The House at the Cove

Cook's Cove Mystery #2

by Judy Leslie

The killer is out there, watching, waiting. They know if Jenny uncovers the truth about her Aunt Susan, it will shatter her world.

The moment Jenny steps into aunt’s old house in Cook's Cove, she feels the secrets of the past whispering through its walls. Secrets promising to unravel everything she thought she knew about her family, her future, and herself.

Grief is just the beginning. Keeping the promise she made to her aunt means leaving behind her life in San Francisco – the career, the lifestyle, even her fiancé. But she needs answers. Everyone is hiding something – her mother, fiancé, even the handsome Irishman whose presence stirs something deep within her. Is she ready to face the risk, to unveil what's been hidden for so long? The truth could set her free... or it could be her undoing.

Dive into the captivating world of Cook's Cove with 'The House at the Cove', the thrilling first installment in the Cook’s Cove Mystery Series. But the journey doesn't end there. In Book 2, 'No Place to Hide', continue to unravel the mysteries alongside Jenny and Shaun as their adventure takes an even more intense turn.

Genres: Mystery, Romance, Fiction

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 3, 2024

About the author

Who doesn’t love a good story? Judy Leslie's story starts in the vibrant city of Pasadena, California, where she grew up in a family as unique as they come. Her mother, a farm girl drawn to the allure of Hollywood, and her father, a charismatic Texan with talents in dance, art, and photography, provided a childhood filled with diverse influences. Her extended family was no less interesting, featuring a successful aunt who broke barriers as a gay interior designer and an uncle who worked as a chauffeur for Hollywood stars, among others. This colorful family backdrop offered Judy endless material for her future stories.

By the age of 20, Judy had moved to Bellingham, Washington, a cozy coastal town that seemed to whisper stories from its every nook. Running Yesteryear Antiques, her days began with the crackle of logs in the woodstove and the brewing of morning coffee, a routine that grounded her in simplicity and sparked her creative mind.

Her next chapter unfolded in a quaint beach cottage on the Lummi Indian reservation. This tranquil spot, where night mysteries seemed to merge with the ocean's rhythm, inspired the Cook’s Cove collection. Here, Judy's real-life experiences blended with her imagination, creating tales where mystery and romance seamlessly intertwined.

Judy's life also included dating a successful musician and living abroad, adding layers to her personal narrative. She has traveled extensively across the United States, exploring numerous small towns while riding on the back of her husband's Harley motorcycle.

Now, Judy splits her time between a home near Seattle and a cabin in Leavenworth, Washington, a place buzzing with Bavarian charm and outdoor activities. This contrast of settings continues to fuel her writing, inspiring her to explore stories about a family's search not for adventure or riches, but for a deep, enduring love – as timeless and profound as the mountains that surround her mountain retreat.

Reviews

[Susan May · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say that this was my first book from this author and it certainly won't be my last. Such a perfect story that sucks you in from the beginning. Wonderful characters and a perfect furry companion which is just the best. The story didn't have a dull moment. You will be on the edge of your seat with the turn of each page.
Jenny has an over bearing mother who constantly intrudes & dictates Jenny's life. When Robert proposes to her she thinks it's the right choice for her. Then with the news of her Aunt Susan's death she is forced to deal with her house and business. She goes to her aunts hometown and soon learns her aunt was very secretive. Soon her fiance Robert becomes too demanding. Insisting she return to California and sell her aunts belongings. Her mother refuses to listen to her and she feels compelled to find out what happened to her aunt. Jenny will navigate the questions she has with the help of her fiends. The journey to find answers will be terrifying and sad but Jenny vows she will find the truth.
Can't wait for book 2.

[Helen Causer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in the Cook’s Cove Mystery series did not disappoint me.

A lot of secrets were revealed that explained much of what had happened after Book 1.

I really enjoyed reading this and felt quite emotional at times whilst doing so. The characters were well drawn, and although there were pointers to possible villains, I found them all to be believable.

I’m not going to reveal any spoilers, but suffice to say that I’m looking forward to Book 3 and hoping that every villain gets their comeuppance, and that there is a happy ever after for our heroine.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The House at the Cove is a beautifully written genre blend of women's fiction and a mystery full of twists and turns. It follows Jenny as she searches for the truth about her aunt, while others are out to sabotage her efforts. I felt like I was there in Cook’s Cove. All the characters, even the villains, were well written.



There is a bit of spooky magical realism going on and I enjoyed how the author kept you guessing whether Susan was a ghost or a figment of Jenny’s imagination. I was rooting for Jenny as she dealt with everything thrown at her. The ending was a surprise. I didn't want the story to end and am looking forward to reading the next book.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Have you ever read a mystery with a character who makes you cringe over and over? Jenny was that character for me. She continually made decisions that caused more trouble than helped solve the mystery.

The book ends without all the mystery threads wrapped up. There is a second book in the series. However, I don't plan to continue reading. I enjoyed this author's other series and will likely focus on those novels.

I received a free copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t think I have ever finished a book so fast in my life! This was a huge page turner and kept me on edge the whole time. This is my first book from Judy and absolutely loved it! Cannot wait to read the second one! Highly recommend everyone to check this series out!

