Sea of Whispers

by Melanie Murphy

Ever since childhood, the ocean has called to Mia Rossi. It wasn't until she uprooted her life with her family to move to Long Beach, a shore town located in Long Island, that she realized how powerful this calling truly was. A calling that brought Claire Benicek into her life one fateful day.




While Claire Benicek's life crumbles around her after her 7-year-old son is kidnapped from directly under her nose, Mia must come to terms with the mysterious pull of the waves that crash at her feet as she stands on the shore. Those waves that echo through her mind, weaving mysteries, telling her secrets that she can't possibly interpret...can't possibly ignore. When she is dismissed by everyone else in her life, including the police, about her strange beliefs, Mia must take matters into her own hands...especially when it could mean the lives of two innocent boys. When messages in bottles exist and when seashells whisper, we must heed their calls.




Mia and Claire are two women brought together by bizarre circumstances, but their friendship might be just the thing that saves them both.

315 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 24, 2024

About the author

Melanie Murphy is a resident of Massapequa Park, a great community located in Long Island. She is a mother of two amazing boys and a high school English teacher. When she isn’t teaching, she can be found with her nose in a good book, cheering on her boys at a little league game, or with her toes in the sand at the local beach (in the summers of course).

Reviews

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book due to my ~New York~ and ~Long Island~ upbringing. I miss the ocean so much. Loved the character development!

[Emily Avdem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I loved this book! I easily could have devoured it in one sitting but my job and son took too much of my time! But even when I was away from the book, I always thought about it!

If you believe and appreciate things like "fate" and "divine intervention," this book is 100% for you!!

Not only that, it was a suspenseful mystery that kept me guessing and feverishly flipping through the pages. I became so invested in a few of the characters in this book and I found myself angry, sad, happy, scared, and more for them. (P.S. if you've read this and want to talk crap about a few of the characters, reach out! I am LIVID with a few of them and their actions!!)

I honestly can't believe this is one Melanie's first few books. The writing was engaging and entertaining with magic that was felt through the pages.

Definitely give this book a try!

[Meri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read especially being from NY. I will definitely be looking out for more of Melanie's writing/books!

[KMart Vet · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a genre-blending novel that seamlessly combines elements of mystery, thriller, and magical realism. It centers on Mia, a woman drawn inexplicably to a particular stretch of ocean, and Claire, a mother whose life is shattered when her son is kidnapped. Their lives intertwine in ways neither could have anticipated, bound by the strange and powerful pull of the sea.

What stands out in this story is its unique blend of mystery and magical realism, which added an almost otherworldly aspect to the story that I loved. The ocean becomes a character in its own right, as it guides Mia. As someone with a connection to the ocean and the East Coast, this resonated so strongly with me.

At its core, this is about human connection and the ways in which people can find solace and strength in one another, even in the most bizarre and heartbreaking circumstances. And others that... do not do that. The characters are richly crafted, and while not all of them are likable, the multiple perspectives allow for a deeper understanding of their actions and emotions. This nuanced approach makes the story even more compelling, as it explores the complexities of being human in the wake of a tragedy.

The writing is excellent, making it easy to get lost in the story. I found it impossible to put down, especially as the tension and intrigue built. However, this novel does delve into some tough topics, so it’s worth checking trigger warnings before diving in. Despite the darkness, there’s a strong emotional attachment to these characters—well, most of them, anyway. 👀

Thanks to the author for the complimentary review copy. All opinions are my own and this review is voluntary.

[Megan Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This read was a nice mix of suspense, mystery and magic realism. Told through multiple povs, you get to experience their thoughts, emotions, and overall headspace.

This was a well written book, that kept my attention and had me guessing what happened to the missing boys. Easily could be a book you can read in a day, I read most of it in one day.

Claire is a character who had you feeling her emotions along with her, my heart broke for her. Trish on the other hand was a rather obnoxious character, I was not a fan of her povs. She was written as a stereotypical housewife. The characters were enjoyable, well most of them were.

This is not my typical genre to read, however it was easy to follow and it kept me guessing, I recommend it if you enjoy mystery or want to start reading this genre.

