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Martha's Vineyard Murders #1
A Chain of Pearls
The last thing she wants is to dig up the past…
When the body of a celebrated journalist is fished from the Edgartown Harbor, the official report rules his death accidental. But why was he alone on a senator’s yacht during a nor’easter? That’s only the first question London-based lawyer Kyra Gibson has when she arrives on the idyllic island of Martha’s Vineyard to settle her estranged father’s affairs.
She’s not looking for closure. She’s not seen him in decades since he left her with her aunt following her mother’s death. But as Kyra delves deeper into her father’s life, she learns he had many regrets and wasn’t as retired as she believed. The more Kyra discovers, the more questions she has. With the help of world-weary detective, Tarek Collins, they uncover a web of intrigue and corruption involving a powerful senator, a dubious energy company, and brutal murder.
As they chase down clues, Kyra and Tarek flirt with danger and race against time to solve the murders and uncover the dark secrets lurking beneath Martha’s Vineyard’s picturesque façade of old money wealth and privilege.
When the body of a celebrated journalist is fished from the Edgartown Harbor, the official report rules his death accidental. But why was he alone on a senator’s yacht during a nor’easter? That’s only the first question London-based lawyer Kyra Gibson has when she arrives on the idyllic island of Martha’s Vineyard to settle her estranged father’s affairs.
She’s not looking for closure. She’s not seen him in decades since he left her with her aunt following her mother’s death. But as Kyra delves deeper into her father’s life, she learns he had many regrets and wasn’t as retired as she believed. The more Kyra discovers, the more questions she has. With the help of world-weary detective, Tarek Collins, they uncover a web of intrigue and corruption involving a powerful senator, a dubious energy company, and brutal murder.
As they chase down clues, Kyra and Tarek flirt with danger and race against time to solve the murders and uncover the dark secrets lurking beneath Martha’s Vineyard’s picturesque façade of old money wealth and privilege.
348 pages, Paperback
Published April 9, 2024
485 people are currently reading
4056 people want to read
About the author
Raemi A. Ray
7 books93 followersRaemi Amanda Ray is the author of the Martha's Vineyard Murders, set on Martha’s Vineyard. Her travels to the island and around the world inspire her stories. She lives in Boston.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
May 15, 2024
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
A CHAIN OF PEARLS (Martha’s Vineyard Murders Book #1) by Raemi A. Ray is a gripping debut murder mystery set on Martha’s Vineyard that I could not put down. I am very happy this is a proposed series because everything, from the fully drawn characters, intricate mystery plot, and the idyllic island setting were flawlessly executed on the page, and I want to visit again soon.
London-based Kyra Gibson arrives on Marth’s Vineyard to settle her estranged father’s estate. Retired from his years as a foreign journalist, he is found dead in the Edgartown Harbor from an apparent drowning accident. As she delves deeper into her father’s affairs, she discovers he was digging into a story involving a powerful senator on the island and a lucrative wind turbine contract. When she speaks to the detective in charge of her father’s case, she learns he has doubts of his own about her father’s death being an accident.
Detective Tarek Collins has questions still unanswered about Kyra’s father’s death. As the two begin to work together, another body is discovered in a barn fire on the senator’s island property. Tarek and Kyra do not realize the danger they are in as they uncover secrets that lie beneath the surface of the rich and powerful on the island.
I read this book from start to finish in one sitting. Kyra and Tarek come to life on the page. They work well together and there is an attraction that will hopefully be advanced in future books. The mystery plot was well paced with surprise twists and a continual increase in tension and suspense to the climax. The description of Martha’s Vineyard throughout the story made me feel as if I was right there with the characters. I was very surprised to find out this is the author’s debut book because it reads more like a book in a series by one of my favorite authors that I have been following for years.
I highly recommend this engaging murder mystery and am looking forward to many more.
A CHAIN OF PEARLS (Martha’s Vineyard Murders Book #1) by Raemi A. Ray is a gripping debut murder mystery set on Martha’s Vineyard that I could not put down. I am very happy this is a proposed series because everything, from the fully drawn characters, intricate mystery plot, and the idyllic island setting were flawlessly executed on the page, and I want to visit again soon.
London-based Kyra Gibson arrives on Marth’s Vineyard to settle her estranged father’s estate. Retired from his years as a foreign journalist, he is found dead in the Edgartown Harbor from an apparent drowning accident. As she delves deeper into her father’s affairs, she discovers he was digging into a story involving a powerful senator on the island and a lucrative wind turbine contract. When she speaks to the detective in charge of her father’s case, she learns he has doubts of his own about her father’s death being an accident.
Detective Tarek Collins has questions still unanswered about Kyra’s father’s death. As the two begin to work together, another body is discovered in a barn fire on the senator’s island property. Tarek and Kyra do not realize the danger they are in as they uncover secrets that lie beneath the surface of the rich and powerful on the island.
I read this book from start to finish in one sitting. Kyra and Tarek come to life on the page. They work well together and there is an attraction that will hopefully be advanced in future books. The mystery plot was well paced with surprise twists and a continual increase in tension and suspense to the climax. The description of Martha’s Vineyard throughout the story made me feel as if I was right there with the characters. I was very surprised to find out this is the author’s debut book because it reads more like a book in a series by one of my favorite authors that I have been following for years.
I highly recommend this engaging murder mystery and am looking forward to many more.
May 13, 2024
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to Author Marketing Experts for inviting me to join this Book Tour last month and to Raemi for sending me a FREE Physical Copy to promote and review for her as part of the Tour this week as well as the goodies with it.
This was my first time reading a Thriller by Raemi so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i really enjoyed this one especially since i could relate to the Grief Kyra was feeling about her Dad's Passing since i lost mine in November 2021.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Kyra and Grace were definately my favorites especially with their determination to find out what happened to Ed and The Senator.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Martha's Vineyard while reading, especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Phenomenal Book 1 in this Thriller Series by Raemi!! Can't wait to read Book 2 this Summer!!
Review:
Thank you to Author Marketing Experts for inviting me to join this Book Tour last month and to Raemi for sending me a FREE Physical Copy to promote and review for her as part of the Tour this week as well as the goodies with it.
This was my first time reading a Thriller by Raemi so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i really enjoyed this one especially since i could relate to the Grief Kyra was feeling about her Dad's Passing since i lost mine in November 2021.
The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Kyra and Grace were definately my favorites especially with their determination to find out what happened to Ed and The Senator.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Martha's Vineyard while reading, especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Phenomenal Book 1 in this Thriller Series by Raemi!! Can't wait to read Book 2 this Summer!!
October 4, 2025
It has a great plot, but what the heck happened to Wes Silva? 🤔
April 11, 2024
This is such an awesome debut, a fabulous murder mystery in a fabulous setting and the characters are so good, yes this one had me guessing till the end, come on a visit to the island of Martha’s Vineyard for the start of what I think is going to be a fabulous series.
Kyra Gibson is a lawyer who lives in England, she has been estranged from her father for many years now and she is finally going to visit Martha’s Vineyard the island her globetrotting prize winning journalist father had called home until he fell of a senator’s yacht during a storm, his death was ruled as an accident. Kyra just wants to settle his affairs, sell his home and put it all behind her.
But once she starts digging into his affairs and uncovers some paperwork she is thinking that all is not right with his death, when she discovers secret meetings with someone and it looks like bribery regarding a senator and an energy company and then there is another death on the farm said senator and his family own.
