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Mayflies

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With romance, mystery and murder , set in an English village where pagan rituals exist beneath the veneer of the modern world, Mayflies is a world of suspense, jealousy and resentments that can easily entrap the unwary.

Alice is a newcomer, lonely, running from a recent heartbreak. Ruby is a single mother, resenting that her own mother disappeared from her life when she was a young child. Luke is a failing city financier, desperate to make money. Their lives are inextricably linked when the skeletons of a mother and child are discovered and hidden secrets from the past threaten to unravel all their dreams.

With a deep understanding of the ties that can bind us, from the passion and pain of love, the desire for money, power and revenge, at the heart of the story is a love triangle, played out against the background of the natural world which can shape and influence our lives.

At times funny, at times poignant and sad, we follow the lives of Alice, Ruby, Luke and other charcters in the village to an unexpected concluion.

277 pages, Paperback

Published July 10, 2023

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Pam Keevil

10 books5 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Profile Image for mei.
25 reviews1 follower
August 25, 2023
rated 4.5 stars!

i honestly don't know what to say. this book is incredible. the mystery on the alleged murder of a woman and a child is interesting, that i couldn't put down my kindle while i read through it. it became more and more thrilling when ruby's granny died. echo's communication with her grandma sent chills down my spine. the poetry that her deceased great-gran instructed for echo to write was beautiful and creepy at the same time. the literature and the way this book was written is very poetic in a way and it allows me to learn and expand my vocabulary. overall, i will give this book a rating of 4.5 stars. it was truly engaging and the mystery between the characters' relationships was definitely the one that i anticipated the most.

to be honest, i didn't quite like luke and ruby. ruby was the kind of woman who, i think, is very easy to get. perhaps, it's one of her struggles as a single mother. i guess, the woman really wanted to have a secure family, though, i find it quite idiotic for her to feel sad and depressed when luke admitted that he is still partners with bella. she was out here getting dicked down on her own will without triple-checking if the man is single. quite the careless type, i must say. and luke. god. i couldn't stand how he treated bella all throughout the book. man is a fucking misogynist that he called her a cheap stripper. and it was upsetting how he treated alice while panicking about his dad's letter. he was attracted to her once but ugh. i just. i just couldn't. and the way his tone with ruby went harsh when she interrupted their conversation? it's like he has forgotten his "lover era" being so in love with ruby. lmao. man definitely doesn't know how to treat a woman right. XD anyway, in terms of romance, i was rooting more for alice and luke but alice was clearly the "liked but never pursued" kind of woman. during ruby and luke's mix-ups, i couldn't figure out what was alice's relevance to the story. it's like, the only thing she became a main part of the whole plot was when she discovered steven's will in a bible. to me, she was like a third person reading a book about a tragic story of two people in love but ended up being half-siblings. it felt like bella was the actual third person that completed this awful love triangle. isn't it awful to want a man who's not fully honest about his relationships and intentions regarding money? anyway, i also think, there isn't much revelation in luke's pov about his real ties with ruby. i wanted to see his reaction after reading all his daydreaming about living a happy family life with the woman, only to end up dawning on him that girlie was her half-sister. i feel like the chapter about the confrontation between alice, ruby, and luke were kind of rushed? also, the moment it was mentioned that inside ruby's granny's trunk, there was a pin that poked steven's eye on a picture, i kind of guessed that ruby and luke might have been siblings all along, only that i couldn't fully trust on my own deduction since the woman found in the river had a child with her, so i guess, the twin part was a lot more than i expected.

the characters are all flawed on their own way and i guess that's okay. a book can still be considered good even if its characters are questionable. and to be honest, it makes quite sense because this was the point of the author on her synopsis. it's all about the deception, lies, conflicts, and other knots that are kept hidden in a captivating village. it could occur anywhere. behind the friendly and hospitable smiles of the locals, their wondrous relationships, there could be a dark, sinister secret hidden through it all. and it's beautiful. it's so captivating and enthralling how the author delivered such a message and plot through this book. definitely one of my best reads.

there are a lot more scenes that i don't quite understand but i guess i will consider re-reading this one day. there were a lot of things that i wished the author could've expanded more, but despite that, i still think this is a great book and it's really worth the read! so, a re-read is very quite likely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Nesreen.
16 reviews
November 11, 2023
Rating 4/5 stars
Firstly, I would like to thank Booktasters for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

In "Mayflies" by Pam Keevil, the remains of two bodies, a woman, and a child, become the center of attention and the obstacle to the development of a small village. Luke, driven by the desire for financial gain, and Alice, motivated by the need for more students in the school, hope that the development continues. Ruby, on the other hand, simply wants a better life for her children and a taste of freedom. As the village grapples with the mystery of the bodies' identities, Ruby's journey takes an unexpected turn after the death of her grandmother, revealing a surprising family history.

