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The Bluff
“Traymore masterfully ratchets up the tension little-by-little until the shocking, explosive end."--Tracey Devlyn, USA Today bestselling author.
“What do you have to lose, Kate?” Ryan asked me, as we stood on the bluff looking out on Lake Michigan.
Turns out, almost everything.
When I first moved from Manhattan to this small town six years ago, I worried about many things. I worried about finding a job. I worried that I’d be bored. I worried that my relationship with charming photographer Ryan Breslow was moving too fast. But I never worried about whether the ground beneath my feet would crumble—both literally and figuratively
My marriage didn’t go as I’d imagined. A year ago, Ryan met his untimely death in a car accident that’s still under investigation. Isolated and alone, all I wanted was to sell my home and leave Crest Lake and its painful memories behind.
But with my home inching ever closer to the edgeof the crumbling bluff, the property has become unmarketable. All of us on the lakefront have lost chunks of property, and tempers are at a boiling point about what to do next. And now, on the evening of a contentious vote about how to fix this pressing issue, my nemesis on the shoreline committee has been murdered.
I know how it looks, but it’s not what it seems. But I have to get my plan passed and cash out. Because I do have secrets.
And they won’t stay buried forever..
"With its high-stakes plot and complex characters, the novel is a masterclass in building tension and intrigue." - NetGalley
“What do you have to lose, Kate?” Ryan asked me, as we stood on the bluff looking out on Lake Michigan.
Turns out, almost everything.
When I first moved from Manhattan to this small town six years ago, I worried about many things. I worried about finding a job. I worried that I’d be bored. I worried that my relationship with charming photographer Ryan Breslow was moving too fast. But I never worried about whether the ground beneath my feet would crumble—both literally and figuratively
My marriage didn’t go as I’d imagined. A year ago, Ryan met his untimely death in a car accident that’s still under investigation. Isolated and alone, all I wanted was to sell my home and leave Crest Lake and its painful memories behind.
But with my home inching ever closer to the edgeof the crumbling bluff, the property has become unmarketable. All of us on the lakefront have lost chunks of property, and tempers are at a boiling point about what to do next. And now, on the evening of a contentious vote about how to fix this pressing issue, my nemesis on the shoreline committee has been murdered.
I know how it looks, but it’s not what it seems. But I have to get my plan passed and cash out. Because I do have secrets.
And they won’t stay buried forever..
"With its high-stakes plot and complex characters, the novel is a masterclass in building tension and intrigue." - NetGalley
285 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2024
86 people are currently reading
5889 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
September 28, 2024
I enjoy this author's book, so I was excited to read this one. This was an enjoyable read that played out more like a suspense book instead of a thriller. This book was well written, and Traymore did a great job building characters that had depth. The scenes were very descriptive, and I enjoyed the setting of this book. I questioned a lot of the characters and kept changing my guess on who was guilty. The author thew in elements that were meant to keep us guessing. Though the characters had depth, it was hard for me to really connect with any of them. Overall, this was a good read. 3.5 stars.
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 14, 2024
4.5/5 - This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but I doubt it will be my last. I started this whodunit late one evening and read till early morning before I finally had to make myself get a few hours of sleep. I finished it later the same day.
While I had suspects in mind, the book had me going back and forth and second guessing myself a few times. It also had some surprises I didn’t anticipate.
I enjoyed reading The Bluff and seeing how it all panned out.
I sincerely appreciated winning this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
While I had suspects in mind, the book had me going back and forth and second guessing myself a few times. It also had some surprises I didn’t anticipate.
I enjoyed reading The Bluff and seeing how it all panned out.
I sincerely appreciated winning this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
June 15, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Bluff in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
The Bluff by Bonnie Traymore is the kind of thriller I hope for every time I pick up a suspense novel. This one delivered. No eye-rolling, no skimming, no groaning at unrealistic choices—just clean, sharp tension that kept me glued to the page. I was fully engaged the entire time, and the pacing never once dipped.
The Details
The story follows a woman who moves into a coastal home perched on a dramatic cliffside, only to find herself drawn into a web of secrets, suspicion, and psychological danger. Traymore wastes no time setting the mood. The atmosphere is thick with unease, and the setting plays a huge role in maintaining that edge-of-your-seat feeling. It’s not just spooky—it’s smart.
I appreciated the intelligence of the protagonist. She’s not perfect, but her decisions make sense. She reacts like a real person would—sometimes emotional, sometimes cautious, but never foolish just for the sake of plot. Her inner world adds a lot to the suspense, and watching her unravel the truth while holding her own makes for a compelling read.
What really sets this book apart is the pacing. Each chapter ends with just enough tension to pull you into the next. There's no filler. Every scene matters. The twists land when they need to, and nothing feels forced or overdone. Traymore gives you time to breathe, but not enough to relax. It’s the kind of suspense that quietly tightens as the story progresses.
The writing style is crisp and confident. Traymore doesn’t lean on clichés or cheap thrills. She trusts the reader to keep up—and rewards that trust with an ending that’s satisfying without being over-the-top. You get answers, but you also get a few haunting echoes of the story long after the book is closed.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for a fast, intelligent thriller with strong characters, sharp writing, and a plot that doesn’t lose steam, The Bluff is absolutely worth your time. This is one I’ll be recommending for a long while.
Final verdict: 5 stars. Gripping, moody, and refreshingly smart.
November 19, 2024
Kate Breslow is a widow trying to move on after her husband’s mysterious death, but it’s not easy. The unresolved case leaves her with more questions than answers. But with nothing holding her to the small town of Crest Lake on Lake Michigan, Kate intends to start fresh as soon as she can sell her house on the bluff. Her plans take a dark turn when another murder rocks the community, and she suddenly finds herself as the prime suspect. Held captive by buried secrets and under her neighbors’ harsh scrutiny, Kate must uncover the truth to clear her name and expose the hidden motives that surround her—all while facing her fears, and the grief she thought she could bury.
