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The Books on the Beach Mysteries #1
Death on Dickens Island
A divorced sleuth in her thirties must bring peace back to her small town after a murder tears neighbors and family members apart in this series debut from Agatha Award-nominee Allison Brook, perfect for fans of Cynthia Riggs and Eva Gates.
Delia Dickens has come home to Dickens Island, a small island in the Long Island Sound, after a twelve year stint in Manhattan. She’s looking forward to helping her father revitalize the general store that the family owns as well as curating a small book nook. Most importantly, she wants to reunite with her 15 year old son. But Dickens Island isn’t the peaceful town Delia remembers–and she might be in more danger here than she ever was in the big city.
Delia’s Aunt Reenie and Uncle Brad, both prominent community leaders, are at odds over the sale of a farm and its future use. This has created friction, not only in their marriage, but amongst the citizens of the town. When a young woman, new to the town council and friendly with Brad, is found murdered, everything escalates and reaches a new boiling point.
With Reenie and Brad both suspects in the case and at each other’s throats, the townspeople start to take sides. When the ghost of her grandmother visits her, Delia learns how past events have impacted the present and it is up to her to expose the farm’s sordid secrets, in order to catch a murderer and restore peace to her beloved island.
Delia Dickens has come home to Dickens Island, a small island in the Long Island Sound, after a twelve year stint in Manhattan. She’s looking forward to helping her father revitalize the general store that the family owns as well as curating a small book nook. Most importantly, she wants to reunite with her 15 year old son. But Dickens Island isn’t the peaceful town Delia remembers–and she might be in more danger here than she ever was in the big city.
Delia’s Aunt Reenie and Uncle Brad, both prominent community leaders, are at odds over the sale of a farm and its future use. This has created friction, not only in their marriage, but amongst the citizens of the town. When a young woman, new to the town council and friendly with Brad, is found murdered, everything escalates and reaches a new boiling point.
With Reenie and Brad both suspects in the case and at each other’s throats, the townspeople start to take sides. When the ghost of her grandmother visits her, Delia learns how past events have impacted the present and it is up to her to expose the farm’s sordid secrets, in order to catch a murderer and restore peace to her beloved island.
320 pages, Paperback
First published October 21, 2025
20 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
October 14, 2025
I enjoyed this author's previous series, the Haunted Library Mysteries, so I was happy to give this new series a try. It was fun as well that this book had a resident ghost. They are always so helpful in solving cases that have a history.
Delia Dickens is a friendly character and I enjoyed how she related to her teenage son and her raggedy adopted stray dog. The setting on a small island in the Long Island Sound is beautiful and provides a great background to the story. Top all this with an intriguing mystery and a satisfying conclusion. Well worth reading. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Delia Dickens is a friendly character and I enjoyed how she related to her teenage son and her raggedy adopted stray dog. The setting on a small island in the Long Island Sound is beautiful and provides a great background to the story. Top all this with an intriguing mystery and a satisfying conclusion. Well worth reading. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 18, 2025
A brand-new series by a favorite cozy author. When Allison's Brook Connecticut-based cozy mystery series ended, I was saddened, but then I learned she was releasing a debut in The Books on the Beach Mysteries. It takes place on a fictional island between Connecticut (where I live now) and Long Island (where I grew up). Plus there is a ghost and generations of history in the backstory. Hits all the right spots for me. As the first in series, it was charming, engaging, and quite cozy without being over the top. I can see the stories getting even stronger and becoming a popular series. Can't wait to hear what happens in the next book!
October 11, 2025
4.5★s
Delia Dickens had recently returned to Dickens Island from Manhattan, and had her fifteen year old son living with her once again. Connor had been living with his grandparents since he was young, with Delia visiting as often as she could. But Connor was angry at his mother for deserting him - it would take some time for them to see eye to eye once again. Delia's family were involved with the council and community leaders, but tensions had risen because of a piece of land that would soon be for sale. And when a young woman was murdered after a dinner with Delia and her family, things took a nasty turn. Who murdered Missy, and why? And why was Delia's house broken into and ransacked? Delia was determined to discover the answers to all the questions that were troubling the folks of the island...
Death on Dickens Island is the first in a new series - The Books on the Beach Mysteries - by Allison Brook and I enjoyed it very much. The general store, which the family owned, now sported a Book Nook, something Delia decided would be good for the folks of the island. I'm looking forward to #2 in the series when it is published. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Crooked Lane Books for my digital ARC to read and review.
Delia Dickens had recently returned to Dickens Island from Manhattan, and had her fifteen year old son living with her once again. Connor had been living with his grandparents since he was young, with Delia visiting as often as she could. But Connor was angry at his mother for deserting him - it would take some time for them to see eye to eye once again. Delia's family were involved with the council and community leaders, but tensions had risen because of a piece of land that would soon be for sale. And when a young woman was murdered after a dinner with Delia and her family, things took a nasty turn. Who murdered Missy, and why? And why was Delia's house broken into and ransacked? Delia was determined to discover the answers to all the questions that were troubling the folks of the island...
Death on Dickens Island is the first in a new series - The Books on the Beach Mysteries - by Allison Brook and I enjoyed it very much. The general store, which the family owned, now sported a Book Nook, something Delia decided would be good for the folks of the island. I'm looking forward to #2 in the series when it is published. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Crooked Lane Books for my digital ARC to read and review.
November 1, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
This new series from Allison Brook takes readers to Dickens Island in the Long Island Sound between Long Island and Connecticut. Delia Dickens has been living in Manhattan following her divorce, but her son has been staying with her parents on Dickens Island for the past 12 years, Delia visiting when she can, which isn’t often enough. It’s important to bring her family all together, and her father needs help with the family business, a general store. It needs to be more modern, offering products tourists want to buy while maintaining the homey feel, and continue to be a gathering place for the island’s residents and visitors. Delia is up for this task.
Shortly after her arrival, she can see something is amiss with her Aunt Reenie and Uncle Brad. Rennie is the town manager, and Brad is the head of the town council. While they agree that the town should purchase the farm on a key piece of land, they are on opposite sides about how the land should be used in the future. It is not only affecting their marriage, but members of the community are starting to take sides. Another piece of the contention puzzle is a young woman new to the town council. Brad has taken her under his wing, and Reenie believes they are becoming more than coworkers or friends.
The young woman, Missy, works at the bakery, in addition to being on the town council. The day after the council met to discuss the land purchase and use, Missy failed to show up at the bakery. Police Chief Fanning made a wellness call to her home and found her dead. With all the drama between Brad and Reenie, they are at the top of the chief’s list of suspects. And again, the people of Dickens’s Island are fired up and taking sides.
Delia’s father asks her to try to solve the rift between her aunt and uncle, so the focus will be on finding the real killer. She never imagined her grandmother’s ghost would start to visit with information she needed to set the island back to rights and help apprehend Missy’s murderer.
