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Whispering Pines Mystery #2
Kept Secrets
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B075X44X3V
Tucked next to a pristine lake, the part-Medieval Europe, part-Renaissance Faire hamlet of Whispering Pines, Wisconsin is a utopia . . . except for the recent murders.
One month after arriving in the Northwoods, former detective Jayne O’Shea has settled comfortably into small-town life and is making good progress with her task of getting her grandparents’ house ready for sale. Then the shocking death of one of the carnies rocks the community, and the villagers look to Jayne for help, placing her in an impossible middle ground of not wanting to get involved and needing to ensure justice is served.
When a second carney turns up dead, and the newly hired sheriff—more concerned with ticketing tourists than catching the killer—dismisses the death as an accident, Jayne has no choice but to step in. Can she uncover the truth before the murderer strikes again?
Tucked next to a pristine lake, the part-Medieval Europe, part-Renaissance Faire hamlet of Whispering Pines, Wisconsin is a utopia . . . except for the recent murders.
One month after arriving in the Northwoods, former detective Jayne O’Shea has settled comfortably into small-town life and is making good progress with her task of getting her grandparents’ house ready for sale. Then the shocking death of one of the carnies rocks the community, and the villagers look to Jayne for help, placing her in an impossible middle ground of not wanting to get involved and needing to ensure justice is served.
When a second carney turns up dead, and the newly hired sheriff—more concerned with ticketing tourists than catching the killer—dismisses the death as an accident, Jayne has no choice but to step in. Can she uncover the truth before the murderer strikes again?
244 pages, ebook
First published October 30, 2017
1789 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
Shawn McGuire
77 books819 followersMystery and fantasy author Shawn McGuire loves creating characters and places her fans want to return to again and again. She started writing after seeing the first Star Wars movie (that's episode IV) as a kid. She couldn't wait for the next installment to come out so wrote her own. Sadly, those notebooks are long lost, but her desire to tell a tale is as strong now as it was then. She lives in Wisconsin near the beautiful Mississippi River and when not writing or reading, she might be baking, crafting, going for a long walk, or nibbling really dark chocolate. You can learn more about her work on her website www.Shawn-McGuire.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
December 15, 2023
I read book 1 and had my doubts about trying any others since I absolutely, positively hated the main character. I know that's not good advertisement for a series...but Jane is pushy, judgmental and downright obnoxious. Every other character in the books except Jayne is fine...but I don't think you can build a series on secondary characters. I became fed up with her browbeating witnesses and the suspects alike, she's a police officer and should have had better training. Maybe she was absent the day that protocol was taught:). SHE knows everything and does it better than anyone else, from investigating to brewing coffee. Oh...and let's not forget how she excels above everyone else because she is the only person in the entire precinct...maybe the entire town... who can solve a murder! I thought it was funny and wanted to hit her upside the head with my book when she questioned why another character in the story didn't like her. Really??? Could it possibly be because you accused this person of killing her own daughter in the first book! The solution to the murder in this book was farfetched, rushed. I did like how the author respectfully portrayed people that are gender fluid and those with disabilities. Thank you for that. For those reasons alone, I will more than likely try Book 3....but please, with the royalties from the two books in this series, could you give Jane a personality transplant.
July 29, 2018
This second book is even better than the first. The ending of this book is so satisfying! Yes, there are still secrets and mysteries to solve but now I feel excited about the journey to find those answers. Again, we have an interesting mystery full of sub-plots and intriguing relationships. Whispering Pines is experiencing a wave of murders and Jayne needs to accept her calling and find the murderer. Tripp has his own emotional upsets to resolve and they both need to get the house renovated as they wait to hear if it will become the business they hope for. Shawn continues to weave the darkness of Whispering Pines into the other stories in a way that enhances the intrigue and suspense. I am very much looking forward to the next book!
February 12, 2021
I enjoyed this one so much better then the first!
Our dear Ms. Jayne O'Shea is still not my most favorite character, and there was actually a scene in this book that made me lose a little respect for her.. but the town, history, natural descriptions and even the witchcraft are gonna make me keep going with this cute, casual series!
2 down only 11 more to go!
Our dear Ms. Jayne O'Shea is still not my most favorite character, and there was actually a scene in this book that made me lose a little respect for her.. but the town, history, natural descriptions and even the witchcraft are gonna make me keep going with this cute, casual series!
2 down only 11 more to go!
September 19, 2025
“I feel like there’s an underlying message about getting along with someone so different from you. If a dog and a rooster can be friends, why is it so hard for people?
“Sadly, it’s how taught. If our parents teach us to accept, then we accept. If our parents teach us to hate, well, the world is a sadder place. It’s a vicious circle.”
Title: Kept Secrets
Author: Shawn McGuire
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a mystery book and the second in the Whispering Pines series.
When the aerialist in the local circus is found dead, ex-police detective Jayne finds herself, unable to stay away and investigate the death. She is being pulled in 2 directions. She has a goal of working to finish, renovating her grandmother‘s home to make it a bed and breakfast. And on the other hand, this community needs a sheriff, one who can actually do the job.
I enjoyed this. I really like Shawn‘s writing. She has an ability to write a story without it getting too boggy and confusing. She drew me in and now I want to read the next book in the series.
“Sadly, it’s how taught. If our parents teach us to accept, then we accept. If our parents teach us to hate, well, the world is a sadder place. It’s a vicious circle.”
Title: Kept Secrets
Author: Shawn McGuire
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a mystery book and the second in the Whispering Pines series.
When the aerialist in the local circus is found dead, ex-police detective Jayne finds herself, unable to stay away and investigate the death. She is being pulled in 2 directions. She has a goal of working to finish, renovating her grandmother‘s home to make it a bed and breakfast. And on the other hand, this community needs a sheriff, one who can actually do the job.
I enjoyed this. I really like Shawn‘s writing. She has an ability to write a story without it getting too boggy and confusing. She drew me in and now I want to read the next book in the series.
October 28, 2017
Kept Secrets is the second book in the Whispering Pines Series by Shawn McGuire. The first book, Family Secrets, is on my favorites list for this year, Kept Secrets will be joining it.
From the start , this book is a page turning, attention grabbing wild ride! Full of plot twists and turns with plenty of suspects, it had me in suspense until the very end.
This is very quickly becoming a favorite series, and I’m looking forward to the future books and to finding out all the secrets held within Whispering Pines.
If you’re a fan of cozys with a bit of a “woo woo” (magic), I highly recommend this one.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.. the opinions are my own
From the start , this book is a page turning, attention grabbing wild ride! Full of plot twists and turns with plenty of suspects, it had me in suspense until the very end.