Detective Tarek Collins arrives on the island to investigate and together Kyra and Tarek uncover so much more so many secrets lots of corruption and Kyra and the neighbours she has befriended soon find themselves in danger.
Kyra and Tarek have built up a good friendship while investigating and they make a good team but will they get to the truth? This is a story that I loved from start to finish so many fabulous characters and I highly recommend it to any reader who loves a good mystery with an awesome setting, this one is sure to keep you turning the pages and guessing. I am really looking forward to book two.
My thanks to the Tule Publishing for my digital copy to read and review.
Kyra Gibson is a lawyer who lives in England, she has been estranged from her father for many years now and she is finally going to visit Martha’s Vineyard the island her globetrotting prize winning journalist father had called home until he fell of a senator’s yacht during a storm, his death was ruled as an accident. Kyra just wants to settle his affairs, sell his home and put it all behind her.
But once she starts digging into his affairs and uncovers some paperwork she is thinking that all is not right with his death, when she discovers secret meetings with someone and it looks like bribery regarding a senator and an energy company and then there is another death on the farm said senator and his family own.
Detective Tarek Collins arrives on the island to investigate and together Kyra and Tarek uncover so much more so many secrets lots of corruption and Kyra and the neighbours she has befriended soon find themselves in danger.
Kyra and Tarek have built up a good friendship while investigating and they make a good team but will they get to the truth? This is a story that I loved from start to finish so many fabulous characters and I highly recommend it to any reader who loves a good mystery with an awesome setting, this one is sure to keep you turning the pages and guessing. I am really looking forward to book two.
My thanks to the Tule Publishing for my digital copy to read and review.
April 17, 2024
There is so much to unpack in A Chain or Pearls, Raemi A. Ray's debut novel. Yes, it is a murder-mystery (a cozy one at that!) and yes there are forays into political intrigue, but more than anything else, it is a love story; A story of love denied, lost, discovered and emerging. It is about the love of a place and the love among people.
Others have commented on the murder-mystery aspects of the novel, but not enough has been written about the brilliant character studies that Ms. Ray has presented to us. Her characters are very real and suggest a lifetime of character study. Kyra, in particular is very real and, as a character she is perhaps most engaging in her internal conversations. We have all known people like Kyra, but Kyra stands on her own as a unique creation. Tarek is a worthy counterpart to her, as they tackle the murders that have brought Tarek, a police detective, to Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. He is a necessary part of the story but Ms. Ray ensures that we see him, and for the most part all of the characters, only through the prism of Kyra's awareness.
Martha's Vineyard is a character in and of itself. Its rhythms and features shape the story as much as any human characters, and Ms. Ray infuses a sense of longing in her descriptions of Martha's Vineyard that the reader cannot help but share.
This is a gem and we can look forward to two more (at least!!) books in the series.
Others have commented on the murder-mystery aspects of the novel, but not enough has been written about the brilliant character studies that Ms. Ray has presented to us. Her characters are very real and suggest a lifetime of character study. Kyra, in particular is very real and, as a character she is perhaps most engaging in her internal conversations. We have all known people like Kyra, but Kyra stands on her own as a unique creation. Tarek is a worthy counterpart to her, as they tackle the murders that have brought Tarek, a police detective, to Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. He is a necessary part of the story but Ms. Ray ensures that we see him, and for the most part all of the characters, only through the prism of Kyra's awareness.
Martha's Vineyard is a character in and of itself. Its rhythms and features shape the story as much as any human characters, and Ms. Ray infuses a sense of longing in her descriptions of Martha's Vineyard that the reader cannot help but share.
This is a gem and we can look forward to two more (at least!!) books in the series.
March 6, 2024
A debut novel, the first in the Martha’s Vineyard Murder series, is an exciting page-tuner. I finished this book in 3 days. With wonderful descriptions of the island’s natural beauty along with the ongoing issues between ‘summer people’ and native islanders, the author weaves a fun mystery involving politicians, big energy and local characters. And a cat named Cronkite. I am looking forward to the second in the series, due out in the summer.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 1, 2025
4 stars for me.
Kyra Gibson arrived on island of Martha’s Vineyard to settle her father’s house and belongings. She was not close to him, but some things don't make sense. The things she find was make her questioning was her father really retired, it seems he still was following some case. With the help of detective Tarek Collins she may just get the answers.
Was her father dead an accident?
What was he investigating?
Is Kyra now in danger?
Very enjoyable mystery read,it grip my attention from the beginning,I could not put it down. Of course it didn't hurt to read about detective Tarek crooked smile ;).The tension was paced exactly right, the ending great.Wish only Kyra have the clousure with her father before his dead,but email from him helped her in some way. Moving on to book two.
If you like mystery and intrigue, this book is for you. Would recommend.
Thank you booksirens, author and publisher for copy,the review is honest and my own.
Kyra Gibson arrived on island of Martha’s Vineyard to settle her father’s house and belongings. She was not close to him, but some things don't make sense. The things she find was make her questioning was her father really retired, it seems he still was following some case. With the help of detective Tarek Collins she may just get the answers.
Was her father dead an accident?
What was he investigating?
Is Kyra now in danger?
Very enjoyable mystery read,it grip my attention from the beginning,I could not put it down. Of course it didn't hurt to read about detective Tarek crooked smile ;).The tension was paced exactly right, the ending great.Wish only Kyra have the clousure with her father before his dead,but email from him helped her in some way. Moving on to book two.
If you like mystery and intrigue, this book is for you. Would recommend.
Thank you booksirens, author and publisher for copy,the review is honest and my own.
February 25, 2025
[3.5 rounded up]
I didn’t have much to go off of with this book. This was Ray’s debut novel so I didn’t really know about her or what to expect.
Overall, I wouldn’t say this book knocked my socks off, but it was a decent read— more of a cozy mystery.
I liked the Martha’s Vineyard setting where it’s this island set apart from the mainland where people are wary of outsiders. It makes it a little more interesting on who may be the culprit and who is just keeping someone else’s secrets.
I think the main thing I didn’t like was that the mystery felt too straightforward. You kinda find out the main ‘players’ early in the story— you don’t know exactly who did what when, but the corruption aspect was exposed too early in my opinion. I wish there had been some other major players in the mix to create more red herrings.
I also just realized that I’m not sure why the book is called ‘A Chain of Pearls’. It’s possible I just don’t remember because I’m writing this review several days after finishing, but it seems odd it’s not more obvious. Is it a play on words that the pearls, representing wealth and privilege, are also a chain, representing lack of freedom? Hm. Not sure how it connects. No one was strangled by a chain of pearls so….
The basic premise is this:
Kyra’s mother passed away when she was young. Her dad dealt with the grief by investing heavily in his global journalistic work, leaving Kyra to live with an aunt in London. They’ve had a strained relationship ever since. Then Kyra learns that her dad died in a boat accident on the Martha’s Vineyard island.
When she arrives to deal with his affairs she sees that he may not have really been retired, but actually working on a story unfolding on the island. It may be that his accident was actually a murder. She can’t restore her relationship with her dad anymore, but she can finish what he started.
She ends up (unofficially) partnering up with the local detective working (not working?) the case— Tarek— to find out what really happened to her dad and who was responsible.
One thing I wasn’t sure I was onboard with was how Kyra basically functioned like the detective. The information Tarek shared with her about bank accounts etc. seems like a major breach of his job. She was never cleared by anyone in his office but took part in virtually every aspect of the investigation. It seemed less like Kyra provided Tarek with some leads or evidence of her dad’s and more like she was sending Tarek out to do her bidding and check on her hunches and get her the info she needed to figure it out.