Ms. Brooks has created a fantastic cast of characters for this series. Delia Dickens is a great protagonist, genuine, and relatable. Being away from her son, Connor, for so long means she has to do a lot to gain his trust, and she knows it isn’t going to be easy. We meet her father, who runs the general store and has a hard time with change. Again, Delia treads lightly to help him understand what she is trying to do and to see that her ideas are good and will help the family business grow. Her mother has taken a break from her father and the island and is having an open-ended stay in Delia’s Manhattan apartment. Her Aunt Rennie and Uncle Brad seem to be at odds about everything, with her aunt even talking about divorce. Delia has reconnected with her high school sweetheart, but their past breakup hit her hard. Jack Morrison is now the island veterinarian, and with a dog that has adopted Delia and her son, she is going to have to see him at least professionally. Can she trust him with her heart again? All these characters develop well throughout the story with plenty of room to evolve as this series continues. They feel true to real life.
Delia lives in a Victorian house that has been in her grandmother, Helena’s, family home for almost one hundred years. With its steep roof, wrap-around porch, rounded turrets, and rooms for every purpose, including four bedrooms and a secret room, it is the perfect home base for a cozy mystery series and its resident ghost. The author’s detailed descriptions make readers feel right at home as we visit the place again and again.
The mystery is very well-plotted with secrets and suspects, clues to follow, and a red herring or two. A discovery is made that sends Delia’s son and his friend on a treasure hunt, which shakes up the mystery in several ways and has more people searching for treasure and the truth. The addition of Helena, the ghost, was wonderful. There was a learning curve for both Delia and Helena, with Delia finding some treasures of her own, which sometimes led to more questions than answers. Some of the answers were very interesting. I enjoyed the “better than Netflix” reveal and confession.
Death on Dickens Island has set off this series to a terrific start. A complex mystery with many moving parts, authentic characters that draw you into their stories, a clever canine that was just what Delia and Connor needed, set on a delightful island where friendships grew stronger, love gets a cautious second chance, and a ghost that will steal your heart as even some of her secrets are revealed. I am so excited for this series to continue. This Books on the Beach Mystery will be a hit for fans of Ms. Brook’s Haunted Library series and cozy mystery fans who love a little light paranormal in their stories.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
This new series from Allison Brook takes readers to Dickens Island in the Long Island Sound between Long Island and Connecticut. Delia Dickens has been living in Manhattan following her divorce, but her son has been staying with her parents on Dickens Island for the past 12 years, Delia visiting when she can, which isn’t often enough. It’s important to bring her family all together, and her father needs help with the family business, a general store. It needs to be more modern, offering products tourists want to buy while maintaining the homey feel, and continue to be a gathering place for the island’s residents and visitors. Delia is up for this task.
Shortly after her arrival, she can see something is amiss with her Aunt Reenie and Uncle Brad. Rennie is the town manager, and Brad is the head of the town council. While they agree that the town should purchase the farm on a key piece of land, they are on opposite sides about how the land should be used in the future. It is not only affecting their marriage, but members of the community are starting to take sides. Another piece of the contention puzzle is a young woman new to the town council. Brad has taken her under his wing, and Reenie believes they are becoming more than coworkers or friends.
The young woman, Missy, works at the bakery, in addition to being on the town council. The day after the council met to discuss the land purchase and use, Missy failed to show up at the bakery. Police Chief Fanning made a wellness call to her home and found her dead. With all the drama between Brad and Reenie, they are at the top of the chief’s list of suspects. And again, the people of Dickens’s Island are fired up and taking sides.
Delia’s father asks her to try to solve the rift between her aunt and uncle, so the focus will be on finding the real killer. She never imagined her grandmother’s ghost would start to visit with information she needed to set the island back to rights and help apprehend Missy’s murderer.
Ms. Brooks has created a fantastic cast of characters for this series. Delia Dickens is a great protagonist, genuine, and relatable. Being away from her son, Connor, for so long means she has to do a lot to gain his trust, and she knows it isn’t going to be easy. We meet her father, who runs the general store and has a hard time with change. Again, Delia treads lightly to help him understand what she is trying to do and to see that her ideas are good and will help the family business grow. Her mother has taken a break from her father and the island and is having an open-ended stay in Delia’s Manhattan apartment. Her Aunt Rennie and Uncle Brad seem to be at odds about everything, with her aunt even talking about divorce. Delia has reconnected with her high school sweetheart, but their past breakup hit her hard. Jack Morrison is now the island veterinarian, and with a dog that has adopted Delia and her son, she is going to have to see him at least professionally. Can she trust him with her heart again? All these characters develop well throughout the story with plenty of room to evolve as this series continues. They feel true to real life.
Delia lives in a Victorian house that has been in her grandmother, Helena’s, family home for almost one hundred years. With its steep roof, wrap-around porch, rounded turrets, and rooms for every purpose, including four bedrooms and a secret room, it is the perfect home base for a cozy mystery series and its resident ghost. The author’s detailed descriptions make readers feel right at home as we visit the place again and again.
The mystery is very well-plotted with secrets and suspects, clues to follow, and a red herring or two. A discovery is made that sends Delia’s son and his friend on a treasure hunt, which shakes up the mystery in several ways and has more people searching for treasure and the truth. The addition of Helena, the ghost, was wonderful. There was a learning curve for both Delia and Helena, with Delia finding some treasures of her own, which sometimes led to more questions than answers. Some of the answers were very interesting. I enjoyed the “better than Netflix” reveal and confession.
Death on Dickens Island has set off this series to a terrific start. A complex mystery with many moving parts, authentic characters that draw you into their stories, a clever canine that was just what Delia and Connor needed, set on a delightful island where friendships grew stronger, love gets a cautious second chance, and a ghost that will steal your heart as even some of her secrets are revealed. I am so excited for this series to continue. This Books on the Beach Mystery will be a hit for fans of Ms. Brook’s Haunted Library series and cozy mystery fans who love a little light paranormal in their stories.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
September 29, 2025
The author captured the essence of life in a small community perfectly. The setting was beautiful and enjoyable. One of the many things I appreciated was the pacing. Things seemed to progress at a normal rate instead of being rushed. Delia and her son Connor were engaging. The story flowed well. The mystery was intriguing. I’m looking forward to more by this author. Highly recommend.
I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
October 13, 2025
[NetGalley Read #49]
3.5 ⭐️
"They left, and the house was suddenly quiet. Oddly enough, I felt bereft and lonely, as though everyone had something to do and somewhere to go except me."
Good.
I loved the relationships, the characters, and the personal struggles of Delia: Dealing with people who want change yet are opposed to it the moment that change comes even close to being implemented, her relationship with Connor, her teenage heartbreak, and its effects on her later life.
Out of all the characters, Helena's appearance was a bit of a surprise. A good one, though. After reading the title of another book series by this author, it made a lot of sense.
Other Island residents and the town hall meetings reminded me of Parks and Rec.
I liked the mystery well enough. It was done well, integrating other elements with Trevor's family and whatnot. And the VanPattens family tree is... something. The end/resolution was alright.
My one gripe with this whole thing is the first-person perspective. It felt... jarring to read sometimes. There were a lot of 'I did this. I went there. I did that'. It just didn't flow well for me. That being said, I would like to read more about these characters. Especially now that the base is set.
It's a short book (250+ pages). Easy to read. Has a good cast of characters.
Recommended.
3.5 ⭐️
"They left, and the house was suddenly quiet. Oddly enough, I felt bereft and lonely, as though everyone had something to do and somewhere to go except me."
Good.
I loved the relationships, the characters, and the personal struggles of Delia: Dealing with people who want change yet are opposed to it the moment that change comes even close to being implemented, her relationship with Connor, her teenage heartbreak, and its effects on her later life.