This is very quickly becoming a favorite series, and I’m looking forward to the future books and to finding out all the secrets held within Whispering Pines.
If you’re a fan of cozys with a bit of a “woo woo” (magic), I highly recommend this one.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.. the opinions are my own
July 25, 2022
A great mystery. Although there are little subplots going on - Tripp and the will they won't they, the gran's mysterious death (was it murder?), the odd behavior from some of the coven members (what's going on with Flavia?) but the main focus is on the two murders.
And there's a change for the MC - a new job and a new business! Things are about to get busy.
As always, Meeka the K-9 pup was a delight.
On to the next one - and there are 13, so my summer is sorted.
And there's a change for the MC - a new job and a new business! Things are about to get busy.
As always, Meeka the K-9 pup was a delight.
On to the next one - and there are 13, so my summer is sorted.
April 11, 2020
A lot of people die in this town! I'm still enjoying the chemistry between Jayne and her sidekick / potential love interest, the quirkiness of the other characters, and the picturesque descriptions of the town. I'm going to go on to book #3.
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March 15, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/15/2021)! 🎁
July 19, 2024
So good as soon as I finished I downloaded book 3 to my kindle
July 30, 2020
For a small, peaceful village, this town sure has a lot of deaths! Since Jayne came to town a month ago, there have been three. Add to that, a couple of deaths that were natural, but broad hints that they are not what they appeared to be, so a couple of more murders waiting in the wings.
This book is as quick a read as the first one was, and again, while the murders at the beginning of the book are resolved, the over-arching mystery has not been, which is not something I enjoy when reading a book.
One of my biggest problems with this book is that one of the main settings is a circus. I hate circuses, so I didn't enjoy all the idyllic walks past all the caged up animals.
All the problems I had with the dog in the first book persist in this one.
I also wonder at the town council who didn't see any need to hire a sheriff. The town had previously had both a sheriff and a deputy, so the idea that the town could just get along indefinitely without any law enforcement except for a couple of visits from out-of-town deputies doesn't make sense. It isn't until there is a murder that they decide to fill the position. When they do, they randomly pick a guy with no interview, and no look to his credentials (or lack thereof). As an added bonus, they bring in the guy's MOTHER as the deputy. What? How does this make sense? He is just as summarily replaced after *gasp* he stinks at the job he wasn't qualified to have in the first place. A new sheriff is picked just as haphazardly, and the new sheriff is sent over to fire the old one and take his place. This turns out not to be necessary because supposedly, word of mouth has reached the old sheriff in the 10 minutes it takes the new sheriff to get to the station, and the old sheriff is calmly waiting at the door to hand over the keys to the building. Ridiculous.
This is followed by the new sheriff stressing that they are sitting "my desk" in "my chair" using "my phone" clipping on "my badge" locking the door to "my building", and bemoaning the fact that they needed to clean out and organize "my desk drawer". Uh, got it. You're the new sheriff. YOU'RE in charge.
Then, there's the whole love interest thing. These two more or less live together, are planning a future together, get all tingly around each other, and when they kiss, ooo...... fire and passion, but NO, main female character keeps saying that she's "just not ready." Uhm, what's it going to take to be ready? If it's not your thoughts, feelings, and emotions, how do you know? I'm guessing there is a specified number of books before she will be "ready". Silly since the author was in such a rush to entangle the strong, independent, female lead with a man, and the "will they / won't they" has no suspense or mystery to it at all.
Again, I like the mystical aspects of this series, but they read as if they were written for young adults who haven't quite developed critical thinking skills to see the problems with the plot.
This book is as quick a read as the first one was, and again, while the murders at the beginning of the book are resolved, the over-arching mystery has not been, which is not something I enjoy when reading a book.
One of my biggest problems with this book is that one of the main settings is a circus. I hate circuses, so I didn't enjoy all the idyllic walks past all the caged up animals.
All the problems I had with the dog in the first book persist in this one.
I also wonder at the town council who didn't see any need to hire a sheriff. The town had previously had both a sheriff and a deputy, so the idea that the town could just get along indefinitely without any law enforcement except for a couple of visits from out-of-town deputies doesn't make sense. It isn't until there is a murder that they decide to fill the position. When they do, they randomly pick a guy with no interview, and no look to his credentials (or lack thereof). As an added bonus, they bring in the guy's MOTHER as the deputy. What? How does this make sense? He is just as summarily replaced after *gasp* he stinks at the job he wasn't qualified to have in the first place. A new sheriff is picked just as haphazardly, and the new sheriff is sent over to fire the old one and take his place. This turns out not to be necessary because supposedly, word of mouth has reached the old sheriff in the 10 minutes it takes the new sheriff to get to the station, and the old sheriff is calmly waiting at the door to hand over the keys to the building. Ridiculous.
This is followed by the new sheriff stressing that they are sitting "my desk" in "my chair" using "my phone" clipping on "my badge" locking the door to "my building", and bemoaning the fact that they needed to clean out and organize "my desk drawer". Uh, got it. You're the new sheriff. YOU'RE in charge.
Then, there's the whole love interest thing. These two more or less live together, are planning a future together, get all tingly around each other, and when they kiss, ooo...... fire and passion, but NO, main female character keeps saying that she's "just not ready." Uhm, what's it going to take to be ready? If it's not your thoughts, feelings, and emotions, how do you know? I'm guessing there is a specified number of books before she will be "ready". Silly since the author was in such a rush to entangle the strong, independent, female lead with a man, and the "will they / won't they" has no suspense or mystery to it at all.
Again, I like the mystical aspects of this series, but they read as if they were written for young adults who haven't quite developed critical thinking skills to see the problems with the plot.
October 26, 2021
There's a lot of promise here, but it's like a cake where someone put onions in the batter. It would be really good, but there's these jarring pockets of bafflingly poor choices, inconsistency, and lack of research. Below are a selection of these metaphorical onions.
Trip has gone from a bland guy who objectifies women to a manipulative and unsupportive bland guy who objectifies women. He has useful skills, but his personality is appalling. His relationship with Jayne is extremely shoehorned.
Less annoying but more confusing, everyone seems to have forgotten the previous sheriff was a murderer.
Possibly most alarmingly, Zeb is framed as simply being a good guy in the wrong job, even though he's consistently shown to be a dangerous egotist who doesn't respect the First Amendment, thinks reputation is more important than reality, and willfully ignores two murders in favor of ticketing and jailing! people for the most minor infractions. I doubt this ever came across well, but oh boy has it aged poorly.