I also feel like there may have been a missed opportunity for a twist when it came to the neighbors. I don’t think this is a major spoiler but if you’re worried about that, just skip this paragraph.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for a cozy mystery, you’ll probably enjoy this book, however if you are more into twisty thrillers, this one might be a bit too boring for you.
I have the second one in the series so I’ll probably read that one too eventually and see if the writing style/content changes at all. Based on the reviews it appears that those who loved the first book also loved the second one. Plus it has a pirate ship and treasure so that sounds exciting.
At the very least, this series could function as an easy palette cleanser in between the more intense thrillers on your shelf.
[Content Advisory: 39 f-words (a good chunk of these were probably in the last 40ish pages), 17 s-words; a few LGBTQ characters]
**Received a copy via Author Marketing Experts in exchange for an honest review**
Book Review Blog | Facebook | Pinterest | StoryGraph
I didn’t have much to go off of with this book. This was Ray’s debut novel so I didn’t really know about her or what to expect.
Overall, I wouldn’t say this book knocked my socks off, but it was a decent read— more of a cozy mystery.
I liked the Martha’s Vineyard setting where it’s this island set apart from the mainland where people are wary of outsiders. It makes it a little more interesting on who may be the culprit and who is just keeping someone else’s secrets.
I think the main thing I didn’t like was that the mystery felt too straightforward. You kinda find out the main ‘players’ early in the story— you don’t know exactly who did what when, but the corruption aspect was exposed too early in my opinion. I wish there had been some other major players in the mix to create more red herrings.
I also just realized that I’m not sure why the book is called ‘A Chain of Pearls’. It’s possible I just don’t remember because I’m writing this review several days after finishing, but it seems odd it’s not more obvious. Is it a play on words that the pearls, representing wealth and privilege, are also a chain, representing lack of freedom? Hm. Not sure how it connects. No one was strangled by a chain of pearls so….
The basic premise is this:
Kyra’s mother passed away when she was young. Her dad dealt with the grief by investing heavily in his global journalistic work, leaving Kyra to live with an aunt in London. They’ve had a strained relationship ever since. Then Kyra learns that her dad died in a boat accident on the Martha’s Vineyard island.
When she arrives to deal with his affairs she sees that he may not have really been retired, but actually working on a story unfolding on the island. It may be that his accident was actually a murder. She can’t restore her relationship with her dad anymore, but she can finish what he started.
She ends up (unofficially) partnering up with the local detective working (not working?) the case— Tarek— to find out what really happened to her dad and who was responsible.
One thing I wasn’t sure I was onboard with was how Kyra basically functioned like the detective. The information Tarek shared with her about bank accounts etc. seems like a major breach of his job. She was never cleared by anyone in his office but took part in virtually every aspect of the investigation. It seemed less like Kyra provided Tarek with some leads or evidence of her dad’s and more like she was sending Tarek out to do her bidding and check on her hunches and get her the info she needed to figure it out.
I also feel like there may have been a missed opportunity for a twist when it came to the neighbors. I don’t think this is a major spoiler but if you’re worried about that, just skip this paragraph.
Recommendation
If you’re looking for a cozy mystery, you’ll probably enjoy this book, however if you are more into twisty thrillers, this one might be a bit too boring for you.
I have the second one in the series so I’ll probably read that one too eventually and see if the writing style/content changes at all. Based on the reviews it appears that those who loved the first book also loved the second one. Plus it has a pirate ship and treasure so that sounds exciting.
At the very least, this series could function as an easy palette cleanser in between the more intense thrillers on your shelf.
[Content Advisory: 39 f-words (a good chunk of these were probably in the last 40ish pages), 17 s-words; a few LGBTQ characters]
**Received a copy via Author Marketing Experts in exchange for an honest review**
Book Review Blog | Facebook | Pinterest | StoryGraph
May 22, 2025
A Chain of Pearls by Raemi A. Ray is a story of mystery, murder, and corruption on Martha’s Vineyard. Kyra Gibson, a young woman from London, arrives on the island to settle her father’s estate. Tragically, her father, Ed Gibson, an investigative journalist, mysteriously met his end when he fell off a senator’s yacht during a winter storm. Initially dismissed as an accident, Kyra becomes determined to uncover the truth behind her father’s death.
Kyra planned a brief trip to the island as she was not close with her father, who left her in the care of her aunt in London after the loss of her mother when she was a child. Fueled by a desire to know more about her father’s death, Kyra reaches out to Detective Tarek Collins, the investigator who handled her father’s case. Together, they embark on a journey of uncovering questions and sorting out their suspicions about the people her father was interacting with.
I thoroughly enjoyed the narrative of a London lawyer collaborating with a detective to solve a potential murder or two. I particularly appreciated the character development of Kyra throughout the story. The process she underwent as she settled into Martha’s Vineyard, adapted to her father’s home, and grappled with her grief made her a truly relatable character. I found myself rooting for Tarek to soften and loosen up a bit. While he undoubtedly maintains a professional and by-the-book demeanor when handling cases, I couldn’t help but wish he could adopt a more relaxed approach. I understand that the author intentionally crafted Tarek’s character, and this characterization has proven highly effective. However, revealing any further details would constitute a spoiler. The setting of Martha’s Vineyard was simply lovely, with its charming restaurants and friendly locals.
A Chain of Pearls, the first installment in the Martha’s Vineyard Murders series by Raemi A. Ray, introduces us to a captivating cast of characters on the picturesque island. While I eagerly anticipate exploring more of their lives, I must admit that the narration by Kim Bretton left me a bit disappointed. During the suspenseful moments of the story, her voice seemed forced and stiff, detracting from the overall impact of the narrative.
I appreciate Raemi A. Ray’s marketing expert asking me to listen to the audiobook of A Chain of Pearls. The author kindly sent me a digital copy of the book so that I could provide an honest review.
I have photos and additional information that I'm unable to include here. It can all be found on my blog, in the link below.
A Book And A Dog
Kyra planned a brief trip to the island as she was not close with her father, who left her in the care of her aunt in London after the loss of her mother when she was a child. Fueled by a desire to know more about her father’s death, Kyra reaches out to Detective Tarek Collins, the investigator who handled her father’s case. Together, they embark on a journey of uncovering questions and sorting out their suspicions about the people her father was interacting with.
I thoroughly enjoyed the narrative of a London lawyer collaborating with a detective to solve a potential murder or two. I particularly appreciated the character development of Kyra throughout the story. The process she underwent as she settled into Martha’s Vineyard, adapted to her father’s home, and grappled with her grief made her a truly relatable character. I found myself rooting for Tarek to soften and loosen up a bit. While he undoubtedly maintains a professional and by-the-book demeanor when handling cases, I couldn’t help but wish he could adopt a more relaxed approach. I understand that the author intentionally crafted Tarek’s character, and this characterization has proven highly effective. However, revealing any further details would constitute a spoiler. The setting of Martha’s Vineyard was simply lovely, with its charming restaurants and friendly locals.
A Chain of Pearls, the first installment in the Martha’s Vineyard Murders series by Raemi A. Ray, introduces us to a captivating cast of characters on the picturesque island. While I eagerly anticipate exploring more of their lives, I must admit that the narration by Kim Bretton left me a bit disappointed. During the suspenseful moments of the story, her voice seemed forced and stiff, detracting from the overall impact of the narrative.
I appreciate Raemi A. Ray’s marketing expert asking me to listen to the audiobook of A Chain of Pearls. The author kindly sent me a digital copy of the book so that I could provide an honest review.
