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Sea of Bones
A murdered girl. A buried secret.
Juliet is used to wielding power and influence in her line of work, but when her beloved niece dies, she finds herself powerless in the face of her grief and has doubts over the coroner’s report of suicide.
She travels back to her family’s remote coastal home where Beth was found. As Juliet delves deeper into the investigation, her personal and professional lives collide and she unwittingly finds herself pitted against dangerous opposition who seem intent on silencing her.
In order to expose the truth behind her niece's death, Juliet must face the fact that nobody in her life is who she previously thought them to be – including herself.
Juliet is used to wielding power and influence in her line of work, but when her beloved niece dies, she finds herself powerless in the face of her grief and has doubts over the coroner’s report of suicide.
She travels back to her family’s remote coastal home where Beth was found. As Juliet delves deeper into the investigation, her personal and professional lives collide and she unwittingly finds herself pitted against dangerous opposition who seem intent on silencing her.
In order to expose the truth behind her niece's death, Juliet must face the fact that nobody in her life is who she previously thought them to be – including herself.
- GenresThriller
288 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2020
10 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Deborah O'Donoghue
2 books4 followersDeborah studied English and French at the University of Sussex, and Performing Arts at the Sorbonne. She is an experienced teacher and education consultant.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 1, 2019
Sea of Bones, Deborah O'Donoghue's debut novel, is a slow-burn psychological thriller with a whole lot of intrigue and some great characters; for a debut, it certainly marks the beginning of the career of an author to watch. The plot is complex with lots going on and for that reason, you have to have your wits about you whilst reading, but as I enjoy a challenge this was a welcome surprise for me as opposed to off-putting. There is a lot more substance to this book than many other thrillers and the breadth and depth really kept me both interested and gripped from beginning to end. It's well written and plotted with a sophisticated subtlety rarely found in the genre today.
The differing perspectives help make the story more rounded and the short chapters make it easy to read "just one more" before bed; both are executed in an adept fashion. There are a few well-placed twists throughout and the author doesn't shy away from exploring deeper real-world issues including topical societal and political problems. More precisely she touches on mental health, suicide, child sexual exploitation, loss and grief. One of my favourite parts, though, has to be the beautiful Scottish setting. The descriptions are vivid and evocative and added a unique atmosphere which I adored.
If you appreciate thrillers that keep you on your toes then I'm willing to bet you'll find much to love here. Many thanks to Legend Press for an ARC.
The differing perspectives help make the story more rounded and the short chapters make it easy to read "just one more" before bed; both are executed in an adept fashion. There are a few well-placed twists throughout and the author doesn't shy away from exploring deeper real-world issues including topical societal and political problems. More precisely she touches on mental health, suicide, child sexual exploitation, loss and grief. One of my favourite parts, though, has to be the beautiful Scottish setting. The descriptions are vivid and evocative and added a unique atmosphere which I adored.
If you appreciate thrillers that keep you on your toes then I'm willing to bet you'll find much to love here. Many thanks to Legend Press for an ARC.
July 20, 2019
My review is on my website. www.bookread2day.wordpress.com
Sea of Bones is a thriller. One sunny afternoon Twenty two year old Beth Winters is found dead on the shore with head wounds. 40 year old aunt Juliet last spoke to her niece three weeks before her death. Aunt Jet as, Beth used call her, has found out that Beth had an affair with a married man with kids. When out of the blue Juliet is invited to a party by Toby, who could have been Beth's boyfriend, but why would Toby want to invite his dead girlfriend's aunt to a party? So here we have so far two suspects that could have played a part in Beth Winters death. I have deliberately left out a lot of vital information about Sea of Bones as I don't want to spoil it for you.
Sea of Bones is a thriller. One sunny afternoon Twenty two year old Beth Winters is found dead on the shore with head wounds. 40 year old aunt Juliet last spoke to her niece three weeks before her death. Aunt Jet as, Beth used call her, has found out that Beth had an affair with a married man with kids. When out of the blue Juliet is invited to a party by Toby, who could have been Beth's boyfriend, but why would Toby want to invite his dead girlfriend's aunt to a party? So here we have so far two suspects that could have played a part in Beth Winters death. I have deliberately left out a lot of vital information about Sea of Bones as I don't want to spoil it for you.
July 19, 2019
The blurb certainly had me interested from the beginning. The remote, Scottish setting set the scene for plenty of unanswered questions, as Juliet tries to find the answers to why, indeed, her niece committed suicide. For me, it is this bleak setting that really generates the atmosphere in the read and, whilst the plot does move to Manchester, the Scottish parts were the most interesting to read.
It felt like there was an overwhelming cast in this book. Initially, the plot focuses on Juliet’s investigations but gradually, the net widens. She involves her boyfriend, Declan, in reported dealings of sex trafficking at a club in Manchester. As the plot broadens, I found it difficult to engage with the story and what was already a slow-burner, really began to slow even further in the pace. That being said, whilst the number of characters and small sub-plots diffused the intensity of Juliet’s findings, I did enjoy trying to piece together the link between them all. Even when you think everything is over at the end and Juliet finally has her answers, the writer leaves the conclusion ambiguous enough to wonder whether she will write a sequel featuring this main character.
Some of the sex-trafficking scenes were a bit difficult to read. It is something that does happen out there and the writer sheds light on something so underhand. The extent of the police corruption was unexpected and this created a panicked, almost claustrophobic atmosphere for Juliet as she tries to understand what happened to Beth. Indeed, the ever-presence of the neighbouring band had me forever distrusting their motives. Even the musicians are portrayed in a suspicious light, illustrating that all of the characters have a shady background where Beth’s suicide is concerned.
This read surprisingly took me longer to read than I expected. It’s certainly not as pacey as some other thrillers I have read and I think the writer has created such a plot that it has more of an impact after you have put the book down. I found myself dwelling on the story after I have left the book alone; my brain processed the story after reading, rather than as I went. To describe this novel as a slow-burner is accurate but I don’t think this should dissuade potential readers. Instead, this reflects the depth of the writing and O’Donoghue’s narrative style.
