swag Swags · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Midnight Beach" is a masterful blend of romance, suspense, and mystery that had me hooked from the first page. Leigh Prentiss, a high school teacher seemingly living the dream, is thrust into a whirlwind of doubt, betrayal, and danger during what should have been a relaxing family vacation. The idyllic Florida beach setting contrasts sharply with the brewing storm of lies, secrets, and a shocking murder, making this a page-turner I couldn’t put down.

What I loved most was how the novel dives deep into the complexities of marriage and trust. Leigh’s journey feels painfully real as she navigates her suspicions about Garrett, her husband, and the influence of her sister Kristen's jaded views on relationships. The characters are multidimensional—flawed, relatable, and intensely human—making the emotional stakes sky-high. The addition of Jack McDermott, a charming former marine, introduces not only tension but also a glimmer of hope and unexpected chemistry.

The plot twists are well-timed, keeping the suspense taut without ever feeling forced. The murder mystery element adds a gripping layer to the story, and just when you think you’ve figured it out, another twist takes you by surprise. For fans of romantic thrillers and fast-paced mysteries, Midnight Beach delivers a satisfying blend of intrigue, drama, and heart. It’s a thrilling exploration of love, betrayal, and the lengths we go to for the people we care about most.

[L.E.A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stayed up all night, and it was worth every bit of coffee I’ve needed since to make up for lost sleep!

Leigh and her family are heading out for a summer vacation when her hubby, Garrett, bows out last minute, leading the mother of two to question if there’s more going on in her ideal life. From this crack in their picket fence persona, this wild ride of a book just gets juicier with betrayal, murder, and a possible happily ever after for Leigh with the wrong guy. Or, maybe, with the right guy, depending on what Garrett’s truth is. He’s delightfully complex.

I loved the interplay between Leigh and her sister, Kristen, who does more than crash the vacation. Moreover, the love triangle Leigh finds herself in when Jack enters the picture is so hot. I was not only enraptured with the love story throughout but also with the suspense when the murder-which-I-will-not-spoil enters the plot. This book plays with its genre tropes perfectly and truly gives the reader everything I could hope for. I never got bored. I needed to devour this story. And I did.

Additionally, I enjoyed the lovely beach scenery as a contrast to the dark elements at play for the characters. It was wonderfully ironic.

If you love romantic suspense or are looking for a new romance sub genre to salivate over, this is YOUR BOOK.

[Justin Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an excellent time reading this romance thriller. What I particularly enjoyed was how everyone in the book has drama and hidden secrets. It's very much grounded in reality, and I was able to relate to many of the characters and the difficulties of their relationships between the characters. The story goes beyond just relationship drama of distrust and infidelity, as the author adds a killer to the mix who ices one of the central characters later in the book. I must admit that I completely guessed wrong about who the killer was and I commend the writing for throwing bits of information to make you wonde but keep you guessing. Leigh is a very good protagonist, but I liked that she has plenty of shortcomings as her seemingly perfect world falls apart in the story. The romance she has with Jack is very enticing, and I liked the way we get his perspective on their mutual attraction. It's always fun to read both sides of the character's inner thought process. Overall, this is a very good book that is full of fun drama with the added benefit of a splash of who-did-it murder tossed in. I enjoyed this one and am looking forward to checking out the other thrillers by Linda Wells.

[Caitlin DeWitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spellbinding and suspenseful, Midnight Beach is an electrifying blend of heart-pounding romance and edge-of-your-seat thrills. Author Linda Wells expertly weaves a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. I loved the use of imagery especially! It was like being there.

Its seamless balance between heart-racing action and tender, emotional moments sets this book apart. The author's vivid descriptions effortlessly transport readers into a world fraught with danger, where every twist and turn leaves them breathless for more.

The characters are flawlessly crafted, each with their complexities and secrets that add layers of intrigue to the story. As the mystery deepens and the stakes escalate, readers will find themselves emotionally invested in the characters' fates, rooting for their triumphs and holding their breath during moments of peril.

Midnight Beach is a riveting page-turner that seamlessly merges the allure of romance with the adrenaline rush of a thriller. It's a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone seeking a captivating story that keeps them enthralled until the very last page. I couldn't put it down!

[Randi · Rating 3 out of 5]

As far as being a light, breezy who-done-what sort of story, this one was fun and easy to get through and I finished it in a day.

What it seriously lacked, however, was an editor. I mean, I know it obviously HAD an editor, but it needed a different editor. A better editor.

Why?

Well, friends, if I had created a drinking game wherein I took a shot every time the author transitioned from the present into a flashback using some version of “…and CHARACTER thought back to the day XYZ happened…” and then there’s a paragraph break and we dive into the flashback, I would have been drunk by Chapter 12. Literally EVERY chapter has one of those poorly constructed transitions and once I spotted it, it soured my reading of the rest of the book.

It also got a little bit grating that so many of the characters had deep, life-altering secrets that kept turning the story on its head - the whole “no one is what they seem” trope got overplayed way too hard where Kristen was concerned.