I hadn’t read Bonnie Traymore’s work prior to this, but if “The Bluff” is any indication of her talent, it’s easy to see why she’s a favorite in the thriller genre. She turns the seemingly quiet, small town into a landscape shrouded with tension, secrets, and an undercurrent of danger that kept me on the edge of my seat–fitting for a story set on a crumbling bluff!
As a fan of well-developed characters, I found it’s Kate herself that makes the story so compelling. She’s vulnerable, flawed, and deeply complex, dealing with grief and secrets she’s tried to keep buried. Traymore lets us see Kate’s strength and desperation, creating a protagonist who is easy to root for, yet one who constantly surprises. Kate draws us into her world with an intriguing lack of reliability. How much can we really trust her?
“The Bluff” has one of the best uses of setting I’ve seen in a while. I mean, the bluff itself is eroding and threatening to take down every house on it, reflecting the fragility of the town’s relationships and the tension surrounding Kate. I love that it’s literally a community on the edge, both physically and emotionally, and that is clear on every page. The cliff is a background along with being a silent, looming threat that keeps everyone on edge and deepens the suspense as secrets surface.
The suspense is also amplified with an urgent ecological theme, as the eroding cliff mirrors real-world environmental challenges and the delicate balance of both nature and relationships. Traymore’s use of this natural threat heightens the stakes, adding a fresh layer of relevance and intensity that will resonate with readers who appreciate thrillers grounded in real issues.
Traymore’s writing is sharp, understated, and keeps the reader’s pulse ticking. Each chapter reveals fresh layers of suspense, building toward a conclusion that’s unexpected and completely rewarding. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy an intricately unfolding plot.
All said, if you’re looking for depth, atmosphere, and characters who feel real and relatable (even with all their flaws), “The Bluff” will have you hooked from the first page. It’s a slow-burn read with plenty of surprises, and its themes of secrecy and survival will keep you thinking long after you turn the last page. Five stars—Traymore’s The Bluff is a worthy addition to any thriller-lover’s shelf.
I hadn’t read Bonnie Traymore’s work prior to this, but if “The Bluff” is any indication of her talent, it’s easy to see why she’s a favorite in the thriller genre. She turns the seemingly quiet, small town into a landscape shrouded with tension, secrets, and an undercurrent of danger that kept me on the edge of my seat–fitting for a story set on a crumbling bluff!
As a fan of well-developed characters, I found it’s Kate herself that makes the story so compelling. She’s vulnerable, flawed, and deeply complex, dealing with grief and secrets she’s tried to keep buried. Traymore lets us see Kate’s strength and desperation, creating a protagonist who is easy to root for, yet one who constantly surprises. Kate draws us into her world with an intriguing lack of reliability. How much can we really trust her?
“The Bluff” has one of the best uses of setting I’ve seen in a while. I mean, the bluff itself is eroding and threatening to take down every house on it, reflecting the fragility of the town’s relationships and the tension surrounding Kate. I love that it’s literally a community on the edge, both physically and emotionally, and that is clear on every page. The cliff is a background along with being a silent, looming threat that keeps everyone on edge and deepens the suspense as secrets surface.
The suspense is also amplified with an urgent ecological theme, as the eroding cliff mirrors real-world environmental challenges and the delicate balance of both nature and relationships. Traymore’s use of this natural threat heightens the stakes, adding a fresh layer of relevance and intensity that will resonate with readers who appreciate thrillers grounded in real issues.
Traymore’s writing is sharp, understated, and keeps the reader’s pulse ticking. Each chapter reveals fresh layers of suspense, building toward a conclusion that’s unexpected and completely rewarding. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy an intricately unfolding plot.
All said, if you’re looking for depth, atmosphere, and characters who feel real and relatable (even with all their flaws), “The Bluff” will have you hooked from the first page. It’s a slow-burn read with plenty of surprises, and its themes of secrecy and survival will keep you thinking long after you turn the last page. Five stars—Traymore’s The Bluff is a worthy addition to any thriller-lover’s shelf.
August 16, 2024
The Bluff: A Thriller [Book Review]
Author: Bonnie Traymore
Publication Date: September 1, 2024
Review Date: August 16, 2024
(Thanks to NetGalley for electronic ARC)
With a compelling premise, The Bluff invites the reader to peek behind the curtain in a small, divided community. These divisions run nearly as deep and are as foreboding as the bluff itself – stemming from a close-knit mistrust of outsiders, differing opinions on the impending environmental and financial crisis of bluff erosion, and fractures between the wealthy bluff suburb and members of the nearby less affluent community.
As Kate, one of our two central perspectives, the prose is highly effective as she describes the harsh expanse and precipitous volatility of the bluff, mirroring her own mental state. The beauty of the calm days and mile long views atop this small sliver of the universe or fighting to step against whipping winds, bleak chill, and the deep void found at the cliff edge, the vivid imagery is impactful.
The characters, their motivations, and their actions are less pronounced throughout. Kate’s chapters are often filled with anxious questions, but few answers, and a retreading of unknowns that becomes arduous. Travis, our detective and second primary perspective, is earnest but uninteresting, and filler details which do little to provide insight make their home in his thoughts.
This feels deliberate but unartful by the author, as a psychological thriller is often a slow burn and any author would hesitate to lay down too many pieces of the puzzle. Whether plot or character driven, this genre relies on the build of tension. When there is a satisfying ending, this can often be forgiven, and re-reads can provide more pleasure in the discovery of excellently subtle foreshadow or the epiphanous moment of a previously unconnected thread. No such joy is found here, though the read is easy and pleasant enough. The book introduces, but does not seriously contend with, [light spoiler warning] childhood trauma, abuse, and affairs. The hesitancy to give too much away also manifests in this hesitancy to dig deeply into and develop these characters as full, complex people, instead choosing to handwave at these justifications for ingrained patterns of behavior or thought.