Not the most suspenseful or thrilling of reads, the content of this book may make readers uncomfortable. The writer addresses many poignant and emotive issues, such as sex-trafficking, drugs and mental illness, not to mention the corruption of the rich. These elements make up much of the plot and whilst O’Donoghue treats them with sensitivity, it at times read quite awkwardly and uncomfortably for myself. All being said, it was a generally enjoyable read and whilst my rating may feel a little generous, I honestly could not have settled with just 3 stars – the setting, the pathetic fallacy and the ambiguity is what makes this novel a better read.
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. With thanks to everyone at Legend Press and Deborah O’Donoghue for allowing me to participate in this blog tour.
It felt like there was an overwhelming cast in this book. Initially, the plot focuses on Juliet’s investigations but gradually, the net widens. She involves her boyfriend, Declan, in reported dealings of sex trafficking at a club in Manchester. As the plot broadens, I found it difficult to engage with the story and what was already a slow-burner, really began to slow even further in the pace. That being said, whilst the number of characters and small sub-plots diffused the intensity of Juliet’s findings, I did enjoy trying to piece together the link between them all. Even when you think everything is over at the end and Juliet finally has her answers, the writer leaves the conclusion ambiguous enough to wonder whether she will write a sequel featuring this main character.
Some of the sex-trafficking scenes were a bit difficult to read. It is something that does happen out there and the writer sheds light on something so underhand. The extent of the police corruption was unexpected and this created a panicked, almost claustrophobic atmosphere for Juliet as she tries to understand what happened to Beth. Indeed, the ever-presence of the neighbouring band had me forever distrusting their motives. Even the musicians are portrayed in a suspicious light, illustrating that all of the characters have a shady background where Beth’s suicide is concerned.
This read surprisingly took me longer to read than I expected. It’s certainly not as pacey as some other thrillers I have read and I think the writer has created such a plot that it has more of an impact after you have put the book down. I found myself dwelling on the story after I have left the book alone; my brain processed the story after reading, rather than as I went. To describe this novel as a slow-burner is accurate but I don’t think this should dissuade potential readers. Instead, this reflects the depth of the writing and O’Donoghue’s narrative style.
Not the most suspenseful or thrilling of reads, the content of this book may make readers uncomfortable. The writer addresses many poignant and emotive issues, such as sex-trafficking, drugs and mental illness, not to mention the corruption of the rich. These elements make up much of the plot and whilst O’Donoghue treats them with sensitivity, it at times read quite awkwardly and uncomfortably for myself. All being said, it was a generally enjoyable read and whilst my rating may feel a little generous, I honestly could not have settled with just 3 stars – the setting, the pathetic fallacy and the ambiguity is what makes this novel a better read.
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. With thanks to everyone at Legend Press and Deborah O’Donoghue for allowing me to participate in this blog tour.
July 10, 2019
What an impressive debut - this is a tightly-plotted, up-to-the-minute, very well-structured read. The characters are well developed and the settings beautifully evoked, while the themes - political and personal - are extremely engaging and recognisable. I raced through this, and must also say that I thought the writing has that rare quality - of being so concise, effective and efficient, that you don't notice it - it doesn't draw attention to itself. And there is a lovely dog.
Full disclosure: I am the author's sister. However, I can guarantee you we have a long history of being each other's harshest and frankest critics...
Full disclosure: I am the author's sister. However, I can guarantee you we have a long history of being each other's harshest and frankest critics...
July 1, 2019
Juliet MacGillivray is haunted by the death of her beloved niece, Beth Winters. The police deemed it a suicide but Juliet has difficulty accepting this conclusion. She sets out to investigate while visiting her summerhouse in northeast Scotland where Beth was living while studying Fine Art Textiles in a nearby art school. As she begins asking questions, Juliet realizes there are people who do not appreciate her meddling. When her partner Declan becomes involved, he too comes to realize there are those who do not want the truth exposed.
Several subjects are examined in the novel, one of them being mental illness. Erica, Juliet’s twin sister and Beth’s mother, suffers with bipolar disorder and that diagnosis is always mentioned by the media when discussing Juliet’s position as chief of staff of a political party, as if Juliet is somehow tainted by having a twin with mental health issues. Juliet also believes that the police’s determination that Beth committed suicide because of depression was influenced by her mother having a manic-depressive illness.
The sexual exploitation of minors is another subject that receives attention. There are scenes which may make readers feel uncomfortable. Immigration, political corruption, and manipulation by the wealthy also come to the fore during Juliet’s investigation.
There is quite a bit of suspense in the book. Juliet, Declan and others who become involved in investigating Beth’s death and those who might know something about it face increasing danger. Threats are made and people are hurt. The sense of danger will keep readers reading.
An issue I have with the book is that Juliet is not a really likeable character. For all her professed love for her niece, they did not seem particularly close. If Juliet really knew her niece, Juliet should have known when Beth phoned and said, “’There’s some wee things I really need to talk to you about’” that Beth had something important to discuss. If she did know her niece’s tendency to understate, her not calling Beth for three weeks indicates nothing positive about her character. At one point, Juliet realizes people think of her as “somewhat pathetic and controlling and superior all at once” and those adjectives describe her perfectly. She does not seem to be a particularly warm person. It seems that at least a couple of people think of her as a “very strong lady” but she doesn’t come across as that to me.
What also bothers me is that characters often behave unrealistically. For example, would a mother really bring her 13-year-old daughter to a party where drugs are openly used and where she is in danger of being sexually molested? Would a man who helps recruit a minor for the purpose of sexual exploitation and who viciously kills a man be so shocked when he comes “face to face with his paymasters’ depravity” that he disobeys orders and behaves as he does at the end?
The ending has weaknesses. The last few events seem largely unnecessary because there is focus on a character who doesn’t deserve attention. There is too much falling action after the climax. On the other hand, another character, one who played a pivotal role in the investigation, is just dropped; she is last mentioned as sitting in silence and shaking in shock. (Other minor characters who are introduced in some depth seem unnecessary because they never appear again.)
The book is not perfect but it is still an enjoyable escapist read. It touches on a number of important topics, and the plot, though uneven, has considerable suspense.
Note: I received an ARC from the publisher, Legend Press.
Please check out my reader's blog (https://schatjesshelves.blogspot.com) and follow me on Twitter (@DCYakabuski).