Ironically, by the end my two favorite characters were Dani and Gil, so a sequel just detailing their lives would be the only way I’d dive back into this world again.

[Laura Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love when an author is able to balance romance and suspense with the gritty, sexy edge it needs to make it successful. And Linda Wells does an extraordinary job at it in MIDNIGHT BEACH.

Set in a picturesque, too-good-to-be-true locale, Leigh discovers her marriage is making bad waves when her hubby decides not to join their family vacation. Enter some unreliable (or are they) side characters and a hottie named Jack, and readers are in for a twisty romp of a thrill ride. The development of all these personalities as the plot unfolds is exhilarating. And, just when I thought I had every loose end figured out, I was walloped with another truth bomb.

Moreover, as the life becomes more dangerous for everyone, the interplay of sexy times and heartfelt moments is stunning. I was a bundle of sweat and emotions by the time I reached the last page—completely satisfied in all the right, and perhaps a little naughty, ways.

Linda Wells excels are her craft, weaving an instant classic that all romantic suspense lovers will enjoy. Idyllic setting, love triangle, secrets galore. And can I just say Jack is my new book boyfriend? I claim him.

[KDeane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well this was fun! Nothing quite like mixing up a bit of romance with some murder set over the backdrop of a failing marriage hurtling toward oblivion while on vacation. It’s a setup we’ve seen several times over, and yet Wells makes it feel enjoyable and inviting again. There’s a nice, clean directness in the way she writes which I think helps the text immensely.
This is the book you enter into when you know exactly what you want. I’d even say this is the book you enter into when you really don’t feel up for surprises, which yes, I categorize these feelings as two different things. ‘Midnight Beach,’ is true to the tin and truthfully, that should be celebrated.
The characters are easy to grasp and understand, the stakes are high, but the complexity is low, and the plot is very easy to follow along with. An excellent book you can turn to in the event you yourself are going on vacation (re: likely to be pulled away from your book by friends) and don’t want to lose your train of thought.

[Jennifer Mendoza · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok… let me start off with the book was a little difficult to get through at the beginning then turned out amazing! So at the beginning, the author seems to describe everything. As in the way the outside of the house looks and the inside. Details galore. I felt it was too much and it made me not want to read it. But then the storyline was great. Leigh, the main character didn’t feel a connection with her husband, Garrett, anymore because he was pulling away from her and the family they both created. Garrett was in a huge mess with Leighs sister and her husband Evan. Garrett had made horrible mistakes. He was in a deal gone wrong with Evan and had a lustful relationship with his wife’s sister, Kristin. There was so much happening I just couldn’t put the book down. Evan was found in his bathroom by his maid dead and was investigated and police could not find any evidence on who the killer was. Ending was perfect. There were lots of villains in this story but the one that made me feel most dangerous was Kristin. Great book!

[Kat]

free ebook

her husband is lawyer
she has teen boy and young girl
her sister is getting divorced but wont sign papers as she wants more from her husband selling his co

she lost the baby she had with her husband when she caught him cheating

the lawyer got mixed up with the bro in law business and now finds out he may be dealing drugs
and so he would be involved too, even though he knew nothing about it. he urged sis in law to sign the papers but she wont

instead they had sex

the wife and kids are at the beach house. she meets a man there. he is very nice. she tried to get him with her sister, but her sister left and the man said she wasnt her type, he liked the wife and she liked him

the sisters husband got killed in the shower

the sister married her boyfriend

the husband told the wife about his affair with her sister
the wife kicked him out
the son lived with him at the house, the daughter lived with the wife at the beach
the friend she met asked her to marry him and she said yes

[C. Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Beach is a riveting story of romance, mystery, and suspense. It centers on the life of Leigh Prentiss, a forty-two-year-old high school teacher, and his struggling marriage with her lawyer husband, Garrett. Everything in her life is perfect until she is faced with many unexpected life circumstances.

I couldn’t put this book down! The plot is engaging and intriguing. Wells’s writing style is relatable and keeps you hooked to the end. It is well written and compelling. I love how the events are woven together to create an exciting story with interesting and page-turner chapters.

In addition, all the characters are well portrayed and are easy to relate to. Particularly, Leigh’s character and circumstances are not uncommon, and many readers could empathize with her. Each character is interesting and contributed to the development of the story.

I really had fun reading this book and finished it in one sitting! This is a perfect summer read book!

[K Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laced with passion and hidden truths, Midnight Beach is a captivating blend of romance and mystery. Leigh, a high school teacher grappling with her failing marriage, confronts an array of unexpected challenges as her life takes an unforeseen turn. The action starts on the very first page and doesn’t stop. Throughout the story, each character defies initial assumptions, leaving you to figure out constant misleading clues. Wells' writing style is both relatable and compelling, which adds an immersive quality to the narrative that makes it easy to escape into the story. The book's standout quality lies in its characters. I instantly connected with them, envisioning the events that unfolded in their own lives. I love that this book is full of twists, turns, and surprises. This is an excellent read, great for those who like books that are packed with drama, thrills, and a touch of murder mystery. I recommend this book and am eager to explore Wells' other works.