The author adeptly weaves a captivating mystery throughout the narrative, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover the truth behind the bodies. However, for readers well-versed in the genre, the plot may feel somewhat predictable. Nevertheless, the incorporation of the grandmother's knowledge, her mysterious silence, and her exclusive spiritual communication with Echo adds a fascinating layer to the story, leaving readers intrigued and wanting more.

One aspect that stood out in "Mayflies" is the portrayal of the characters. Luke, as a character, evoked a sense of distrust and unease. Conversely, Ruby's character, while facing challenges due to her lack of parental figures, shines through her determination to be a present and attentive mother to her children. It is regrettable, however, that more scenes involving Ruby and her children were not explored, as their dynamic could have added depth to the overall narrative.

Pam Keevil's writing style is commendable, displaying a skillful approach to storytelling. The book is well-written, with a good balance between mystery and character development. While the mystery may not completely surprise seasoned readers, it remains engaging and pushes the story forward.

In conclusion, "Mayflies" by Pam Keevil offers readers an intriguing mystery set in a small village, where the remains of two bodies disrupt the community's development. With well-crafted characters, particularly Luke and Ruby, and a narrative that keeps readers invested, the book is an enjoyable read. While the plot may be somewhat predictable, the inclusion of a family history and the enigmatic communication between the grandmother and Echo adds an enticing layer of complexity to the story.

Profile Image for Claudia A.
66 reviews1 follower
December 15, 2023

Amid the countryside's riverbanks, the story unfolds as Alice, the headmistress, makes a macabre discovery—a skull entangled with bones—while searching for a lost ball. The narrative introduces central figures: 'Red Ruby,' a tenacious single mother of two, and Luke, a city financier and the offspring of the late Steven Carlyle, a prosperous and powerful landowner in the village. As Luke and his companion Bella embark on a difficult journey from London to the countryside, the storyline gracefully meanders through enthralling twists and turns.
Keevil's narrative skillfully intertwines elements of romance, deception, envy, and paranormal mysteries, all set against a backdrop of pagan rituals. It veils a plethora of significant secrets—powerful revelations poised to revolutionize the characters' destinies and leave readers gasping in surprise. Pam Keevil's writing has a charming touch, evoking the strong scent of coffee, the nostalgia found in old letters, and the emotions tied to family and grief. The author masterfully breathes life into characters ranging from the central trio to enigmatic figures like Echo, Ruby's young daughter, and Ruby's grandmother, capturing the very essence of humanity—flawed yet resilient. Readers may find affinity with some facets and discord with others, but these characters aren't painted in black and white; rather, they possess many shades of gray. Their lives intertwine like pieces of a puzzle.
Mayflies stands as a literary crescendo, starting strongly and progressively getting better with each page, culminating in a grand finale. While the inclusion of profanity, explicit expressions, and raw erotic content may deter some readers, the overall narrative shines as a harmonious blend of romance and mystery, showcasing superb writing that provides an immersive reading experience, ensuring the reader remains on edge throughout.
Profile Image for Retha Moreno.
54 reviews16 followers
December 2, 2023
Mayflies by Pam Keevil presents an intriguing mystery set in a village where the untimely murders of a woman and child captivate the community, overshadowing their efforts toward village development. This narrative deftly intertwines the lives of its characters with the central mystery. Luke, driven by financial aspirations; Alice, hoping for an increase in school enrollments, and Ruby, yearning for a better life and freedom, all find their paths altered by these tragic events. The plot thickens with the passing of Ruby's grandmother, unveiling a hidden family history that adds another layer of intrigue to the story. As a mystery enthusiast, I was deeply engaged by the unfolding events and the revelation of Ruby's grandmother's secrets. This aspect of the narrative kept me eager to uncover more, reflecting Keevil's skill in crafting a compelling and suspenseful tale. Keevil excels in character development. The characters are well-rounded, and their complexities add depth to the story. Luke, for instance, is not particularly likable due to his nervously distrusting nature, yet his character is essential in adding tension and interest. Conversely, Ruby's nurturing demeanor, despite her challenging upbringing, offers a stark contrast to Luke, enriching the narrative's diversity. The writing style of Keevil is notably fluid, almost poetic, making the reading experience enjoyable. The narrative flows smoothly across the pages, a testament to Keevil's literary craftsmanship. Her meticulous attention to detail and character development, coupled with her unique writing style, make Mayflies a recommendable read for those who appreciate a well-crafted mystery interlaced with rich character portrayals. Keevil's ability to weave a complex and engaging story is indeed commendable.
25 reviews1 follower
December 16, 2023
The protagonist, Alice, is a well-crafted character whose loneliness and struggle with recent heartbreak add depth to her narrative. Ruby, grappling with the absence of her mother since childhood, and Luke, a city financier on the brink of failure, are equally compelling. Their distinct stories converge with the chilling discovery of skeletons, bringing long-buried secrets and resentments to the surface. The author adeptly portrays their internal conflicts, weaving a narrative that highlights the complexities of human emotions and motivations.