I want to thank the author for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.

[Maddy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fast-paced, multi-POV mystery/thriller with lots of emotion and hope threaded throughout. I really enjoyed the short chapters and many POVs that really pushed the narrative forward. It’s the kind of mystery that the reader understands before the characters, and then you read on the edge of your seat about how they go about putting the pieces together and the mystery for the reader has more to do with how the characters will possibly be able to find/understand clues. The intensity really ramps up perfectly at the end, and finishes really satisfactorily.

I especially want to thank the author, Melanie, for the gifted copy!

[Jan Kip · Rating 4 out of 5]

Engaging read! Hooked from the get go and was itching to find out how the story would end. This was a page turner for sure!! I could have read this in a single sitting if I had the time

[Tasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, just wow! This book was so beautifully written and had me hooked from the beginning. 💙 I started it Friday evening and couldn't put it down!

Also, the cover is GORGEOUS!! Go add this to your TBR!!

[Corinne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book. The characters were deep and relatable, and the plot kept me hooked the whole way through. I especially liked how each chapter switched between different characters—it made the story more engaging and added to the suspense. It’s emotional, mysterious, and beautifully written. Highly recommend!

[Alison Sell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way the book is written, you are engaged from the start and NEED to keep reading, as the chapters flip between different characters. You can feel all the emotions the characters are going through, especially as a mother of young boys. Cannot wait to see what other stories this new author has in the wings.

[Marcella Cisotto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok this book was PERFECT for summers. Bonus points if you live on Long Island. Nothing and I mean nothing tickled my toes in the sand more than listening to wave sounds and reading about a young girl connected to the ocean solve a kidnapping. Stellar! If you’re not reading this, the sea is YELLING now! Read Sea of Whispers

[Andie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25/5⭐️

Looking for a quick read mystery book? Look no further. While mystery is not my usual genre, this book was such a fun quick read!

Sea of Whispers gives me Law & Order SVU vibes but if it was from the civilian perspective. This book has multiple POVs and a happy ending!

This is Melanie Murphy’s debut novel. It is such a pleasure to be one of the first to read and review a new author’s work! Thanks for sharing your work with me! Sea of Whispers is available on kindle, go check it out!

[Emily Finch · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

This was such a unique novel - it blended elements of suspense, magical realism, heartbreak, and hope.

I was captivated from the beginning and hard time putting this down, needed to know what happened next.

This is the perfect read as we approach spooky season - especially for those (like me) who like to dabble in the suspense realm without the full immersion.

I will definitely be reading more by this author!

[Bri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SO good. If you’ve been tossing around the idea of reading this one, just do yourself a favor and jump in.

The author wrote the people you’re supposed to hate so well, you can’t hate them. Well except the two you really really will hate, the betrayal was too much. Claire was so heartwrenchingly real, and I just wanted to give her a hug. I wish the author gave us more of an epilogue where she got some redemption. She deserved it. I loved this book so much.

[Miriam Lerner · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this book! Just when I thought I knew what was going on there was a surprise. Can't wait to see what else this new author comes up with

[Meghan Davis]

This book was very odd tonally. It opens with some interesting magical realism elements surrounding the ocean, but then the Claire POV was so wildly different that it was jarring to go back and forth between her and the Mia POV. Also the character of Trish was such a stereotype of a stay-at-home mom that it was frankly a bit painful to read.

DNF due to severe pacing and tonal issues.

[Bianca Aimee Gasca · Rating 5 out of 5]

My momma heart was invested from the very beginning💔✨ Sea of Whispers tugged at every maternal thread in my soul, and I found myself completely immersed in the ache, hope, and fierce love that lived within these pages🩶

I couldn’t help but put myself in the mothers’ shoes — imagining the unbearable weight of not knowing, of holding on through silence, of waking each day with a hope that defies logic. As a mother, it gutted me in the most beautiful way. It reminded me how strong we can be when we’re anchored by love♥️

“A mother never loses hope.”
That one line… it’s tattooed on my heart now.

