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Haunted Bluffs Mystery #2
Storm of Secrets
A deadly storm, a missing three-year-old child, a grisly murder, and the eerie presence of the spirits of the dead set the stage for the second mesmerizing installment of Loretta Marion's paranormal suspense series.
A powerful storm descends upon Cape Cod's Whale Rock at the peak of tourist season--and the weekend Cassandra Mitchell's and Daniel Benjamin's wedding is set to take place at The Bluffs, the magnificent Victorian mansion Cassie inherited from her family. In the wake of the storm's destruction, three-year-old Lucas Kleister goes missing--and the body of small-time drug dealer Lee Chambers is found in a restaurant dumpster. Now, the WRPD are faced with a murder to solve, a missing child to find, and the aftermath of one of the worst storms in recent memory.
While aiding with the clean-up and helping the displaced, Cassie has been receiving cryptic messages from the spirits of her great-grandparents, Percy and Celeste Mitchell, the original residents of The Bluffs. At first, the messages are benign, but soon, they begin to point to something more sinister. As Cassie works to decipher their meaning, the specter of a mysterious local legend surfaces. The tale of Barnacle Boy--and what happened to him during another destructive storm decades earlier--will weave through the desperate search to find Lucas and the identity of the killer.
A powerful storm descends upon Cape Cod's Whale Rock at the peak of tourist season--and the weekend Cassandra Mitchell's and Daniel Benjamin's wedding is set to take place at The Bluffs, the magnificent Victorian mansion Cassie inherited from her family. In the wake of the storm's destruction, three-year-old Lucas Kleister goes missing--and the body of small-time drug dealer Lee Chambers is found in a restaurant dumpster. Now, the WRPD are faced with a murder to solve, a missing child to find, and the aftermath of one of the worst storms in recent memory.
While aiding with the clean-up and helping the displaced, Cassie has been receiving cryptic messages from the spirits of her great-grandparents, Percy and Celeste Mitchell, the original residents of The Bluffs. At first, the messages are benign, but soon, they begin to point to something more sinister. As Cassie works to decipher their meaning, the specter of a mysterious local legend surfaces. The tale of Barnacle Boy--and what happened to him during another destructive storm decades earlier--will weave through the desperate search to find Lucas and the identity of the killer.
327 pages, Hardcover
First published November 12, 2019
32 people are currently reading
2700 people want to read
About the author
Loretta Marion
5 books343 followersThough born and raised in the Midwest, Loretta Marion fell in love with New England and has made it the setting for much of her writing. She is a true bibliophile with a love for reading and creating with words beginning when she was just a young girl. And that affection for the written word has followed her like a shadow throughout her life.
Loretta’s writing bridges the genres of mystery and suspense and women’s fiction, always with hints of romance and humor, sometimes delving into the psychological and paranormal. She creates strong but flawed and struggling characters as appealing as the rich atmospheric settings in which the stories take place.
When not whipping out words on her laptop, she is traveling, enjoying outdoor pursuits, or is curled up with a delicious new book. Loretta lives in Rhode Island with her husband, Geoffrey, and their playful and devoted rescue pooch, Mr. Micawber, a delightful mix of German Shepherd and Corgi.
Loretta’s writing bridges the genres of mystery and suspense and women’s fiction, always with hints of romance and humor, sometimes delving into the psychological and paranormal. She creates strong but flawed and struggling characters as appealing as the rich atmospheric settings in which the stories take place.
When not whipping out words on her laptop, she is traveling, enjoying outdoor pursuits, or is curled up with a delicious new book. Loretta lives in Rhode Island with her husband, Geoffrey, and their playful and devoted rescue pooch, Mr. Micawber, a delightful mix of German Shepherd and Corgi.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
December 2, 2019
Another enjoyable book in the Haunted Bluffs mystery series. In this episode a massive storm hit's Cape Cod, with a child missing in the aftermath. The community goes into overdrive to try to find the little boy, and law enforcement is stretched to the limit, especially as local artist Cassie has found a body in a dumpster in town. Cassie and her friends start investigating both incidences, but find the going tough. Who is the stranger in the dumpster? What are the child's family hiding? And just who is the new occupant of Cassie's carriage house really? Added to all the action is the background saga of a woman dying of cancer in Boston, with a chequered history that is slowly revealed. As the storylines come together Cassie unearths some startling truths about the community, her friends and her family.