Author Pam Keevil’s writing style is a standout feature of Mayflies. The narrative flows seamlessly, blending elements of humor and poignancy. The author's deep understanding of human relationships—ranging from love's passion and pain to the darker impulses for money, power, and revenge—is evident throughout the novel. The love triangle at the story's core is both intriguing and well-executed, providing a compelling dynamic against the backdrop of the natural world, which is depicted as a powerful influence on the characters' lives. The setting of the English village, with its modern facade and ancient pagan undercurrents, adds an intriguing layer to the story. This duality mirrors the characters' own struggles, as they navigate the tensions between their desires and the realities they face.

Mayflies is an engrossing read that masterfully balances elements of mystery, romance, and human drama. The author's nuanced portrayal of characters and the evocative setting make for a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Profile Image for Lilly.
124 reviews5 followers
December 19, 2023
The book left a significant impact on me with its seamless blend of genres. Keevil's writing vividly portrays the intertwining lives of the protagonists, each battling their own ghosts and aspirations. The setting, an English village shrouded in pagan mystique, lends a uniquely eerie charm to the narrative, heightening the story's intrigue.

Keevil masterfully navigates various themes – from the complexity of love and ambition to the undercurrents of revenge. The emotional depth of the characters, particularly Alice’s journey through heartache and Ruby's longing for a forgotten past, is depicted with remarkable empathy. The story oscillates between humor and pathos, peppered with twists that keep the reader deeply engaged. An interesting aspect of the novel is how it incorporates the natural world's subtle influence on human behavior, adding an additional layer to the narrative.

Mayflies deftly explores the labyrinth of human relationships and the impact of secrets that lurk beneath the surface. The conclusion is both unexpected and satisfying, leaving a strong impression of mystery and emotional revelation. This novel is an absorbing read, skillfully weaving together the destinies of its characters against a backdrop of hidden histories and emotional complexities.
Profile Image for Moná.
328 reviews15 followers
December 16, 2023
Mayflies is a story that is a mix of romance, mystery, and a hint of the supernatural, creating a unique blend that keeps you turning the pages. The main characters, Alice, Ruby, and Luke, are each dealing with their own personal struggles. Alice, who's new in town and nursing a broken heart, is particularly relatable. Ruby, as a single mother with a complicated past, and Luke, a financier whose luck has run out, add to the tapestry of intriguing personalities in the village. Their lives intertwine in unexpected ways following the eerie discovery of a mother and child's remains, unveiling secrets that threaten to disrupt their lives. The reader gets a sense of romance, but it's the underlying mystery and the exploration of complex human emotions that truly captivate. The love triangle is an interesting aspect, not overdone, and adds just the right amount of tension to the plot making this a book that you can’t put down. The author immerses the reader into the story with her vivid descriptions.