Out of all the characters, Helena's appearance was a bit of a surprise. A good one, though. After reading the title of another book series by this author, it made a lot of sense.
Other Island residents and the town hall meetings reminded me of Parks and Rec.
I liked the mystery well enough. It was done well, integrating other elements with Trevor's family and whatnot. And the VanPattens family tree is... something. The end/resolution was alright.
My one gripe with this whole thing is the first-person perspective. It felt... jarring to read sometimes. There were a lot of 'I did this. I went there. I did that'. It just didn't flow well for me. That being said, I would like to read more about these characters. Especially now that the base is set.
It's a short book (250+ pages). Easy to read. Has a good cast of characters.
Recommended.
July 31, 2025
This is a new author and a new series for me. I liked the idea of an island between Long Island and Connecticut. I was surprised to find that this book had a paranormal aspect, but that's on me it was noted in the book summary, and the author has another series in which it figures. It did not turn out to be a problem as it is a small aspect of the book and slides into the story seamlessly! Also, I will admit that at the start of the book, I was not overly impressed with any of the prominent characters, but as their stories unfolded, they all started to grow on me, especially the MC Delia. The myster(ies) unfold naturally, and the family's involvement is more a proximity issue with never a real feeling of dread. Delia's discoveries seem to flow more from her reintroduction to the island and the family business as well as being a mother to a teenager in town. It never felt forced or intrusive, and I think that is probably why I enjoyed it so much! Things came to a good and satisfying conclusion without anyone taking unnecessary risks, which was a nice change of pace. I eagerly look forward to the next book in the series and may even look to find some of the author's other works! Thanks to #Netgally, #CookedLaneBooks, and the author for an opportunity to discover this series. #DeathonDickensIsland #ABooksontheBeachMystery #AllisonBrook #bookideas #bookreview #retiredreader
May 23, 2025
Delia is back home on Dickens Island after a long time away; her parent's marriage is seemingly in trouble and so is her aunt and uncle's, which she is asked to mediate. She is trying to reconnect with her son, who has been living with her parents for most of his life and she is trying to update the family's general store into the 21st century.
This story had all the earmarkings of a good cozy, but it wasn't for me. It was nice, but there were points that were too slow; there was not a big build-up to the reveal of the murderer; there was a ghost presence that seemed forced, rather than integral to the plot; and there were points that I forgot I was actually reading a cozy.
This, to me, seems more like a general fiction story with cozy elements mixed in. If I had known that going into this story, I think I would've enjoyed it more.
3 stars
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This story had all the earmarkings of a good cozy, but it wasn't for me. It was nice, but there were points that were too slow; there was not a big build-up to the reveal of the murderer; there was a ghost presence that seemed forced, rather than integral to the plot; and there were points that I forgot I was actually reading a cozy.
This, to me, seems more like a general fiction story with cozy elements mixed in. If I had known that going into this story, I think I would've enjoyed it more.
3 stars
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2025
I really enjoyed meeting Delia and her family along with Delia’s new-but-not-new love interest. Her grandma being the ghost in the story was such a fun idea—who wouldn’t’ love talking to their late grandma again, right? Especially if you had tons of questions like Delia did. The dog that followed Delia’s son Connor home was such an awesome pup who decided that Delia and Connor were gonna be his new people.
When Delia’s uncle was being looked at suspiciously after the murder of a council member who’d been acting a little too friendly toward Uncle Brad, Delia was determined she’d get to the bottom of things. Meanwhile, her son and his buddy got involved in what Connor thought for sure sure was a real treasure map. Chaos ensued of course. The very public showdown featuring the killer of the council member was a good one that had a super satisfying outcome. I didn't want the book to end and can’t wait for the next one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Crooked Lane via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
When Delia’s uncle was being looked at suspiciously after the murder of a council member who’d been acting a little too friendly toward Uncle Brad, Delia was determined she’d get to the bottom of things. Meanwhile, her son and his buddy got involved in what Connor thought for sure sure was a real treasure map. Chaos ensued of course. The very public showdown featuring the killer of the council member was a good one that had a super satisfying outcome. I didn't want the book to end and can’t wait for the next one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Crooked Lane via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
October 29, 2025
A solid mystery entwined with family drama and a surprising paranormal element.
Death on Dickens Island is the first book in author Allison Brook’s cozy new Books on the Beach Mystery series and is an absorbing mix of mystery and family drama, with a surprising paranormal element. With its multiple compelling storylines and relatable characters, this complex and satisfying tale had me firmly in its clutches from the very start.
Delia Dickens had returned to Dickens Island to help her father with the family general store and try to build a stronger relationship with Connor, the son who had grown up with her parents while she established her career in the city. Delia felt she had fumbled the ball with Connor, as her demanding job and early, ongoing difficulties finding safe childcare had prevented her from keeping him by her side. Her mother and father had been a godsend, stepping in when childcare had repeatedly failed and soon became the answer to providing a consistent and nurturing environment while Delia earned them a living. Connor, now fifteen, was having a hard time forgiving, forgetting, and just adjusting to living with his mother full-time again.Delia and Connor were not the only ones experiencing family drama on Dickens Island. When Delia decided to move back home and into the house left to her by her grandmother, her mother took the opportunity to move into Delia’s Manhattan apartment for a little “Me” self-care time away from her husband and the island community that soon stretched into months, with no firm end date in sight. Additionally, her Uncle Brad and Aunt Reenie, an island councilman and the town manager, were publicly at odds with each other over town council business and the unusually keen attentions of a flirtatious single councilwoman. But when the problem councilwoman is found murdered in her home, the stakes get even higher as both Brad and Reenie suddenly become suspects in her death.
Delia has her hands full trying to reconnect with her teenage son as a full-time mom, and I didn’t envy her the task of mollifying her dad with his constant requests that she convince her aunt and uncle to reconcile. Awkward. I was glad she was able to fulfill his request without aggressively meddling in something she was aware was none of her business. She had her own struggles, including the reappearance of her old high school sweetheart in her life.The plot is complex, to say the least, with multiple storylines, all clamoring for attention. The author does a stellar job establishing each one and entwining them so well. There’s a friendly stray dog who comes into their life at just the right time, Connor’s treasure hunting dreams with his friend, Trevor, who has a bad reputation and a worse homelife rounding out the picture, and a hidden room in Delia’s house with an even more unexpected visitor: her dearly departed Grandmother Helena with questions of her own and, perhaps, the answers to long-held island secrets.
I liked how Delia finally stood up to her father about her purpose at the store, and he was able to see her side pretty quickly. Of course, her addition of a book nook to the general store was an attractive one to me. Delia is a thoughtful, contemplative woman, and she takes the time to analyze her feelings for Jack and the best approaches to take with her wayward family members. I enjoyed how the storylines converged, some leading to clues that solved several mysteries and to the resolution of both a decades-old disappearance and the present-day murder.I recommend DEATH ON DICKENS ISLAND to cozy mystery readers, especially those who enjoy stories full of family drama, New York/Long Island-ish settings, and paranormal elements.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours.