Thank you, Melanie Murph , for the gift of this physical copy🩵 I felt every word. Reading this book truly felt like what you wrote in your acknowledgments: “unearthing a bit of magic hidden within the crevices of reality.” That magic — raw, real, and radiant — lives in this story📖♥️

This is more than a book. It’s a reminder of the unbreakable bond between mother and child, of grief and resilience woven together in lyrical prose. This story truly is a gift✨

If you love stories that whisper of grief, healing, motherhood, and the unseen threads that bind us across time—this is one to cherish🌊💙

[Irene Yohannes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that I would give more than 5 stars if I possibly could. I was reticent when Melanie approached me to read her novel but what a jewel it is. I never read something so touching, so heart wrecking and so masterfully executed as a mystery. I was trying to compare Melanie with some big names in the mystery/divine/family issues novels but honestly it is impossible. She is sooooo much BETTER. And now I am left wondering why this novel, who literally brought me to my knees is not having more hype around it? I felt every single emotion in the spectrum and then some more. It is only one author who made me cry reading her novels but now I can proudly say there are two. As a mystery I loved it, from the perspective of a mom I had my heart shattered and as a New Yorker I was ready to pack my staff and move to Long Island. This is a novel and an author I'll never stop recommending and talking about. Thank you for writing such a gem❤️❤️❤️

[Karlie Mose · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars ⭐️ Loved this mystery fiction novel with a dash of magical realism. The first few chapters are a little tough to stomach as a mom because it does cover the disappearance of two little boys so just a little trigger warning. But the story was great and although missing child mysteries are plentiful this one tied in some other literary elements that made it unique. This is a new author and I can’t wait to see what else she writes.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I honestly probably could have read this book in one day one the beach (which is basically the setting of the book). This was an easy read that will grab you right away. A little thrill, a little mystery, a little Long Island 😊

[Jeannette Simonetti · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a great read. Loved that it combined some mystery, magic and fate/destiny. Being from Long Island, I loved the familiarity of Long Beach. I was hooked at the end and couldn’t put the book down! A great first book by Melanie Murphy!

[Marissa K · Rating 4 out of 5]

LOVED!! Read it all in one sitting on my flight! Couldn’t put it down, incredible characters and exciting plot!

[Michael Thomas Perone · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sea of Whispers is a fantastic story about a young woman named Mia with a special gift to communicate with the ocean where she lives in Long Beach, Long Island, and she uses this ability to help her solve a case involving two missing boys. (Think “Moana” meets “Missing Persons.”) This excellent book about Mia and Claire, the woman who loses one of these boys who Mia befriends, kept me involved, even though I don’t normally like crime stories. The impressive novel is filled with well-developed characters and insightful details, like when the other woman who loses her son decides to say “my husband” to Claire instead of his name to demonstrate her developing coldness. I especially loved the shifting character perspectives from chapter to chapter. It was an original idea that kept the story fresh and from getting too monotonous. I could see The Sea of Whispers becoming a movie. I’d be lying if I said the ending surprised me, but in a way, that shows how good the story was. It kept me interested, even though I knew the identity of the abductors. I also loved the semi-supernatural stuff with the ocean helping Mia. (If you’ve read either of my novels, you know I’m a sucker for supernatural stories.) I can’t recommend The Sea of Whispers enough, especially if you’re into crime thrillers.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

You all know I love a good thriller/mystery. Child Abduction is no laughing matter, and I hate that Claire got the big brunt of the blame. I get it, but dang, she lost a kid, too!

I really did feel for Claire. I mean, yes, laundry probably could have waited, but if you're like me, if you don't take care of them, then you'll forget later. I hope to NEVER meet a Paticia in my life. She blasted Claire on the dang NEWS! Lady! I know you are not for real... but she was. And forgive me if I smiled a little when she realized... she really has no one to relate to... except Claire.

I know... you want to blame someone for it, and it stinks. Mia was a very interesting, if not very naive character. I actually really liked her and how she fit into the story.

Okay, I'm babbling. I enjoyed the book even if I did wind up guessing the ending and I was right. That's not a bad thing. I still liked the book and the way the two boys tied into it...I mean wow! Talk about desperation! Sorry, I can't give too much away.

