Cook's Cove

by Judy Leslie, Sarah L. Colton (Narrator)

Jenny promises her eccentric aunt she will run the antique shop and live in the hundred-year-old house in Cook’s Cove when her aunt dies. But is she prepared to give up her career, lifestyle, and fiancé in California or a life in a small Northwestern coastal town to fulfill that promise? Then a mysterious stranger at the funeral tells Jenny that someday she might learn the “truth” about her aunt.

Curious, she wants answers and knows Cook’s Cove with its lingering secrets is the only place she’ll get them. But Jenny discovers some people don’t want her in this tourist town and are going to extremes measures to make her leave. Just how much is she willing to sacrifice to solve the mystery about her aunt?

Cook’s Cove is a captivating story, full of interesting characters and dotted with twists and turns.

This delightful mystery is a must for women’s fiction fans.

Audible Audio

Published March 17, 2021

About the author

Who doesn’t love a good story? Judy Leslie's story starts in the vibrant city of Pasadena, California, where she grew up in a family as unique as they come. Her mother, a farm girl drawn to the allure of Hollywood, and her father, a charismatic Texan with talents in dance, art, and photography, provided a childhood filled with diverse influences. Her extended family was no less interesting, featuring a successful aunt who broke barriers as a gay interior designer and an uncle who worked as a chauffeur for Hollywood stars, among others. This colorful family backdrop offered Judy endless material for her future stories.

By the age of 20, Judy had moved to Bellingham, Washington, a cozy coastal town that seemed to whisper stories from its every nook. Running Yesteryear Antiques, her days began with the crackle of logs in the woodstove and the brewing of morning coffee, a routine that grounded her in simplicity and sparked her creative mind.

Her next chapter unfolded in a quaint beach cottage on the Lummi Indian reservation. This tranquil spot, where night mysteries seemed to merge with the ocean's rhythm, inspired the Cook’s Cove collection. Here, Judy's real-life experiences blended with her imagination, creating tales where mystery and romance seamlessly intertwined.

Judy's life also included dating a successful musician and living abroad, adding layers to her personal narrative. She has traveled extensively across the United States, exploring numerous small towns while riding on the back of her husband's Harley motorcycle.

Now, Judy splits her time between a home near Seattle and a cabin in Leavenworth, Washington, a place buzzing with Bavarian charm and outdoor activities. This contrast of settings continues to fuel her writing, inspiring her to explore stories about a family's search not for adventure or riches, but for a deep, enduring love – as timeless and profound as the mountains that surround her mountain retreat.

Reviews

[JLynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a 3 1/2 star read for me. I was captivated by the book as soon as I read the blurb and saw the author post about it in a Facebook group. I knew it was something I wanted to read. Let me start by saying that I really didn't like the main character, Jenny, at the beginning of the book. By the end, I liked her more and she'd grown on me some, but I don't think she'll ever be a character I love. The book was good, but left me with unanswered questions and wondering how certain details tie into the overall story. I guess I'll have to read the next book to find out the answers to my questions. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.

[Patricia Bates · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I opened Cook's Cove it was the first book I've read by Judy - but it will not be the last. I found the plot to be well developed, the characters relatable, fun, and engaging. There was enough action to keep the story moving along at a brisk pace. I was loath to put the book down - or finish it lol. If you're looking for a great read by a talented author check out this book.

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

[Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had read her other books from Cook's Cove and thought this was an earlier one not listed. It is an earlier version of The House at the Cove. It has a few details that are different from the newer book. I liked it as much as I liked the newer one. It was fun to compare the two books. I listened to this books audio version, so that also made it amazing. The narrator was perfect for the story. I might listen to the second book's original, if I can find it.

[Sarah Nielsen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this as an arc for my honest review

This book left me confused, I feel like there were far too many unanswered questions so I guess I have to read the second book when it comes. I liked Shaun but Jenny not so much, though she changes for the better during the book.

[Robert Micheal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was a good read, but had a few unanswered questions. Hopefully those will be answered in the next book.

Things missing? Who was flying the plane? We know Jack's involvement with "Aunt" Susan, but what's he got to do with today? Was it a coincidence that Robert arrived while the fire was going?

Still a good read.

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

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was hooked. In the beginning I didn't like the main character, Jenny. She seemed self involved but as the story unwound I came to like her and her spirit. She faces a number of challenges within her family and without. The mystery she unravels is great and there are bunch of characters I would like to see more of. Very well written!