November 22, 2025
This is the introduction to a new series by Allison Brook. The premise sounded good, but it just fell short of really capturing my interest. The setting and issues facing this small, tight knit community in its attempt to revitalize and yet maintain their heritage and small town appeal, was well described. The dual mysteries and even the inclusion of a ghost who plays a role in solving those murder mysteries, fit in with what cozy mysteries are all about. But the mysteries took more of a backseat to relationship and community issues, which kind of pushed the story away from the mystery realm. My biggest issue with the story however, was with the characters themselves. There was an overall lack of maturity - particularly with Delia and her family. Connor, Delia’s 15 year old son, was more mature than many of the adults. Delia’s aunt and uncle, who are community leaders, have drastically different views on the future of the island and don’t seem concerned that their public disagreements are polarizing the community. Her mother has taken a ‘break’ and moved to Manhattan, leaving her family with no idea when or if she plans to return home. Even though Delia came back to the island at the request of her parents to help revitalize the family general store, her father balks at every suggestion, is anxious about so many things and seems to expect others to fix things rather than taking an active role himself. Finally we come to Delia. She essentially abandoned her role as a parent for 12 years when she sent her son to live with her parents after her divorce because it was easier for her to manage working and better for Connor. She’s also still obsessing over a breakup with her boyfriend when she was 16 years old. 20 years later she still blames that breakup for her ongoing trust and self esteem issues, which led to her marriage to an abuser.
Many people are sure to enjoy this story, but for me it did miss the mark. I personally found some of the character choices and behavior off putting, preventing that connection that is so necessary in a series. Sometimes the first book in a series has some growing pains and subsequent installments are better. I like to give new series a chance before deciding to discontinue reading, so may give the next one a try.
Many people are sure to enjoy this story, but for me it did miss the mark. I personally found some of the character choices and behavior off putting, preventing that connection that is so necessary in a series. Sometimes the first book in a series has some growing pains and subsequent installments are better. I like to give new series a chance before deciding to discontinue reading, so may give the next one a try.
December 2, 2025
Delia Dickens has come home to Dickens Island, an island in the Long Island Sound. She’s looking forward to helping revitalize her family's general store as well as curating a small book nook. Plus, she wants to reunite with her teenage son. But Dickens Island isn’t the peaceful town Delia remembers. Delia’s Aunt Reenie and Uncle Brad, both community leaders, are at odds over the sale of a farm and its future use. When a young woman, new to the town council and friendly with Brad, is found murdered, everything escalates and reaches a new boiling point. With Reenie and Brad both suspects in the case, the townspeople start to take sides. When her grandmother's ghost visits her, Delia learns how past events have impacted the present and it is up to her to expose the farm’s sordid secrets and catch a murderer.
This was a great start to a wonderful new cozy mystery series. Allison Brook has the right formula to keep a reader satisfied until the very end of the story. Delia is a fabulous amateur sleuth who uses her smarts and observations to help solve a mystery that is affecting her community and her family. Being originally from Long Island, I love the setting because it reminds me of home. Delia's grandmother's ghost is an intriguing side character who helps guide Delia with her investigation. The plot was engrossing and made for a satisfying read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
This was a great start to a wonderful new cozy mystery series. Allison Brook has the right formula to keep a reader satisfied until the very end of the story. Delia is a fabulous amateur sleuth who uses her smarts and observations to help solve a mystery that is affecting her community and her family. Being originally from Long Island, I love the setting because it reminds me of home. Delia's grandmother's ghost is an intriguing side character who helps guide Delia with her investigation. The plot was engrossing and made for a satisfying read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
June 2, 2025
Delia Dickens has returned home to the island named after her ancestors, and with her estranged teenage son now lives in the house left to her by her grandmother, Helena. With disagreements between Delia's aunt and uncle in their capacity as the town manager and local council leader causing problems in their marriage and between islanders the small community is no longer the haven Delia remembers and when a friend of her uncle is found murdered she finds herself both investigating and acting as a marriage councillor! Can she really find a killer, repair her relationship with her son, reconnect with her first love, and get her head around the fact that her late grandmother haunts her old home, all while trying to rescue the family business? Delia has a feeling she may have taken on a bit too much?
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Crooked Lane Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. I loved this author's Haunted Library Mystery Series, which sadly finished last year, and was delighted to see this new title by her. This hasn't hit the previous heights yet, but it was definitely a good if very busy start! Delia is easy to like, as is her son, Connor, and there is a rescue dog to enjoy as well! I am definitely looking forward to reading more. 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Crooked Lane Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. I loved this author's Haunted Library Mystery Series, which sadly finished last year, and was delighted to see this new title by her. This hasn't hit the previous heights yet, but it was definitely a good if very busy start! Delia is easy to like, as is her son, Connor, and there is a rescue dog to enjoy as well! I am definitely looking forward to reading more. 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
June 1, 2025
"Death on Dickens Island (The Books on the Beach Mysteries #1)" by Allison Brook is a new series and similar in some ways to Allison Brook's Haunted Library Series. Delia Dickens has recently moved back into her grandmother's home she inherited on Dickens Island (yes, named for her family) to make a more active role in her teen son's life. Her mother is needing a break from the island and feels it's time the Delia take a more active role in the family interest of the island and in raising her own son. Her son been being raised most by Delia's parents after a rather traumatic divorce from her husband when her son was a toddler. Delia is trying to help her father and uncle see it's time to modernize and change the direction of the island.
Unfortunately, being a small town/island there's drama. Especially when someone turns up murdered. Delia gets pulled into it since her uncle had a questionable relationship with the victim and the ghost of her grandmother has appeared to tell her that the energy balance of the island is way out of whack. With help from her grandmother's ghost and the few locals who are still around to remember history, more than one mystery is solved.
Unfortunately, being a small town/island there's drama. Especially when someone turns up murdered. Delia gets pulled into it since her uncle had a questionable relationship with the victim and the ghost of her grandmother has appeared to tell her that the energy balance of the island is way out of whack. With help from her grandmother's ghost and the few locals who are still around to remember history, more than one mystery is solved.
August 2, 2025
Death on Dickens Island is a cozy little mystery that's set in a small town where the community is rocked by the first murder to take place in over 30 years.
On an island like this, everyone is either your neighbour or family member so the community gather together to try and solve this local crime.
The concept of the story was intriguing and it was well written, the characters had good development. However, I feel it fell just a little flat for me personally. I like my msyterys to keep me on my toes and I unfortunately found myself skimming a few pages where the dialogue was slow and repetitive.
The supernatural element also threw me off a little as I don't feel it quite fit with the rest of the story.
I would still read more from this author in the future as I appreciate the direction they were trying to take with this one.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC
On an island like this, everyone is either your neighbour or family member so the community gather together to try and solve this local crime.
The concept of the story was intriguing and it was well written, the characters had good development. However, I feel it fell just a little flat for me personally. I like my msyterys to keep me on my toes and I unfortunately found myself skimming a few pages where the dialogue was slow and repetitive.
The supernatural element also threw me off a little as I don't feel it quite fit with the rest of the story.
I would still read more from this author in the future as I appreciate the direction they were trying to take with this one.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC
April 15, 2025
#DeathonDickensIsland #NetGalley is the first in a new series by a favorite author.
This book knocks it out of the park for me, an avid cozy mystery reader.
Delia returns to Dickens Island, and she is desperate to heal her relationship with her son.