The community really comes to life in this book. With realistic characters and settings that are easily visualised Loretta Marion has woven another top notch mystery. I found it easy to read, in fact I had trouble putting it down! Recommended to all mystery lovers.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The community really comes to life in this book. With realistic characters and settings that are easily visualised Loretta Marion has woven another top notch mystery. I found it easy to read, in fact I had trouble putting it down! Recommended to all mystery lovers.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2019
Cassandra Mitchell’s wedding to ex FBI agent Daniel Benjamin had to be postponed at the last minute with a massive storm, christened Chantal, due to hit Whale Rock and The Bluffs, Cassie’s family home she’d inherited. They all knew of the dangers and needed to get everyone evacuated to higher ground before it hit. When Cassie discovered a body, then a small boy, Lucas Kleister went missing with his six-year-old brother Nicholas traumatized and unable to tell anyone what he knew, the local police were put on high alert. The desperate search for Lucas was immediate and ongoing – the aftermath of Chantal’s fury meant a huge cleanup.
In the 1960s there had been another massive storm and days afterwards, the body of a small boy was discovered. He was never identified, and the townsfolk named him Barnacle Boy; he rested in the Mitchell family cemetery near Cassie’s home.
With Daniel helping the WRPD in the search for Lucas as well as a killer, Cassie did some investigating of her own. Could she identify the killer? Would the tragedy that occurred in the 1960s have any link to what was happening in Whale Rock in the present day? And what were Percy and Celeste trying to tell Cassie?
Storm of Secrets is the 2nd in the Haunted Bluffs Mystery series by Loretta Marion and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I haven’t read the 1st but didn’t feel I lost anything by missing it. Storm of Secrets kept me entranced with it difficult to put down when I had to. With excellent characters, plenty of twists and an unexpected conclusion, it was definitely a captivating thriller. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
In the 1960s there had been another massive storm and days afterwards, the body of a small boy was discovered. He was never identified, and the townsfolk named him Barnacle Boy; he rested in the Mitchell family cemetery near Cassie’s home.
With Daniel helping the WRPD in the search for Lucas as well as a killer, Cassie did some investigating of her own. Could she identify the killer? Would the tragedy that occurred in the 1960s have any link to what was happening in Whale Rock in the present day? And what were Percy and Celeste trying to tell Cassie?
Storm of Secrets is the 2nd in the Haunted Bluffs Mystery series by Loretta Marion and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I haven’t read the 1st but didn’t feel I lost anything by missing it. Storm of Secrets kept me entranced with it difficult to put down when I had to. With excellent characters, plenty of twists and an unexpected conclusion, it was definitely a captivating thriller. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2019
Setting - Cape Cod, MA USA. Add some paranormal, excellent characters, a horrific Atlantic storm, smooth, delightful writing, and the reader is swept into a great story. Loretta Marion’s Storm of Secrets (A Haunted Bluffs Mystery #2) provides this kind story. The reader becomes part of this tightly knit community at once. The protagonist, Cassie, who lives in the Victorian house her great grandparents built on a bluff in Whale Rock, must postpone her second wedding as a violent storm head towards Whale Rock, but as the storm is about to hit, all members of this small seaside town work together to prepare boats, houses, businesses to prevent massive damage while evacuating people to safety. Work continues around the clock! Then Cassie discovers a dead body. Who was this man? Then another discovery is made - a small son of one of the visiting families is missing. The storm pounds this summer getaway, but where is this very young child? A massive search is launched, and as each day passes, the outlook becomes incredibly frightening, but there is more. More secrets are exposed, and Cassie is constantly reminded her great grandparents are watching as certain scents are attempting to tell her ‘what?’ The author’s first book, House of Ashes, is followed by book 2, Storm of Secrets. Both of which, I have completely enjoyed. 4.25 stars.