I have photos and additional information that I'm unable to include here. It can all be found on my blog, in the link below.
A Book And A Dog
April 27, 2024
Reviewed by Gemini
A Chain of Pearls is the debut novel by Raemi A. Ray. It’s also the first in her Martha’s Vineyard Mystery series that is set in Martha’s Vineyard. Considering that this was Raemi’s first novel, I can honestly say that she writes like a seasoned veteran. I was very impressed by all of the imagery, suspense, and character development.
A Chain of Pearls is about Kyra Gibson who comes to Martha’s Vineyard to resolve her estranged father’s estate after he dies in an alleged accident on a boat. Her father, Ed Gibson was an investigative journalist who sent her away to live with her aunt after her mother passed away. Consequently, Kyra has a lot of pinned-up resentment concerning her father. During the short time that she is on the island, she is constantly reminded how easy it was for her father to get to know everyone in the neighborhood but failed to establish a meaningful relationship with her. Things get much more interesting when she contacts the detective who is working on her father’s case and realizes that he may have actually been murdered and the culprit may be closer than they think.
Since this was a mystery, I don’t want to give anything away. I will say that I really liked all of the colorful characters that were introduced. Although Kyra had the typical daddy issues, she was still likable and it was easy to root for her. Of course, there were those moments where I just kept saying that she needed to stop putting herself in danger but that was all part of the ride. I was guessing until the very end. I read a lot of mysteries and this one was very well written. I look forward to reading the next one.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
A Chain of Pearls is the debut novel by Raemi A. Ray. It’s also the first in her Martha’s Vineyard Mystery series that is set in Martha’s Vineyard. Considering that this was Raemi’s first novel, I can honestly say that she writes like a seasoned veteran. I was very impressed by all of the imagery, suspense, and character development.
A Chain of Pearls is about Kyra Gibson who comes to Martha’s Vineyard to resolve her estranged father’s estate after he dies in an alleged accident on a boat. Her father, Ed Gibson was an investigative journalist who sent her away to live with her aunt after her mother passed away. Consequently, Kyra has a lot of pinned-up resentment concerning her father. During the short time that she is on the island, she is constantly reminded how easy it was for her father to get to know everyone in the neighborhood but failed to establish a meaningful relationship with her. Things get much more interesting when she contacts the detective who is working on her father’s case and realizes that he may have actually been murdered and the culprit may be closer than they think.
Since this was a mystery, I don’t want to give anything away. I will say that I really liked all of the colorful characters that were introduced. Although Kyra had the typical daddy issues, she was still likable and it was easy to root for her. Of course, there were those moments where I just kept saying that she needed to stop putting herself in danger but that was all part of the ride. I was guessing until the very end. I read a lot of mysteries and this one was very well written. I look forward to reading the next one.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
May 15, 2024
I love a good murder mystery, and this is definitely a good one! This new to me author built up such a great world of characters and atmosphere. Kyra and Tarek were my absolutely favorite. And while I did have to suspend some belief that an officer would easily provide information to a civilian and let her tag along, it worked for this book.
I enjoyed that the author took us on a ride to solve this murder mystery, and it wasn’t all about staying in one place. From one clue to the next clue, I was guessing as to who the culprit was, and why.
I think there is more to the book than just a murder mystery. It’s also about love – love lost, and love found. Kyra and her father were estranged, but hearing about how much he talked about her, how he really tried when he went to her Aunt, it felt like Kyra was losing her dad for a second time. I am estranged from my father, but he doesn’t make any efforts. I felt for Kyra. Then there’s also love found – found among neighbors and friends that surrounded her dad while he lived in the house on Martha’s Vineyard. And found between Kyra and Tarek.
I don’t know what this author has in store for us in the next installment of this series, but I’m sure it’s going to be fantastic. I really hope to see Kyra and Tarek again soon!
I enjoyed that the author took us on a ride to solve this murder mystery, and it wasn’t all about staying in one place. From one clue to the next clue, I was guessing as to who the culprit was, and why.
I think there is more to the book than just a murder mystery. It’s also about love – love lost, and love found. Kyra and her father were estranged, but hearing about how much he talked about her, how he really tried when he went to her Aunt, it felt like Kyra was losing her dad for a second time. I am estranged from my father, but he doesn’t make any efforts. I felt for Kyra. Then there’s also love found – found among neighbors and friends that surrounded her dad while he lived in the house on Martha’s Vineyard. And found between Kyra and Tarek.
I don’t know what this author has in store for us in the next installment of this series, but I’m sure it’s going to be fantastic. I really hope to see Kyra and Tarek again soon!
May 13, 2024
Really enjoyed this one, I'm also glad to see it's book one in a series which leaves it open to the next one along. I liked the characters, I like how they interact with each other but they also show closeness between islanders and non-islanders.
There is a political aspect to this but it doesn't overshadow the main storyline which is good. I wonder more about the relationship with Kyra and her dad, why what happened, happened. They lost contact over the years but neither one brave enough to rekindle it. Life could have been so different! An alternative reality!
I feel sorry for Kyra at times but I'm happy when she meets Tarek. He is good for her it seems and he looks after her. I like the idea of Grace, kind of like the island mum, looking after everyone, caring for them, herself coming down the line after others. I also liked the sub stories to the main plot, brought together nicely and ties up the ends.
I wasn't sure how it would end but I was happy with it and I'm looking forward to reading more from the series when they come out.
There is a political aspect to this but it doesn't overshadow the main storyline which is good. I wonder more about the relationship with Kyra and her dad, why what happened, happened. They lost contact over the years but neither one brave enough to rekindle it. Life could have been so different! An alternative reality!
I feel sorry for Kyra at times but I'm happy when she meets Tarek. He is good for her it seems and he looks after her. I like the idea of Grace, kind of like the island mum, looking after everyone, caring for them, herself coming down the line after others. I also liked the sub stories to the main plot, brought together nicely and ties up the ends.
I wasn't sure how it would end but I was happy with it and I'm looking forward to reading more from the series when they come out.
May 13, 2024
Set on Martha's Vineyard, this picturesque book begins with Kyra’s father's unexpected death and her needing to deal with his affairs. Kyra's quest to uncover her estranged father's secrets and project unfolds slowly. Teaming up with Detective Tarek Collins, she navigates political corruption, family issues and island intrigue. While not a fast-paced thriller, it offers a satisfying blend of mystery and character exploration against the backdrop of a picturesque island setting among the wealthy in Martha’s Vineyard.
A very special thanks to Author Marketing Experts and author for the gifted copy.
A very special thanks to Author Marketing Experts and author for the gifted copy.
April 10, 2024
Kyra Gibson was a lawyer in London. Kyra had not seen her dad for years, her mother died of cancer and her dad was a journalist that went all over the world for his job so he knew he could not take her with him. She ended up living with her aunt in London and had not seen her dad since then. She had gotten notice that her dad Edward Gibson had passed in an accident on a boat, but it did not sound right. They said that he hit his head on the railing and drowned in the water. He was on the Senators boat, but he was alone, why would he be on some else's boat and the owner be nowhere around. And they were in the middle of a very bad nor'easter so why would he have been out in that kind of weather. Kyra was here now in Martha's Vineyard staying at her dad's house and trying to get some answers. She was going to meet with the Detective that handled the case the next day.