Then there's Creed/Credence. Not sure if the author knows this, but IDing as genderfluid doesn't turn people into shapeshifters. Someone male will still look (and sound) like himself, "presenting his female identity" or not. Unless this is supposed to be one of those magic things, but then Jayne would notice cause she's a skeptic, and she just accepts this as if shapeshifting nonbinary people are normal in her world. That or, despite being a cop, she's somehow fooled by a change of clothes, makeup, and a wig. Which would just be sad. Also having "Credence" be the nurturing and sexy version of Creed is really stereotypical and kind of offensive.
I get the idea the author was trying to be woke, but considering the only LGBT characters we've seen so far are a shapeshifter? who has to become a woman to be nurturing, a somewhat pathetic girl with an unrequited crush on a girl who died, and two guys who are implied to have had sex in a prison cell in front of a bunch of other people... Not exactly great representation.
Similarly (in terms of lack of research/basic understanding of the world/character consistency), absinthe is not "highly addictive and hallucinogenic", that's a misconception. Even a simple google search would reveal this. A green witch who sells herbs for a living believing this would also just be sad.
Finally, and this is a bit of a nitpick, Pine Time is a terrible name for a bed and breakfast. Firstly, it just doesn't sound that great. Secondly, the term "Pine Time" was used it was in the context of Tripp dismissing Jayne's concerns about the sheriff not investigating a murder (that it turns out he committed). In bringing up "Pine Time" he was both being an asshole, and wrong. Probably the author forgot this the same way she forgot the previous sheriff was a murderer.
Trip has gone from a bland guy who objectifies women to a manipulative and unsupportive bland guy who objectifies women. He has useful skills, but his personality is appalling. His relationship with Jayne is extremely shoehorned.
Less annoying but more confusing, everyone seems to have forgotten the previous sheriff was a murderer.
Possibly most alarmingly, Zeb is framed as simply being a good guy in the wrong job, even though he's consistently shown to be a dangerous egotist who doesn't respect the First Amendment, thinks reputation is more important than reality, and willfully ignores two murders in favor of ticketing and jailing! people for the most minor infractions. I doubt this ever came across well, but oh boy has it aged poorly.
Then there's Creed/Credence. Not sure if the author knows this, but IDing as genderfluid doesn't turn people into shapeshifters. Someone male will still look (and sound) like himself, "presenting his female identity" or not. Unless this is supposed to be one of those magic things, but then Jayne would notice cause she's a skeptic, and she just accepts this as if shapeshifting nonbinary people are normal in her world. That or, despite being a cop, she's somehow fooled by a change of clothes, makeup, and a wig. Which would just be sad. Also having "Credence" be the nurturing and sexy version of Creed is really stereotypical and kind of offensive.
I get the idea the author was trying to be woke, but considering the only LGBT characters we've seen so far are a shapeshifter? who has to become a woman to be nurturing, a somewhat pathetic girl with an unrequited crush on a girl who died, and two guys who are implied to have had sex in a prison cell in front of a bunch of other people... Not exactly great representation.
Similarly (in terms of lack of research/basic understanding of the world/character consistency), absinthe is not "highly addictive and hallucinogenic", that's a misconception. Even a simple google search would reveal this. A green witch who sells herbs for a living believing this would also just be sad.
Finally, and this is a bit of a nitpick, Pine Time is a terrible name for a bed and breakfast. Firstly, it just doesn't sound that great. Secondly, the term "Pine Time" was used it was in the context of Tripp dismissing Jayne's concerns about the sheriff not investigating a murder (that it turns out he committed). In bringing up "Pine Time" he was both being an asshole, and wrong. Probably the author forgot this the same way she forgot the previous sheriff was a murderer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2020
The second book in the contemporary cozy mystery series Whispering Pines.
Jayne O’Shea came to the small Whispering Pines village to repair her grandparents’ house for selling. She’s a former police detective from Madison who had to quit her job. She was looking for some peace and quiet in a tranquil village. Now, she’s exploring the resident circus. She and Tripp, who is just a friend, really, enjoy a great night at the circus. But the next morning, one of the performers is found dead. Whispering Pines doesn’t have a sheriff currently and so Jayne uses her skills to stop anyone from getting to the crime scene and to investigate it initially. But the county sheriff takes over and everyone near Jayne tells her not to investigate further. Of course, she has her hands full trying to clear the huge house with just herself and Tripp. She also wants to turn the house to a bed&breakfast place, but needs her parents’ permission to do that.
Meanwhile, the mysteries in the closely knit community continue.
This was another great read in the cozy mystery series. The combination of local Wiccan practices and the police procedural works well for me and is very interesting. Jayne’s best friend Morgan owns the local witch shop and is a practicing Wiccan. The villagers are very eclectic bunch. I also love Jayne’s dog Meeka which is a white Westie. Meeka used to be a narcotics dog but is now an emotional support dog. The carnies, as they call themselves, are quirky people. Many of them have physical disabilities so they’re even more misfits than the other Whispering Pines villagers.
We’re introduced to two new characters. Lupe is a reporter who want to do a series of feel-good pieces about the thriving tourist village and the circus. She’s, of course, very curious and wants to talk with everyone. The village also gets a new sheriff’s who is very young… and brings with him his mother as a deputy.
I found it a bit strange that both of Jayne’s closest friends, Morgan and Tripp, are against her investigating the murder now and in the previous book. However, most likely that was done to bring some more conflict in their relationships. I’m very curious to see what happens in the next book.
The ending was satisfying but the village’s mysteries still continue.
Jayne O’Shea came to the small Whispering Pines village to repair her grandparents’ house for selling. She’s a former police detective from Madison who had to quit her job. She was looking for some peace and quiet in a tranquil village. Now, she’s exploring the resident circus. She and Tripp, who is just a friend, really, enjoy a great night at the circus. But the next morning, one of the performers is found dead. Whispering Pines doesn’t have a sheriff currently and so Jayne uses her skills to stop anyone from getting to the crime scene and to investigate it initially. But the county sheriff takes over and everyone near Jayne tells her not to investigate further. Of course, she has her hands full trying to clear the huge house with just herself and Tripp. She also wants to turn the house to a bed&breakfast place, but needs her parents’ permission to do that.
Meanwhile, the mysteries in the closely knit community continue.