It is a fine book, but not a great one. I do think the premise is interesting and that with character development and sharper editing, it could have been. It’d make a great pitch for a miniseries. Considering all factors, I’d rate the book 3/5.
Author: Bonnie Traymore
Publication Date: September 1, 2024
Review Date: August 16, 2024
(Thanks to NetGalley for electronic ARC)
With a compelling premise, The Bluff invites the reader to peek behind the curtain in a small, divided community. These divisions run nearly as deep and are as foreboding as the bluff itself – stemming from a close-knit mistrust of outsiders, differing opinions on the impending environmental and financial crisis of bluff erosion, and fractures between the wealthy bluff suburb and members of the nearby less affluent community.
As Kate, one of our two central perspectives, the prose is highly effective as she describes the harsh expanse and precipitous volatility of the bluff, mirroring her own mental state. The beauty of the calm days and mile long views atop this small sliver of the universe or fighting to step against whipping winds, bleak chill, and the deep void found at the cliff edge, the vivid imagery is impactful.
The characters, their motivations, and their actions are less pronounced throughout. Kate’s chapters are often filled with anxious questions, but few answers, and a retreading of unknowns that becomes arduous. Travis, our detective and second primary perspective, is earnest but uninteresting, and filler details which do little to provide insight make their home in his thoughts.
This feels deliberate but unartful by the author, as a psychological thriller is often a slow burn and any author would hesitate to lay down too many pieces of the puzzle. Whether plot or character driven, this genre relies on the build of tension. When there is a satisfying ending, this can often be forgiven, and re-reads can provide more pleasure in the discovery of excellently subtle foreshadow or the epiphanous moment of a previously unconnected thread. No such joy is found here, though the read is easy and pleasant enough. The book introduces, but does not seriously contend with, [light spoiler warning] childhood trauma, abuse, and affairs. The hesitancy to give too much away also manifests in this hesitancy to dig deeply into and develop these characters as full, complex people, instead choosing to handwave at these justifications for ingrained patterns of behavior or thought.
It is a fine book, but not a great one. I do think the premise is interesting and that with character development and sharper editing, it could have been. It’d make a great pitch for a miniseries. Considering all factors, I’d rate the book 3/5.
September 2, 2024
This is a well written book with a strong cast of characters. She does a fantastic job developing the story and keeping the suspense and secrets right to the end. She does a terrific job bringing the story to life with her detailed and descriptive scenes and moves the story fluidly , delivering a thrilling psychological read. Loved and recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
February 7, 2025
OMG! I loved this so much I read it in one sitting!
So much to commend this - classic first and third person narration; red herrings; misdirection; secrets, lies and betrayals; flashback to provide context or detail; the final scene to wrap things up to a conclusion .. and then ... the kicker!
Definitely reminds me of Lucy Foley, so those who enjoy Foley will love this one too!
Must check out more by this author.
So much to commend this - classic first and third person narration; red herrings; misdirection; secrets, lies and betrayals; flashback to provide context or detail; the final scene to wrap things up to a conclusion .. and then ... the kicker!
Definitely reminds me of Lucy Foley, so those who enjoy Foley will love this one too!
Must check out more by this author.
September 26, 2024
This is a good little mystery. It will definitely keep you hooked till the end. Lots of surprises along the way!
October 13, 2024
Audio book review.
First one by the author but not my first from Meghan Kelly
The Bluff by Bonnie Traymore is a thriller that keeps you hooked from the first page till the end. It’s a slow burn thriller that will have you loving the characters and the word building that the author wrote .
Meghan Kelly did all the characters spot on. Her tone for all the characters and scenes were fantastic. She was able to draw you into the story
First one by the author but not my first from Meghan Kelly
The Bluff by Bonnie Traymore is a thriller that keeps you hooked from the first page till the end. It’s a slow burn thriller that will have you loving the characters and the word building that the author wrote .
Meghan Kelly did all the characters spot on. Her tone for all the characters and scenes were fantastic. She was able to draw you into the story
October 1, 2024
A slow burn thriller that had a great ending and then another cool twist. Some serious subjects and it was handled very well. Loved the setting!
October 1, 2024
I enjoyed this unpredictable psychological murder mystery performed brilliantly by the talents of Meghan Kelly. There were twists and turns that had me guessing until the end.
October 5, 2024
I finally finished in time with a few days left to read with the ARC through Net Galley. I liked this well enough. It was interesting but not as interesting as I expected it to be. I actually kind of thought it was going to be a paranormal read, so that disappointed me as well. It had a twist at the end but I already had figured it out, which is fine because I like to see if I can figure them out sometimes 🙃☺️🙂 but it didn’t keep me compelled to read it, so it was just okay. Thank you to Net Galley, the author, and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review The Bluff with my honest thoughts and opinions. I really appreciate it greatly.
August 18, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
This was a fun read and a good palate cleanser from all the psychological thrillers I've read recently.
This felt more "old school" thriller with a murder than a lot of the super twisty recent thrillers. Because of this I felt it was more of a journey than just waiting for twists.
This was a really fun journey & I loved the setting. The characters were a lot of fun and I enjoyed the ending a lot. This is not a "revolutionary" book but it's a great read all at the same time!
4.00/5.00
This was a fun read and a good palate cleanser from all the psychological thrillers I've read recently.
This felt more "old school" thriller with a murder than a lot of the super twisty recent thrillers. Because of this I felt it was more of a journey than just waiting for twists.
This was a really fun journey & I loved the setting. The characters were a lot of fun and I enjoyed the ending a lot. This is not a "revolutionary" book but it's a great read all at the same time!