Detective Tarek Collins with Massachusetts State Police Department called saying he was in the area could he come over now. There had been a fire, and he was sent in to check it out as they had found a body in the smoldering ash. Kyra was asking him questions about the boating accident, and he admitted that it did not sound correct and a little off, so they teamed up to investigate the incident. It seems like the more people they question the more confusing everything gets. They did figure out that her dad was researching a wind turbine company and had a list of numbers that he had been in contact with. The body from the fire was identified as being Brendan Delaney, an aid to the Senator Hawthorne as well as an informant for her dad. This was getting more confusing by the minute. She still had to settle her dad's affairs and get his house ready to sell if that is what she decides to do. Kyra is not looking for closure as she had not seen him for decades. But as she had been cleaning out his house and talking to his friends, she discovered he had a lot of regrets about how he handled her life, and he wasn't as retired as she thought he was. Tarek and Kyra had uncovered a web of intrigue and corruption involving a powerful senator, a dubious energy company, and brutal murder.
Will they find out the answers they are looking for? Will Kyra get the answers that she deserves? Will they figure out who committed the murders? This book is exciting and will leave you reading it until it is done. I know that you are going to enjoy reading this mystery.
I got this book from BookSprout and will be happy to leave my review.
Detective Tarek Collins with Massachusetts State Police Department called saying he was in the area could he come over now. There had been a fire, and he was sent in to check it out as they had found a body in the smoldering ash. Kyra was asking him questions about the boating accident, and he admitted that it did not sound correct and a little off, so they teamed up to investigate the incident. It seems like the more people they question the more confusing everything gets. They did figure out that her dad was researching a wind turbine company and had a list of numbers that he had been in contact with. The body from the fire was identified as being Brendan Delaney, an aid to the Senator Hawthorne as well as an informant for her dad. This was getting more confusing by the minute. She still had to settle her dad's affairs and get his house ready to sell if that is what she decides to do. Kyra is not looking for closure as she had not seen him for decades. But as she had been cleaning out his house and talking to his friends, she discovered he had a lot of regrets about how he handled her life, and he wasn't as retired as she thought he was. Tarek and Kyra had uncovered a web of intrigue and corruption involving a powerful senator, a dubious energy company, and brutal murder.
Will they find out the answers they are looking for? Will Kyra get the answers that she deserves? Will they figure out who committed the murders? This book is exciting and will leave you reading it until it is done. I know that you are going to enjoy reading this mystery.
I got this book from BookSprout and will be happy to leave my review.
October 25, 2025
Kyra Gibson wasn't really planning to come and sort through her estranged father's goods and chattels and sell up his house in person. Yet somehow she found herself arriving in Martha's Vineyard six months after his death to do just that.
Her father, a renowned journalist, had given Kyra to her aunt in London to raise after the death of her mother and somehow never came back. Not long before his death he had reached out to her, but Kyra had allowed her resentment to win and she ignored it. Which was maybe why she felt the need to come and see where he lived. Not that she would admit it out loud.
When she meets his friends on the island, it's very clear to see that they had a more positive view of her father. It also doesn't take long for lawyer Kyra to wonder at some of the anomalies around his death by drowning off the boat belonging to a well known political figure.
When there is another death linked to the same political figure, Kyra finds herself involved when the detective who investigated her father's death is also the one investigating this new death. Tarek Collins is not above including her in the investigation. Maybe because it was safer that way as she was clearly going to get nosey about it.
It did take me a while to get into the story. Possibly because this is the first in series and there was setting up to do both in character and setting. My favourite character was Cronkite the cat.
The mystery itself was well laid out and followed a logical progression without making the solution obvious but when we find out, it is not out of the blue.
This is a first in series so we will get to see more of Kyra and Tarek along with the crew on Martha's Vineyard both welcome and not so welcome. I'm hoping some less than stellar characters will get their comeuppance in future episodes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Her father, a renowned journalist, had given Kyra to her aunt in London to raise after the death of her mother and somehow never came back. Not long before his death he had reached out to her, but Kyra had allowed her resentment to win and she ignored it. Which was maybe why she felt the need to come and see where he lived. Not that she would admit it out loud.
When she meets his friends on the island, it's very clear to see that they had a more positive view of her father. It also doesn't take long for lawyer Kyra to wonder at some of the anomalies around his death by drowning off the boat belonging to a well known political figure.
When there is another death linked to the same political figure, Kyra finds herself involved when the detective who investigated her father's death is also the one investigating this new death. Tarek Collins is not above including her in the investigation. Maybe because it was safer that way as she was clearly going to get nosey about it.
It did take me a while to get into the story. Possibly because this is the first in series and there was setting up to do both in character and setting. My favourite character was Cronkite the cat.
The mystery itself was well laid out and followed a logical progression without making the solution obvious but when we find out, it is not out of the blue.
This is a first in series so we will get to see more of Kyra and Tarek along with the crew on Martha's Vineyard both welcome and not so welcome. I'm hoping some less than stellar characters will get their comeuppance in future episodes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2024
Oh, my goodness! This was such a good mystery. For a debut novel, or even not a debut novel, this was remarkable. It’s well written, easy reading, with an interesting plot. There are plenty of possible perpetrators to keep the reader guessing. I kept trying, and I’m usually good at figuring it out fairly early on, but I couldn’t with this one.
The atmosphere is well set, in a small, island town. The vibe of the town and the suspicion of outsiders was perfect. The characters were realistic and helped create the atmosphere.
Kyra was great. An attorney in England, she’s come to the island to deal with her father’s estate after he died in an accident. While there, she hopes to figure out more of the details of his demise because him falling off of a boat in January, in Massachusetts, just doesn’t ring true for a man who survived war zones during his career as a journalist. Tarek, a detective with the state police, has his own suspicions, and when he’s called back to the island to investigate another murder, their paths cross.
I enjoyed every page of this book. It snagged me from the first page and wouldn’t allow me to leave until I’d read the last line. I highly recommend it. One small thing I didn't understand was the title. Not sure exactly what it means, but don't let that hold you back from enjoying this book.
To the author: Please, please, please, don’t make me wait to long for the next book in this series. I really want to see Kyra and Tarek working together again, as well as learning more about Charlie and Grace and the other island residents.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this book. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
The atmosphere is well set, in a small, island town. The vibe of the town and the suspicion of outsiders was perfect. The characters were realistic and helped create the atmosphere.
Kyra was great. An attorney in England, she’s come to the island to deal with her father’s estate after he died in an accident. While there, she hopes to figure out more of the details of his demise because him falling off of a boat in January, in Massachusetts, just doesn’t ring true for a man who survived war zones during his career as a journalist. Tarek, a detective with the state police, has his own suspicions, and when he’s called back to the island to investigate another murder, their paths cross.
I enjoyed every page of this book. It snagged me from the first page and wouldn’t allow me to leave until I’d read the last line. I highly recommend it. One small thing I didn't understand was the title. Not sure exactly what it means, but don't let that hold you back from enjoying this book.
To the author: Please, please, please, don’t make me wait to long for the next book in this series. I really want to see Kyra and Tarek working together again, as well as learning more about Charlie and Grace and the other island residents.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this book. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
April 16, 2024
Kyra travels to Martha’s Vineyard to settle her late father’s affairs, not realizing she’d stumble upon something much more sinister. Teaming up with Detective Tarek, can they unravel what happened to her father? A Chain of Pearls is a riveting mystery I couldn’t put down. The characters are shrouded in suspense. The plot progression is even which allows for building of tension and action. The descriptive narration is immersive. But it’s the setting of Martha’s Vineyard which makes this an unforgettable read.