Several subjects are examined in the novel, one of them being mental illness. Erica, Juliet’s twin sister and Beth’s mother, suffers with bipolar disorder and that diagnosis is always mentioned by the media when discussing Juliet’s position as chief of staff of a political party, as if Juliet is somehow tainted by having a twin with mental health issues. Juliet also believes that the police’s determination that Beth committed suicide because of depression was influenced by her mother having a manic-depressive illness.
The sexual exploitation of minors is another subject that receives attention. There are scenes which may make readers feel uncomfortable. Immigration, political corruption, and manipulation by the wealthy also come to the fore during Juliet’s investigation.
There is quite a bit of suspense in the book. Juliet, Declan and others who become involved in investigating Beth’s death and those who might know something about it face increasing danger. Threats are made and people are hurt. The sense of danger will keep readers reading.
An issue I have with the book is that Juliet is not a really likeable character. For all her professed love for her niece, they did not seem particularly close. If Juliet really knew her niece, Juliet should have known when Beth phoned and said, “’There’s some wee things I really need to talk to you about’” that Beth had something important to discuss. If she did know her niece’s tendency to understate, her not calling Beth for three weeks indicates nothing positive about her character. At one point, Juliet realizes people think of her as “somewhat pathetic and controlling and superior all at once” and those adjectives describe her perfectly. She does not seem to be a particularly warm person. It seems that at least a couple of people think of her as a “very strong lady” but she doesn’t come across as that to me.
What also bothers me is that characters often behave unrealistically. For example, would a mother really bring her 13-year-old daughter to a party where drugs are openly used and where she is in danger of being sexually molested? Would a man who helps recruit a minor for the purpose of sexual exploitation and who viciously kills a man be so shocked when he comes “face to face with his paymasters’ depravity” that he disobeys orders and behaves as he does at the end?
The ending has weaknesses. The last few events seem largely unnecessary because there is focus on a character who doesn’t deserve attention. There is too much falling action after the climax. On the other hand, another character, one who played a pivotal role in the investigation, is just dropped; she is last mentioned as sitting in silence and shaking in shock. (Other minor characters who are introduced in some depth seem unnecessary because they never appear again.)
The book is not perfect but it is still an enjoyable escapist read. It touches on a number of important topics, and the plot, though uneven, has considerable suspense.
Note: I received an ARC from the publisher, Legend Press.
Please check out my reader's blog (https://schatjesshelves.blogspot.com) and follow me on Twitter (@DCYakabuski).
January 12, 2020
Read this back in the summer and am finding that bits are still coming back to me months later - plot moments, characters, turns of phrase. Really liked the blending of different worlds - political, personal, music industry, even the arts scene! The opening chapter is truly arresting and introduces the overall narrative frame very effectively. The plot is fast-paced and keeps you hooked - much darker overall even than that first opening scenario - parts of it reminded me of the twisted vibe of the BBC’s Clique series. That darkness is balanced with characters that are deftly portrayed, often with irony, and a real lyricism in language, especially in descriptions of landscape and the movement of water. Highly recommended!
August 24, 2019
Exciting
I could not put it down
Great book
FABULOUS STORY
VERY THRILLING
A must read
I will definitely be Recommending this book
I could not put it down
Great book
FABULOUS STORY
VERY THRILLING
A must read
I will definitely be Recommending this book
March 24, 2022
Die Ausgangssituation in dem Erstling der britisch-irischen Autorin Deborah O’Donoghue ist genretypisch: Beth, eine junge Frau und Nichte der feministischen Spitzenpolitikerin Juliet, geht ins Wasser, ertränkt sich im Meer. Dass die Umstände des Suizids zumindest Fragen aufwerfen, fällt den aufmerksamen Leser*innen natürlich auf, werden doch in einer Randbemerkung (verdächtige) Fesselspuren erwähnt. Aber auch Juliet bezweifelt den Selbstmord ihrer lebenslustigen Nichte. Sie beschließt zum Strandhaus der Familie zu fahren, in dem Beth gelebt hat, um sich dort umzusehen und mit Hilfe der örtlichen Polizei eigene Nachforschungen anzustellen. Und was sie dort nach und nach herausfindet, erschüttert sie bis ins Mark.
Einen packenden „Mix aus Psycho-Spannung und Polit-Thriller“ verspricht die Beschreibung, ein Versprechen, das Deborah O’Donoghue leider nicht einlösen kann, auch wenn die Zutaten prinzipiell passen würden. Aber es zeigt sich, dass die Autorin nicht plotten kann, keine Ahnung davon hat, wie ein Spannungsbogen funktioniert und/oder wie man Tempo in einen Text bringt, weshalb dieses Debüt weit über die Hälfte hinaus eine äußerst zähe Angelegenheit ist und die Geduld der Leser*innen mangels Überraschungen über alle Maßen strapaziert. Und auch der Rundumschlag im Hinblick auf aktuelle gesellschaftliche Themen wie organisiertes Verbrechen, die Rolle der Medien, sexuelle Ausbeutung von Frauen und Kindern und psychische Instabilitäten retten diese langatmige und vorhersehbare Story nicht mehr. Überzeugen kann lediglich die schottische Kulisse, aber allein das reicht bei Weitem nicht aus, um aus einem faden Plot einen gelungenen Thriller zu kreieren und erfüllt in keinster Weise den Anspruch, den ich an dieses Genre habe.
Einen packenden „Mix aus Psycho-Spannung und Polit-Thriller“ verspricht die Beschreibung, ein Versprechen, das Deborah O’Donoghue leider nicht einlösen kann, auch wenn die Zutaten prinzipiell passen würden. Aber es zeigt sich, dass die Autorin nicht plotten kann, keine Ahnung davon hat, wie ein Spannungsbogen funktioniert und/oder wie man Tempo in einen Text bringt, weshalb dieses Debüt weit über die Hälfte hinaus eine äußerst zähe Angelegenheit ist und die Geduld der Leser*innen mangels Überraschungen über alle Maßen strapaziert. Und auch der Rundumschlag im Hinblick auf aktuelle gesellschaftliche Themen wie organisiertes Verbrechen, die Rolle der Medien, sexuelle Ausbeutung von Frauen und Kindern und psychische Instabilitäten retten diese langatmige und vorhersehbare Story nicht mehr. Überzeugen kann lediglich die schottische Kulisse, aber allein das reicht bei Weitem nicht aus, um aus einem faden Plot einen gelungenen Thriller zu kreieren und erfüllt in keinster Weise den Anspruch, den ich an dieses Genre habe.