This was another great read in the cozy mystery series. The combination of local Wiccan practices and the police procedural works well for me and is very interesting. Jayne’s best friend Morgan owns the local witch shop and is a practicing Wiccan. The villagers are very eclectic bunch. I also love Jayne’s dog Meeka which is a white Westie. Meeka used to be a narcotics dog but is now an emotional support dog. The carnies, as they call themselves, are quirky people. Many of them have physical disabilities so they’re even more misfits than the other Whispering Pines villagers.
We’re introduced to two new characters. Lupe is a reporter who want to do a series of feel-good pieces about the thriving tourist village and the circus. She’s, of course, very curious and wants to talk with everyone. The village also gets a new sheriff’s who is very young… and brings with him his mother as a deputy.
I found it a bit strange that both of Jayne’s closest friends, Morgan and Tripp, are against her investigating the murder now and in the previous book. However, most likely that was done to bring some more conflict in their relationships. I’m very curious to see what happens in the next book.
The ending was satisfying but the village’s mysteries still continue.
June 24, 2018
Family Secrets, Whispering Pines #1 - An intriguing story. After finishing Stick and Stones, I dove into Family Secrets, my second book by this new-to-me author. These two books are nothing alike on storylines, except fantasy. I was drawn into this well written novel with an interesting plot and realistic characters, including the lovable dog. I couldn't put Family Secrets down until it was finished. There's an overview letting the reader know what the book is about, which I appreciate. This author is definitely someone whose work I want to keep reading. Two books, two winners!
Kept Secrets, Whispering Pines #2 - Another intriguing story by a very good author. Now we're being to know our main characters as they grow in this book, while remaining believable and realistic. The well written, fast paced plot keeps the reader interested, making it hard to put the book down. The author’s descriptions leave the reader with clear pictures about the town, townspeople and property. I contacted the author to review her books since she writes such substantial stories that leaves a reader satisfied.
Original Secrets, Whispering Pines #3 – This is the best of the series. So intriguing that the reader can’t put the book down. A well written, suspense filled book with two deaths forty years apart that may be connected. The characters are steadily growing, even the hated ones are interesting. Their dialog is realistic and non of The Stupid Formula for these characters. Her descriptions are clear and you’re there in Whispering Pines. I’m looking forward to the next book. I contacted the author to review her books; her stories are substantial and the reader is satisfied when finished reading one of her books.
Hidden Secrets, Whispering Pines #4 - Another hard to put down story. Well written, suspense filled and full of intrigue, still with an interesting group of characters with new ones added to boot. This substantial story has several stories going at once, including the past and the future and the worries that stem from them. I've never been disappointed by any book written by Ms. McGuire and I look forward to more of her work. I contacted the author to review her books.
Missing & Gone - An interesting novella. This well written story introduces the main and some of the secondary characters of the book Family Secrets. It's a quickly read suspense story, which I read after Family Secrets; I didn't miss not having read M&G before FS. A conflict: Jayne knows her grandmother is a Wiccan, but she forgot it in FS? Minor detail, both are must reads, actually any of the author's books are must reads.
Sticks and Stones - A surprising, intense novel. Not knowing what to expect from this new-to-me author, I started reading a book that turned out to be mesmerizing. I couldn't stop reading this well written, thought out book with its interesting characters and storyline full of twists, even thought the age group doesn't interest me. I've had this book a while and am glad I finally got around to reading it. My next read is Family Secrets.
Kept Secrets, Whispering Pines #2 - Another intriguing story by a very good author. Now we're being to know our main characters as they grow in this book, while remaining believable and realistic. The well written, fast paced plot keeps the reader interested, making it hard to put the book down. The author’s descriptions leave the reader with clear pictures about the town, townspeople and property. I contacted the author to review her books since she writes such substantial stories that leaves a reader satisfied.
Original Secrets, Whispering Pines #3 – This is the best of the series. So intriguing that the reader can’t put the book down. A well written, suspense filled book with two deaths forty years apart that may be connected. The characters are steadily growing, even the hated ones are interesting. Their dialog is realistic and non of The Stupid Formula for these characters. Her descriptions are clear and you’re there in Whispering Pines. I’m looking forward to the next book. I contacted the author to review her books; her stories are substantial and the reader is satisfied when finished reading one of her books.
Hidden Secrets, Whispering Pines #4 - Another hard to put down story. Well written, suspense filled and full of intrigue, still with an interesting group of characters with new ones added to boot. This substantial story has several stories going at once, including the past and the future and the worries that stem from them. I've never been disappointed by any book written by Ms. McGuire and I look forward to more of her work. I contacted the author to review her books.
Missing & Gone - An interesting novella. This well written story introduces the main and some of the secondary characters of the book Family Secrets. It's a quickly read suspense story, which I read after Family Secrets; I didn't miss not having read M&G before FS. A conflict: Jayne knows her grandmother is a Wiccan, but she forgot it in FS? Minor detail, both are must reads, actually any of the author's books are must reads.
Sticks and Stones - A surprising, intense novel. Not knowing what to expect from this new-to-me author, I started reading a book that turned out to be mesmerizing. I couldn't stop reading this well written, thought out book with its interesting characters and storyline full of twists, even thought the age group doesn't interest me. I've had this book a while and am glad I finally got around to reading it. My next read is Family Secrets.
October 30, 2017
*I received a free ARC of this book. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Shawn McGuire has really got into her groove with this, the second in the Whispering Pines series.
The characters and setting feel well-established but fresh, and the mixture of police-procedural crime with ‘woo-woo’ magic felt well-balanced and kept either aspect from feeling stale or well-trodden.
I really liked how Jayne struggles in this one with her own balance between personal and professional; house or work; friends or more. There is a lot of tension and no obvious right answers, which felt very authentic. Jayne’s difficulty in pinpointing her longterm priorities whilst firefighting immediate problems resonated strongly with this working mum (different issues, same problem)!
I noted that the surprising incidence of murder in a small, close-knit community has a plausible explanation in the ongoing mystery surrounding the establishment of said community and the suspicious death of one of its founders. This wider mystery, which seems set to span the length of the series is gripping, but well-integrated into the plot, so doesn’t intrude on the individual murder story arc of each book.
The greatest pleasure in this series though, is Whispering Pines and its residents. There is a real community feel coming through, despite the clear differences between people, and that sense of acceptance really warmed me and had me rooting for not just individual characters, but the town as a whole.
There is obviously something deeply wrong in the town and I am thoroughly invested in Jayne and her cohorts uncovering the mystery and resolving it so that the misfit town can really bloom into what it was intended to be. Also, I’m fervently hoping that she finally gets half a clue with her love life!
In other words, I believe in this story and these characters. More please!
Shawn McGuire has really got into her groove with this, the second in the Whispering Pines series.
