Three years have passed since Hurricane Sandy devastated the New Jersey Shore as Megan Stanford returns to her childhood home to find her elderly grandmother and the family Grand Victorian home in a state of shocking neglect. As the town threatens to sue to ensure demolition of the guest cottages behind Misty Manor, mystery unfolds in the once quiet town of Misty Point, NJ. A dead body found in the debris, threatening messages, and vandalism, combined with an eerie sixty year old photograph, bring the investigation closer to home. Megan continues to dig for the truth and unwittingly begins to unravel a decades old secret, which threatens her and the future of Misty Manor.
Author of Misty Point Mystery Series, Midnight Shift, and Rocky Meadow Mystery Series- Sacred Gold, Fatal Breach, The Bench
As a child, I loved to read, whenever and whatever I could get my hands on. I started to write my own "Nancy Drew" type mystery in fifth grade. As a student, I studied Biology in Vermont, Sciences and Literature in college and eventually became a physician. I enjoy writing mysteries that contain medical and light spiritual content. Either way, a good murder mystery is always fun.
Misty Manor - Three years have passed since Hurricane Sandy devastated the New Jersey Shore as Megan Stanford returns to her childhood home to find her elderly grandmother and the family Grand Victorian home in a state of shocking neglect. As the town threatens to sue to ensure demolition of the guest cottages behind Misty Manor, mystery unfolds in the once quiet town of Misty Point, NJ. A dead body found in the debris, threatening messages, and vandalism, combined with an eerie sixty year old photograph, bring the investigation closer to home. Megan continues to dig for the truth and unwittingly begins to unravel a decades old secret, which threatens her and the future of Misty Manor.
My first book, The Bench, is set in the fictional town of Rocky Meadow, VT. The Rocky Meadow Mystery series then continues with Fatal Breach and Sacred Gold, although each book can be read as a stand alone, just like your favorite episodes of a mystery show. Dr. Amy Daniels is a trauma surgeon who moves to Rocky Meadow, VT to escape family tragedy. There she meets, Father Michael Lauretta, the psychologist pastor of St. Francis church and Rocky Meadow Retreat Center. Together, they solve a mystery and search for a killer with the help of Katie, the church cook, Willow, a teenage millionaire, Father Victor, visiting priest from Chicago and Tony Noce, owner of Hasco's Bar and Grill. In Fatal Breach, the characters become involved with cybercrime and a murder at a local soup kitchen. Sacred Gold is about gold treasure buried in the catacombs of the church. There is murder as well as a race to see who finds gold first.
While solving crimes, the main characters deal with life, loss, starting over and developing an appreciation for the friends and loved ones in their lives.
Linda Rawlins lives in New Jersey with her family. When she is not working in medicine, she is writing.
Even though it has been a minute since I read MISTY MANOR, the author provided me with the other two books in the Misty Point Mystery Series, Misty Point and Misty Winter, that have been sitting on my desks for months I've been meaning to get around to. I would like to start cleaning out my RTC shelf, so I decided before I continue with the series I should write my full review for the first book beforehand.
Enough of my rambling, let's get onto the review, shall we? I think we shall.
If you know anything about my rating system, you know that I am extremely picky on what I give five stars as I don't like to throw them around like candy to books that aren't truly deserving of receiving that award. Regardless, as I don't have the freshest memory on what occurred, here is my list of reasons why this book deserves five stars from yours truly:
-There is actually suspense in a mystery for the first time in forever. I know what you're thinking don't all mystery books have suspense? and to that I would say, well, you sure aren't wrong, but what I mean is that this book is full of twists and turns that came out of thin air you didn't expect one bit. It keeps you guessing, yet leaves you wanting more. -Likable characters I was able to connect with from the minute I started until the second it ended. -Very detailed, but not too graphic, either. Rawlins has the right amount of detail that way nothing is unexplained, however, she doesn't keep rambling on and on about pointless sh*t to the point that the story becomes irritating, annoying, and repetitive, as I see a lot of authors do. -I couldn't put this down because I was so engrossed into the plot, setting, characters, mystery, every single aspect of this book the ENTIRE time I was reading. -Realistic actions taken by the characters. There isn't a bunch of nonsensical bullsh*t happening with the characters, it is all very honest to what happens in the real world as well as relatable in some aspects as well. -Fast-paced without rushing through the plot
And those are just some of the reasons, I could go on all day long about how amazing this book is. Just pick it up for yourself to see what the hype is about, because I promise you will not be disappointed, and I'm holding myself accountable for stating that.
My review is based on that edition with narration by Amy Hall.
I hadn't ever heard of "cozy mysteries" until I listened to this book while on a road trip during a stressful time in my life. I sometimes don't like listening to fiction because I frequently get annoyed by what narrators do or don't do. Note: earlier review from Audio book for John Elder Robison's book (a memoir) where the narrator didn't research how to pronounce Amherst.