Let’s start with the mystery. I love a good mystery, especially in an interesting setting. I’ve never been to Martha’s Vineyard, but I’ve visited Coronado Island and Mackinaw Island. Island people are very intriguing which makes it perfect for a murder mystery. Raemi A Ray slowly builds the mystery with false clues, dead ends, plus an intricate investigation. Brilliantly executed from start to finish.
The characters are well-written. I connected with Kyra right away. She’s a logical, intelligent woman who wants to find answers. The more I read, the more I liked her.
The cast of characters are an eclectic group of people, many of whom would make for excellent suspects. Raemi A. Ray takes care with each character, even the minor ones, making sure the reader understands what’s going on. Yet, there’s still a mystery to solve.
The setting of Martha’s Vineyard is like a character itself. The author details what’s happening and what’s going on as well as the island itself. It’s so visual, so lush, I couldn’t stop reading.
An engrossing mystery from start to finish, A Chain of Pearls is a must-read for mystery readers. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
My rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Let’s start with the mystery. I love a good mystery, especially in an interesting setting. I’ve never been to Martha’s Vineyard, but I’ve visited Coronado Island and Mackinaw Island. Island people are very intriguing which makes it perfect for a murder mystery. Raemi A Ray slowly builds the mystery with false clues, dead ends, plus an intricate investigation. Brilliantly executed from start to finish.
The characters are well-written. I connected with Kyra right away. She’s a logical, intelligent woman who wants to find answers. The more I read, the more I liked her.
The cast of characters are an eclectic group of people, many of whom would make for excellent suspects. Raemi A. Ray takes care with each character, even the minor ones, making sure the reader understands what’s going on. Yet, there’s still a mystery to solve.
The setting of Martha’s Vineyard is like a character itself. The author details what’s happening and what’s going on as well as the island itself. It’s so visual, so lush, I couldn’t stop reading.
An engrossing mystery from start to finish, A Chain of Pearls is a must-read for mystery readers. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
My rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
October 27, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
A Chain of Pearls is the first story in the Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries series. Kyra has returned to her father’s home on Martha’s Vineyard from London when informed of her father’s death. They may have been estranged for years, but he was still her father… and things surrounding his so-called accidental drowning do not make sense. Especially since he lived near the water for years, he knew how to be safe.
Kyra will find herself delving into her father’s notes, his paperwork. She will find that although the journalist was supposed to be retired, he was, in fact, researching some wicked political shenanigans involving a powerful Senator. Following up on her investigation, it seems that Tarek, the detective on the case, doesn’t think the evidence adds up either. Intrigued by what they both suspect, Kyra and Tarek will be working together to solve this mystery… and begin to look at each other as more than simply two people who want justice found for her father. Soon, they will find themselves enveloped in a mystery, another death, and threats upon their own lives… someone doesn’t want the truth to come to light any time soon.
I enjoyed A Chain of Pearls by Raemi A. Ray. The story is well-written, easily captured my attention and imagination while following the red herrings, as well as the twists and turns of the story. This is (at this time) a four-book series, so I imagine that we’ll see Kyra and Tarek explore that attraction that’s developing between them in future books. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
A Chain of Pearls is the first story in the Martha’s Vineyard Mysteries series. Kyra has returned to her father’s home on Martha’s Vineyard from London when informed of her father’s death. They may have been estranged for years, but he was still her father… and things surrounding his so-called accidental drowning do not make sense. Especially since he lived near the water for years, he knew how to be safe.
Kyra will find herself delving into her father’s notes, his paperwork. She will find that although the journalist was supposed to be retired, he was, in fact, researching some wicked political shenanigans involving a powerful Senator. Following up on her investigation, it seems that Tarek, the detective on the case, doesn’t think the evidence adds up either. Intrigued by what they both suspect, Kyra and Tarek will be working together to solve this mystery… and begin to look at each other as more than simply two people who want justice found for her father. Soon, they will find themselves enveloped in a mystery, another death, and threats upon their own lives… someone doesn’t want the truth to come to light any time soon.
I enjoyed A Chain of Pearls by Raemi A. Ray. The story is well-written, easily captured my attention and imagination while following the red herrings, as well as the twists and turns of the story. This is (at this time) a four-book series, so I imagine that we’ll see Kyra and Tarek explore that attraction that’s developing between them in future books. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
June 30, 2025
Raemi A. Ray’s debut novel, the first in the Martha Vineyard Murders series, is a captivating read. Kyra, a lawyer in London, arrives on the idyllic island of Martha’s Vineyard to settle her father’s affairs. However, her arrival soon turns ominous as she suspects foul play in his death. Could her father’s past as a journalist have played a role in his murder? As Kyra delves deeper into the investigation, her long-standing estrangement from her father resurfaces, adding complexity to the unfolding mystery.
This all proves to be quite taxing for Kyra, as resentment for her father has grown over the years. It just might be that the deeper she digs that her resentment will lesson. Learning more and more about her father’s life is helping to paint the picture of his life before his death. More than that, Kyra begins learning about her father when he was younger.
Kyra is not alone in her search for answers. Since it was soon proved that her father’s depth was indeed the result of our play, a detective, Tarek Collins, arrives on the island to begin his own investigation. She has no plans to let him go about finding answers on his own, and the two make an unlikely partnership.
Embarking on a new series is always exhilarating, and Raemi A. Ray’s debut novel delivers a solid start. The engaging narrative and well-developed characters make it a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense. Coincidentally, my family and I are planning a trip to the Vineyard in mid-July, adding an extra layer of excitement to my reading experience as I read the first book in this captivating series.
Many thanks to Raemi A. Ray and to Tule Publishing Group for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
This all proves to be quite taxing for Kyra, as resentment for her father has grown over the years. It just might be that the deeper she digs that her resentment will lesson. Learning more and more about her father’s life is helping to paint the picture of his life before his death. More than that, Kyra begins learning about her father when he was younger.
Kyra is not alone in her search for answers. Since it was soon proved that her father’s depth was indeed the result of our play, a detective, Tarek Collins, arrives on the island to begin his own investigation. She has no plans to let him go about finding answers on his own, and the two make an unlikely partnership.
Embarking on a new series is always exhilarating, and Raemi A. Ray’s debut novel delivers a solid start. The engaging narrative and well-developed characters make it a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense. Coincidentally, my family and I are planning a trip to the Vineyard in mid-July, adding an extra layer of excitement to my reading experience as I read the first book in this captivating series.
Many thanks to Raemi A. Ray and to Tule Publishing Group for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
April 9, 2024
A Chain of Pearls ~ Martha's Vineyard Murders #1 by Raemi A Ray
Raemi A. Ray is a new author to me, and I believe this is her first book, wow, what a great start to the series and her writing career.
I found this story gripping, suspenseful, emotional, relatable – and a brilliant page-turner, I couldn't put the book down!
This series starts with the " accidental death" of a celebrated journalist, Ed Gibson whose body is found in Edgartown Harbour. His daughter Kyra Gibson, a London-based lawyer comes to Martha's Vineyard to sort out his affairs. There are far too many questions about her father's death that do not add up.
Tarek Collins, the detective on the island helps Kyra start to piece together the fateful footsteps of her father's last few days. It turns out that Ed Gibson's death was not accidental at all!!!
This gripping story has the following: a web of intrigue, and corruption involving a powerful senator, a dubious energy company, and a brutal murder. Or is that two?