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July 22, 2019That cover is GORGEOUS. The orange/pink colour peaking out from behind the stormy clouds- absolutely stunning. I wanted to read this book before I even read the synopsis.
When I initially tried to read this novel, I didn't finish for a variety of different reasons. Some weren't actually about the book itself (like formatting trouble, which was probably just an iPhone or Kindle issue or something) but others, like the writing, were. I don't want to be too negative, but the writing just wasn't for me, and I lost interest really quickly.
Fast forward to today, when I see it on my Kindle and decide to give it another shot. It's that cover, I swear. It pulled me in.
So, anyway, I didn't like it today either. A bummer, but at least I know I gave it my all and read each word, even though I wanted to quit. I don't think it has anything to do with the author's skill- Loretta Marion is talented, just not my cup of tea.
As such, I've decided to not rate this book publicly.
One last thing: the first half of the book is really difficult to get into, and it's confusing until certain things are revealed. I've seen a few reviewers say the same, but it does make sense towards the end. If you're reading this and enjoying it but you're a bit confused, hang in there!
Huge thank you to NetGalley, the publishers, and the author for providing me with a copy of this title in exchange for an honest review!
When I initially tried to read this novel, I didn't finish for a variety of different reasons. Some weren't actually about the book itself (like formatting trouble, which was probably just an iPhone or Kindle issue or something) but others, like the writing, were. I don't want to be too negative, but the writing just wasn't for me, and I lost interest really quickly.
Fast forward to today, when I see it on my Kindle and decide to give it another shot. It's that cover, I swear. It pulled me in.
So, anyway, I didn't like it today either. A bummer, but at least I know I gave it my all and read each word, even though I wanted to quit. I don't think it has anything to do with the author's skill- Loretta Marion is talented, just not my cup of tea.
As such, I've decided to not rate this book publicly.
One last thing: the first half of the book is really difficult to get into, and it's confusing until certain things are revealed. I've seen a few reviewers say the same, but it does make sense towards the end. If you're reading this and enjoying it but you're a bit confused, hang in there!
Huge thank you to NetGalley, the publishers, and the author for providing me with a copy of this title in exchange for an honest review!
November 16, 2019
After spending an enchanting adventure on Cape Cod within the pages of the first book, HOUSE OF ASHES, I certainly looked forward to returning to the coast. Once again, this is a beautifully written and intensely atmospheric story that is very difficult to put down. There are a lot of moving pieces and characters, but well worth the investment to discover the secrets that have been woven into the history of so many families.
The story unfolds from both past and present perspectives, which the author is able to seamlessly interweave to create a truly poignant and nuanced mystery. These multiple timelines added an engaging and complex layer that allows readers to fully appreciate each knot as it is slowly unraveled.
As the literal storm of Chantal rages, personal storms brew all around these characters. Everyone has something to hide, and strong reasons to keep it that way. The powerful force of the weather casts everything asunder, yet despite it all, the clean-up efforts bring out the nurturing and supporting force of this tight community to salvage friendship, forgiveness, and love in the most unlikely places. Though violet and fierce in nature, these devastating storms serve a terrifying reminder of how life-quenching they can be in the moment, while pregnant with possibly in the aftermath.
"All lost children deserve to be discovered."
Though I was slightly apprehensive about the missing child aspect given my highly empathetic nature and own small children, the author's masterful storytelling showcases just how frightening this situation can truly be, while also remaining respectful to the memories of the children who are never found or identified.
While this one can definitely be read as a stand-alone, I would be remiss not to recommend starting from the beginning. The paranormal elements that surround Cassie are richly explained in the first book, making their presence in this book much more significant and understandable. And though he is only briefly mentioned in the first book, the story of "Barnacle Boy" comes full circle, allowing readers to bear complete witness to his tragic story.
I really hope we see more from this series, as it continues to get better and better. A strong mystery, filled with hints of history, supernatural, suspense, and romance, there is so much to offer to a wide range of readers.
And as a small side note, the covers of both books are absolutely gorgeous! It's difficult for me to recall a more perfect representation, highlighting both the eerie and captivating allure of Battersea Bluffs. Well done!