4.00/5.00
August 26, 2024
I had fun reading this book. It's definitely a classic "who done it" so if that is your thing, you'll probably like this one! I enjoyed the setting of the book. I felt like it gave it a bit more creepiness and suspense. The characters, however, weren't my favorite. Some were okay to like while others just downright annoyed me. I think this book is certainly worth reading, it just wasn't mind-blowing for me! 3.5 stars rounded up!
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an ARC of this novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an ARC of this novel.
August 19, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It is a good story with great characters and an exciting ending.
I highly recommend it. Can't wait for another book to read written by Bonnie Traymore!
I highly recommend it. Can't wait for another book to read written by Bonnie Traymore!
August 24, 2024
This had a cool setting and a great twist at the end. I got an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2024
The Bluff was a great mystery story that keeps you thinking of all the ways this could have been every person in the story. Also by the end karma really does work its self out for some characters.
February 2, 2025
A tale of falling for a man in a short time scale and following him and his dream of doing up an old cottage in an idyllic lakeside location. But after giving up her own life, job and home, she puts her own inheritance into paying for the remodel and soon begins to regret it. Kate moved from Manhattan after falling for photographer Ryan Beslow, to the small town of Crest Lake, on Lake Michigan, but the house they remodelled and extended is almost worthless as the bluff it is built on is receding so rapidly. She lost her husband Ryan to a car accident on the windy road up to the house, a year ago, but she can’t move until the plans for the crumbling bluff get agreed and work gets started. The local police are still investigating his death and still see her as a suspect! She has a plan for the bluff work but is in opposition to another person on the council committee, Doug Mitchell. When she turns up late to the council meeting, Doug hasn’t arrived and they soon get notified he is missing and then found dead, after going out on his boat alone! Kate has made her own plans to sell her house and leave town as soon as work can finally start, but there is a lot of discontent amongst those householders affected by the crumbling bluff and what each plan would cost them and mean for their homes!
Kate has a number of secrets she doesn’t want to have come out, especially in regard to the death of Doug, but maybe not quite what you might expect. Add in an environmental group objecting to any plans for the bluff and defences against the erosion, Kate soon becomes a target of a jealous woman member. All of the committee are questioned by the police and Kate comes under more investigating due to her late arrival and the fact her plan is in complete opposition to Doug’s. Her neighbour is Doug’s wife, who is from old money and Kate’s most vocal opponent! Kate hasn’t exactly managed to make any friends, if any, so only has one old lady from town who might help her out when her window gets put in and it isn’t safe for her to stay in her home. Lots of twists and turns in the tale, as you find out about the possible reasons behind Doug’s murder and word of an affair, but between who exactly? The police don’t seem as interested in Kate as she thinks they would be, especially with Ryan’s unsolved death from the previous year still open. Are the two deaths connected, and if so, what is Kate’s link to them both? Her secrets won’t stay hidden forever and she may well have to reveal part of them if she is ever to escape. Unfortunately, she may well reveal something to the wrong person and find herself in danger, caught in a trap pf her own making and seeing no other way out! More twists to follow as the other characters in the tale reveal more and gain their own comeuppance.
I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Kate has a number of secrets she doesn’t want to have come out, especially in regard to the death of Doug, but maybe not quite what you might expect. Add in an environmental group objecting to any plans for the bluff and defences against the erosion, Kate soon becomes a target of a jealous woman member. All of the committee are questioned by the police and Kate comes under more investigating due to her late arrival and the fact her plan is in complete opposition to Doug’s. Her neighbour is Doug’s wife, who is from old money and Kate’s most vocal opponent! Kate hasn’t exactly managed to make any friends, if any, so only has one old lady from town who might help her out when her window gets put in and it isn’t safe for her to stay in her home. Lots of twists and turns in the tale, as you find out about the possible reasons behind Doug’s murder and word of an affair, but between who exactly? The police don’t seem as interested in Kate as she thinks they would be, especially with Ryan’s unsolved death from the previous year still open. Are the two deaths connected, and if so, what is Kate’s link to them both? Her secrets won’t stay hidden forever and she may well have to reveal part of them if she is ever to escape. Unfortunately, she may well reveal something to the wrong person and find herself in danger, caught in a trap pf her own making and seeing no other way out! More twists to follow as the other characters in the tale reveal more and gain their own comeuppance.
I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
September 9, 2024
Kate Breslow moved to a beautiful house on Crest Lake with her husband Ryan. It was against her wishes as she had a thriving job and really loved living in the city but she loved Ryan and didn’t want to go against his choice. Now Ryan is dead, having died in a car accident that is still under investigation. And the house she poured all her money into is sitting on a crumbling bluff.
Kate is on a committee to decide on a course of action to correct this but there are a number of different opinions and a group of extreme environmentalists who don’t seem to play by the rules. As things start happening to those on the committee, old secrets are brought up and indiscretions exposed. It seems someone is out for revenge, but the reason for the revenge might not be what they think it is.
This definitely had another edge coming into it than your usual thriller as there were so many characters keeping secrets that landed up intersecting with each other. It is a quick read but some arcs are slow in coming as the characters keep mentioning past secrets that are horrific or things they are hiding and yet they turned out not to be.
I found the technical aspects very interesting when it came to what could be done to stop the bluff from crumbling. It must be a nightmare to have land so close to the edge when Mother Nature decides to take some back. I couldn’t even imagine what it would be like to “pick your house up” and move it backwards.
I can well imagine that in such a small place people’s lives are going to interfere with one another and relationships will be tested but it also showed what a lack of communication and friendship can cause. The different POVs that drove the story made for an interesting look at different sides and the psychological explanations of narcissists/psychopaths/sociopaths were illuminating.
The story was easy to read if a little slow in places and there were some unanswered questions. No cliffhanger as such but when the end arrived, I did turn the page to look for more. The twist is also not that surprising as there are clues in the inactivity.
Overall a good read that brought an interesting perspective into a domestic thriller and made people question the severity of punishment based on what led to the crime.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to review the book.