April 20, 2020
A masterful debut novel from Deborah O’Donoghue; the Sea of Bones is an enticing blend of a political and a crime thriller. Pleasingly, there is a strong female lead in the form of Juliet MacGillivray, Chief of Staff for the Progressive Alliance, a new political party challenging the old guard. Beth, the niece that Juliet adored, appears to have committed suicide and it is ‘case closed’ for everyone apart from Juliet. Juggling the demands of her work, after the fallout from a general election, her unorthodox relationship with lover Declan and her sister’s mental health issues, Juliet sets out to dig deeper into the circumstances surrounding Beth’s death. As Juliet’s suspicions intensify, she comes into contact with morally dubious musicians, corrupt political and business figures, dangerous criminals and child traffickers; all hell bent on protecting their own interests.
Set, primarily, against the beautifully described and depicted Scottish highlands, the plot is a very clever page turner with really realistic characters and some nice twists. This novel has real substance and is much more than your average in the crime genre. It includes intense themes of love, loss, and guilt. It deals with complex issues of power, control, manipulation, mental health, abuse and control. Extremely well written and cleverly plotted this was a real joy to read, exciting to the end.
I must thank the author for a gifted copy and I look forward to seeing what comes next.
Set, primarily, against the beautifully described and depicted Scottish highlands, the plot is a very clever page turner with really realistic characters and some nice twists. This novel has real substance and is much more than your average in the crime genre. It includes intense themes of love, loss, and guilt. It deals with complex issues of power, control, manipulation, mental health, abuse and control. Extremely well written and cleverly plotted this was a real joy to read, exciting to the end.
I must thank the author for a gifted copy and I look forward to seeing what comes next.
July 14, 2021
I haven’t seemed to get on too well with the last few thrillers I’ve read, and Sea of Bones is no exception. The premise promises an exciting read, which wasn’t really delivered in my opinion. Juliet as a protagonist felt quite bland. For a character on the brink of potentially becoming a party leader, she didn’t really have very much charisma.
There’s also some quite odd phrasing scattered about, such as “it looks like someone had implanted an aubergine deep into Marcus’s eye socket and cut a vegetable slit for him to see out of.” I’m still not entirely sure what to make of this one in particular.
I’m the end, I found this book more a chore to get through as opposed to being thrilling. Whether it’s me not being as big a fan of thrillers as I think I am, or whether it’s the books themselves, I guess you’ll have to read the book to find out.
There’s also some quite odd phrasing scattered about, such as “it looks like someone had implanted an aubergine deep into Marcus’s eye socket and cut a vegetable slit for him to see out of.” I’m still not entirely sure what to make of this one in particular.
I’m the end, I found this book more a chore to get through as opposed to being thrilling. Whether it’s me not being as big a fan of thrillers as I think I am, or whether it’s the books themselves, I guess you’ll have to read the book to find out.
August 18, 2019
A captivating thriller! I really enjoyed this, the characters are well-crafted - engaging, realistic and human. I also really like how the rugged coastal setting helps shape the dark atmosphere created throughout the story. An impressive debut, looking forward already to number 2!
July 9, 2019
A haunting, fast paced thriller that completely drew me in.
I'm not one to read about politics and enjoy it normally but this book is completely different.
It kept me on the edge of my seat numerous times, and had twists and turns I never expected.
Set in Scotland we follow the story of the main character Juliet a high-flying politician who finds out that her niece Beth is dead after she committed suicide. Juliet doesn't believe that's how Beth died and is determined to find out what really happened to her.
I really enjoyed the storyline and felt invested in the truth.
Steeped with political corruption, mystery, unsavoury characters I couldn't put this book down.
I'm not one to read about politics and enjoy it normally but this book is completely different.
It kept me on the edge of my seat numerous times, and had twists and turns I never expected.
Set in Scotland we follow the story of the main character Juliet a high-flying politician who finds out that her niece Beth is dead after she committed suicide. Juliet doesn't believe that's how Beth died and is determined to find out what really happened to her.
I really enjoyed the storyline and felt invested in the truth.
Steeped with political corruption, mystery, unsavoury characters I couldn't put this book down.
July 24, 2021
This is a great and very accomplished debut novel by Deborah O'Donoghue. It starts of slowly and builds and builds in suspense, becoming darker and grittier as it goes along. Perfectly paced. Dealing with several issues including mental health, child sex trafficking. organised crime along with exploitation and corruption at the upper levels of power, I found this a gripping read from start to finish. The story takes place in both the beautiful Scottish highlands and the seedy underbelly of Manchester. I never quite knew what to expect next and there were plenty of chilling events towards the end. Will look out for the next book by this exciting new author.
April 12, 2023
Man I love short chapter books
June 1, 2019
I received an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review
This book was so so and it was hard at times to get through. It seemed like too many side characters and subplots, some where introduced and never mentioned again, and the narrative never really came together. Solid three
This book was so so and it was hard at times to get through. It seemed like too many side characters and subplots, some where introduced and never mentioned again, and the narrative never really came together. Solid three
May 5, 2020
I couldn't seem to get into this book. There is a lot going on but at the same time it is really slow. I skipped 300 pages and caught up with the story.
June 30, 2019
This novel is set between Inverness, Elgin and along the Moray coast. The author treats us to beautifully descriptive writing allowing us to visualise the Scottish coastline. We gain insight into what life is like in Inverness and Elgin in stark contrast to the characters main home in London. During our first introductions to Juliet (the main character) we someone who is struggling to come to terms with her nieces death. She is adamant that her niece wouldn’t commit suicide , not without talking to at least one member of her family. Everyone around her thinks she has become obsessive with her reasoning and she is slowly starting to question her own mental health. She is paranoid about it already, her twin sister has bipolar disorder and is aware of the statistics of twins being especially at risk.
Juliet is a wonderfully realistic character, she has strengths, weaknesses, personal quirks and flaws. This character is so different from others I have recently read, it was very refreshing. Juliet was in her 40’s and it was wonderful to have a more mature heroine, she had lived a successful life and had the benefit of life experience in tackling the event of her niece’s death.