August 10, 2019
A second book in the Haunted Bluffs mystery series, this book caught my eye with the cover.
Cassandra was an amateur Detective about to marry a retired FBI agent. A powerful hit that town where a three year old child went missing and a murder occurred. In trying to solve the mystery, Cassie received messages from spirits of her great grandparents.
My first book by the author Loretta Marion, the story had an old world charm in its writing. Though some parts didn't keep my interest pulled into it, the story was still entertaining. Different timelines added a complex layer to this sweet mystery. The spirits and their messages thrilled me.
Overall, it was a different kind of writing, but the end made sense. A good book, I would say.
Cassandra was an amateur Detective about to marry a retired FBI agent. A powerful hit that town where a three year old child went missing and a murder occurred. In trying to solve the mystery, Cassie received messages from spirits of her great grandparents.
My first book by the author Loretta Marion, the story had an old world charm in its writing. Though some parts didn't keep my interest pulled into it, the story was still entertaining. Different timelines added a complex layer to this sweet mystery. The spirits and their messages thrilled me.
Overall, it was a different kind of writing, but the end made sense. A good book, I would say.
November 11, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Great Escapes Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Storm of Secrets by Loretta Marion is a wonderful book full of how secrets wreck our lives and those of our loved ones.
A massive storm, a man's body found, a missing toddler, a new man in town, a nun, and a postponed wedding, what else could happen?
Cassie Mitchell
Our sleuth is Cassie Mitchell. She is a local artist and hometown girl that knows most of the townsfolk. Cassie is also a step ahead of the local police in finding clues and figuring out how events happen. Although, Cassie has a bit of help from her ancestral ghosts.
I like Cassie; she tries to help after the storm and with the police investigations. Cassie has a relationship with most of the cops in town, and they give her a bit of leeway and are grateful for deductions but wish that she would stay out of it. We learn about her family dynamics and family history in this book. Let's say that she has quite the cursed family tree.
Mysteries
This book has many moving pieces. There is the body found in the dumpster before the storm, the boy missing, a party house complete with a drug dealer, a town ravaged by a storm, homes, and business without power. That doesn't include the cold case of the young boy who washed ashore years ago. So, lots are going on but moving fast.
Five Stars
I enjoyed Storm of Secrets by Loretta Marion, and therefore I am giving it five stars. If you like paranormal mysteries, then this is the story for you.
First Book in the Series
Prize: (1) GRAND PRIZE - A bookbag/bookmarks/one signed hardcover copy of each of my Haunted Bluffs Mystery books (HOUSE OF ASHES and STORM OF SECRETS) plus one signed trade paperback copy of THE FOOL’S TRUTH. AND a $25 Gift Card (either Amazon or Barnes & Noble) U.S. ONLY
Tour Organized by:
A massive storm, a man's body found, a missing toddler, a new man in town, a nun, and a postponed wedding, what else could happen?
Cassie Mitchell
Our sleuth is Cassie Mitchell. She is a local artist and hometown girl that knows most of the townsfolk. Cassie is also a step ahead of the local police in finding clues and figuring out how events happen. Although, Cassie has a bit of help from her ancestral ghosts.
I like Cassie; she tries to help after the storm and with the police investigations. Cassie has a relationship with most of the cops in town, and they give her a bit of leeway and are grateful for deductions but wish that she would stay out of it. We learn about her family dynamics and family history in this book. Let's say that she has quite the cursed family tree.
Mysteries This book has many moving pieces. There is the body found in the dumpster before the storm, the boy missing, a party house complete with a drug dealer, a town ravaged by a storm, homes, and business without power. That doesn't include the cold case of the young boy who washed ashore years ago. So, lots are going on but moving fast.
Five Stars
I enjoyed Storm of Secrets by Loretta Marion, and therefore I am giving it five stars. If you like paranormal mysteries, then this is the story for you.