I highly recommend this story to all, and I am looking forward to the next book in the series, I would recommend that this deserves more than 5*
Fantastic read:)
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Great world building, Informative, Inspirational, Original, Page-turner, Realistic, and Wonderful characters
Raemi A. Ray is a new author to me, and I believe this is her first book, wow, what a great start to the series and her writing career.
I found this story gripping, suspenseful, emotional, relatable – and a brilliant page-turner, I couldn't put the book down!
This series starts with the " accidental death" of a celebrated journalist, Ed Gibson whose body is found in Edgartown Harbour. His daughter Kyra Gibson, a London-based lawyer comes to Martha's Vineyard to sort out his affairs. There are far too many questions about her father's death that do not add up.
Tarek Collins, the detective on the island helps Kyra start to piece together the fateful footsteps of her father's last few days. It turns out that Ed Gibson's death was not accidental at all!!!
This gripping story has the following: a web of intrigue, and corruption involving a powerful senator, a dubious energy company, and a brutal murder. Or is that two?
I highly recommend this story to all, and I am looking forward to the next book in the series, I would recommend that this deserves more than 5*
Fantastic read:)
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read, Entertaining, Great world building, Informative, Inspirational, Original, Page-turner, Realistic, and Wonderful characters
November 18, 2025
When I reviewed The Wraith's Return (now titled Death in the Dark), I commented that I thought I would have enjoyed it more if I had read Book 1 first. Now that I have, I was right. After finishing A Chain of Pearls, I went back and reread The Wrath's Return. Knowing the background of the characters, especially that of Kiera and Chase, made a big difference in being able to relate more fully to the characters. Kiera and Chase's relationship was my favorite part of The Wraith's Return, and now knowing their background, it reveals additional layers. None of the above took away anything from my enjoyment of A Chain of Pearls. Ms. Ray has a delightful writing style that draws the reader into her story and makes us part of it. I found myself completely captivated by the story and dreaded having to put it down. Once I get time, I will be rereading Widow's Walk. If you haven't read any of these, I highly recommend them. They are full of historical details, suspense, tension, unexpected revelations, unexpected friendships, and a touch of romance. What more could a reader ask for? I received a review copy from the author via Booksirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.
November 22, 2025
A good story and a well written suspense book. Although this is the first in the series, I received this book as an ARC, which strikes me as odd. I've read all of the other books in this series and that may be why it felt like I'd already read this. The characters are well developed and are interesting, the plot is clearly defined. A little slow to get going, but once the story began to take a firm direction the pace picked up. Kyra is a lawyer, living in London, who has come to Martha's Vineyard to settle her father's estate. Tarek is the detective who is helping her figure out if her father had an accidenet or was murdered. And it may intertwine with another case he is working. Of course. Without meaning to write in a spoiler, why does everyone get insulin wrong? A lack of insulin doesn't make your blood sugar drop, it makes it go up. Way up. (Just saying, editors....). Not the first time I've seen this, but I guess it makes for a more suspenseful plot. But wrong. I would recommend this book, but I would also recommend that this series of books is read in the proper order.
This ARC was provided by BookSirens and the publisher, the opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
This ARC was provided by BookSirens and the publisher, the opinions expressed herein are strictly my own.
June 3, 2024
A Chain of Pearls by Raemi A Ray is the first in the Martha’s Vineyard Murders. This was such a good murder mystery. The pacing was great. The description of Boston was painted perfectly and the characters were so realistic.
Kyra is a lawyer living in London, who has to go to Boston to handle her dad’s estate. Her dad died in an accident a few months prior to her arriving. While there she starts to notice a few holes in the stories that just don’t add up and when another person is killed, Kyra knows her father was murdered. She teams up with detective, Tarek Collins, who was the lead detective on her father’s case. He had his suspicions about her father’s death and now with Kyra’s help he is able to open the investigation again.
This was definitely a page turner. I was hooked from the first chapter. I found myself jumping when Kyra did and also, confused, when she just couldn’t seem to understand what was going on. Raemi had the right amount of suspense, emotion, and a web of shadiness. I really liked that it wasn’t predictable and that I was able to get lost and try to put the pieces together.
I can’t wait for the second book to come out!
Kyra is a lawyer living in London, who has to go to Boston to handle her dad’s estate. Her dad died in an accident a few months prior to her arriving. While there she starts to notice a few holes in the stories that just don’t add up and when another person is killed, Kyra knows her father was murdered. She teams up with detective, Tarek Collins, who was the lead detective on her father’s case. He had his suspicions about her father’s death and now with Kyra’s help he is able to open the investigation again.
This was definitely a page turner. I was hooked from the first chapter. I found myself jumping when Kyra did and also, confused, when she just couldn’t seem to understand what was going on. Raemi had the right amount of suspense, emotion, and a web of shadiness. I really liked that it wasn’t predictable and that I was able to get lost and try to put the pieces together.
I can’t wait for the second book to come out!
June 17, 2024
This is the story of Kyra, who lives in lives London as a lawyer. Her father dies on a yacht in the middle of a dangerous storm on Martha’s Vineyard with a senator. Kyra hasn’t heard from her father in a long time and they are estranged. She comes back to deal with her father’s estate.
Kyra finds out that there is a senator involved with a story that her father was working on. She works together with Detective Tarek, about her father’s death. Before long there is another body! WOW. 😮
I have to say that this book overall is a definite mystery lovers read! I loved the book from start to the ending. This is also the first book in the author’s writing repertoire but it definitely feels like the start of a series to me. The plot is fast paced and never a dull moment.
The characters are well written by the author and well thought out, along with the setting of the book. I have never been to Martha’s Vineyard, however I feel like I have now😉
I love the relationship with Tarek and Kyra and can not wait to read more in the next book called The Wraith’s Return coming soon to booksellers near you and me!
Kyra finds out that there is a senator involved with a story that her father was working on. She works together with Detective Tarek, about her father’s death. Before long there is another body! WOW. 😮
I have to say that this book overall is a definite mystery lovers read! I loved the book from start to the ending. This is also the first book in the author’s writing repertoire but it definitely feels like the start of a series to me. The plot is fast paced and never a dull moment.
The characters are well written by the author and well thought out, along with the setting of the book. I have never been to Martha’s Vineyard, however I feel like I have now😉
I love the relationship with Tarek and Kyra and can not wait to read more in the next book called The Wraith’s Return coming soon to booksellers near you and me!
September 5, 2025
A Chain of Pearls opens like a sea breeze—gentle, inviting, and tinged with something quietly ominous. Set against the backdrop of Martha’s Vineyard, this first installment in the murder mystery series offers a compelling blend of coastal charm and creeping dread.
The story orbits around a death that feels too neat, too convenient, and the protagonist’s quiet refusal to let it go. What unfolds is less a whodunnit and more a slow, deliberate peeling back of secrets—each one glinting like a pearl, deceptively beautiful and deeply flawed.
The writing is crisp and evocative, with just enough emotional texture to make the Vineyard feel lived-in, not just picturesque. There’s a subtle melancholy woven through the narrative, a sense that grief and suspicion walk hand in hand here. And while the mystery keeps its pace, it’s the atmosphere—the salt air, the strained smiles, the undercurrents of betrayal—that lingers.
Perfect for readers who love their thrillers with a touch of elegance and emotional depth. It’s not flashy, but it’s quietly gripping—like a whispered warning carried on the wind.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story orbits around a death that feels too neat, too convenient, and the protagonist’s quiet refusal to let it go. What unfolds is less a whodunnit and more a slow, deliberate peeling back of secrets—each one glinting like a pearl, deceptively beautiful and deeply flawed.