I think the main influences in Juliet’s life were Beth, her niece and Fiona Goldman, her boss. She definetly became a better person when Beth came along and helped bring her up while her sister was ill with bipolar. Fiona spurs her on to be the best she can be in her career and has learned everything she knows from her. She was grounded and settled with both influences but now Beth’s dead and Fiona’s career is in tatters – can Juliet hold it all together?
In this heartbreaking story of loss and a woman’s journey from grief to uncovering a well buried secret. Juliet learns to be persistent, to follow your gut instinct and never giving up. When you feel something isn’t right it usually isn’t.
There were instances that the the story was very slow – probably up to around 60%. I struggled to get through it but after that point the story seemed to unfold more. The writing was good, with excellent eye to detail in her descriptions. For me personally, i didn’t think that the story connected very well between Beth’s death and the secret that was revealed towards the end. I found it a bit unrealistic, especially considering the location of the story and the nature of Beth.
I gave this 3 stars. It’s a decent read, just for me it didn’t work to it’s full potential. It was well written, I didn’t feel shocked at the twists and turns that the book provided.
3 STARS
Juliet is a wonderfully realistic character, she has strengths, weaknesses, personal quirks and flaws. This character is so different from others I have recently read, it was very refreshing. Juliet was in her 40’s and it was wonderful to have a more mature heroine, she had lived a successful life and had the benefit of life experience in tackling the event of her niece’s death.
I think the main influences in Juliet’s life were Beth, her niece and Fiona Goldman, her boss. She definetly became a better person when Beth came along and helped bring her up while her sister was ill with bipolar. Fiona spurs her on to be the best she can be in her career and has learned everything she knows from her. She was grounded and settled with both influences but now Beth’s dead and Fiona’s career is in tatters – can Juliet hold it all together?
In this heartbreaking story of loss and a woman’s journey from grief to uncovering a well buried secret. Juliet learns to be persistent, to follow your gut instinct and never giving up. When you feel something isn’t right it usually isn’t.
There were instances that the the story was very slow – probably up to around 60%. I struggled to get through it but after that point the story seemed to unfold more. The writing was good, with excellent eye to detail in her descriptions. For me personally, i didn’t think that the story connected very well between Beth’s death and the secret that was revealed towards the end. I found it a bit unrealistic, especially considering the location of the story and the nature of Beth.
I gave this 3 stars. It’s a decent read, just for me it didn’t work to it’s full potential. It was well written, I didn’t feel shocked at the twists and turns that the book provided.
3 STARS
July 5, 2019
Do you know, this book particularly appealed to me because of the Moray setting in the Scotland and the remote coastal home mentioned in the blurb. The story itself intrigued me but it was definitely the setting that got me interested. But my goodness, this is a book that has so much more going on than I could have ever imagined and I found it difficult to put down.
Juliet MacGillivray is a member of the Progressive Alliance, a political party. A scandal occurs within the party at a point when Juliet is grieving for her niece, Beth. As Juliet doesn't trust the verdict of suicide that the coroner gave she travels to her family's remote summerhouse to do some digging around.
I'm a little unsure how much more to say about the plot as nothing more is given away in the blurb but the people Juliet meets in that remote place are pivotal to the story as they lead her down a path that threatens to blow apart organised crime and a massive cover up from those in power. I was actually reminded of a Line of Duty plotline which made this book even more exciting for me. Don't get me wrong, this is nothing to do with anti-corruption but it's very topical and looks at bribery and control from the bottom of the chain right to the very top.
The story starts fairly slowly, the pace then increases and eventually it builds into a crescendo. There's so much for Juliet to discover. Her partner, Declan, gets involved too and things get pretty hairy for both of them. They had no idea what they were getting into and how dangerous it could get. By the end they definitely knew!
This is a story that is very much about the seedy underbelly of life, those things that we don't like to think about and in a way can't believe actually happen, and yet there they are going on right under our noses. This is a psychological thriller that is brimming with tension and has more layers than an onion. Each time Juliet and Declan peeled back a layer it surprised me and I found it both shocking and exciting. And the ending is chilling and open for a possible sequel. For a debut novel this is so so good. I'd definitely read more by Deborah O'Donoghue.
Juliet MacGillivray is a member of the Progressive Alliance, a political party. A scandal occurs within the party at a point when Juliet is grieving for her niece, Beth. As Juliet doesn't trust the verdict of suicide that the coroner gave she travels to her family's remote summerhouse to do some digging around.
I'm a little unsure how much more to say about the plot as nothing more is given away in the blurb but the people Juliet meets in that remote place are pivotal to the story as they lead her down a path that threatens to blow apart organised crime and a massive cover up from those in power. I was actually reminded of a Line of Duty plotline which made this book even more exciting for me. Don't get me wrong, this is nothing to do with anti-corruption but it's very topical and looks at bribery and control from the bottom of the chain right to the very top.
The story starts fairly slowly, the pace then increases and eventually it builds into a crescendo. There's so much for Juliet to discover. Her partner, Declan, gets involved too and things get pretty hairy for both of them. They had no idea what they were getting into and how dangerous it could get. By the end they definitely knew!
This is a story that is very much about the seedy underbelly of life, those things that we don't like to think about and in a way can't believe actually happen, and yet there they are going on right under our noses. This is a psychological thriller that is brimming with tension and has more layers than an onion. Each time Juliet and Declan peeled back a layer it surprised me and I found it both shocking and exciting. And the ending is chilling and open for a possible sequel. For a debut novel this is so so good. I'd definitely read more by Deborah O'Donoghue.
March 9, 2020
This was quite a complex book, that I really enjoyed, though it deals with some tough subjects. Just a warning: this book deals with sexual abuse and if that’s a trigger for you, this may not be a great book for you, though none of the scenes were overly graphic.
The book follows political Juliet, whose niece commits suicide at her remote beach house. But as Juliet thinks about things, she doesn’t really believe that Beth took her own life. And as she begins to learn more about Beth’s final days, she becomes even more convinced that something is happening. Her and her boyfriend begin to uncover the truth, but it comes at a high price to themselves and those around them.
While this book has a classic “I think there’s more to this thing that meets the eye!” Plot line, It has some nice elements that make it more complex and unique. For one, Juliet meets a rock band that Beth became close to in her final year and Juliet struggles to reconcile how they fit into things, when it seems Beth’s life was going so well - dating one of the members and designing their new album cover. There’s also Juliet’s struggle with her personal life, with her boyfriend Declan playing a prominent role in the book.
