A Pilgrimage of Whispered Truths

Tides of Truth #1

by M. Jayne LaDow

Dani Jones thought surviving her seventeenth year of teaching would be her biggest challenge before summer vacation. But when a student’s uncle confronts her after class and then disappears, everything changes. Days later, during a Chesapeake Bay cleanup, Dani discovers his body hidden in the marsh. Suddenly, she is drawn into a dangerous mystery that could unravel her quiet coastal town as she embarks on a pilgrimage worthy of Chaucer.

Gavin Larkhurst, a radio newsman with a protective streak, wants to keep Dani safe from the dangers of arson, greed, and long-buried lies. But the closer she gets to the truth, the harder he falls, torn between letting her face peril and risking his heart.

Set in June 1997 Virginia Beach, A Pilgrimage of Whispered Truths blends steamy romance with a twisting mystery, where every secret threatens to surface.

268 pages, Paperback

Published November 14, 2025

About the author

Hi, I'm MJ — and yes, I write steamy romance about teachers. Former middle school English teacher of 33 years. I know exactly what I'm doing.
I write two series (a third one is coming) out of Virginia Beach, VA: the Marchfield Series, which is workplace rom-com set among teachers in a middle school (spicy, chaotic, deeply unhinged in the best way), and the Tides of Truth mystery romance series set in 1990s Virginia Beach, for when you want your swooning served with a side of cold case. https://www.hopp.bio/mjayneladow/
When I'm not writing, I'm working for Creative Footnotes — a magazine, Substack, and YouTube channel about the creative process — corresponding with pen pals around the world, volunteering with the local food bank, and being firmly ignored by three cats named Gino, George, and Jonsey.
I have adult children, a husband named Jim, and a deep conviction that the best stories are the ones where the slow burn finally catches.
Come join the LaDow Lovelies and the Zero Regrets book club; we read what we want.

Reviews

[Patti Wyatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this mystery by M. Jayne La Dow! Such a fun escape in a sweet beach side town! Navigating the area in search of answers with her characters completely captivated me!
I don’t know which I want more from this author, another cozy mystery or more Rom Com antics from Marchfield Middle School! Both! Patti W.

[Elizabeth Lehrer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had forgotten the days before internet and wireless connection! Imagine gathering and following clues without GOOGLE! As well as escaping danger without an IPHONE! Then add trying to find or connect with the sexiest man and the love of your life WITHOUT INSTANT CONNECTION 24/7! This book brings back excitement and love in the old days of the 1990s. Great story to see how mystery was once solved and love was found.

[Joanne Pruett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent mystery! Written by my friend, M Jayne LaDow
Set in our hometown--lots of local references--intriguing mystery--literary references

[Jane Hardy · Rating 1 out of 5]

Needs closer editing.