Working at the family general store keeps her busy, but when a murder takes place, putting her aunt and uncle on the top of the suspect list, Delia knows she needs to ask questions.
There is so much to love about this book, I am so happy to have read it, and I'm hoping there will be more to come.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
I will be recommending #DeathonDickensIsland to other cozy mystery readers.
This book knocks it out of the park for me, an avid cozy mystery reader.
Delia returns to Dickens Island, and she is desperate to heal her relationship with her son.
Working at the family general store keeps her busy, but when a murder takes place, putting her aunt and uncle on the top of the suspect list, Delia knows she needs to ask questions.
There is so much to love about this book, I am so happy to have read it, and I'm hoping there will be more to come.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
I will be recommending #DeathonDickensIsland to other cozy mystery readers.
November 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I like Ms. Brooks Haunted Library series, and so approached this one with excitement. It did not disappoint! Set on a (fictional) island in the middle of Long Island Sound, it introduces Delia Dickens, who has left her high power job in NYC and moved home to be with her teenaged son. Although she is supposed to help modernize the general store run by her family, her Dad seems dead set against it. Then there is her Uncle Brad, who seems to want to keep the island the same as it was when he was a boy. Add in a stray dog, an old boyfriend, and a sneaky island family, and Delia has more on her plate than she ever expected. Oh, and let's not forget the murder!!
November 12, 2025
What a great start for a new series! I loved the setting and the characters, especially Delia and her son, Connor. The mystery was intriguing and though I didn’t feel like she investigated so much as the clues (and the conclusion) were handed to her, I loved the development of the story and the community on the whole. Looking forward to more in this series.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #crookedlanebooks for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #crookedlanebooks for an honest review.
September 21, 2025
Title: Death On Dickens Island
Author: Allison Brook
Synopsis: A divorced sleuth in her thirties must bring peace back to her small town after a murder tears neighbors and family members apart in this series debut from Agatha Award-nominee Allison Brook, perfect for fans of Cynthia Riggs and Eva Gates.
Delia Dickens has come home to Dickens Island, a small island in the Long Island Sound, after a twelve year stint in Manhattan. She’s looking forward to helping her father revitalize the general store that the family owns as well as curating a small book nook. Most importantly, she wants to reunite with her 15 year old son. But Dickens Island isn’t the peaceful town Delia remembers–and she might be in more danger here than she ever was in the big city.
Delia’s Aunt Reenie and Uncle Brad, both prominent community leaders, are at odds over the sale of a farm and its future use. This has created friction, not only in their marriage, but amongst the citizens of the town. When a young woman, new to the town council and friendly with Brad, is found murdered, everything escalates and reaches a new boiling point.
With Reenie and Brad both suspects in the case and at each other’s throats, the townspeople start to take sides. When the ghost of her grandmother visits her, Delia learns how past events have impacted the present and it is up to her to expose the farm’s sordid secrets, in order to catch a murderer and restore peace to her beloved island
Review: I have complete mixed feeling about this book! I thought this would be a more cozy mystery? But I think I was wrong! There was a lot of family drama going on! The main character basically abounded her son as a baby and had her parents raise him but it’s never fully explained why she did that! Then there was the mystery aspect I feel like it wasn’t as big a focal point as I was expecting! It felt more like an after thought because of everything else going on in the story! As for the romance I didn’t like the love interest and I don’t think she should be with him considering they had a past already and the way he broke up with her was messed up! I would not have given him a second chance! I don’t feel the connection between them!
Thank you to net valley for giving me the chance to read this book in advance!
Author: Allison Brook
Synopsis: A divorced sleuth in her thirties must bring peace back to her small town after a murder tears neighbors and family members apart in this series debut from Agatha Award-nominee Allison Brook, perfect for fans of Cynthia Riggs and Eva Gates.
Delia Dickens has come home to Dickens Island, a small island in the Long Island Sound, after a twelve year stint in Manhattan. She’s looking forward to helping her father revitalize the general store that the family owns as well as curating a small book nook. Most importantly, she wants to reunite with her 15 year old son. But Dickens Island isn’t the peaceful town Delia remembers–and she might be in more danger here than she ever was in the big city.
Delia’s Aunt Reenie and Uncle Brad, both prominent community leaders, are at odds over the sale of a farm and its future use. This has created friction, not only in their marriage, but amongst the citizens of the town. When a young woman, new to the town council and friendly with Brad, is found murdered, everything escalates and reaches a new boiling point.
With Reenie and Brad both suspects in the case and at each other’s throats, the townspeople start to take sides. When the ghost of her grandmother visits her, Delia learns how past events have impacted the present and it is up to her to expose the farm’s sordid secrets, in order to catch a murderer and restore peace to her beloved island
Review: I have complete mixed feeling about this book! I thought this would be a more cozy mystery? But I think I was wrong! There was a lot of family drama going on! The main character basically abounded her son as a baby and had her parents raise him but it’s never fully explained why she did that! Then there was the mystery aspect I feel like it wasn’t as big a focal point as I was expecting! It felt more like an after thought because of everything else going on in the story! As for the romance I didn’t like the love interest and I don’t think she should be with him considering they had a past already and the way he broke up with her was messed up! I would not have given him a second chance! I don’t feel the connection between them!
Thank you to net valley for giving me the chance to read this book in advance!
October 21, 2025
After more than a decade away, Delia returns home to Dickens Island to try to establish a better relationship with her 15 year old son, but things have changed while she was away. There is tension among the town residents, primarily over the sale of a farm and what it might be used for in the future. When a young woman new to the town council is found dead and her uncle and aunt are the primary suspects, Delia sets out to prove their innocence – and learns more than she ever bargained for in the process.
I really liked this author’s Haunted Library series and was sorry that it ended. When I saw that she’s starting a new series with this book, I couldn’t wait to read it and was not disappointed.
Delia seems to have straightened out her priorities in life, with the most important being to work on improving her relationship with her son, Connor. I can understand his initial reluctance, but was happy to see him begin to come around by the time the book ended. Delia has a good group of people around her, and I especially enjoyed the scenes with her grandmother’s ghost :)
There were multiple murders in this story, but one occurred too late in the book to be of any real significance. The investigation into the first murder was the primary focus, and while there were several possible suspects, none of them seemed to be serious suspects. That said, one person stood out as the most likely culprit, so I wasn’t surprised when that was revealed to be the case. The later murder didn’t come as a surprise, nor did the killer’s identity or motive.
I’m glad Ms. Brook is beginning a new series, and I’m eager to read the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I really liked this author’s Haunted Library series and was sorry that it ended. When I saw that she’s starting a new series with this book, I couldn’t wait to read it and was not disappointed.
Delia seems to have straightened out her priorities in life, with the most important being to work on improving her relationship with her son, Connor. I can understand his initial reluctance, but was happy to see him begin to come around by the time the book ended. Delia has a good group of people around her, and I especially enjoyed the scenes with her grandmother’s ghost :)
There were multiple murders in this story, but one occurred too late in the book to be of any real significance. The investigation into the first murder was the primary focus, and while there were several possible suspects, none of them seemed to be serious suspects. That said, one person stood out as the most likely culprit, so I wasn’t surprised when that was revealed to be the case. The later murder didn’t come as a surprise, nor did the killer’s identity or motive.