The characters and setting feel well-established but fresh, and the mixture of police-procedural crime with ‘woo-woo’ magic felt well-balanced and kept either aspect from feeling stale or well-trodden.
I really liked how Jayne struggles in this one with her own balance between personal and professional; house or work; friends or more. There is a lot of tension and no obvious right answers, which felt very authentic. Jayne’s difficulty in pinpointing her longterm priorities whilst firefighting immediate problems resonated strongly with this working mum (different issues, same problem)!
I noted that the surprising incidence of murder in a small, close-knit community has a plausible explanation in the ongoing mystery surrounding the establishment of said community and the suspicious death of one of its founders. This wider mystery, which seems set to span the length of the series is gripping, but well-integrated into the plot, so doesn’t intrude on the individual murder story arc of each book.
The greatest pleasure in this series though, is Whispering Pines and its residents. There is a real community feel coming through, despite the clear differences between people, and that sense of acceptance really warmed me and had me rooting for not just individual characters, but the town as a whole.
There is obviously something deeply wrong in the town and I am thoroughly invested in Jayne and her cohorts uncovering the mystery and resolving it so that the misfit town can really bloom into what it was intended to be. Also, I’m fervently hoping that she finally gets half a clue with her love life!
In other words, I believe in this story and these characters. More please!
March 5, 2020
I enjoyed this book.Then again I started with book 6 and loved it so had to go back to the start of the series, so I knew it was my type of story- quirky, fun characters and a good mystery and this book doesn't disappoint in anyway. You don't need to listen to the books in order but it doesn't mean I know some of out comes of the sub plots, so I think I would probably recommend listening to them in order. As I said the characters are fun but it is the interaction between them that I like, the way on minute Jayne is questioning a suspect and then is accepting magical gifts the next this makes the story interesting because the characters are all so colourful and don't follow the norm. Off to start the next book.
Jayne is still trying to talk her parent's into letting her turn her grandmothers house into a bed and breakfast and while she waits for the answer she is keeping busy buy getting it ready to sell, just in case. On a rare night out she and Trip (her hopeful business partner) visit the carnival and watch some death defying acts and stunts In the big top. So Jayne is surprised to return in the morning for a forgotten jumper to find one of the carnies tangled up in her own silks. After having seen her show the previous night she is reluctant to believe the tragic death was an accident. With no body in change until the village appoints a new sheriff Jayne lets her cop instincts take over and she starts asking questions and looking for clues. She is less than impressed when the town council appoints someone. Especially when the green rookie jumps to conclusions and seems more happy with locking up tourist than looking into the death. Then another carnie is killed and Jayne is left wondering how the sheriff can rule it another accident. This time she has to take action and get to the bottom of these murders befire anyone else is killed.
I like the narrator and wouldn't change anything about the way she reads these stories.
Jayne is still trying to talk her parent's into letting her turn her grandmothers house into a bed and breakfast and while she waits for the answer she is keeping busy buy getting it ready to sell, just in case. On a rare night out she and Trip (her hopeful business partner) visit the carnival and watch some death defying acts and stunts In the big top. So Jayne is surprised to return in the morning for a forgotten jumper to find one of the carnies tangled up in her own silks. After having seen her show the previous night she is reluctant to believe the tragic death was an accident. With no body in change until the village appoints a new sheriff Jayne lets her cop instincts take over and she starts asking questions and looking for clues. She is less than impressed when the town council appoints someone. Especially when the green rookie jumps to conclusions and seems more happy with locking up tourist than looking into the death. Then another carnie is killed and Jayne is left wondering how the sheriff can rule it another accident. This time she has to take action and get to the bottom of these murders befire anyone else is killed.
I like the narrator and wouldn't change anything about the way she reads these stories.
November 20, 2021
The idyllic community of Whispering Pines is rocked by a second suspicious death, only a few weeks after a murder. Once again, Jayne O’Shea draws on her past experience as a detective to investigate. Only she’s a citizen now, with a deadline to clear and renovate the old family house for sale.
Torn between her belief that Berlin, a performer in the town circus, was murdered and her need to work on the house, she can’t help treading on a few toes. When a new sheriff is hastily appointed to fill the void left by his predecessor, the situation gets worse. Young, inexperienced and determined to make a mark, the new sheriff dismisses the death as an accident.
A second death within the circus community brings things to a head and Jayne can no longer stand aside.
Like the first novel in the series, this is a cosy murder mystery, lifted by the characters, setting and idyllic way of life that’s in sharp contrast to the murders. Jayne is a worthy lead, torn by conflicting emotions as she’s pulled in several directions. Though she quit as a detective, it’s not so easy to stop being one when people are being murdered on your doorstep.
With a cast of fascinating characters, internal politics, personal conflicts and couple of murders to solve, Kept Secrets has it all. You can’t help rooting for Jayne as she tries to please everyone and find her true goal, while solving the murders and digging up more secrets as she renovates the house.
Then there’s her faithful sidekick, Meeka the West Highland white terrier, stealing every scene she’s in.
If you enjoy an absorbing cosy mystery with a great cast and plenty of backstory, check out this series. While there are plenty of references to the first story, Family Secrets, in this novel, it’s always best to start at the beginning to get the full benefit of watching the characters and backstory grow.
You can check out my review of Family Secrets here.
Torn between her belief that Berlin, a performer in the town circus, was murdered and her need to work on the house, she can’t help treading on a few toes. When a new sheriff is hastily appointed to fill the void left by his predecessor, the situation gets worse. Young, inexperienced and determined to make a mark, the new sheriff dismisses the death as an accident.
A second death within the circus community brings things to a head and Jayne can no longer stand aside.
Like the first novel in the series, this is a cosy murder mystery, lifted by the characters, setting and idyllic way of life that’s in sharp contrast to the murders. Jayne is a worthy lead, torn by conflicting emotions as she’s pulled in several directions. Though she quit as a detective, it’s not so easy to stop being one when people are being murdered on your doorstep.
With a cast of fascinating characters, internal politics, personal conflicts and couple of murders to solve, Kept Secrets has it all. You can’t help rooting for Jayne as she tries to please everyone and find her true goal, while solving the murders and digging up more secrets as she renovates the house.
Then there’s her faithful sidekick, Meeka the West Highland white terrier, stealing every scene she’s in.
If you enjoy an absorbing cosy mystery with a great cast and plenty of backstory, check out this series. While there are plenty of references to the first story, Family Secrets, in this novel, it’s always best to start at the beginning to get the full benefit of watching the characters and backstory grow.