This story is centered around child abduction and also includes infertility, trafficking and some mentions of adoption issues. Not hard, heavy triggers, but still look before you read. This book is available for purchase on Amazon.

[Kate Quick · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕: “Ever since childhood, the ocean has called to Mia Rossi. It wasn't until she uprooted her life with her family to move to Long Beach, a shore town located in Long Island, that she realized how powerful this calling truly was. A calling that brought Claire Benicek into her life one fateful day.
While Claire Benicek's life crumbles around her after her 7-year-old son is kidnapped from directly under her nose, Mia must come to terms with the mysterious pull of the waves that crash at her feet as she stands on the shore. Those waves that echo through her mind, weaving mysteries, telling her secrets that she can't possibly interpret...can't possibly ignore. When she is dismissed by everyone else in her life, including the police, about her strange beliefs, Mia must take matters into her own hands...especially when it could mean the lives of two innocent boys. When messages in bottles exist and when seashells whisper, we must heed their calls.”

𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘: This book was a wild ride! There were a couple of different POVs throughout the book (Claire, Mia, and Trish) that allowed me to see how each woman dealt with this tragedy. Claire and Trish were both grieving mothers who handled the situation completely different while Mia was on a mission to find the boys. I was completely shocked to find out who kidnapped the boys and why. I wasn’t expecting the ending at all!

[Rebecca Gulley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so glad I was introduced to this book. Typically all of the books that I have read is either from one character’s point of view or two characters’ point of view. The author shared a point of view from each character in the book (other than the police, and Trish’s husband Mason) I know everyone handles grief differently but man some people were so harsh to jimmy’s mom Claire. But in the end her husband’s brings up a valid point to Trish to not be so hard on Claire. This book is well written and kept me engaged the entire time. I liked the magic that occurred between Mia and the ocean. The ocean could have gave obvious hints to Mia especially when she put the shell to her ear, but that’s what made the story more mysterious and kept me wanting to see if she figured out where Jimmy and Kyle were. I had a funny feeling about those landlords especially when Dee called Mia’s mom about being “worried” when Mia got involved with Claire. When her landlords try to murder Mia I kept thinking this can’t be how the story ends for Mia. Mia and the ocean reminded me of Moana and the ocean. Highly recommend this book!!!

[Britt C · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this book from beginning to end.
The book took you on such an adventure and I enjoyed seeing the perspectives of the characters and I was deeply invested in this story!!
I wanted to keep reading and I didn't want to put the book down.
The book is very well written and you get sucked in from the very start.
I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was happening and I couldn't wait to finish the story!
all in all this is a book I highly recommend and I have already told my people that love to read to read this book !
10/10 would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good mystery and enjoys a book that they will not be able to put down :)

[Theresa Petty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was gifted this book by the author, and am truly grateful for the opportunity to read it.
I enjoyed it and it was very fast paced.
It was a thought provoking thriller, and I immediately cared for the characters involved.
That being said, I didn’t love the almost supernatural call of the ocean. I do believe in intuition, but I felt like this went beyond that at times.
It was a very emotional journey, and I did love the ending. Thankful for the read and will recommend to others. Thank you Melanie Murphy!

[Loveaffair.withbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book combines so many different types of genres and I was hooked from the beginning!! This book has some magic elements as well as some mystery and thriller. This story follows many different povs but the two main ones are Claire and Mia as they find themselves connected in an unexpected way.

This authors writing is captivating and enchanting and I found it hard to put this book down! The story is wonderful and the characters are lovable.. well most of them, and I was captivated the whole time!

I was definitely on the edge of my seat for the last 60-70 pages and I was so anxious, hoping the book would end the way I wanted it to! Highly encourage everyone to read this book if you love characters with depth, a storyline with layers, magic, thrills, and mystery to keep you guessing.

[Miranda Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book had me in my emotions! It’s about the search of two missing boys and the different reactions people have to the tragedy. The way it highlights how everyone copes with grief in their own unique way was powerful. Each character��s reaction felt real and heartbreaking, and it really makes you think about the impact of tragedy on a family. I would recommend this for anyone who enjoys stories that tug at your heartstrings.