There was also a great “anything can happen” feeling in this book, with no character being safe from danger. It gave the book a bit of a Game of Thrones feel, which was nice because it makes things exciting: there’s no telling who might find themselves chased down by killer!
The ending was satisfying and I really liked the characters. I was really excited to see where they ended up and I think this story could certainly continue, if the author would gran thus a sequel! I’d absolutely pick it up!
The book follows political Juliet, whose niece commits suicide at her remote beach house. But as Juliet thinks about things, she doesn’t really believe that Beth took her own life. And as she begins to learn more about Beth’s final days, she becomes even more convinced that something is happening. Her and her boyfriend begin to uncover the truth, but it comes at a high price to themselves and those around them.
While this book has a classic “I think there’s more to this thing that meets the eye!” Plot line, It has some nice elements that make it more complex and unique. For one, Juliet meets a rock band that Beth became close to in her final year and Juliet struggles to reconcile how they fit into things, when it seems Beth’s life was going so well - dating one of the members and designing their new album cover. There’s also Juliet’s struggle with her personal life, with her boyfriend Declan playing a prominent role in the book.
There was also a great “anything can happen” feeling in this book, with no character being safe from danger. It gave the book a bit of a Game of Thrones feel, which was nice because it makes things exciting: there’s no telling who might find themselves chased down by killer!
The ending was satisfying and I really liked the characters. I was really excited to see where they ended up and I think this story could certainly continue, if the author would gran thus a sequel! I’d absolutely pick it up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2019
The battle between power and decency lies at the heart of this book, providing a chilling background to a woman’s search for the truth behind the apparent suicide of her twin sister’s daughter.
Juliet is Chief of Staff to a political party, with hardly enough time between strategy meetings and press statements to make herself a coffee, let alone take time off to visit Scotland and the childhood home where her niece died. And the longer she stays, the less evidence she finds to support the police view that Beth was suicidal.
It’s the kind of book which has you turning the pages with an increased feeling of dread, not able to put it down. The author has paced it beautifully, you’re drawn into the characters, the bunch of musicians at the top of their game, the politicians and their Rasputins, the sinister guys in the press, the fragile sister battling mental illness.
Sea of Bones is particularly current – there’s a political party falling apart, a society which hides depravity and evil at the highest levels, people whose silence can be bought or blackmailed, vulnerable child refugees. But it’s not all just thrown into the melting pot – the links are very cleverly woven, the tension builds up, the characters develop and – no – it’s not far-fetched at all. There was just one moment, near the end of the book, when I found myself going ‘Come on – really?’ when there was another twist and the cliché didn’t happen.
I loved the book, and thanks to Legend Press for sending me an e-book to review.
Juliet is Chief of Staff to a political party, with hardly enough time between strategy meetings and press statements to make herself a coffee, let alone take time off to visit Scotland and the childhood home where her niece died. And the longer she stays, the less evidence she finds to support the police view that Beth was suicidal.
It’s the kind of book which has you turning the pages with an increased feeling of dread, not able to put it down. The author has paced it beautifully, you’re drawn into the characters, the bunch of musicians at the top of their game, the politicians and their Rasputins, the sinister guys in the press, the fragile sister battling mental illness.
Sea of Bones is particularly current – there’s a political party falling apart, a society which hides depravity and evil at the highest levels, people whose silence can be bought or blackmailed, vulnerable child refugees. But it’s not all just thrown into the melting pot – the links are very cleverly woven, the tension builds up, the characters develop and – no – it’s not far-fetched at all. There was just one moment, near the end of the book, when I found myself going ‘Come on – really?’ when there was another twist and the cliché didn’t happen.
I loved the book, and thanks to Legend Press for sending me an e-book to review.
July 22, 2019
What a powerful and memorable debut by Deborah O’Donoghue. Addictive literary crime fiction at its absolute best. A plot with turns and twists that have you glued to every page.
We meet Juliet as she prepares to go to Inverness to pack up and sell the Summer house. Which was recently inhabited by her niece Beth who sadly committed suicide. But once Juliet is in Inverness, things start to unravel and not everything is as it seems or is it?
I have to speak on the quality of the writing and the ability that Ms O’Donoghue has of giving the reader the sense of place. Bringing to life these fascinating characters and even allowing the reader to get to know Beth and how she was is heartbreakingly beautiful and intense.
A little note on the political aspect of the story. If the book had been promoted as a political thriller I would not have read it. That kind of thing doesn’t float my reading boat. But the political aspect is necessary for Juliet’s character and it is a thread that runs lightly through the book but in a tiny way. This a primarily a psychological thriller read. But with such a high quality of writing it would fall under the genre of obtainable literary crime fiction.
Speeding into my top five books of 2019, Sea of Bones is a must for anyone who wants an enjoyable evening with an array of heart racing pages and emotional drama.
All the stars for this stunning debut!
We meet Juliet as she prepares to go to Inverness to pack up and sell the Summer house. Which was recently inhabited by her niece Beth who sadly committed suicide. But once Juliet is in Inverness, things start to unravel and not everything is as it seems or is it?
I have to speak on the quality of the writing and the ability that Ms O’Donoghue has of giving the reader the sense of place. Bringing to life these fascinating characters and even allowing the reader to get to know Beth and how she was is heartbreakingly beautiful and intense.
A little note on the political aspect of the story. If the book had been promoted as a political thriller I would not have read it. That kind of thing doesn’t float my reading boat. But the political aspect is necessary for Juliet’s character and it is a thread that runs lightly through the book but in a tiny way. This a primarily a psychological thriller read. But with such a high quality of writing it would fall under the genre of obtainable literary crime fiction.
Speeding into my top five books of 2019, Sea of Bones is a must for anyone who wants an enjoyable evening with an array of heart racing pages and emotional drama.
All the stars for this stunning debut!
July 18, 2019
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Sea of Bones is a debut book by Deborah O’Donoghue- This is a true psychological thriller.
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It is based in the East Coast of Scotland.