First Book in the Series
Prize: (1) GRAND PRIZE - A bookbag/bookmarks/one signed hardcover copy of each of my Haunted Bluffs Mystery books (HOUSE OF ASHES and STORM OF SECRETS) plus one signed trade paperback copy of THE FOOL’S TRUTH. AND a $25 Gift Card (either Amazon or Barnes & Noble) U.S. ONLY
Tour Organized by:
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Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Storm of Secrets by Loretta Marion. Check out the other stops and giveaway if you have time.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
October 23, 2019
First my admiration for this cover ! its truly gorgeous.. Very well done to the artist.
I have read the first in series and was thrilled to receive this next in series for review. Thank you to Net Galley and to the publisher. I offer my own review opinions.
In this 2nd in the Haunted Bluffs Mystery) this reader was entranced from the beginning. The protagonist, Cassie, lives in the beautiful Victorian house her great grandparents built on a bluff in Whale Rock. The coastal setting of this house adds to the atmospheric beauty of this book. Cassie must postpone her second wedding as a huge storm head towards Whale Rock. The community members band together to prevent massive damage while evacuating people. The storm hits and a murder has occurred and a child is missing . With these two events many secrets of the small seaside town come out having been buried for years. Cassie feels the presence of her great grandparents and feels they are trying to contact her to warn her about something. The mystery deepens to conclusion as secrets are reveled.
This is a excellent suspenseful read. I loved the setting, the charcters and the mystery surrounding the main charcter. I look forward to further books in this series.
I have read the first in series and was thrilled to receive this next in series for review. Thank you to Net Galley and to the publisher. I offer my own review opinions.
In this 2nd in the Haunted Bluffs Mystery) this reader was entranced from the beginning. The protagonist, Cassie, lives in the beautiful Victorian house her great grandparents built on a bluff in Whale Rock. The coastal setting of this house adds to the atmospheric beauty of this book. Cassie must postpone her second wedding as a huge storm head towards Whale Rock. The community members band together to prevent massive damage while evacuating people. The storm hits and a murder has occurred and a child is missing . With these two events many secrets of the small seaside town come out having been buried for years. Cassie feels the presence of her great grandparents and feels they are trying to contact her to warn her about something. The mystery deepens to conclusion as secrets are reveled.
This is a excellent suspenseful read. I loved the setting, the charcters and the mystery surrounding the main charcter. I look forward to further books in this series.
November 18, 2019
I have read many romance books featuring Cape Cod, so it was like visiting an old friend reading this book. I haven't read the first book but I instantly felt connected to the many characters and this is easily read as stand alone. There are some back story between Cass and her sister Zoe and also the history of the house that may have been touched more on in book one but it did not hinder the reading of this book. A huge storm has his the residents of Whale Rock and after it passes and the damaged is ascertained it becomes known that a child has gone missing, not only that, but Cass discovers a body in a dumpster.
Murder and a missing child are the central story lines in this book as well as the mystery of Barnacal Boy - a local story of a young boy was was found washed ashore in the 70's and was yet to be identified. The side story of that jumped from the 60's, 70's, and 80's to the present day, at one point I thought I had that part figured out but I was thrown of kilter with the twists that Loretta Marion threw in there.
Everything connects eventually in the end and made for a great read, I look forward to reading more in this series and going back and reading book one.
Murder and a missing child are the central story lines in this book as well as the mystery of Barnacal Boy - a local story of a young boy was was found washed ashore in the 70's and was yet to be identified. The side story of that jumped from the 60's, 70's, and 80's to the present day, at one point I thought I had that part figured out but I was thrown of kilter with the twists that Loretta Marion threw in there.
Everything connects eventually in the end and made for a great read, I look forward to reading more in this series and going back and reading book one.
December 12, 2019
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to RockStar Book Tours and Crooked Lane Books for this free copy. All quotes in this review are taken from the Advanced Reader Copy and may change in final publication.
Honestly if the prologue has something so out there that I just need to know how it ties in to the rest of the storyline, that probably already sucked me in to the book. That’s pretty much what happened with this novel, because I was trying to figure out who the people were on the boat, why they were crucial to Cassandra and the mystery she had to deal with, and how the heck they weren’t paying attention to a little boy falling off the boat during a terrible storm! Like, where was the boy’s parents and why wasn’t he secured somewhere? It just freaked me out and I don’t even have kids!