I digress.
I enjoyed the story of Misty Manor a lot. I connected to the story of family relationships, especially at the end of life and finding solace in long term friendships we may have set aside. At first I thought it would be like listening to a Hallmark movie, but it was more than that. I am so glad I decided to listen to this book - it was like self care in a way.
Amy Hall's narration was perfect. Not aggravating and definitely made me want to continue listening. I confess on a couple occasions I continued to drive to listen to more of the book. Her voice changes were seamless and not frustrating.
Something I would have called impossible has happened. I am now listening to another cozy mystery. :-) Who would have thought? I will definitely listen to more of the Misty Manor series as it comes out on audio.
I purchased the first 4 books of the series at the Liberty States Fiction Writers Conference. I read Misty Manor, the first book in the series and I'm hooked. I love mysteries and the Jersey Shore. The author did a wonderful job with the characters, making them bigger than life. I can't wait to read book 2.
This mystery, set in New Jersey, has a wonderful cast of characters. The author deftly combines dialog with description that keeps the story moving at a brisk pace. And not until the last few chapters do you begin to figure out who the body is and who did the killing. A "cozy" it's a fast, delightful read. I'm purchasing the rest of the series because I want to find out what happens in Megan's future. A hint of romance adds to the story line.
I really enjoyed this book, which kept me up turning pages far into the night. So why the 4 star rating you ask? Shouldn't a book like that earn 5 stars? Well, first, there were some flaws in the writing and the book would have benefited from a better editor to cut down on some of the repetition that was present. Second, there wasn't much of a mystery and the "bad guys" were self evident. It was easy to guess who-done-it, the only question being what parts they played in the various incidents that occurred to poor Megan. Third, the non-use of contractions can be very distracting and the characters spoke to one another in what I think of as a stilted manner, not true to life. One character uses "would have" and "would of" in the same paragraph! In any case, "Misty Manor" caught and held my attention more readily than other books and, as I said (please forgive the repetition), kept me up late into the night so earned the 4 stars I gave it despite the editorial flaws. I wish it could have been 5! Ms. Rawlins, next time hire a good editor (I will do it for free) because you are a gifted writer with a few rough edges and I would love to read the continuing saga of Megan's experiences at Misty Manor. I especially want to find out what treasures are in that attic! I highly recommend this book to everyone!
When the past collides with the present you know you are in for a rocky ride and some fun too. A thoroughly enjoyable book you'll want to read from start to finish. I have there is a book 2 as this adventure is just starting. 💙💙💙💙💙
This is a good cozy mystery that takes place on the Jersey Shore and involves a secret spanning 60 years. When Megan Stanford loses her news reporter job and goes to care for her elderly grandmother who is undergoing hospice treatments at home, she must uncover a mystery that puts her in danger after a body is discovered on the property. As Megan is reunited with Nick, a man from her past who is now a police officer in town, strange things begin to happen that threaten her. To protect her grandmother, she sets out to solve the riddle of the unidentified body, putting herself in further danger. While I was able to figure out some of the mysteries, there were a few interesting twists at the end. Linda Rawlins writes well, and this is a charming yet suspenseful mystery. I especially liked the addition of some paranormal elements and the manner in which hospice care and the elderly were conveyed.
When I have spare time, nothing is more relaxing for me than a book that immediately grabs and holds my attention. This book did that immediately from the blurb I read about it to the very last page. I love the writer's style and enjoyed every single minute of this page turner. The old mansion on the Jersey shore with various captivating characters and the small town ambience is right up my alley. I loved this book and you will, too.
I really enjoyed reading this book. In fact, I had a hard time putting it down. The main characters had attractive personalities and felt honest. The plot contained some really unexpected but quite plausible elements, and there were tons of beautiful detailed descriptions, which brought the story to life. What a wonderful way to getaway for the weekend. I didn't actually get to go to the beach, but I felt refreshed, as if I had. I hope the author writes more books in this setting.
The plot and the especially the mysteries in this novel were intriguing enough to hold my interest. The writing was just okay in my opinion. Some of the interactions of the young people seemed a little shallow or superficial,maybe a little too teenage like for people in their late twenties the history of the family and the outcome of the mystery were very interesting..
Surface to say a complete review would have so many spoilers, that let's just say... murder, intrigue,romance all the element of a great cozy mystery that held my attention way better than the volleyball tournament I was supposed to be watching! Can't wait for the next book in the series!
I enjoyed this book very much. It was about the Jersey Shore, Sandy, and an unsolved murder. I couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I will recommend it to all my friends. What I need to know is when can we expect a sequel?
Well written page turner - great for those lazy days of summer! Woven into the principle story is the author's ability to bring education and compassion to a often times difficult subject. Grab a beach chair & enjoy!!