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This has a slow start to the story but for me this a great idea as it builds up the story. It is worth staying with it because the more you read it does speed up. It works really well as it moves in directions and kept me hungry for more. The chapters are short and work well as it adds to the build up and intensity and flow of the book.
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Juliet is struggling with the death of her niece Beth who she brought up as a child as her sister was unable to look after her due ill health.
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Prior to Beth’s death Juliet’s life was going really well. However now Juliet is finding life extremely difficult. Within this there is a deep,dark , secret that Juliet has taken to find out what what it is.
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It is well written,strong characters and has a great atmospheric feel to it. This adds to the build up of the book.
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Recommended read.
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Thank you to @legendpress for giving me the opportunity to read this book and to be part of the blog tour.
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#bookcommunity #bookstagram #booktour #seaofbones #bookofig #booklover #booknerd #bookobsession #readerofig #readinglover #fortheloveofreading #fortheloveofbooks #bibliophile #literatureisbeauty #psychologicalthriller #legendpress #booksbooksandmorebooks #read
December 19, 2025
This book is remarkable for a debut. Especially one with so few reviews / ratings on Goodreads.
Before you go pick it up on my advice though, be warned that it does deal with some very nasty topics and is not a book where all good people have a nice ending to their stories…..
I picked up this book on audio as I came across it on my library’s online catalogue. I am in the north east of Scotland (the primary setting for much of the story) so maybe that’s why it is in our selection?
I didn’t really know anything about the book going into it but was initially engaged by local settings that I know well. As I progressed through it book it took many dark turns I wasn’t expecting and far from being a local cosy mystery it delves into some cruel and horrible gangs, their violence and exploitation. It is a very high stakes story and where we can be frustrated by many protagonists not taking obvious courses of action I did find myself at a loss for what they could do next faced with the corruption surrounding them.
I found it very engaging and enjoyed the Scottish accent in the audio book. I did sometimes find the other accents a bit jarring but it didn’t take away from the story.
Trigger warnings : suicide, mental health, child abuse / trafficking, violence, coercion / intimidation.
Before you go pick it up on my advice though, be warned that it does deal with some very nasty topics and is not a book where all good people have a nice ending to their stories…..
I picked up this book on audio as I came across it on my library’s online catalogue. I am in the north east of Scotland (the primary setting for much of the story) so maybe that’s why it is in our selection?
I didn’t really know anything about the book going into it but was initially engaged by local settings that I know well. As I progressed through it book it took many dark turns I wasn’t expecting and far from being a local cosy mystery it delves into some cruel and horrible gangs, their violence and exploitation. It is a very high stakes story and where we can be frustrated by many protagonists not taking obvious courses of action I did find myself at a loss for what they could do next faced with the corruption surrounding them.
I found it very engaging and enjoyed the Scottish accent in the audio book. I did sometimes find the other accents a bit jarring but it didn’t take away from the story.
Trigger warnings : suicide, mental health, child abuse / trafficking, violence, coercion / intimidation.
April 6, 2022
Nicht immer wird bei mir meine Coverliebe belohnt. Leider war "Das Strandhaus" nicht wirklich das was ich erwartet hatte. Fängt es schon damit an das es ein Thriller sein soll. Dadurch das es für mich zuviele Längen & die ich am liebsten überblättert hatte, war es für mich nicht so wirklich einer.
Die junge Frau Beth begeht Selbstmord, in dem Sie ins Wasser geht & ertrinkt. Ihre Tante Juliet, eine & einflussreiche Politikerin, einer feministischen Partei, glaubt nicht an den Selbsttod ihrer Nichte. Trotz das Sie mitten im Wahlkampf ist fährt sie selbst an die schottische Küste, zum Strandhaus. Hier versucht sie mit Hilfe der dortigen Polizei eigene Nachforschungen anzustellen. Was dann nach nach raus kommt & was sie so erfährt. Erschüttert sie sehr.
Der Klappentext verspricht einem Spannung bzw. spannende Lesestunden. Leider konnte dies nicht gehalten werden. Der Spannungsbogen war ab & an mal kurz dort, allerdings auch schnell wieder vorbei. Es hätte mit den Zutaten ein mega Thriller werden könne.
Der Schreibstil war für mich zwar locker, flüssig allerdings auch echt langwierig. Juliet könnte mich nicht wirklich begeistern. Fand sie auch einfach unsympathisch. Vielleicht klappt es mit dem nächsten Buch besser.
Die junge Frau Beth begeht Selbstmord, in dem Sie ins Wasser geht & ertrinkt. Ihre Tante Juliet, eine & einflussreiche Politikerin, einer feministischen Partei, glaubt nicht an den Selbsttod ihrer Nichte. Trotz das Sie mitten im Wahlkampf ist fährt sie selbst an die schottische Küste, zum Strandhaus. Hier versucht sie mit Hilfe der dortigen Polizei eigene Nachforschungen anzustellen. Was dann nach nach raus kommt & was sie so erfährt. Erschüttert sie sehr.
Der Klappentext verspricht einem Spannung bzw. spannende Lesestunden. Leider konnte dies nicht gehalten werden. Der Spannungsbogen war ab & an mal kurz dort, allerdings auch schnell wieder vorbei. Es hätte mit den Zutaten ein mega Thriller werden könne.
Der Schreibstil war für mich zwar locker, flüssig allerdings auch echt langwierig. Juliet könnte mich nicht wirklich begeistern. Fand sie auch einfach unsympathisch. Vielleicht klappt es mit dem nächsten Buch besser.
July 6, 2019
This is an ambitious first novel which covers many themes. Essentially it is a thriller. It starts with the death of Beth, a promising arts student and the attempts by her aunt Juliet to discover if it was suicide or something more sinister. Juliet is head of communications for a political party; her identical twin sister, Erica, is bi-polar, so there are suspicions that Beth had the same condition.
Juliet goes to the family’s summerhouse on the coast at Culbin, near Inverness, to sort out Beth’s possessions. There she meets the neighbours, a emerging pop group and their manager. Beth had designed some album covers for them.
The novel has many layers and sub-plots. The author writes with eloquence about bereavement, mental illness, politics, refugees and love amongst other themes. It has lots of twists and turns in the plot and takes you to unexpected places. The main action takes place in Scotland and Manchester and all the locations are well realised.
The characters are all well described and believable.
It is a compelling thriller which I could not put down. Highly recommended.