So anyway, after the prologue just totally freaked me out and had me on the edge of my seat because I needed to know if they ever found the little guy, I meet Cassandra for the first time – although this is part of a series I didn’t feel like I was missing too much of the backstory, so kudos to Marion for that – on what is supposed to be her wedding day but because of the storm… gets postponed. Isn’t it supposed to be good luck if it’s raining on your wedding day?
Well, maybe not a storm.
Hey at least she didn’t throw a tantrum like this lady, but I feel super bad for her because she seems super frustrated and not to mention her whole wedding outfit looks like a Greek Goddess or something.
Anyway, from that point on, we know that there’s going to be some drama because there’s nothing like starting a mystery with a postponed wedding and a storm. I think Marion did a great job pulling me into the story right away, already making me want to empathize with Cassandra and the situation she’s in. Not only is it her wedding day, but she was also talking about how it was great that she was part of the family business again after they had to sell the company to someone else a few years ago. So even that right there made me want to like her. Which, I did like her, which probably wasn’t clear while I was writing this. My bad.
Ugh I just really loved how Marion was able to tie in the past with the present, and the parallels between the two events that spanned years, but were somehow eerily similar in nature that it was almost hard to tell if they really were different events. Really if it wasn’t for Cassandra actually experiencing one of the events, I wouldn’t have known better, and that’s what really made me enjoy this mystery. This was just such an interesting mystery novel and it makes me want to read the first one. I hope this isn’t the end of the Haunted Bluffs series, because I think Marion could come up with so many more books for this. I anxiously wait to see what she gives us next!
Honestly if the prologue has something so out there that I just need to know how it ties in to the rest of the storyline, that probably already sucked me in to the book. That’s pretty much what happened with this novel, because I was trying to figure out who the people were on the boat, why they were crucial to Cassandra and the mystery she had to deal with, and how the heck they weren’t paying attention to a little boy falling off the boat during a terrible storm! Like, where was the boy’s parents and why wasn’t he secured somewhere? It just freaked me out and I don’t even have kids!
So anyway, after the prologue just totally freaked me out and had me on the edge of my seat because I needed to know if they ever found the little guy, I meet Cassandra for the first time – although this is part of a series I didn’t feel like I was missing too much of the backstory, so kudos to Marion for that – on what is supposed to be her wedding day but because of the storm… gets postponed. Isn’t it supposed to be good luck if it’s raining on your wedding day?
Well, maybe not a storm.
Hey at least she didn’t throw a tantrum like this lady, but I feel super bad for her because she seems super frustrated and not to mention her whole wedding outfit looks like a Greek Goddess or something.
Anyway, from that point on, we know that there’s going to be some drama because there’s nothing like starting a mystery with a postponed wedding and a storm. I think Marion did a great job pulling me into the story right away, already making me want to empathize with Cassandra and the situation she’s in. Not only is it her wedding day, but she was also talking about how it was great that she was part of the family business again after they had to sell the company to someone else a few years ago. So even that right there made me want to like her. Which, I did like her, which probably wasn’t clear while I was writing this. My bad.
Ugh I just really loved how Marion was able to tie in the past with the present, and the parallels between the two events that spanned years, but were somehow eerily similar in nature that it was almost hard to tell if they really were different events. Really if it wasn’t for Cassandra actually experiencing one of the events, I wouldn’t have known better, and that’s what really made me enjoy this mystery. This was just such an interesting mystery novel and it makes me want to read the first one. I hope this isn’t the end of the Haunted Bluffs series, because I think Marion could come up with so many more books for this. I anxiously wait to see what she gives us next!
November 12, 2019
4.5 stars.
Storm of Secrets by Loretta Marion is a delightfully charming cozy mystery with a slight supernatural element. Although this newest release is the second installment in A Haunted Bluffs Mystery series, it can be read as a standalone. But I highly recommend book one, House of Ashes, as well.