[Cricket1327_Zmob King · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this immensely! A really well written story. The characters are wonderfully thought out and well rounded with personalities that keep you wanting more. The only downside to me was the amount of time that had passed from the first book until now, but I understand how it was necessary to have the story work out. All in all a fantastic book that I recommend!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Buying this book is definitely worth it though!

[Tianne Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like taking the layers of an onion apart join Jenny Carrington on her journey of her own. Jenny has been close to her Aunt Susan all her life and shared many moments. Now Susan needs her more and this is just the start of Jenny’s journey to reveal the mystery that surrounds Susan’s life.

A wonderful story of discovery and not too over the top characters. Jenny shares glimpses of her time over summers with her aunt and they all slowly take the layers apart to find the whole story. A great read and was difficult to put down as it turned more and more of the story in. I certainly want to read the other book as well.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kris McKenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a brilliant whodunnit with mystical undertones and a heartbreaking portrayal of grief and loss. Susan, despite her death, pulled me in deep to this book with her personality and love of main character Jenny. Jenny struggled to balance her promise to her aunt, the life her mother meticulously planned for her, the expectations of her fiancé, and a murder investigation. But after finally learning how to stand up for what she wants, she gets to the bottom of this mystery. And when I tell you, I audibly gasped and jerked upright in bed at the twist, I was SHOOK! I don’t often read mysteries anymore, but Judy Leslie and her Cook’s Cove series found a permanent spot on my shelves and in my Kindle.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, this was one of the best mysteries I have read in a while; however I never give 5 stars because to me that's perfect and no one is perfect. That said, this book had everything! Poor Jenny stuck in the middle between an aunt, a mom, a fiancee and her life in San Francisco with a sexy stranger in Cook's Cove. Finally, Jenny stands up for herself and makes a decision and then the twists and turns happen and she finds out about her family. The characters were great, I felt like I knew most of them. Great storyline - I can't wait for the next book in the series. I had not read anything by this author, but will definitely have on my list of automatically read all her books if the next one is as good as this one!

[page wandering Nurse EGG · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️
Jenny is living a mediocre life at best however in her mother’s eyes it’s exactly how she should be living. She’s pulled out of her current life when her beloved Aunty is in a tragic accident. Jenny flies back to see her just in time to say goodbye. Susan leaves behind her home and business to Jenny. There’s so much she doesn’t know about Susan and she’s about to find out…. Who was Susan really?
The only part of this book i can fault is the flashbacks Jenny has. I found them a little disjointed. However the story and characters are lovely and I look forward to reading the next book to follow Jenny’s journey!

*please note this was an arc generously offered to me to read*

[Kearstin Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a page turner!

Absolutely loved it from start to finish.

Jenny is a strong and independent woman that wants to do right by her aunt Susan.

Anna- did not care for her as a person

Salty- thank you so much for bringing her back (have to read it to know)

I’m still questioning Shaun’s motives… is he truly this kind orrrrrr


Ready to dive into book two

[Stephanie Murray · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This was a really easy and fast paced read. Unfortunately I found myself constantly irritated with Jenny and her helplessness.

[Brandi Conico · Rating 4 out of 5]

I overall enjoyed this book. I was invested in the characters. I was happy to see Jenny mature and grow throughout the book.

There were a few times particularly in the beginning that the paranormal activities were a little strong (nightmares, evil intent, etc.) and put me on edge a little bit, but that calmed down substantially toward the end of the book- to the point that I don't understand the point of it in the beginning of the book. It's possible that this stuff will be clarified in the subsequent book, but I don't think any of it was necessary.

The author makes sure to set the record in the beginning that this is not a cozy mystery. And she is right, it has some heavy themes and some detail in some hard stuff. That said, it's based in a cozy place with a cozy main character with a career that you'd expect in a cozy mystery. So, I can see how it could easily be mistaken for just a heavier version of a cozy mystery- though the main character does limited investigation.

I would recommend this to anyone interested in cozy mysteries and general family dramas- It doesn't necessarily fit into any mold perfectly, but it is a cozy drama with likeable characters.

I would've given it 5 stars if not for the malicious supernatural/paranormal aspects present in the beginning of the novel- There's nothing wrong with it, it just didn't appeal to me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Fraxinus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenny has spent her entire life doing what everyone around her tells her to do. When her aunt is a car accident, Jenny races to her side. When her Aunt's dying wish is for Jenny to take over her Antique Shop and leaves her the house, Jenny has to choose between finding answers or returning to the life her family has created for her. As Jenny tries to balance her family's expectations on her, she sets out on a journey to find out what happened to her Aunt. Along the way, she starts to take control of her life, figuring out what she wants, instead of what is expected of her. Unfortunately, while she is trying to figure out where she fits in her world, her world seems quite determined make her return to her old life.

I really enjoyed this story. Jenny's journey to finding her own voice was gripping. I found myself frustrated by some of her choices. But, I could see why she made them. I can't wait to read the next installment!

I was thankful to the author for their careful care warning in the beginning of the book. I can see multiple paths to where her warning could happen, so I am thankful for the heads up.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bette Reith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadows Left Behind is Judy Leslie’s second book in the series Cook’s Cove. This is a page-turner that I couldn’t put down!! Jenny is living the dream in San Francisco – a great job, condo, car, boyfriend. But is this her dream or is she just following family expectations. She received devastation news that her only aunt has been in a horrible accident. She drops everything and flies to Oregon to be by her side, promising her Aunt that she would take care of her store. Childhood memories of the summers that she spent with her Aunt in Cook’s Cove flood her mind as she is torn taking care of her Aunt’s estate and her life back in the city. Can she live with the town’s secrets and spirits that follow her wherever she goes? Why did someone kill her aunt, and now wants her gone as well? Does she have the strength to stay and fight, or go back home to her city life? A fast-paced story with many twists, turns and dead ends. An excellent read.

[Linda Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spellbound from page one; mystery with passion and wee bit of paranormal
I was introduced to Judy Leslie by reading one of her latest books but when I realized that there were several before that one, I made a plan to read them all. If you like your mystery to have less explicit steam but a decent amount of passion plus a wee bit of the supernatural, you will want to read this book as well as the rest in this series. This one ends on an HFN but the mystery continues into book 2, which I am preparing to read right now.
The blurb will give you the gist of the story. There will be good characters, bad characters and even a few who are definitely questionable. I honestly did not see the ending. I believe one of the detestable characters will make an appearance in the next book. Looking forward to his conclusion (read that anyway you wish). Loved the mystery, the author’s style and the characters. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenny’s Aunt Susan is keeping a secret which she wants to tell Jenny about but before she can she is in a bad car accident and dies. Susan seems to know things are going to happen before they do and she was prepared. She leaves Jenny her house and business. There is a mystery to be solved and a ghost in the house. People are being murdered and bad things are happening. This story has many twist and turns and you don’t know who the good guys are. Susan has asked Shane to take care of Jenny, he is at odds because he doesn’t want to love anyone else after he lost his wife and child. This story got you thinking about native lore and spirits. A good read.

I received an advanced copy for free, and the views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Lucille · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Sirens gave me the opportunity to read the ARC of The Shadows Left Behind by Judy Leslie, the second book in a series called Cook’s Cove mystery, in return for an honest review.

As the first book in the series, this story takes place in a little town called Cook’s Cove. I would recommend reading the first book before you start this one, as a lot of things that were left hanging there are explained and revealed in this book. Again, the characters are well-rounded and were all believable, both heroes and villains.

I am definitely looking forward to book 3. Like the first book in the series, I gave it a well-deserved four stars.

[Mary Sue Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Good

I enjoyed this well written book and look forward to reading more of the Cook's Cove series.
this story is about self discovery, family, relationships, grief and love. I love the northwest setting and the great characters. It was also fun as I tried to solve the "who done it". I highly recommend.

[Larae Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me captivated from Start to finish.
Jenny is an independent woman. Who is very capable of taking care of herself.
Salty, a sweet lovable pup who brought joy to Jenny's life.Jennys "Mother" well, I don't like her one bit.
This is a very edge of your seat. Gotta know what happens next book.
I loved it.

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

You should read book 1 first to better understand the story. After the death of Susan her niece comes to Cook’s Cove to settle her estate. But things aren't as straight forward as they seem. Good story

[FD · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very entertaining story, containing romance, mystery, suspense, a touch of the supernatural and a pinch of sadness. Written in an accessible writing style that easily draws you into the story. Appealing characters, some of which are a bit one-dimensional There are some predictabilities, sometimes parts seem a bit unfinished, but the story remains thrilling enough, and I would definitely read from this author again

Jenny moves into her home after the death of her beloved aunt. Her aunt's death turns out to be under suspicious circumstances and Jenny not only wants to find out what happened, but also the secrets her aunt kept.

This story is a complete story, with a HFN, but there is more to discover in the next part.

[Marjorie Nielsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The House at the Cove

This was a wonderful read. So many twists
and turns. Left me hanging to the end. A definite binge read. Couldn't put it down.

[Betty Humble · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished in one day!

This book captures you from the beginning, heartache, love & spirits. Beautiful description of the island & beach So sad but lovely at the same time

[Anastasia Waite · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It isn’t my typical read, but it was well written and the character development was great. It made me feel several different emotions and I read it in 24 hours!

[sue bright · Rating 5 out of 5]

The House at the Cove

Love the book going to read the series. It would make a good movie. Lot of twists and turns. I hope a Jenny gets married

[Sister M Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing read!

I couldn't put this book down and when I had to, I couldn't wait to pick it up again and continue reading.

[Jeanette Elchuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Downloaded the 2nd book in this series! Savoring the thoughts of “what happens next!”
Great author. So happy I found her books

[Sandra Daves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I couldn’t put this book down. Well written with lots of twists and turns. Highly recommend The House At The Cove.

[Tracy Conner · Rating 5 out of 5]

GREAT READ

This is the first book I have read from Judy Leslie and I have to say it was great. Can not wait to read the next book in the series.