I’m glad Ms. Brook is beginning a new series, and I’m eager to read the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 21, 2026
A good start to Allison’s new series. I enjoyed the mystery and meeting the new cast of characters. There were a few elements that weren’t my favorite but overall it was a fun read.
January 8, 2026
Good first book in a new series. Looking forward to reading more.
January 16, 2026
I'm going to finish this book but want to say whoever in the publishing house told this author it would be okay for her main character to abandon her child for 12 years for the lame excuse that was provided - you should be fired.
It's bad enough that author wrote this but for someone to sign off on it - 🙄🤦🏼♀️
There are several problematic issues with this cozy book but this is the worst one
It's bad enough that author wrote this but for someone to sign off on it - 🙄🤦🏼♀️
There are several problematic issues with this cozy book but this is the worst one
October 28, 2025
Really liked it until the second half of the book when the author kept repeating every detail 3 or 4 times to draw it out. I hate that much repetition!
2025-dnf
May 7, 2025Big thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for the ARC!! I did DNF this book at 37%, but it was more of a user error than it was the story itself. Let me explain…
This book is a cozy mystery with elements of the paranormal (the paranormal element I totally missed, so I did not expect it).
The story follows the FMC, Delia, who’s from Dickens Island. She has been living in Manhattan until recently, when she moved back to Dickens Island in hopes of being able to spend more time with her 15-year-old son, who was being cared for by her parents. When she came home, there were marital issues between her aunt and uncle, a murder, and Delia realized the island is not how it was when she had left.
I loved the cover of the book—loved the dog, the books, the view of the island—it exuded cozy mystery vibes. But I will say, this is my first cozy mystery novel, and I’m not really sure it’s completely my jam. I think “cozy” and “mystery” together confuse my brain a bit. 😬 I also didn’t realize there are paranormal elements to this book, which is completely on me, as I just dove into it from the cover. I think all of the reasons why I DNF’d the book might be the reasons why someone would rate this highly.
This book is a cozy mystery with elements of the paranormal (the paranormal element I totally missed, so I did not expect it).
The story follows the FMC, Delia, who’s from Dickens Island. She has been living in Manhattan until recently, when she moved back to Dickens Island in hopes of being able to spend more time with her 15-year-old son, who was being cared for by her parents. When she came home, there were marital issues between her aunt and uncle, a murder, and Delia realized the island is not how it was when she had left.
I loved the cover of the book—loved the dog, the books, the view of the island—it exuded cozy mystery vibes. But I will say, this is my first cozy mystery novel, and I’m not really sure it’s completely my jam. I think “cozy” and “mystery” together confuse my brain a bit. 😬 I also didn’t realize there are paranormal elements to this book, which is completely on me, as I just dove into it from the cover. I think all of the reasons why I DNF’d the book might be the reasons why someone would rate this highly.
May 2, 2025
Death on Dickens Island is the first installment of "The Books on the Beach" cozy mystery series. This is the first of Allison Brook's works that I've read.
The author does a fine job of taking the reader on a journey to the fictional Dickens Island, located in the Long Island, NY area. Settings are nicely described and characters are reasonably well developed. As with any "first" in a series, there are many people to meet, and it takes a bit of time to sort out all of the relationships. However, the plot does begin to come together for the reader at about 25% of the book. The mystery has a connection to Captain Kidd, and the historical aspect of the novel is fun to consider.
The family dynamics among the characters are complicated at best. That adds a bit of a challenge for the reader (at least it did for me), since I spent some time wondering why these relationships seemed so disposable. The novel might have flowed a bit better if there weren't interpersonal difficulties with nearly every person in the story.
Without wanting to create spoilers, there was an intriguing segue into the paranormal. At first, I was skeptical of how this would fit with the direction of the story, but as events unfolded, it did fit and in fact added an interesting angle to the mystery. However, there is a relationship twist that is revealed through the paranormal experience. In my opinion, that did not add anything of substance to the story and seemed far out of place.
Generally, Allison Brooks' writing is good, creating a readable little cozy mystery that some may particularly enjoy - especially those interested in Captain Kidd or the Long Island Sound area. For me, it was just so-so, but I may actually give the series another try when book #2 is released.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for the advance reader copy #netgalleyarc #DeathonDickensIsland
The author does a fine job of taking the reader on a journey to the fictional Dickens Island, located in the Long Island, NY area. Settings are nicely described and characters are reasonably well developed. As with any "first" in a series, there are many people to meet, and it takes a bit of time to sort out all of the relationships. However, the plot does begin to come together for the reader at about 25% of the book. The mystery has a connection to Captain Kidd, and the historical aspect of the novel is fun to consider.
The family dynamics among the characters are complicated at best. That adds a bit of a challenge for the reader (at least it did for me), since I spent some time wondering why these relationships seemed so disposable. The novel might have flowed a bit better if there weren't interpersonal difficulties with nearly every person in the story.
Without wanting to create spoilers, there was an intriguing segue into the paranormal. At first, I was skeptical of how this would fit with the direction of the story, but as events unfolded, it did fit and in fact added an interesting angle to the mystery. However, there is a relationship twist that is revealed through the paranormal experience. In my opinion, that did not add anything of substance to the story and seemed far out of place.
Generally, Allison Brooks' writing is good, creating a readable little cozy mystery that some may particularly enjoy - especially those interested in Captain Kidd or the Long Island Sound area. For me, it was just so-so, but I may actually give the series another try when book #2 is released.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for the advance reader copy #netgalleyarc #DeathonDickensIsland
October 22, 2025
Death on Dickens Island
A powerful family that has positions with the council and now Delia Dickens has to deal with her aunt and uncle to settle their viewpoints and differences before it affects the whole town. Helping her father to booster sales and production of the family owned general store things heat up before cooling down. She does give her father the new numbers and things are back up but there’s more.
Delia’s son lived with her parents and felt she feels left out until it changes. A dinner party at her father’s and Uncle Brad is there why invite Missy?
She stated how would she live on her own? Delia is sharp what’s going on between Brad and Missy?
Connor her son wants to go on the school trip to Spain will Delia let him?
The a cool talk about Captain Kidd and Brad explains it all. Who tried to run over Missy and why is Brad hanging on to her every word ?
Connor stayed at her father’s to play their game and would see Brad in the morning. She’d work at the store to find more appealing summer items in different catalogs. She was asked to revamp the store and bring it up to date. Then her brother came and asked her to write about the history of the island and other feature articles to save his paper. Her mom left and will she come back?
Then learning about the murder of Missy and where is Brad and why is Connor missing too and cutting school? Greg Fanning is running the Cade and questions Delia explaining about the black car Missy said tried to run her over but called her Uncle Brad instead of the police and came to her father’s house for dinner. Brad drove her home but when she did not show at the bakery for work she was found dead in her house.
Then Connor tells Delia about the Captain Kiss buried treasure and he explains the hidden bookcase where he found the map and where it might be found and the books that provided the history of Dickens Island and how he thinks that he might have found it. There is much more and she’s angry because he cut school but he also realizes something about Missy. Aunt Reenie was questioned as a suspect in the murder and Brad is next now that he’s been found. What was his relationship with Missy? Her aunt and uncle have different views on the sale of the farm and future use. History comes into play as the author tells us more about how this family came to own the island and who’s on the council and who’s in charge.