You can check out my review of Family Secrets here.
October 28, 2017
Note: I received a free copy of Kept Secrets in exchange for posting an honest review.
I loved Family Secrets and feel the same about the 2nd book in the Whispering Pines Mystery series. Kept Secrets is attention grabbing story & one you'll find hard to put down. Whispering Pines, Wisconsin is a quaint, mysterious Wicca village jam packed with unorthodox residents and visitors. Although the locale and people are fictitious, Shawn McGuire's vivid scenic descriptions and colorful characters, many of whom are delightfully, weird oddballs, brings it to life. This story continues where Family Secrets left off; Jayne & Tripp are still slaving away at her late grandmother's home, hopeful it will soon be a bed & breakfast. Taking a break from all the work, they visit the town circus where they see zany sideshow performers and are entertained, under the big top, by the main attraction, a silk aerialist. Unfortunately, the next day that star performer is found dead, 30 feet above ground, tangled in her silks. Just days later the #1 suspect is mysteriously found dead! Jayne believes these bizarre deaths are the result of foul play. Promising to "mind her own business" Jayne tries to focus on cleaning out her grandmother's bedroom. In the back of a closet she finds something that makes her think her grandmother's death wasn't an accident after all. With no permanent police presence the town council brings on a bumbling, baby-faced guy who's eager but totally inept. After multiple complaints, Jayne becomes the Sheriff. Now she can delve into the circus murders as well as look into what really happened to cause her grandmother's sudden death. I won't say anymore so there's no need for spoiler alerts; read Kept Secrets yourself and be enthralled. For now, I'm anxiously awaiting the next Whispering Pines Mystery!
I loved Family Secrets and feel the same about the 2nd book in the Whispering Pines Mystery series. Kept Secrets is attention grabbing story & one you'll find hard to put down. Whispering Pines, Wisconsin is a quaint, mysterious Wicca village jam packed with unorthodox residents and visitors. Although the locale and people are fictitious, Shawn McGuire's vivid scenic descriptions and colorful characters, many of whom are delightfully, weird oddballs, brings it to life. This story continues where Family Secrets left off; Jayne & Tripp are still slaving away at her late grandmother's home, hopeful it will soon be a bed & breakfast. Taking a break from all the work, they visit the town circus where they see zany sideshow performers and are entertained, under the big top, by the main attraction, a silk aerialist. Unfortunately, the next day that star performer is found dead, 30 feet above ground, tangled in her silks. Just days later the #1 suspect is mysteriously found dead! Jayne believes these bizarre deaths are the result of foul play. Promising to "mind her own business" Jayne tries to focus on cleaning out her grandmother's bedroom. In the back of a closet she finds something that makes her think her grandmother's death wasn't an accident after all. With no permanent police presence the town council brings on a bumbling, baby-faced guy who's eager but totally inept. After multiple complaints, Jayne becomes the Sheriff. Now she can delve into the circus murders as well as look into what really happened to cause her grandmother's sudden death. I won't say anymore so there's no need for spoiler alerts; read Kept Secrets yourself and be enthralled. For now, I'm anxiously awaiting the next Whispering Pines Mystery!
October 30, 2017
The promise of a dark long kept secret keeps me connected to this story because I really want to know what happened 50 years ago! I was hooked on this series from the very first book and I’m happy to say the hook has gotten deeper under my skin. Ms. McGuire is an amazing writer with one of the best gifts to keep her readers coming back for more.
Whispering Pines is supposed to be a safe place and family friendly, but it appears to have been built on a mound of secrets as Jayne O’Shea is learning. She’s now the Sheriff full time after a failed attempt to bring in another sheriff after the death of Sheriff Brighton. Not 1 but 2 carnies learned the hard way about exposing secrets by paying with their lives to be kept quiet. This quaint little village isn’t what it seems to be.
With Jayne being Sheriff I feel the bullying and control over previous sheriffs’ lives is now at an end. There will be , I’m sure, other ways to attempt to control Jayne but it won’t be successful. She’s a natural born cop that will stop at nothing to get at the truth about what she now perceives as her grandmother being murdered.
I’m excited to learn more about the bed and breakfast and how things may or may not develop between Jayne and Tripp. I can’t forget about Meeks because she is very a very important character in these stories even though she’s a dog. She is smart, loving, and has funny little quirks. I love how she keeps Jayne on track and how she lets her mistress know when she’s not happy with her. The bond the 2 share makes their roles even more special to me. I can’t wait for the next book in this series because I have a feeling it will blow me away with just enough taste to keep me wanting to keep coming back! I was provided an advance copy of this book for an honest unbiased review.
Whispering Pines is supposed to be a safe place and family friendly, but it appears to have been built on a mound of secrets as Jayne O’Shea is learning. She’s now the Sheriff full time after a failed attempt to bring in another sheriff after the death of Sheriff Brighton. Not 1 but 2 carnies learned the hard way about exposing secrets by paying with their lives to be kept quiet. This quaint little village isn’t what it seems to be.
With Jayne being Sheriff I feel the bullying and control over previous sheriffs’ lives is now at an end. There will be , I’m sure, other ways to attempt to control Jayne but it won’t be successful. She’s a natural born cop that will stop at nothing to get at the truth about what she now perceives as her grandmother being murdered.
I’m excited to learn more about the bed and breakfast and how things may or may not develop between Jayne and Tripp. I can’t forget about Meeks because she is very a very important character in these stories even though she’s a dog. She is smart, loving, and has funny little quirks. I love how she keeps Jayne on track and how she lets her mistress know when she’s not happy with her. The bond the 2 share makes their roles even more special to me. I can’t wait for the next book in this series because I have a feeling it will blow me away with just enough taste to keep me wanting to keep coming back! I was provided an advance copy of this book for an honest unbiased review.
February 2, 2022
Am loving this mystery series
I am so glad I discovered this series. It’s quirky, fun, mysterious, spooky, and entertaining. The author has created an fun universe here here peopled by very interesting characters.
MC Jayne O’Shea travels to Whispering Pines, a small Wisconsin village that becomes a tourist Mecca in the summer. The village was created a safe home for practicing Wiccans and then attracted other people who might not be accepted elsewhere. As such, a heavy witchcraft/woo woo vibe overlays the stories. It gives it just that little something extra to make the stories more enticing.
In this book, Jayne is still in town cleaning out and repairing her grandmother’s’ home. What she thought would be a one week trip that would give her time to get her head straight has turned into a much longer stay. She is awaiting a response from her parents to letting her turn the house into a B&B. Meanwhile, there has been another suspicious death in the village and Jayne just can’t help sticking her nose in when she doesn’t think it’s being properly investigated.