Juliet goes to the family’s summerhouse on the coast at Culbin, near Inverness, to sort out Beth’s possessions. There she meets the neighbours, a emerging pop group and their manager. Beth had designed some album covers for them.
The novel has many layers and sub-plots. The author writes with eloquence about bereavement, mental illness, politics, refugees and love amongst other themes. It has lots of twists and turns in the plot and takes you to unexpected places. The main action takes place in Scotland and Manchester and all the locations are well realised.
The characters are all well described and believable.
It is a compelling thriller which I could not put down. Highly recommended.
July 15, 2019
This book had so much going on! The twists and turns and secrets and discoveries were simply jaw dropping.
We follow Juliet, a well known member of a political party, as she tries to uncover the truth about what happened to her niece, Beth. The coroner ruled that Beth committed suicide, but as Juliet returns to her old childhood home in Scotland to sort through Beth’s things, it slowly becomes clear that perhaps more was going on in Beth’s life than first thought.
Sea Of Bones features political tension, the refugee crisis, child exploitation, mental health representation and organised crime. At times, this book featured scenes that were harrowing and very difficult to read, but I feel that all the issues raised in the story were handled respectfully. I loved so many of the characters in the story, I particularly enjoyed the relationship between Declan and Marcus which felt so raw and believable.
The first half of this book was quite slow and so it did take me a while to fully get into the story, but once I was in, I was hooked! A fabulous psychological thriller - 4 stars🌟🌟🌟🌟
We follow Juliet, a well known member of a political party, as she tries to uncover the truth about what happened to her niece, Beth. The coroner ruled that Beth committed suicide, but as Juliet returns to her old childhood home in Scotland to sort through Beth’s things, it slowly becomes clear that perhaps more was going on in Beth’s life than first thought.
Sea Of Bones features political tension, the refugee crisis, child exploitation, mental health representation and organised crime. At times, this book featured scenes that were harrowing and very difficult to read, but I feel that all the issues raised in the story were handled respectfully. I loved so many of the characters in the story, I particularly enjoyed the relationship between Declan and Marcus which felt so raw and believable.
The first half of this book was quite slow and so it did take me a while to fully get into the story, but once I was in, I was hooked! A fabulous psychological thriller - 4 stars🌟🌟🌟🌟
July 24, 2019
From its beautifully written opening chapter until its final captivating word, Sea Of Bones had me under its spell.
Meet Juliet, amidst the hotbed of political trysts and scandals that are the backdrop to her career she has just lost her beloved niece, Beth. As she travels back to the isolated coastal landscape of her childhood to say goodbye, she quickly becomes certain that everything is not as it should be. Struggling to make her beliefs heard and at the risk of losing all of her credibility, Juliet embarks upon a mission to find out the truth.
Flitting between the gritty landscape of industrial Manchester and the craggy cliffs of the Scottish coastline, the sense of place is astonishing. The plot intricately woven and executed perfectly.
The storyline is topical and disturbing, unveiling a horror that is sickeningly all too relevant in current times. It takes a rare talent to write so beautifully about such devastating acts and it’s a talent that O’Donoghue has in spades.
Intelligent, moving and gloriously unpredictable, Sea Of Bones is a thriller of the highest order.
Meet Juliet, amidst the hotbed of political trysts and scandals that are the backdrop to her career she has just lost her beloved niece, Beth. As she travels back to the isolated coastal landscape of her childhood to say goodbye, she quickly becomes certain that everything is not as it should be. Struggling to make her beliefs heard and at the risk of losing all of her credibility, Juliet embarks upon a mission to find out the truth.
Flitting between the gritty landscape of industrial Manchester and the craggy cliffs of the Scottish coastline, the sense of place is astonishing. The plot intricately woven and executed perfectly.
The storyline is topical and disturbing, unveiling a horror that is sickeningly all too relevant in current times. It takes a rare talent to write so beautifully about such devastating acts and it’s a talent that O’Donoghue has in spades.
Intelligent, moving and gloriously unpredictable, Sea Of Bones is a thriller of the highest order.
January 14, 2020
I have just finished this book and need to tell you just how wonderful this book is. The book is set close to Inverness in Scotland and the descriptions of the area are very visual. By this I mean that as you read each page a picture comes into your mind of the area. Much of the events within this story happen close to the beach and the descriptions are just beautiful, "The lights on the water seem to perspire" and goose coloured clouds" are just two of the many quotes that I have in my little book.
This book is set in the last 2 years and covers many topical subject from politics to mental health issues. There are more but you really need to read this for your self. There are issues in this book which may touch a raw nerve with you (as happened to me) but I am quietly confident that you will find the twists and turns quite surprising and show you that sometimes we need to look below the surface to find out about how some people live their lives.
So just go and buy the book and if you enjoy it let me know.
Lynda
This book is set in the last 2 years and covers many topical subject from politics to mental health issues. There are more but you really need to read this for your self. There are issues in this book which may touch a raw nerve with you (as happened to me) but I am quietly confident that you will find the twists and turns quite surprising and show you that sometimes we need to look below the surface to find out about how some people live their lives.
So just go and buy the book and if you enjoy it let me know.
Lynda
July 14, 2019
It is a fast-paced, exciting novel that will take you to unexpected places. Juliet is ruthless in her quest to uncover the truth, which puts some very dangerous noses out of joint. I could really believe in the main plotline, but some of the extras - notably the political and journalistic aspects - seemed a bit excess to requirements. It's a great read though, perfect for whiling away a pleasant hour or three by the pool this summer !
Full review on my blog : https://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspo...
Full review on my blog : https://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspo...
July 22, 2019
This is the first novel by this author and I found it to be very well done. It was a bit slow to get going but got better as it went along. the Characters are well written and the world building good.
Janice is suffering a loss of her 22 year old niece. The family are told that she committed suicide but she just doesn't believe it so she goes back home and starts digging things up trying to find the truth.
Things progress from there with plenty of ups and downs.
Good suspense writing look forward to reading more from this author.
Janice is suffering a loss of her 22 year old niece. The family are told that she committed suicide but she just doesn't believe it so she goes back home and starts digging things up trying to find the truth.
Things progress from there with plenty of ups and downs.
Good suspense writing look forward to reading more from this author.
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