Then the plot moves to Delia and her idea to set up a Book Nook a quiet haven with a seating area and selection of books. Taking a break from shopping how cool!
Going through the titles she shares some that focus on the island and others that are quite interesting since this books are from her aunts hidden library. Plus creating the area and the chairs. Then looking at the log written by a sailor the read page 71 and learn about Victoria Watts and what she wrote about the island.
Then finding out if she could keep Riley who came out of nowhere and so adorable and loving. Asking her ex boyfriend Jack to check on missing dogs and then Gregg questioned Brad and both he and Aunt Reenie were offended.
Then off to Jack the vet to check him out, shots if needed and more. But the receptionist told her that maybe the dog belonged to her grandmother .
Then the council meeting and the discussion about the murder and small things that needed handling before the main topic the purchase of the Van Patten farm and how the land will be used. Raising cows, pigs and chickens along with various crops but the barn in bad shape plus other things remodelled.
How will they use the land as two proposals seem great but the discussion is about a ferry connecting to Connecticut will that be possible and other departments to handle it too.
The funeral mass at the cemetery for Missy and some volume Delia offering kind words. But talking to her uncle got her nowhere and hearing his feelings about his wife, her aunt and know she’s asking for divorce did not faze him in the least.
It gets more intense as he tells her to let her father ask him about it and not worry about it and then the reception.
Then seeing the ghost of her grandmother who asked for details about her family and the land telling Delia to read her journals to find some of the answers needed.
The journals allowed Delia to learn more about the farm in the summer and her visits. Then her feelings for someone she cared for but not him to her. Then the tone changes and more guarded and reserved: who was The One and how did her family play a part?
What were they fighting over and her grandmother alluded to the fact there were problems concerning the use of the land. Would her grandmother appear again?
Then creating the Book Nook section in the store sounds great to me. Books for people to read, some take one plus sharing the books or monthly book meetings for island residents plus a less formal format. Plus the Silent Book Club concept sounds great. Then back to Brad why not let it drop?
Then her grandmother’s engagement to her grandfather plus more about her family history. Her doubts about marrying her grandfather and negative habits he had.
Harriet reappeared and told Delia certain things about her family and before she vanished again said she’d return to tell her things that will help with the issues they are having in the town.
Events change the store will get upgrades and Delia goes out with Jack where will this go? Too far maybe and a robbery takes place and Delia has to find which items are missing and the log and map were the target. Will the police catch the person plus who killed Missy? Then a serious update about who owns the Van Patten farm. Questions about poor Adele and the betrayals , a robbery at Delias house and an investigation that seems to be going on even longer related to Missy, parentage, murder, theft and more. Then a body is found buried and Trevor’s whole world changes as his sister and boyfriend are arrested and the history of the VanPatten family is revealed and not what is expected.
Who killed Missy? Who was Jack seeing? Where will this end?
More about the farm, one owner arrested, murder if William due to anger and more what will the fate of the farm be?
Discussions heated, someone claiming squatters rights for the farm where will it end up but first two murders need to be solved.
A shocking revelation as Delia finds something that might shed the light on the farm and more.
An ending that will surprise you and a family that created it all. What’s next for Delia? Jack or someone else? Where will Dickens Island wind up related to the farm and more. Author Marilyn Levinson keeps us wanting more answers, more information and I hope book 2 really soon.
Fran Lewis just reviews
June 9, 2025
This is the first in a new cozy series by an author I've never read before. After this one, I'm not sure I would read more. Had this been the author's first book, maybe. There were quite a few things that didn't work for me or annoyed me. First, the ghost presence was totally out of left field and felt forced. There was no point to it. The MC has a job at her father's general store, but she's rarely there. Her brother asks her to write some historical articles for the paper and she sits down to write them at least a dozen times, never getting anywhere. After the third time, it felt like a cut and paste for filler. The killer is extremely.obvious, as well as how it all fits together. And the love interest is....suspect. I also don't feel any chemistry between the two. Also, there's that last date in the book. She gave me whiplash!
There were some good things! I did like the secret room. And I liked how the MC wasn't keen on her kid's friend, but gave him a shot and came around. The mystery would have been decent except the author made it too clear how it was going to turn out in the end.
There were some good things! I did like the secret room. And I liked how the MC wasn't keen on her kid's friend, but gave him a shot and came around. The mystery would have been decent except the author made it too clear how it was going to turn out in the end.
November 3, 2025
When you name your protagonist Delia Dickens and stick her on a New England island named Dickens Island, you are telling me this book is about to bring Big Cozy Drama, and Death on Dickens Island delivers. This is the kind of mystery where everyone in town is just a little too involved, someone’s dead in the middle of a land dispute, and there’s a ghost grandma casually dropping in like “sweetheart, murder is temporary, family secrets are forever.”
Delia’s in her thirties, freshly divorced, exhausted from Manhattan, and emotionally bracing herself for a full-scale renovation. Not just of the family’s charmingly crumbling general store, but of her entire life. She’s back on the island to rebuild a relationship with her son Connor (who has Teenage Resentment Face down to an art form), help her dad modernize their store (hello, book nook!), and maybe not get sucked into the increasingly messy murder-mayhem-marriage-council triangle that her aunt and uncle have decided to stage in full view of the entire island.
Spoiler: she absolutely gets sucked in. It’s not really her fault. A councilwoman winds up murdered after a suspiciously dramatic dinner, the whole town is playing Divorce Court: Island Edition, and then her dead grandmother starts dropping spectral hints about long-buried secrets like this is a ghost-powered episode of Dateline. You try ignoring that.
Delia’s strength as a protagonist is that she’s got that perfect cozy heroine mix. Nosy but competent, warm but boundary-aware, and just messy enough to be fun. She’s juggling an angsty teen, a rescue dog who definitely has main character energy, an awkward maybe-rekindling with her high school sweetheart (now the island vet, because of course), and two grown adults who need couples therapy but are instead publicly feuding over land development plans like it’s the town’s new spectator sport.
And while we’re here, the mystery is solid. Not groundbreaking, not “I gasped so hard I scared my cat,” but satisfyingly tangled with a good dose of family dysfunction, some buried skeletons (not literally, but almost), and that small-town claustrophobia where everyone knows everyone and your alibi better be airtight by Tuesday. The ghost element? Surprisingly effective. Helena isn’t throwing chandeliers or anything. She’s more of a spectral life coach with a taste for dramatics, which honestly, same.
My only beef, and it's minor, is that the pacing sometimes felt like Delia had fifteen tabs open in her brain at once, and every single one had a fire in it. There’s a lot going on: emotional reconnection with her son, generational family resentment, community politics, secret rooms, a treasure hunt, murder, a dog, and a literal ghost. You can feel that this is a first-in-series book laying track for future installments, which means not every plot thread gets the breathing room it deserves. But that’s the trade-off for a cozy debut this packed with potential.
By the end, I was emotionally invested in Connor’s healing arc, low-key shipping Delia and the hot vet against my better judgment, and already making predictions about who’s gonna get murdered in book two. If it's not that nosy gossip from the council meetings, I’ll be shocked. Four stars. Comfortably cozy, emotionally grounded, and just ghostly enough to make you side-eye your grandma’s old mirror.