Kate is on a committee to decide on a course of action to correct this but there are a number of different opinions and a group of extreme environmentalists who don’t seem to play by the rules. As things start happening to those on the committee, old secrets are brought up and indiscretions exposed. It seems someone is out for revenge, but the reason for the revenge might not be what they think it is.
This definitely had another edge coming into it than your usual thriller as there were so many characters keeping secrets that landed up intersecting with each other. It is a quick read but some arcs are slow in coming as the characters keep mentioning past secrets that are horrific or things they are hiding and yet they turned out not to be.
I found the technical aspects very interesting when it came to what could be done to stop the bluff from crumbling. It must be a nightmare to have land so close to the edge when Mother Nature decides to take some back. I couldn’t even imagine what it would be like to “pick your house up” and move it backwards.
I can well imagine that in such a small place people’s lives are going to interfere with one another and relationships will be tested but it also showed what a lack of communication and friendship can cause. The different POVs that drove the story made for an interesting look at different sides and the psychological explanations of narcissists/psychopaths/sociopaths were illuminating.
The story was easy to read if a little slow in places and there were some unanswered questions. No cliffhanger as such but when the end arrived, I did turn the page to look for more. The twist is also not that surprising as there are clues in the inactivity.
Overall a good read that brought an interesting perspective into a domestic thriller and made people question the severity of punishment based on what led to the crime.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to review the book.
September 5, 2024
Plot Summary
The Bluff by Bonnie Traymore bases it's plot in the town of Crest Lake on Lake Michigan. The shoreline houses are facing a threat from the crumbling bluff on which they are situated. And the owners are divided in their opinion on how to save their houses.
The main characters of the book are Kate Breslow (Sullivan), Claudia Mitchell, Ryan Breslow, Dough Mitchell, Margaret Brenner, Daisy Parker and the investigating team - Travis Whittaker, Sloane Davis & Chief Thompson. Kate & Claudia live two houses apart and have opposing views on the issue. While Kate lost her husband Ryan a year ago under mysterious circumstances, Dough Mitchell is killed right before the vote on the issue. And there begins the whodunnit case (actually two cases - Ryan & Doug)
Verdict
The things that work for Bonnie Traymore's The Bluff are it's fast pace & readability. The plot slowly gains your interest and before you know, you are turning pages to know what happens next. The book makes for an easy read with diligent characterizations and fine handling of the sub plots, not letting one confuse with the others. The two cops make a great team, and I wish to see more of them!
There are a couple of spooky characters, so to speak, which keep popping up from time to time. Which brings us to the main point - the suspense. The character of Daisy Parker in particular amused me the most (you'll have to read the book to know why). Having read and watched so many thrillers and mysteries, I thing the reader these days is pretty good at guessing correctly the murderer. It usually comes down to the one who is least expected, isn't it? And without dropping any hints, you could clearly see Traymore trying to keep the criminal here away from limelight. The authors need to guard their suspense better now and really need to think of new ways to startle the reader!
That said, the end to me was a pleasant surprise - both the parts on Margaret & the Mitchells. It was a nice touch from Bonnie Traymore and I liked it. It ends the book on a high.
To sum it up, The Bluff makes for a nice read for thriller fans. It is not your spine chilling, on the edge sort of read. But a good, one time, lazy read.
The Bluff by Bonnie Traymore bases it's plot in the town of Crest Lake on Lake Michigan. The shoreline houses are facing a threat from the crumbling bluff on which they are situated. And the owners are divided in their opinion on how to save their houses.
The main characters of the book are Kate Breslow (Sullivan), Claudia Mitchell, Ryan Breslow, Dough Mitchell, Margaret Brenner, Daisy Parker and the investigating team - Travis Whittaker, Sloane Davis & Chief Thompson. Kate & Claudia live two houses apart and have opposing views on the issue. While Kate lost her husband Ryan a year ago under mysterious circumstances, Dough Mitchell is killed right before the vote on the issue. And there begins the whodunnit case (actually two cases - Ryan & Doug)
Verdict
The things that work for Bonnie Traymore's The Bluff are it's fast pace & readability. The plot slowly gains your interest and before you know, you are turning pages to know what happens next. The book makes for an easy read with diligent characterizations and fine handling of the sub plots, not letting one confuse with the others. The two cops make a great team, and I wish to see more of them!
There are a couple of spooky characters, so to speak, which keep popping up from time to time. Which brings us to the main point - the suspense. The character of Daisy Parker in particular amused me the most (you'll have to read the book to know why). Having read and watched so many thrillers and mysteries, I thing the reader these days is pretty good at guessing correctly the murderer. It usually comes down to the one who is least expected, isn't it? And without dropping any hints, you could clearly see Traymore trying to keep the criminal here away from limelight. The authors need to guard their suspense better now and really need to think of new ways to startle the reader!
That said, the end to me was a pleasant surprise - both the parts on Margaret & the Mitchells. It was a nice touch from Bonnie Traymore and I liked it. It ends the book on a high.
To sum it up, The Bluff makes for a nice read for thriller fans. It is not your spine chilling, on the edge sort of read. But a good, one time, lazy read.
August 16, 2024
Ms. Traymore writes interesting and intriguing stories that are hard to put down. There is always more to her stories with immersing twists. Source: BookSprout.