This book is a delightful read and one that I would highly recommend.
Profile Image for Rowyna.
30 reviews22 followers
September 24, 2023
That's not the typical village story we hear about often and that's what made it so interesting and intriguing to me.
Up until the end of the whole book I was expecting a very certain thing to happen, and well, it happened, where Luke and Ruby were connected. BUT, the thing I didn't expect it to happen was the end, which I sat for a few minutes with my tablet in my hand trying to process the whole thing, it was so fast, shocking and it made me frozen for a little bit.
As for the characters I don't know what to feel about them, and that's when I know that they're real people, with real mindset, the morally grey ones who you can't make up a specific opinion about them, because humans aren't all angels and aren't all demons.
This book was a really great experience that would really trick you into being a typical village story with a typical line of events and a typical ending but it was far from it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2 reviews
September 10, 2023
Some of the type of books I rate really highly are those that can make me really get emotional alongside the characters even while in a whole different world. This is one of them. I got upset due to Luke's behaviour multiple times . I felt the thrill when the grandmother to Ruby died. Oh I could go on and on. However some parts of this book aren't very easy to understand and I found myself having to go back several times and I still couldn't piece some parts together. I loved, also, that the characters weren't perfect. They were flawed and human and one can actually relate them to their day to day loves easily. This made the book extremely realistic and relatable. The book was also very well written. The vocabulary used was superb and I'd love to pick it up for a repeat in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rammi Paru.
25 reviews
Read
November 16, 2023
A wealthy family. A small town. A mystery. This might sum up this book. I liked it. It was a quick and an easy read. I liked the way the author had crafted her characters. They're shady, flawed and hence are real and relatable. Be it drama or romance or suspense, the author has managed not to overdo any and has delivered all these in  right amounts. The pacing of the book, the interaction between the characters, the gossiping and the politics which are unavoidable in such a setting and the final unraveling of the mystery, all these make the book quite a nice read.
Profile Image for Aashka.
2 reviews
January 31, 2024
Mayflies comes under one of the best Murder Mysteries I have ever read!!.

It is a Captivating murder mystery that delves into the various layers of emotions, revenge and personal struggles and demons of each character in the book. Pam Keevil's unique writing style makes one feel like they are experiencing the story. While the high vocabulary may be challenging at times, It really added to the development of my vocabulary skills.
Profile Image for Annarella.
14.3k reviews166 followers
December 17, 2023
A well plotted and a solid mystery. The author did a good job and delivers an entertaining and gripping story
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Profile Image for Rinea.
9 reviews
November 7, 2023
I ruined my sleep schedule for that plot twist.

Although at first I was finding it difficult to get a hang of the story. Once the mystery kicked in I couldn't help but keep on reading.

I can't express much about the characters, as none of them really stood out. I would therefore say the story was more plot driven, which was executed quite well.

Overall, I enjoyed it.

Profile Image for Julius Codrington.
Author 4 books7 followers
August 10, 2024
"Mayflies" by Pam Keevil is a compelling exploration of the enduring bonds of friendship, set against the backdrop of life's inevitable transitions. This novel takes readers on an emotional journey as it follows the lives of its protagonists from their youth into adulthood. Keevil's narrative is enriched with moments of joy, introspection, and melancholy, creating a poignant depiction of the highs and lows of human connection.

The characters in "Mayflies" are beautifully crafted, each bringing their own unique blend of strengths and vulnerabilities. Keevil excels in presenting multifaceted personalities, making it easy for readers to identify with them. Their interactions are genuine, filled with the kind of intimacy and shared history that only long-lasting friendships can foster. As they navigate through various stages of their lives, their stories resonate deeply, evoking empathy and a sense of shared experience.

Pam Keevil's writing style is both lyrical and accessible, drawing readers in with its warmth and authenticity. The pacing of the book is well-balanced, allowing for moments of reflection without losing the momentum of the narrative. Keevil's attention to detail and her ability to capture the subtleties of human emotion enhance the overall experience, making "Mayflies" a memorable read.

Without exploring into specific plot points, it’s safe to say that "Mayflies" manages to strike a perfect balance between hope and heartache. The book invites readers to consider their own relationships, the fleeting nature of time, and the enduring impact of true friendship. Keevil's thoughtful approach adds layers of depth, transforming a simple story into an evocative meditation on life and loss.

"Mayflies" merits a 5 out of 5-star rating for its masterful storytelling, well-drawn characters, and emotional depth. Pam Keevil has crafted a narrative that is not only engaging but also profoundly moving. This book stands out as a testament to the power of friendship and the resilience of the human spirit, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a richly woven tapestry of life's most beautiful and challenging moments.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews