Last Night at the Beach House

Sparrow Haven Cozy Mystery #4

by Claire Harlow

In the idyllic town of Sparrow Haven, an opulent beach party sets the stage for murder.

Olivia Harper finds herself entangled in the lavish world of Richard Bennett, a man whose charm is as vast as his secrets. When Richard is found dead, the peaceful community is thrust into a web of intrigue and suspicion.

With the help of her spirited best friend Milly, the irresistible Dr. Ethan Foster, and her lovable Golden Retriever Barkley, Olivia delves into a web of jealousy, betrayal, and hidden motives, where every acquaintance of Richard becomes a suspect with something to lose.

As the investigation unfolds, a colorful cast of characters emerges, each with secrets of lies, love, and betrayal. From the enigmatic artist entwined in a troubling affair to a vengeful sister shadowed by family feuds, the suspects' motives are as murky as the coastal fog.

Before a threat becomes deadly, Olivia must unravel the intricate web of deceit, exposing a truth more perilous than the stormy seas, and bringing a cunning murderer to justice.

199 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 11, 2024

About the author

I have a deep affection for mysteries that unravel gently, leaving me thrilled, satisfied, and always craving the next adventure.

Living in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with my family, our energetic Labrador, and a couple of curious cats. I draw inspiration from life's simple pleasures – walks in nature, a good book on a rainy day, and knitting cozy comforts.

When I was young I spent many long afternoons curled up with one of our cats reading Agatha Christie, and wishing I could grow up and solve mysteries like Poirot. Now I’m delighted to turn this passion into crafting each book as a personal puzzle for you to unravel.

I'm excited to welcome you to my world of whodunits, and I hope my books spark as much joy and intrigue in you as they do for me.

Reviews

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful book in the Sparrow Haven Cozy Mystery series. I read a lot of books and I don't always look forward to another in the series however I'm on pins and needles waiting for the next in this series. I love the all the characters especially Barkley. Olivia is a great main character. She's well developed, easy to get to know and interesting. The others are written well especially Milly and Ethan. I love that the mystery is not easily solved early on so you aren't reading a book that you already know the answers to. So when you are joining Olivia in solving the murder of Richard Bennett remember that not all is as it seems. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Malgorzata · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this cozy mystery with authentic characters and interesting plot. I didn't give 5 stars because I'm against celebrating haloween and this motive appeared in the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series

Fred, Olivia, Ethan and Millie (plus Olivia's Dad) are a combination of investigators that reach the right conclusion to catch the murderer. Great descriptions, characters, red herrings, and motives (only with an overuse of the word "smirking").

[Kay Cobbold · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved travelling through this excellent plot and became to really like Olivia and her dog Barkley, Ethan and Milly.The plot is well considered, building to a climax when the murderer is, finally, uncovered. There are enough suspects to get my investigative juices working and many of the suspects, although not murderers, have dark secrets in their lives. Harlow builds realistic characters and we learn about important relationships and how interaction between characters validates the realistic feel of the book. Food, fun and Skye the parrot lighten the mood, and even the less prominent characters come to life. Olivia’s investigation isn’t all plain sailing, there are darker moments, and the help she receives from Ethan, Milly and her father helps to solve the mystery. The story is written in first person past narrative, which always works best for me. I, thoroughly, enjoyed the story, and I’m, already, looking forward to the next one. As well as a mystery to solve, will there, also, be wedding bells? I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 4th book in the Sparrow Haven Cozy Mystery series is just as enjoyable as the previous books.

.This episode features Olivia and Millie during a party at Richard Bennett's Beach House. When Richard is discovered dead, Olivia is sucked into yet another murder mystery. Since practically everyone Richard knows, even his own sister, has a motive to want him dead, there are many potential suspects. Could Olivia be putting herself in danger as she and Detective O'Malley sift through clues of dishonesty, manipulation, and jealousy in order to identify the culprit

Olivia is a great protagonist. She is someone I could be friends with. I love the bond she has with Detective O'Malley and the way he calls her kiddo. It's like he looks at her like a daughter. If you love a small-town Cozy mystery with a Surprise ending, you are going to love this series. Read the books in order so you can come to love the characters as I do.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do love this series by Claire Harlow . It’s like a warm hug on a winter’s evening. The regular characters are solid with depth and I grow fonder of them each time I read of their exploits. Olivia Harper, her friend Milly , Barkley her Golden Retriever and the lovely Dr. Ethan Foster vet and love interest are soon embroiled in the mystery surrounding Richard Bennett an artist who is found dead, and there’s plenty of suspects arise while investigating his demise. Secrets and lies and those who despise him are among those who admire him… Great immersive storytelling with super descriptions and very well written content. As to be expected of this fine author’s work. A compelling cosy experience. I was forwarded this book and I’m leaving my review voluntarily in my own thoughts.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 4 in the Sparrow Haven series and while it’s a great series, this can be read as a standalone.

This series has a great cast of characters, from Olivia (the town librarian and part time police consultant), her boyfriend Ethan (the vet), her bff Millie, Fred (the police chief), and of course Barkley (the wonder dog). We even added Skye in this book, an African Grey. I’m jealous because that’s my dream bird. Don’t tell Max, my macaw.

The writing was excellent. The story flowed well and while the killer was one of my 2 picks, I did not have the motive. I love the in depth background description which add to the story. I like being able to picture the scenery.

I did receive this as a free ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Doreen Farrar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in Claire Harlow's Sparrow Haven series, although it's the first in the series that I've read. By this time, the protagonist has been hired as an official consultant to the police force, which is a definite change from the amateur fumblers so common in cozy mysteries. It's not a terribly long book, but it's well-crafted and covers a lot of ground, from the local library to beachfront parties to police station interviews. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading the rest of the series. (I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series with Barkley and now have added a bird, Skye. Can't get much better than this. I have enjoyed each book as they have come out and this one does not disappoint. The whole gang is here, involved in figuring out who the murderer is. This author's writing is great and I have not yet read anything that has disappointed me in any way. Her name will be on my always read list while I try to keep track of all the books that come out. You won't be disappointed - great detail in description of the area; you will feel like you're right there with them! I love that Olivia and Ethan are getting closer, they are great together!

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I definitely hadn’t guessed the whodunit and as always, the team of Fred and Olivia got their perp. They each had a scary episode during the mystery itself, but they lived to tell about it. The showdown was quick and exciting. I loved how Olivia managed to get the killer to confess to something and got the last word in.

It was so sweet how well things were progressing between Ethan and Olivia too! Hey maybe this’ll be one series where the main character gets her guy before the bestie gets hers. Milly wasn’t having the best luck, but I think she enjoys dating without commitment anyway. Can’t wait for the next book!

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last Night at the Beach House is book #4 in the Sparrow Haven Cozy Mysteries series by Claire Harlow.

For me, the characters are the most important. It can be the most intriguing mystery but if I don’t connect with the characters, I don’t really enjoy the book. I definitely enjoyed this book. I really like the characters and their relationships and the mystery kept me guessing. The descriptions of the scenes made it easy for me to picture it in my mind. I plan to read the earlier books to catch up on this series.

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

[Joanie Hinton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A nice, entertaining party at a stately house on the beach. The next morning the owner of the house is found murdered. Since Olivia is now an official police consultant the sheriff calls her in right away to the scene. Things don't seem to be adding up as evidence is collected and suspects are found. Clues include lies, art forgery and stolen jewelry. After Olivia is assaulted and threatened things start falling into place and the murderer is arrested.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sharp-witted mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Olivia soars to new sleuthing heights in this well crafted mystery! Her cohorts, Ethan, Milly, and Fred, are well established characters now and help speed the reader through a maze of clues and suspicions. Barkley lends a touch of charismatic canine love as a support to Olivia! The pace is steady till it reaches a flurry of fast paced detective work to draw the reader to the 'didn't see that coming' ending! Well done by the author! This is a most excellent reading-worthy series!

[Robin Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia attends a beach party at the home of Richard Bennett. When Richard is killed, Olivia again steps in as an official police consultant to help solve the case. There’s a wealth of suspects and a variety of motives as Olivia, Milly, and Ethan struggle to find the murderer before someone else is harmed. Good addition to the series, with likeable characters, a plot with twists and turns, and a little romance.
I received an ARC from the author via BookSirens, and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Anne Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richard Bennett owns a big estate & is throwing a beach party. Olivia & her friend Milly have been invited & Ethan comes along later as he had a client. One of the housekeepers finds Richard dead just after midnight. They’d been clearing up. He was in his bedroom & seemed to be packing! Very odd, thinks Olivia, as he’d mentioned being there for awhile. There are several clues leading to various people & various reasons as to while he was killed. Then, someone attacks Olivia in her car. In the end, it is her father who finds the missing clue!

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cozy murder mystery that will charm you and intrigue you. The array of characters are vibrant, colorful and quirky but of course this wouldn't be a murder mystery without a deadly schemer hidden in plain sight given that it is the characters that draw you in it is the allure of intrigue through lies, secrets, betrayals leading to murder with a plot that will have you checking facts taking two steps forward and one step back with false clues and motives bending the suspect list. Acquire

" Last Night at the Beach House " for an intriguing and enjoyable read. Kat

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia Harper goes with Milly her best friend to Richard Bennett ‘s Beach house gathering and the next day he was murdered. There were many suspects and Olivia was helping Detective Fred with the case on an official manner.  There  are interesting characters and humour with Skye the parrot. A exciting read with an edge of the seat finish. I received this ARC copy via booksirans and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.

[Sandy T · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an entertaining quick read cozy murder mystery story. Olivia is now an official police consultant and is asked to investigate a murder of a man she just met the evening of his death. There are several suspects to interview and investigate along with a few twists. Olivia is smart likeable main character who works well with the local police department. This is an enjoyable series.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Baby Girl · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a lover of mystery books, Claire Harlow is one of my favorite mystery writers. She knows how to write a mystery that captures the reader's attention from page one. Her characters bring the story to life. Fred, Olive, Ethan, Millie, Barkley, and Skye the talking bird are funny, caring, grumpy, lively, experienced sleuths, and always catch the bad guys. Last Night at the Beach House, Sparrow Haven Cozy Mysteries: Book Four did not disappoint. Because of their great teamwork in amateur sleuthing, the story took a life of its own. I cannot wait to see what mystery Claire Harlow will create in book five. These are truly fantastic mystery books!

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

[Karen Armes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia and her bff and BF make a great team. Having gone to the party given by Richard Bennett at his beach house, Milly and Olivia cannot believe that Richard is dead the morning after. Olivia must find the killer before the killer takes her out. Claire Harlow writes a great story that can be read alone but is all the better for having read the whole series. You won't want to miss any of the books in this series, Starting with Mystery at the Lighthouse.

[Alice Hazelbaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness - I sure laughed and giggled my way through this hysterically funny book! Between the antics of Alice and her friends, also nursing moms, and her dog Helen, I was in stitches! The wonders and indignities of raising infants, along with a very entertaining mystery, including a couple of murders, keep you reading to try and figure it out, along with Alice, Poppy and Ailsa! A highly enjoyable and engaging book. I received a free copy and write this review voluntarily

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Olivia Harper finds herself entangled in the lavish world of Richard Bennett, a man whose charm is as vast as his secrets. When Richard is found dead, the peaceful community is thrust into a web of intrigue and suspicion. Who killed the charming man?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[G · Rating 5 out of 5]

This time Olivia gets called into a case as an official police consultant. How will she crack the case?

Another great book in this series. Olivia is such a fantastic character and it is so much fun to follow along with her. These books and storylines are great and keep you going to the last page.

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

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first Claire Harlow cozy mystery I have read and I found it truly enjoyable. The plot was interesting and the characters appealing. The interaction between Olivia, her friend Milly and boyfriend Ethan helps the story along. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Darlene C Robold · Rating 4 out of 5]

well done

A very nice follow-up to the first installment in the series. I enjoy the presentation of the characters and that not so many are introduced that it becomes difficult to remember who is who. The plot has time to develop and there were plenty of twists and turns. A few unfinished threads but overall very enjoyable.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good page turner of a mystery. I am loving getting to know Olivia, Ethan, Molly, and not forgetting the lovely Barkley. A well written mystery with great characters, lots of twists and turns to keep you guessing. Highly recommended.

[L.a.l · Rating 5 out of 5]

This who-done-it gives you lots of suspects and a plot that is twisted enough to keep you guessing. Best part of it is the hidden room with items that are priceless.
Do not think you will be able to put this down until you are on the last words.

[Martine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia is working on a case as an official police consultant. This story is a good addition to this series, which I truly like. It's very enjoyable with likeable characters. Addictive!

I received an advance review copy for free and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great cozy mystery. The story pulls you in from the first page and keeps you guessing until the last. It was full of twists and turns. Can’t wait to see what the next mystery entails.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Gaby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again a really awesome cosy mystery by her. I love the characters, in particular Olivia and her wonderful dog and grumpy Fred. This book had a few nice plot twists and till nearly the end I wondered who the murderer is. It was an exciting story