THE BLUFF - Interesting with a couple of unexpected twists and a fun ending. Good characters and story lines. 4*
The Guest House - Another entertaining, interesting, and intriguing story filled with good characters and immersing story lines that are believable making the book hard to put down. TGH picks up after The Stepfamily ends. There is a lot of easy to understand technical information about hearing aids devices for the D/deaf population as well as the difficulties with communication faced by the D/deaf. 4*
Killer Motives - One of those books that must be finished before putting it down. Interesting story lines with a variety of characters with secrets, and then some. Good pacing kept the pages flying with no vulgar language or sex but plenty of intrigue and happenings. Well written. 4*
Little Loose Ends - Continues about seven months after Killer Motives ends. Their past catches up with the Mancusios. There are plenty of twists, players and intrigue as they fight for their family's safety. Well written story lines made this another hard to put down book. 4*
The Stepfamily - Definitely one of the better books I have read lately. Interesting with good story lines. Every time there appears to be an end, there's more and a different story to add to the mess. Many secrets come to light and not all are favorable. Only thing I did not care for was the nose scratching at the end. The scratcher was smarter than that but that story line needed closing, poorly done. 4*
Head Case - I enjoy reading books by Ms. Traymore. Well written page turners that hold my interest and have me thinking while I'm immersed in the story. Good characters, good story lines, nice romances all equal to an entertaining read. Two victims accepted their fates in the same way, only flaw in the story. 4*
THE BLUFF - Interesting with a couple of unexpected twists and a fun ending. Good characters and story lines. 4*
The Guest House - Another entertaining, interesting, and intriguing story filled with good characters and immersing story lines that are believable making the book hard to put down. TGH picks up after The Stepfamily ends. There is a lot of easy to understand technical information about hearing aids devices for the D/deaf population as well as the difficulties with communication faced by the D/deaf. 4*
Killer Motives - One of those books that must be finished before putting it down. Interesting story lines with a variety of characters with secrets, and then some. Good pacing kept the pages flying with no vulgar language or sex but plenty of intrigue and happenings. Well written. 4*
Little Loose Ends - Continues about seven months after Killer Motives ends. Their past catches up with the Mancusios. There are plenty of twists, players and intrigue as they fight for their family's safety. Well written story lines made this another hard to put down book. 4*
The Stepfamily - Definitely one of the better books I have read lately. Interesting with good story lines. Every time there appears to be an end, there's more and a different story to add to the mess. Many secrets come to light and not all are favorable. Only thing I did not care for was the nose scratching at the end. The scratcher was smarter than that but that story line needed closing, poorly done. 4*
Head Case - I enjoy reading books by Ms. Traymore. Well written page turners that hold my interest and have me thinking while I'm immersed in the story. Good characters, good story lines, nice romances all equal to an entertaining read. Two victims accepted their fates in the same way, only flaw in the story. 4*
September 3, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this eCopy to review
The Bluff was quite intriguing
The story revolves around a gripping mystery set in a seemingly idyllic town of Crest Lake on Lake Michigan, where secrets and lies are buried just beneath the surface. Traymore does an excellent job of building suspense and creating a sense of unease that kept me hooked from the beginning.
Kate, finds herself living in a house precariously positioned on the edge of a crumbling bluff and is on the committee to choose how to protect the bluff. The town’s serene and beautiful environment contrasts sharply with the underlying tension and danger posed by the eroding cliff. Who's proposal will be chosen? How far will people go to get the one they want?
The setting not only adds to the atmospheric tension but also mirrors Kate’s own precarious situation. The descriptions of the bluff, with its harsh winds and stunning views, create a vivid backdrop that enhances the suspense and drama of the narrative2.
However, I did find the pacing to be a bit slow at times. There were moments when the narrative dragged, and I felt that some sections could have been trimmed down to maintain a tighter, more engaging flow.
The character development and plot twists were well worth the wait. Traymore’s ability to weave complex characters and unexpected turns into the story kept me invested until the very end. The resolution was satisfying and tied up the loose ends nicely.
Overall, The Bluff is a compelling read for fans of mystery and suspense
The Bluff was quite intriguing
The story revolves around a gripping mystery set in a seemingly idyllic town of Crest Lake on Lake Michigan, where secrets and lies are buried just beneath the surface. Traymore does an excellent job of building suspense and creating a sense of unease that kept me hooked from the beginning.
Kate, finds herself living in a house precariously positioned on the edge of a crumbling bluff and is on the committee to choose how to protect the bluff. The town’s serene and beautiful environment contrasts sharply with the underlying tension and danger posed by the eroding cliff. Who's proposal will be chosen? How far will people go to get the one they want?
The setting not only adds to the atmospheric tension but also mirrors Kate’s own precarious situation. The descriptions of the bluff, with its harsh winds and stunning views, create a vivid backdrop that enhances the suspense and drama of the narrative2.
However, I did find the pacing to be a bit slow at times. There were moments when the narrative dragged, and I felt that some sections could have been trimmed down to maintain a tighter, more engaging flow.
The character development and plot twists were well worth the wait. Traymore’s ability to weave complex characters and unexpected turns into the story kept me invested until the very end. The resolution was satisfying and tied up the loose ends nicely.
Overall, The Bluff is a compelling read for fans of mystery and suspense
August 6, 2024
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“The Bluff” is a mystery/thriller by Bonnie Traymore. This book follows Kate, who left Manhattan to be with her boyfriend Ryan, who found a house along Lake Michigan he wanted to renovate. The house (and some others) are near an eroding cliff which is of some concern to the home owners in the area. Kate (and others) look into ways to save the houses yet also take into concern some of the environmental impact of various things to do in the water (meaning sea walls, barriers, etc.). Kate’s plan causes some issues with locals but, as she points out, it’s a compromise. On the day of the “big vote,” one of Kate’s neighbors is found missing … then dead. There are some fishy circumstances surrounding his death - and could it somehow be tied to the death of Ryan a year previously? This book took a few turns into red herring land, but it was nice to read not only Kate’s viewpoint, but also that of one of the investigating officers. One could see how “The Bluff” refers to both Kate’s crumbling marriage but also to how she hopes to rebuild herself and her life. I found a few things a bit odd - the ending and the possible romance for a character - but they were plausible (I just didn’t care for them). This was a pretty fast read, though there was a slow build-up, and I did like the different POVs.