A new to me author. A cozy mystery. First in the beach series. Looking forward to reading more books by this author. Loved this book, characters and setting. It pulled me in from the first page and would not let me go.
I like a lot and I wish there more to it or another book. I would like see another book with her Grandparents come and visit help her with different mystery
At first this novel seemed a little too cozy, but, then suddenly, writer come back to home, picked up it's pace and I'm still panting from the finding out of the complicit murderers.
It's Detroit, Michigan and online journalist, Meagan Stanford has been fired. As she sobs in her car she receives a phone call that will change, not only her life, but answer some of the secrets held within her family at Misty Point, New Jersey.
Founding family, the Stanfords have had tragedy throughout their lives on the New Jersey shores. Grandparent's built a Victoria Mansion, but they felt loss when their only son, George, disappeared one weekend and his bride and sole heir, Dean came home to emptiness. It is sixty years later and Dean calls his only daughter to go and clean up the mess left behind from Hurricane Sandy. The mess, unfortunately, includes his ninety year old Mother.
Megan is shocked at her Grandmother's appearance and health condition. Not to mention, the township's decision to sue the estate for condemned properties left behind from the storm. As Megan tries to assume responsibilities, it becomes clear that there are mysteries, and persons wishing ill will towards her and her Grandmother.
As Hospice and the Police arrive, Megan wonders who she can trust and if she should.
This novel makes you want to zoom into the next installment. What other secrets are going to be unveiled. Thank goodness, Megan has a Life Guard best friend.
Misty Manor by Linda Rawlins can be categorized as a "Cozy Mystery."
The book could have used a bit better proofreading and editing. That is a point of irritation for me, so YMMV. The story, however, does NOT need improving. It is a fun mystery in an interesting little Jersey town and the characters have a wide enough range of personalities to make them interesting.
I had the perp pegged about a third of the way in (but I'm very good at that, so it in no way detracted from my enjoyment of the developing plot). I think that, if the author wanted to, she could flesh this story out a bit and have a full-fledged mystery novel instead of a quickie Cozy.
The main character initially strikes the reader as self-absorbed and shallow, and in the early pages I did not much like here. However, her personality develops depth and those traits fade into the background. We see her grow emotionally and get to like her more as the story goes on.
The author does a great job of tiptoeing the main character into the start of a relationship with a local cop, leaving plenty of opportunity for development of that romantic element in subsequent books in the series without leaving the reader feeling cheated.
Cozy Mysteries are my favorite "quick reads" in the mystery genre and this is a good 'un. I look forward to reading the next installment in this series.
Intimidating her future and that of Misty Manor, Megan searches for facts of what really took place. Mysteries from the past are unfolding. Hurricane Sandy overwhelmed the beaches of New Jersey a few years back. Megan was shaken by the neglect she comes upon when she returns to her family’s grand old home. All too real is the old photo, menacing messages, destruction and even a corpse. The secrets and the antiquity regarding Megan’s grandpa's vanishing are thought-provoking. Misty Manor syndicates old-fashioned charm along with a clean exciting plot. Author Linda Rawlins has written a wonderful story laden with, romance, conspiracy, and twists and turns that I wasn’t expecting. I’m ready to read the next installment. Hats off to Ms. Rawlins!
I really wanted to like this book because the story sets up a lot of interesting things. Unfortunately, for my taste, there were too many detours through mundane details that didn’t move the story forward. I was also distracted by missing words, misnamed characters, and other typos. The premise is there, and the threads come together nicely in the end, but the craft throughout could have used a few more brutal passes through editors and proofreaders.
I really enjoyed this book! Part of it might be that it was set in a fictional town on the Jersey shore, and descriptions struck me as very true to life. (At one point, the heroine orders a Taylor Ham, egg and cheese on a bagel. Oh yeah!!) In addition, the story kept me guessing almost to the end. I will def check out the sequel!
I enjoyed the characters and the mystery. It is a delightful summer read to provide some respite from the daily hustle and bustle. If you're looking for deep philosophical thought you've come to the wrong book and genre but to empty your head and be entertained, this book hits the mark.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Misty Manor. It's a murder mystery involving a young woman going home to take care of her elderly grandmother. Along the way she is faced with many obstacles in her journey to make her grandmother's last days comfortable while confronting a killer.
This book kept me interested from the beginning until the end. It had mystery, murder, romance, friendships and lots of excitement I could not put it down until I knew the whole story was told. Sorry it ended.
Entertaining mystery about the Jersey Shore. I love reading books with local locales. This is one that makes a great weekend read. I look forward to reading more by the author. Curl up with a cup of tea and enjoy!
A thoroughly enjoyable read. I as surprised by the ending. The characters were believable and the descriptions made me want to make plans to go to the beach. Can't wait for the next edition.