The writing is crisp and evocative, with just enough emotional texture to make the Vineyard feel lived-in, not just picturesque. There’s a subtle melancholy woven through the narrative, a sense that grief and suspicion walk hand in hand here. And while the mystery keeps its pace, it’s the atmosphere—the salt air, the strained smiles, the undercurrents of betrayal—that lingers.
Perfect for readers who love their thrillers with a touch of elegance and emotional depth. It’s not flashy, but it’s quietly gripping—like a whispered warning carried on the wind.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 31, 2025
📚A Chain of Pearls
✍️Raemi A. Ray
3⭐️
A Chain of Pearls follows Kyra, who visits the island of Martha’s Vineyard to sort her deceased father’s affairs. There, she teams up with a police officer as she believes there is more to his death than meets the eye. Really well written characters, however Tarek was a stereotypical toxic book boyfriend, blowing hot and cold and wasn’t always pleasant. Main character Kyra did make some dubious decisions that no safety conscious real woman would make. Lots of the supporting characters were dubious in nature and I had my suspicions about pretty much everyone in the cast. Raemi A. Ray is clearly skilled at building suspense and writing menace that gets rights under the readers skin. The police who dealt with Kyra were vile, small minded and bordering on corrupt - which is unfortunately the experience for many woman the world over. Unfortunately the plot lagged but this was a really well written series opener.
✍️Raemi A. Ray
3⭐️
A Chain of Pearls follows Kyra, who visits the island of Martha’s Vineyard to sort her deceased father’s affairs. There, she teams up with a police officer as she believes there is more to his death than meets the eye. Really well written characters, however Tarek was a stereotypical toxic book boyfriend, blowing hot and cold and wasn’t always pleasant. Main character Kyra did make some dubious decisions that no safety conscious real woman would make. Lots of the supporting characters were dubious in nature and I had my suspicions about pretty much everyone in the cast. Raemi A. Ray is clearly skilled at building suspense and writing menace that gets rights under the readers skin. The police who dealt with Kyra were vile, small minded and bordering on corrupt - which is unfortunately the experience for many woman the world over. Unfortunately the plot lagged but this was a really well written series opener.
July 1, 2025
A Chain of Pearls by @MissRaemi is a fun, gripping murder mystery that takes place on Martha’s Vineyard. A young woman from London, a lawyer named Kyra Gibson, visits the island in order to settle her father’s estate. He was an investigative journalist, who fell from a senator's yacht during a storm. His death was declared an accident, but Kyra isn't convinced and is determined to find the truth. She quickly connects with Detective Collins, and together they work to find answers.
I enjoyed the story, especially the character development. Kyra was likable and relatable. Her frustrations and emotions were realistic and believable. I know this is book one of a new series, and I am anxious to get to know her much better in future installments. I am not picky about settings, however, Martha's Vineyard jumped off the page, and I loved it.
I was #gifted the audiobook by the author. Thank you Ms. Ray. The review reflects my honest opinion.
I enjoyed the story, especially the character development. Kyra was likable and relatable. Her frustrations and emotions were realistic and believable. I know this is book one of a new series, and I am anxious to get to know her much better in future installments. I am not picky about settings, however, Martha's Vineyard jumped off the page, and I loved it.
I was #gifted the audiobook by the author. Thank you Ms. Ray. The review reflects my honest opinion.
October 25, 2025
🎧 Audiobook Review: A CHAIN OF PEARLS by Raemi A. Ray, narrated by Kim Bretton
What I enjoyed most about A CHAIN OF PEARLS was the atmosphere: moody, set in Martha’s Vineyard, and full of old money and secrets.
Kyra is sharp and no-nonsense but still layered with emotion, and I liked that she wasn’t overly hardened or cliché. The mystery itself leans more on political scandal and personal stakes than high body count, so it was a bit slower than I am typically used to. I also really liked her dynamic with Tarek, with a quiet chemistry that never felt forced. (If you know my taste in books, you know I’m not big into romance in my mysteries or thrillers, and this one was done well.)
This isn’t a high-speed, twist-every-chapter kind of read. It’s more about uncovering why things happened than who did it.
If you like your murder mysteries light with depth, drama, and a stormy coastal setting, A CHAIN OF PEARLS is a good story to start with.
What I enjoyed most about A CHAIN OF PEARLS was the atmosphere: moody, set in Martha’s Vineyard, and full of old money and secrets.
Kyra is sharp and no-nonsense but still layered with emotion, and I liked that she wasn’t overly hardened or cliché. The mystery itself leans more on political scandal and personal stakes than high body count, so it was a bit slower than I am typically used to. I also really liked her dynamic with Tarek, with a quiet chemistry that never felt forced. (If you know my taste in books, you know I’m not big into romance in my mysteries or thrillers, and this one was done well.)
This isn’t a high-speed, twist-every-chapter kind of read. It’s more about uncovering why things happened than who did it.
If you like your murder mysteries light with depth, drama, and a stormy coastal setting, A CHAIN OF PEARLS is a good story to start with.
May 16, 2024
London attorney Kyra Gibson travels to Martha’s Vineyard, where she must tie up the loose ends related to her father’s drowning death.
Full of emotion over their estrangement, Kyra discovers the circumstances surrounding her father’s death seem suspicious. Could it be her father was chasing a story that led him into harm’s way?
Author Raemi A. Ray delivers A Chain of Pearls, the first installment in An Island Mystery series. Kyra teams up with Detective Tarek Collins to probe into her father’s death along with suspicions regarding a senator and an energy company.
The deeper they dig, the more tangled webs they discover. It’s a cathartic process for Kyra to be able to bring justice first to her father.
As a debut novel, A Chain of Pearls provides a rich foundation for future installments set on this picturesque island. ~ Amy for Novels Alive
Full of emotion over their estrangement, Kyra discovers the circumstances surrounding her father’s death seem suspicious. Could it be her father was chasing a story that led him into harm’s way?
Author Raemi A. Ray delivers A Chain of Pearls, the first installment in An Island Mystery series. Kyra teams up with Detective Tarek Collins to probe into her father’s death along with suspicions regarding a senator and an energy company.
The deeper they dig, the more tangled webs they discover. It’s a cathartic process for Kyra to be able to bring justice first to her father.
As a debut novel, A Chain of Pearls provides a rich foundation for future installments set on this picturesque island. ~ Amy for Novels Alive
May 16, 2024
A Chain of Pearls is a phenomenal debut book. The murder mystery pulled me right in and kept me guessing at what would happen next until the very end. There are so many twists and turns that I could not even begin to guess at where the story was heading. I loved being kept on my toes.
Martha’s Vineyard came alive to me while reading this book. I could picture the cold waves hitting the shores and rocking the boats. The grand houses that were both summer residences and full-time residences were seen in my mind as I read the book. I love picturing the town as the characters visited the bars, resteraunts, and shops. Add in the amazing story with the incredible characters and this book is a winner all the way around.
This book is the first of a series and I cannot wait for more. There is so much more to discover on Martha’s Vineyard.
Martha’s Vineyard came alive to me while reading this book. I could picture the cold waves hitting the shores and rocking the boats. The grand houses that were both summer residences and full-time residences were seen in my mind as I read the book. I love picturing the town as the characters visited the bars, resteraunts, and shops. Add in the amazing story with the incredible characters and this book is a winner all the way around.
This book is the first of a series and I cannot wait for more. There is so much more to discover on Martha’s Vineyard.
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