“The Bluff” is a mystery/thriller by Bonnie Traymore. This book follows Kate, who left Manhattan to be with her boyfriend Ryan, who found a house along Lake Michigan he wanted to renovate. The house (and some others) are near an eroding cliff which is of some concern to the home owners in the area. Kate (and others) look into ways to save the houses yet also take into concern some of the environmental impact of various things to do in the water (meaning sea walls, barriers, etc.). Kate’s plan causes some issues with locals but, as she points out, it’s a compromise. On the day of the “big vote,” one of Kate’s neighbors is found missing … then dead. There are some fishy circumstances surrounding his death - and could it somehow be tied to the death of Ryan a year previously? This book took a few turns into red herring land, but it was nice to read not only Kate’s viewpoint, but also that of one of the investigating officers. One could see how “The Bluff” refers to both Kate’s crumbling marriage but also to how she hopes to rebuild herself and her life. I found a few things a bit odd - the ending and the possible romance for a character - but they were plausible (I just didn’t care for them). This was a pretty fast read, though there was a slow build-up, and I did like the different POVs.
August 24, 2024
3.5⭐️ Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an advanced copy of The Bluff.
Kate is still dealing with the fallout of her husband’s death a year ago when her neighbor goes missing and is soon found dead. Six years prior Kate meets her husband Ryan and it is a whirlwind romance. He shows her a home he purchased on Lake Michigan that he thinks they should renovate and build their life together in. Kate agrees to leave New York behind and try something new! As the years go by Kate realizes she made a mistake giving up everything she knows especially when the community they live in is fighting over how to deal with ground issues threatening their homes and their safety. Then people on the committee start receiving threats and Kate constantly feels like she is being watched. Then when she is questioned about her missing neighbor the police wonder if she had a hand in his murder because they believe she is not being truthful about her husband’s death. Kate definitely has secrets about her husband but they are not what the police think. Are the deaths connected? Can Kate clear her name?
I enjoyed this book. It is told from a dual point of view which I liked and I also enjoyed the writing style. There are just things I wish we as readers would have gotten answers about. But I did not see some of the twists coming!
Kate is still dealing with the fallout of her husband’s death a year ago when her neighbor goes missing and is soon found dead. Six years prior Kate meets her husband Ryan and it is a whirlwind romance. He shows her a home he purchased on Lake Michigan that he thinks they should renovate and build their life together in. Kate agrees to leave New York behind and try something new! As the years go by Kate realizes she made a mistake giving up everything she knows especially when the community they live in is fighting over how to deal with ground issues threatening their homes and their safety. Then people on the committee start receiving threats and Kate constantly feels like she is being watched. Then when she is questioned about her missing neighbor the police wonder if she had a hand in his murder because they believe she is not being truthful about her husband’s death. Kate definitely has secrets about her husband but they are not what the police think. Are the deaths connected? Can Kate clear her name?
I enjoyed this book. It is told from a dual point of view which I liked and I also enjoyed the writing style. There are just things I wish we as readers would have gotten answers about. But I did not see some of the twists coming!
September 10, 2024
The description for The Bluff immediately hooked me! This gripping story takes you on a journey of loss, betrayal, and mystery. Kate is a widow trapped in a small town after the suspicious death of her husband in a car crash a year prior. The house that she lives in is precariously perched on a bluff looking out onto a large lake. The ground beneath the house, much like Kate’s life, is slowly crumbling.
The tension escalates as the lakefront community grapples with a literal crumbling shoreline and unmarketable real estate - bringing out the worst in its residents. Kate desperately wishes to leave Crest Lake, so she joins a committee to plan a course of action for the real estate crisis. Secrets are revealed, contentions escalate, and desperation takes over. Soon a member of the shoreline community is found dead by homicide.
Is the death related to the suspicious death of Kate’s husband one year ago? If so, is Kate somehow involved? Are extra marital affairs at play? Will Kate make it out of Crest Lake with her sanity intact?
The bluff is a suspenseful psychological thriller set against a dramatic and unforgiving environment, echoing the melodrama and tension of the residents of Crest Lake. I highly recommend this book to lovers are psychological thrillers, red-herring mysteries, and suspenseful who-dunnit books.
The tension escalates as the lakefront community grapples with a literal crumbling shoreline and unmarketable real estate - bringing out the worst in its residents. Kate desperately wishes to leave Crest Lake, so she joins a committee to plan a course of action for the real estate crisis. Secrets are revealed, contentions escalate, and desperation takes over. Soon a member of the shoreline community is found dead by homicide.
Is the death related to the suspicious death of Kate’s husband one year ago? If so, is Kate somehow involved? Are extra marital affairs at play? Will Kate make it out of Crest Lake with her sanity intact?
The bluff is a suspenseful psychological thriller set against a dramatic and unforgiving environment, echoing the melodrama and tension of the residents of Crest Lake. I highly recommend this book to lovers are psychological thrillers, red-herring mysteries, and suspenseful who-dunnit books.
October 5, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Bonnie Traymore’s “The Bluff” is a masterful psychological thriller that expertly blends suspense, mystery, and personal drama against the backdrop of a perilous natural setting.
The story begins with Kate adjusting to her new life, but the tranquility is short-lived as she becomes embroiled in the town’s underlying tensions and secrets. The eroding cliff is not just a physical threat but a metaphor for the precariousness of the lives and relationships of the characters.
Kate is a well-crafted protagonist, whose journey from an unassuming newcomer to a determined investigator is both believable and compelling. Her interactions with the other residents, each with their own hidden agendas and secrets, add layers of complexity to the narrative.
Traymore’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the essence of the small-town setting and the psychological depth of her characters. The plot is meticulously constructed, with each revelation adding to the mounting tension.
“The Bluff” is a cleverly crafted thriller that will appeal to fans of psychological suspense. Bonnie Traymore has delivered a novel that is thrilling and thought-provoking, with a storyline that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a suspenseful and atmospheric read.