Whodunity Award: For the Ghost Who Was Like “It’s Giving Haunting, But Make It Helpful"
Delia’s in her thirties, freshly divorced, exhausted from Manhattan, and emotionally bracing herself for a full-scale renovation. Not just of the family’s charmingly crumbling general store, but of her entire life. She’s back on the island to rebuild a relationship with her son Connor (who has Teenage Resentment Face down to an art form), help her dad modernize their store (hello, book nook!), and maybe not get sucked into the increasingly messy murder-mayhem-marriage-council triangle that her aunt and uncle have decided to stage in full view of the entire island.
Spoiler: she absolutely gets sucked in. It’s not really her fault. A councilwoman winds up murdered after a suspiciously dramatic dinner, the whole town is playing Divorce Court: Island Edition, and then her dead grandmother starts dropping spectral hints about long-buried secrets like this is a ghost-powered episode of Dateline. You try ignoring that.
Delia’s strength as a protagonist is that she’s got that perfect cozy heroine mix. Nosy but competent, warm but boundary-aware, and just messy enough to be fun. She’s juggling an angsty teen, a rescue dog who definitely has main character energy, an awkward maybe-rekindling with her high school sweetheart (now the island vet, because of course), and two grown adults who need couples therapy but are instead publicly feuding over land development plans like it’s the town’s new spectator sport.
And while we’re here, the mystery is solid. Not groundbreaking, not “I gasped so hard I scared my cat,” but satisfyingly tangled with a good dose of family dysfunction, some buried skeletons (not literally, but almost), and that small-town claustrophobia where everyone knows everyone and your alibi better be airtight by Tuesday. The ghost element? Surprisingly effective. Helena isn’t throwing chandeliers or anything. She’s more of a spectral life coach with a taste for dramatics, which honestly, same.
My only beef, and it's minor, is that the pacing sometimes felt like Delia had fifteen tabs open in her brain at once, and every single one had a fire in it. There’s a lot going on: emotional reconnection with her son, generational family resentment, community politics, secret rooms, a treasure hunt, murder, a dog, and a literal ghost. You can feel that this is a first-in-series book laying track for future installments, which means not every plot thread gets the breathing room it deserves. But that’s the trade-off for a cozy debut this packed with potential.
By the end, I was emotionally invested in Connor’s healing arc, low-key shipping Delia and the hot vet against my better judgment, and already making predictions about who’s gonna get murdered in book two. If it's not that nosy gossip from the council meetings, I’ll be shocked. Four stars. Comfortably cozy, emotionally grounded, and just ghostly enough to make you side-eye your grandma’s old mirror.
Whodunity Award: For the Ghost Who Was Like “It’s Giving Haunting, But Make It Helpful"
September 18, 2025
Stepping into the world of "Death on Dickens Island,” the first installment of the A Books on the Beach Mystery by Allison Brook, is a delightful escape into a realm where mystery entwines with the charm of small-town life. As I turned the pages, I found myself on Dickens Island, a quaint little place that seemed to hum with secrets beneath its picturesque surface. Delia Dickens, the protagonist, returns to this idyllic island after years in the bustling city of Manhattan, only to discover that the peace she longed for is threatened by an undercurrent of danger and intrigue. Her journey to reunite with her son and help her father breathe new life into the family store is soon overshadowed by a murder that shakes the community to its core.
The characters in this book are wonderfully relatable, each with their own imperfections and strengths. Delia's family dynamics are particularly compelling, showcasing a tapestry of real emotions and actions that are both heartwarming and genuine. It’s refreshing to read about characters who aren't perfect but are doing their best, making them all the more endearing. The secondary characters fit seamlessly into the narrative, each adding depth and intrigue to the story. The supernatural element, embodied by Delia's ghostly grandmother, Helena, adds a unique and creative twist that I absolutely adored. Their interactions were both touching and intriguing, adding layers to the mystery that kept me engaged.
The narrative is rich with vivid imagery and picturesque settings, making Dickens Island come alive in my mind. The island itself becomes a character, with its strong sense of community and beautifully crafted descriptions. The story is filled with multiple mysteries, not just the murder at its heart, but also the adventure that Delia’s son, Connor discovers, adding even more history of Dickens Island into the story. These elements intertwine to guarantee that there is never a dull moment, featuring unexpected twists and turns at every corner, skillfully placed red herrings, and just the right number of suspects to keep me on my toes. The fast pace of the story had me eagerly turning pages, often staying up later than I should have, driven by the need to unravel the next layer of the mystery.
The conclusion of the book is immensely satisfying, with all loose ends tied up in a neat bow, leaving me with a sense of fulfillment and anticipation for the next installment, which I hope will come. This story is not just a cozy mystery but an unputdownable adventure that I can't recommend enough. It’s the kind of book that leaves you wanting more, and I'm thrilled that it's the first in a series. As I close this book, I'm filled with excitement for what Allison Brook has in store for us next, and I have no doubt that anyone who picks up "Death on Dickens Island" will feel the same way. If you're looking for a heartwarming, captivating mystery with a touch of the supernatural, look no further—this is a book you’ll want to embark on.
Opinionated Book Rating:
Originality: 5.0/5.0
Plot Structure: 5.0/5.0
Pacing: 5.0/5.0
Dialogue and Narrative: 5.0/5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 5.0/5.0
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0
The characters in this book are wonderfully relatable, each with their own imperfections and strengths. Delia's family dynamics are particularly compelling, showcasing a tapestry of real emotions and actions that are both heartwarming and genuine. It’s refreshing to read about characters who aren't perfect but are doing their best, making them all the more endearing. The secondary characters fit seamlessly into the narrative, each adding depth and intrigue to the story. The supernatural element, embodied by Delia's ghostly grandmother, Helena, adds a unique and creative twist that I absolutely adored. Their interactions were both touching and intriguing, adding layers to the mystery that kept me engaged.
The narrative is rich with vivid imagery and picturesque settings, making Dickens Island come alive in my mind. The island itself becomes a character, with its strong sense of community and beautifully crafted descriptions. The story is filled with multiple mysteries, not just the murder at its heart, but also the adventure that Delia’s son, Connor discovers, adding even more history of Dickens Island into the story. These elements intertwine to guarantee that there is never a dull moment, featuring unexpected twists and turns at every corner, skillfully placed red herrings, and just the right number of suspects to keep me on my toes. The fast pace of the story had me eagerly turning pages, often staying up later than I should have, driven by the need to unravel the next layer of the mystery.
The conclusion of the book is immensely satisfying, with all loose ends tied up in a neat bow, leaving me with a sense of fulfillment and anticipation for the next installment, which I hope will come. This story is not just a cozy mystery but an unputdownable adventure that I can't recommend enough. It’s the kind of book that leaves you wanting more, and I'm thrilled that it's the first in a series. As I close this book, I'm filled with excitement for what Allison Brook has in store for us next, and I have no doubt that anyone who picks up "Death on Dickens Island" will feel the same way. If you're looking for a heartwarming, captivating mystery with a touch of the supernatural, look no further—this is a book you’ll want to embark on.
Opinionated Book Rating:
Originality: 5.0/5.0
Plot Structure: 5.0/5.0
Pacing: 5.0/5.0
Dialogue and Narrative: 5.0/5.0
Personal Enjoyment: 5.0/5.0
Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0
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