Despite some good red herrings the identity of the killer seems pretty obvious to me early on. But the story to get there is still a good read nonetheless. Looking forward to book three as it looks Ike things are really going to get tense!
I am so glad I discovered this series. It’s quirky, fun, mysterious, spooky, and entertaining. The author has created an fun universe here here peopled by very interesting characters.
MC Jayne O’Shea travels to Whispering Pines, a small Wisconsin village that becomes a tourist Mecca in the summer. The village was created a safe home for practicing Wiccans and then attracted other people who might not be accepted elsewhere. As such, a heavy witchcraft/woo woo vibe overlays the stories. It gives it just that little something extra to make the stories more enticing.
In this book, Jayne is still in town cleaning out and repairing her grandmother’s’ home. What she thought would be a one week trip that would give her time to get her head straight has turned into a much longer stay. She is awaiting a response from her parents to letting her turn the house into a B&B. Meanwhile, there has been another suspicious death in the village and Jayne just can’t help sticking her nose in when she doesn’t think it’s being properly investigated.
Despite some good red herrings the identity of the killer seems pretty obvious to me early on. But the story to get there is still a good read nonetheless. Looking forward to book three as it looks Ike things are really going to get tense!
September 1, 2022
There is a correlation between salmon and cozy mysteries in my world. I know y'all are looking at me like WTF is she talking about but here me out. I don't like either. I love fish, but hate any dish that has salmon in it. I love mystery books, but don't like cozy mysteries. Now that doesn't stop me from trying out new salmon dishes or new cozies. I keep looking to see if I will find one that I will really like. So far, the batting average is pretty low, but I keep on trying. I really thought I was going to like this series. I read the first one and although I didn't love it, I thought it was pretty good and was an interesting concept and was willing to read more. We get to book 2 and book 2 fell into the deep dark hole of all the things I don't like about cozy mysteries. It hit every cliché known to man and I couldn't find a single character to like since they were boring, one dimensional, and all seemed the same. The action was anti-climatic and just happened, I've seen the squirrels in my backyard have better action scenes and personalities. Nothing was built up or suspenseful, it just was. I'm thinking this will end with this book even though their are a lot more in this series. I just have way to many books to want to try again.
November 2, 2017
A good book, I highly recommend it!
When one of the carnies dies, the new sheriff won’t investigate. He’s too busy ticketing tourists for picking flowers and other insignificant offences. No one is happy with the new lawman. Frankly, he is a bit of a moron… or a puppet? So Jayne just can’t help herself and starts investigating. Once a cop, always a cop. Is it an accident? Suicide? Murder?
And what about Tripp? Friendship? Relationship? But she’s not ready for that…
I loved it! A good book, well written, suspenseful; the pages turned themselves! I didn’t want to stop reading - no, scratch that - I COULDN’T stop reading. One minor thing: in the end, the solution was offered on a silver platter; a bit too easy. But, in saying that, it WAS suspenseful and it HAD a twist. So, all in all, a lovely book, definitely worth 5 stars! I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good mystery with a bit of quirkiness.
It is best that you read book #1 first; everything regarding the house, her late grandmother, the quirky village and all its inhabitants, makes much more sense that way.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and voluntarily posted an honest review.
When one of the carnies dies, the new sheriff won’t investigate. He’s too busy ticketing tourists for picking flowers and other insignificant offences. No one is happy with the new lawman. Frankly, he is a bit of a moron… or a puppet? So Jayne just can’t help herself and starts investigating. Once a cop, always a cop. Is it an accident? Suicide? Murder?
And what about Tripp? Friendship? Relationship? But she’s not ready for that…
I loved it! A good book, well written, suspenseful; the pages turned themselves! I didn’t want to stop reading - no, scratch that - I COULDN’T stop reading. One minor thing: in the end, the solution was offered on a silver platter; a bit too easy. But, in saying that, it WAS suspenseful and it HAD a twist. So, all in all, a lovely book, definitely worth 5 stars! I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good mystery with a bit of quirkiness.
It is best that you read book #1 first; everything regarding the house, her late grandmother, the quirky village and all its inhabitants, makes much more sense that way.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and voluntarily posted an honest review.
January 4, 2020
Book 2 in the Whispering Pines series! Took me 2 days to finish, because I had to work and sleep or I would have read it in one go! There is not a negative thing I can say about this book, this series, this author! The characters are amazing, the pictures Mrs McGuire paints with her words are so vivid, I have a firm picture of Whispering Pines in my head! In this book we dive deeper into the world of the Carnies, that is how the carnival folks call themselves. Oh my, it is so refreshing to read how the author describes these characters. So often, authors tend to take carnival people and make a caricature out of them, this has not only NOT happened here, but Mrs McGuire managed to fit them seamlessly into the world (as it should be)! Cannot sing her praises enough over this. I am already on Book 3 and am dreading that there are only 8 books in the series so far, but I have just subscribed to her newsletter and got a little ebook prequel for that. This will be a series I will read over and over again (like A Modern Witch from Deborah Geary).
July 27, 2020
This is such a good second book in this series. Jayne is torn between offering help when two carnies are found dead. Her instincts and background tell her there is more to this then a couple of accidents. Her parents haven't yet agreed to her turning her grandmother's house into a B&B. Is she wasting her time renovating? Tripp, who is helping with the renovation is all in with the idea, and seems to be all in with her too. Is Jayne ready for another relationship? In cleaning out the house, she finds something that makes her think there is more to her grandmother's accidental death also. Fate or the universe steps in and she will have her chance at addressing these questions. Not everyone is happy about Jayne's involvement in the Village though. Very good mystery, complex and well developed, with a very different back story of Wicca. The book isn't about the supernatural or occult just about people trying to be in harmony.
The end of the book leads right into the next. I would recommend going ahead and getting the box set, because you will want to dive right into the next book.
The end of the book leads right into the next. I would recommend going ahead and getting the box set, because you will want to dive right into the next book.
November 5, 2025
3.5 - 4 Stars
Kept Secrets is the second book in the Whispering Pines Mystery Series by Shawn McGuire. This is a perfect blend of cozy mystery, small-town charm, and just the right sprinkle of supernatural elements.
following Jane O’Shea who has a knack for solving mysteries that seem to find her no matter how much she tries to avoid them. The town itself is a character in its own right – a little quirky, idyllic, and full of secrets. The locals are a fun mix of personalities, from the nosy neighbours to more endearing eccentrics - and their interactions gives the series an extra element of interest along with some ‘warm-fuzzies’.