Bonnie Traymore’s “The Bluff” is a masterful psychological thriller that expertly blends suspense, mystery, and personal drama against the backdrop of a perilous natural setting.
The story begins with Kate adjusting to her new life, but the tranquility is short-lived as she becomes embroiled in the town’s underlying tensions and secrets. The eroding cliff is not just a physical threat but a metaphor for the precariousness of the lives and relationships of the characters.
Kate is a well-crafted protagonist, whose journey from an unassuming newcomer to a determined investigator is both believable and compelling. Her interactions with the other residents, each with their own hidden agendas and secrets, add layers of complexity to the narrative.
Traymore’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the essence of the small-town setting and the psychological depth of her characters. The plot is meticulously constructed, with each revelation adding to the mounting tension.
“The Bluff” is a cleverly crafted thriller that will appeal to fans of psychological suspense. Bonnie Traymore has delivered a novel that is thrilling and thought-provoking, with a storyline that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a suspenseful and atmospheric read.
November 7, 2024
Pretty good! I listened to this on audio in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by the author. I’m surprised I had not heard of her before now. The plot was original, the pacing good, and I liked the main character, elderly neighbor, and the detectives. The main character used her psychology background to understand what was going on with her husband and other characters, and I think that was actually brilliant. It offered insight for the readers, and it was just very interesting to me. Then again, I’ve always had a thing for psychology, so that was right up my alley.
The narration was good. I had to speed it up a bit more than my typical 1.5 to get it to more of a conversational speed. There was one small issue near the beginning with the splicing of the audio, but other than that, it was very good - and that was certainly not the narrator’s fault. I liked that the narrator (Meghan Kelly) used different voices and inflections to voice each character. I never had to stop to figure out which character I was listening to.
All in all, a good solid thriller with excellent narration. I look forward to seeing more from both Bonnie Traymore and Meghan Kelly! They both have a new fan!
This was my first book by the author. I’m surprised I had not heard of her before now. The plot was original, the pacing good, and I liked the main character, elderly neighbor, and the detectives. The main character used her psychology background to understand what was going on with her husband and other characters, and I think that was actually brilliant. It offered insight for the readers, and it was just very interesting to me. Then again, I’ve always had a thing for psychology, so that was right up my alley.
The narration was good. I had to speed it up a bit more than my typical 1.5 to get it to more of a conversational speed. There was one small issue near the beginning with the splicing of the audio, but other than that, it was very good - and that was certainly not the narrator’s fault. I liked that the narrator (Meghan Kelly) used different voices and inflections to voice each character. I never had to stop to figure out which character I was listening to.
All in all, a good solid thriller with excellent narration. I look forward to seeing more from both Bonnie Traymore and Meghan Kelly! They both have a new fan!
August 23, 2024
An interesting dual narrative, The Bluff (2024) by Bonnie Traymore features the police detective investigating a suspicious death and the wife assumed to be responsible. Kate Breslow and her husband Ryan moved to the shore of Lake Michigan and their cliff-top house, which is at risk due to coastal erosion. The local council must decide between two different options for restoration works for the crumbling bluff. Yet, the death of Ryan in a car accident and then the disappearance of the neighbour pushing for the alternative repair option, sets off a chain of events in this suspense thriller. As tensions arise over the competing stabilisation plans, suspicious deaths, romantic affairs and other secrets are revealed. There is also the activity of a local environment group, who want no action taken to stabilise the crumbling cliff face. An enjoyable standalone crime mystery tale with a brooding atmosphere and dubious characters makes for a three stars read rating. With thanks to BooksGoSocial and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement.
September 6, 2024
The Bluff, A Thriller
By: Bonnie Traymore
Narrated by: Meghan Kelly
Riveting, Suspenseful and Masterfully Plotted!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 09-05-24
The Bluff is crumbling … If it collapses into the sea, several homes will go with it. It seems everyone on the shoreline committee has a different plan to “fix” the problem and someone’s determined to insure that Kate Breslow’s plan NEVER sees the light of day… Riveting, suspenseful and masterfully plotted, “The Bluff” kept me guessing long into the night! I loved the realistic interplay between the characters! Being from a small town with “complicated” politics, this plot AND these characters rang one hundred percent true and one hundred percent authentic! I could actually “see” real people in a few of the “locals” as I listened, … I have lunch at same the local eatery as they every day! Brought to life by astounding, emotive, clear, concise and consistent narration, I was thoroughly in the moment, RIVETED, from the opening lines of this brilliantly plotted thriller, to the stunning, heart stopping conclusion! Five fantastically fabulous stars! Oh how I wish I could give so many more! “The Bluff” was truly AMAZING and I loved every second!
By: Bonnie Traymore
Narrated by: Meghan Kelly
Riveting, Suspenseful and Masterfully Plotted!
Overall: 5 of 5 stars Performance: 5 of 5 stars Story: 5 of 5 stars
Reviewed: 09-05-24
The Bluff is crumbling … If it collapses into the sea, several homes will go with it. It seems everyone on the shoreline committee has a different plan to “fix” the problem and someone’s determined to insure that Kate Breslow’s plan NEVER sees the light of day… Riveting, suspenseful and masterfully plotted, “The Bluff” kept me guessing long into the night! I loved the realistic interplay between the characters! Being from a small town with “complicated” politics, this plot AND these characters rang one hundred percent true and one hundred percent authentic! I could actually “see” real people in a few of the “locals” as I listened, … I have lunch at same the local eatery as they every day! Brought to life by astounding, emotive, clear, concise and consistent narration, I was thoroughly in the moment, RIVETED, from the opening lines of this brilliantly plotted thriller, to the stunning, heart stopping conclusion! Five fantastically fabulous stars! Oh how I wish I could give so many more! “The Bluff” was truly AMAZING and I loved every second!
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