[Jessie Stocker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a relatable read for those of us who are in the thick of raising families. The characters are raw and real, with problems that tend to surface after years of putting the kids first and the marriage on the back burner. The basics of a distancing romantic relationship are there- arguing, skipping the family vacation, questioning fidelity, however this family is extremely wealthy which begs the question, “Does money buy happiness?” Is a life of luxury worth the secrecy, distance, and lies? The author sets the story on a picturesque beach vacation, and just when you think you have been sucked into a sexy romance novel, the unthinkable happens, and the reader is thrown into a gripping thriller that you won’t be able to put down. This novel is a fun fusion of a suspenseful thriller and a steamy romance novel and I ate it up! Is it a deliciously hot romance or a chilling “who done it?” The answer is that it is both- you’ll love it!

[Audene Jacobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beach Intrigue!

Midnight Beach is an enjoyable blend of romance and suspense. High school teacher, Leigh Prentiss, and her two
kids head to the beach for the family's yearly vacation at their luxurious beach house on Midnight Beach. At the last minute,
her husband Garrett, leaves her hanging and won't go on the trip. Tensions have been building for a long time, and
Leigh resents Garrett. He's been distant, and she doesn't know what's happening behind the scenes that he isn't telling her.

Leigh's glamourous sister and best friend, Kristen, comes to the beach for the weekend and makes things worse, planting
suspicions, while an unexpected attraction adds to the mix. There are lots of secrets and a shocking murder in this cleverly plotted
romance mystery. The story is a slow burn to the last jaw-dropping page.

[Megan Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know you've picked up a good book when you're already nose deep by the end of page one.

This romance-thriller is an excellent example of this genre-bending combination - and the first I've ever heard described as such. The author drops us right into the action at the very beginning, then backs up a little to set the scene. But we're racing toward figuring out who the killer is.

No one is who we think they are. There are red herrings at every turn. Just when you think you've got this one figured out, you're thrown a curveball. Midnight Beach is such a thrill ride that you'll be begging for more. Linda Wells is hugely talented and gives the reader heart-pounding suspense and belly-clenching romance in equal measure. I hope she is planning to write more because I'll be the first on the pre-order list!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Midnight Beach: A Romance Thriller" by Linda Wells is an engaging novel that blends romance with suspense. Set against the backdrop of a coastal town in Florida, the story follows a woman named Leigh who is drawn into a mysterious man, Jack, as her marriage seems to be unravelling before her eyes. Their relationship quickly becomes tangled as she sorts through her marriage, her husband's mysterious behavior, and an ever-growing web of secrets. Wells excels at building tension and keeping readers on edge throughout the plot, adding in twists that leave the reader eagerly turning the pages. Overall, it's a thrilling read with well-developed characters and an unpredictable storyline. If you are a fan of romance suspense novels, this book is for you!

[Shawnae Aiu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Beach by Linda Wells has one of the best descriptions of locations that I have ever read in a book. I could seriously smell the salt air and feel the sand beneath my feet. Wow, I felt like I was right there on vacation with Leigh. through some fast-paced life changes. She faces problems in her marriage and struggles with her sister and she's met Jack, a handsome man from Midnight Beach that is rocking her world. Then a murder occurs and Wells keeps us guessing "Who dun it?" until the very end. I'd highly recommend Midnight Beach to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced novel full of mystery and romance—this one will not disappoint you.

[Tx Raven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allow me to be forthright with this review.
Midnight Beach is light years away from my genre of preferred
reading. Usually military mystery and adventure
While Midnight Beach has it's share of well written romance.
The OMG aspect of an O'Henry ending was a total surprise.

It's well written with fully developed characters and the story
plot isn't what you are thinking. Once I started reading, the twists
and turns kept my interest and my analytic mind fully engaged.
Ms Wells is an outstand author and deserves a wholehearted five
star review.

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t love how this book was written. I agree with some other reviews saying that each character could have a book about themselves. I started to skim because some of the information didn’t seem important. I was also bummed to find out that there are triggers in this book -miscarriage- and this was a book we picked for my book club. We probably would not have chosen this book had we known. I do think some people may still like this book… I did read it quite fast but it’s important to note the triggers.

[David Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a riveting adventure romance novel; in the sense of. there is romance scenes (very well written by the way, Mrs Wells!) but this is NOT your typical sappy romance or lifetime book turned movie. You will be captivated with the betrayal, swept away with the intrigue and dialogue and this is no spoiler but there is even some crime and violence thrown into this wild plot. Very well written and looked at from several angles allowing for a highly polished product strongly recommend.

[Maribeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had high hopes going into this novel. Wanted it to be one of THE summer reads. Sooo disappointed. Barely a romance novel and not at all a thriller. Plot is basic - A to B to C. Murder doesn’t happen until 90% into the book. Characters are not memorable, very flat, was not invested in any of them at all. Dialogue read like an elementary chapter book. 2 stars is generous.