Ms. McGuire manages to balance lighthearted coziness with genuinely intriguing mysteries. Each book has its own unique twist, and while the stakes aren’t overly high/intense, they’re enough to keep you flipping pages late into the night. Plus, the touch of the paranormal adds an extra layer of fun without overwhelming the story.
Recommend for a binge-worthy read.
Happy Reading…
Kept Secrets is the second book in the Whispering Pines Mystery Series by Shawn McGuire. This is a perfect blend of cozy mystery, small-town charm, and just the right sprinkle of supernatural elements.
following Jane O’Shea who has a knack for solving mysteries that seem to find her no matter how much she tries to avoid them. The town itself is a character in its own right – a little quirky, idyllic, and full of secrets. The locals are a fun mix of personalities, from the nosy neighbours to more endearing eccentrics - and their interactions gives the series an extra element of interest along with some ‘warm-fuzzies’.
Ms. McGuire manages to balance lighthearted coziness with genuinely intriguing mysteries. Each book has its own unique twist, and while the stakes aren’t overly high/intense, they’re enough to keep you flipping pages late into the night. Plus, the touch of the paranormal adds an extra layer of fun without overwhelming the story.
Recommend for a binge-worthy read.
Happy Reading…
August 18, 2019
Whispering Pines has hired a sheriff. A young man who brings his mother along as his deputy. Will he be able to do the job? When he gives tickets to tourists for picking flowers and arresting them for partying on the beach things take a turn when tourists start leaving and reservations get canceled. When a second carnie is killed and the sheriff's investigation lasts less than an hour and the death is passed off as an accident he loses his job. It's tourist season and they need a sheriff. Who will they hire now? Jayne is still waiting to hear from her mother about turning the house into a B&B. Will the friendship between Jayne and Tripp turn into something more? Will Jayne find out what is going on in this quiet little village? This a multi-layered story with a well thought out plot and very well written.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review.
October 27, 2017
I received a copy of this book for an honest review. This second story of Whispering Pines continues Jayne’s life in a small town, which was really started by her grandmother, Lucy O’Shea, whose original intent for the village was a place for practitioners of the Wiccan religion and has included certain other ‘misfits’. The summer brings a heavy tourist population to town to experience the unique shops, palm readings, and a semi-permanent circus. Seems like there is jealousy, even among close members of the circus and a murder (or was it just an accident?) takes place. Jayne has now been thrust into the task of figuring out what really happened, when yet another murder (?) happens. The story is replete with wonderful descriptions of the town, the country-side, the people, as well as a deeper look into Wiccan. Fascinating!
November 2, 2017
When I read the Whispering Pines mysteries, it's like coming home. The characters are so alive, they jump at me. I can even see their eyes. I can see the lake, the circus, the carnies, Morgan in her pitch black attire. I can almost smell the incense.
And I can see the bodies…
What I can't see is the murderer. Try as I might it's not the one I thought to be most likely. This alone is a big five star book to me, because I don't want to be able to figure out who the killer is. Well done Ms Mcquire. Every time I finish one book I feel abandoned. Please write another one?
If you like mysteries, with a touch of Wiccan and a lot of under the surface stirring, see if you can figure out who the killer is. No peeking!
(I received a free copy of this book, and try to review all the fiction books I read).
And I can see the bodies…
What I can't see is the murderer. Try as I might it's not the one I thought to be most likely. This alone is a big five star book to me, because I don't want to be able to figure out who the killer is. Well done Ms Mcquire. Every time I finish one book I feel abandoned. Please write another one?
If you like mysteries, with a touch of Wiccan and a lot of under the surface stirring, see if you can figure out who the killer is. No peeking!
(I received a free copy of this book, and try to review all the fiction books I read).
November 24, 2017
I received an ARC and this is an honest review.
I have to admit I did not see that ending coming. This series has been gripping since the beginning, but Kept Secrets is on a level of its own. Shawn McGuire is really coming into her own with this series. I believe many readers will look forward to each new installment.
The book can be read as a standalone but I would recommend that you read the series from the beginning. It is really worthwhile. There is a background mystery that new readers would not fully understand. I have to admit, I am intrigued. I want to know who and why, so I will be devouring each new book to see if it sheds any light.
As to Kept secrets, it has all the elements of a mystery suspense. Murders that point to all the wrong people, with the killer someone who I never suspected. The plot is well crafted and the characters are engaging and real.
I have to admit I did not see that ending coming. This series has been gripping since the beginning, but Kept Secrets is on a level of its own. Shawn McGuire is really coming into her own with this series. I believe many readers will look forward to each new installment.
The book can be read as a standalone but I would recommend that you read the series from the beginning. It is really worthwhile. There is a background mystery that new readers would not fully understand. I have to admit, I am intrigued. I want to know who and why, so I will be devouring each new book to see if it sheds any light.
As to Kept secrets, it has all the elements of a mystery suspense. Murders that point to all the wrong people, with the killer someone who I never suspected. The plot is well crafted and the characters are engaging and real.
January 4, 2022
More enjoyable than the first book but perhaps because I have become more accustomed to the characters. This is a cutesy, comfortable, cozy mystery with characters mostly drawn in bold colours. There are the obvious characters and tropes but it is all expected. Of course, you can’t guess who the killer is before they are revealed as the information you need to make the logical deductions is only doled out at the appropriate times, as is expected in a mystery novel. Don’t expect sudden shock revelations. (Really, a convenient modem failure so that she can’t Google something?)
The resolution of the mystery and the direction the story is taking is enjoyable.
The one thing that detracts is the main character’s reluctance to offend anybody by telling them their woo-woo is BS.
I have the third book in this series so I will continue with that one.
The resolution of the mystery and the direction the story is taking is enjoyable.
The one thing that detracts is the main character’s reluctance to offend anybody by telling them their woo-woo is BS.
I have the third book in this series so I will continue with that one.
October 28, 2017
Kept Secrets is the second book in a series about a young, big city, out-of-work detective who ends up in a small, unusual hamlet in northern Wisconsin. She has spent the past month cleaning and remodeling her deceased grandmother’s home, with assistance from an out-of-work contractor who is just passing through town. This small village is a world of its own with the unusual residents; there are also 2 murders and its tourist season. Many twists and turns as the detective unofficially tries, and tries not to, solve the murders. Surprising twists and turns. Personally, I LOVE the descriptions the author puts in her stories — it is like the reader is right there in the thick of things. Cannot wait to read the next book!
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