With a storm bearing down on the coastal town of Whale Rock, Cassandra "Cassie" Mitchell and Daniel Benjamin decide to postpone their upcoming wedding. Just before the storm makes landfall, Cassie stumbles onto the body of Lee Chambers. After the storm, everyone's attention is focused on finding missing three year old Lucas Kleister. Police Chief Brooks Kincaid believes visitor Christopher Savage might be involved the young boy's disappearance but Cassie is not convinced.
Cassie is a bit of an amateur sleuth but both Daniel and Brooks would rather she not become involved in the cases. But between the information she uncovers on her own and details from her reporter friend, Laura Prince, her curiosity gets the best of her. Cassie genuinely likes Christopher and her instincts are telling her he is not involved. However, as the police investigation continues, the evidence is stacking up against him. But Cassie is a shrewd woman and she finally begins to piece together the disparate bits of information. Will she figure out what exactly happened to Lucas and who killed Wes?
Interspersed with events in the present are chapters that flash back to the past. Three siblings immigrate together from Italy at a young age following their parents' deaths. As their lives go in different directions, they eventually become estranged. How do these long ago events figure into what is occurring in Whale Rock?
The various story arcs are quite intriguing but the sheer number of characters is initially quite confusing. However, as the story continues, it becomes easier to keep up with who's who. The investigation into Lee's death simmers in the background as most everyone's attention is on locating young Lucas. The search for Lucas is heartbreaking and everyone remains hopeful he will be found unharmed. The story arc which takes place in the past is interesting but it does take a while to understand how those long ago events fit in with what is happening in the present day.
Despite a bit of a slow start, Storm of Secrets is a captivating mystery with a unique storyline and likable characters. In the aftermath of the storm, secrets are exposed which leads to unexpected discoveries and heartwarming healing. Cassie's great-grandparents continue sending her hints that guide her to some startling revelations. Loretta Marion brings the novel to a rather low-key yet completely satisfying conclusion. A wonderful addition to A Haunted Bluffs Mystery series that old and new fans are sure to enjoy.
Storm of Secrets by Loretta Marion is a delightfully charming cozy mystery with a slight supernatural element. Although this newest release is the second installment in A Haunted Bluffs Mystery series, it can be read as a standalone. But I highly recommend book one, House of Ashes, as well.
With a storm bearing down on the coastal town of Whale Rock, Cassandra "Cassie" Mitchell and Daniel Benjamin decide to postpone their upcoming wedding. Just before the storm makes landfall, Cassie stumbles onto the body of Lee Chambers. After the storm, everyone's attention is focused on finding missing three year old Lucas Kleister. Police Chief Brooks Kincaid believes visitor Christopher Savage might be involved the young boy's disappearance but Cassie is not convinced.
Cassie is a bit of an amateur sleuth but both Daniel and Brooks would rather she not become involved in the cases. But between the information she uncovers on her own and details from her reporter friend, Laura Prince, her curiosity gets the best of her. Cassie genuinely likes Christopher and her instincts are telling her he is not involved. However, as the police investigation continues, the evidence is stacking up against him. But Cassie is a shrewd woman and she finally begins to piece together the disparate bits of information. Will she figure out what exactly happened to Lucas and who killed Wes?
Interspersed with events in the present are chapters that flash back to the past. Three siblings immigrate together from Italy at a young age following their parents' deaths. As their lives go in different directions, they eventually become estranged. How do these long ago events figure into what is occurring in Whale Rock?
The various story arcs are quite intriguing but the sheer number of characters is initially quite confusing. However, as the story continues, it becomes easier to keep up with who's who. The investigation into Lee's death simmers in the background as most everyone's attention is on locating young Lucas. The search for Lucas is heartbreaking and everyone remains hopeful he will be found unharmed. The story arc which takes place in the past is interesting but it does take a while to understand how those long ago events fit in with what is happening in the present day.
Despite a bit of a slow start, Storm of Secrets is a captivating mystery with a unique storyline and likable characters. In the aftermath of the storm, secrets are exposed which leads to unexpected discoveries and heartwarming healing. Cassie's great-grandparents continue sending her hints that guide her to some startling revelations. Loretta Marion brings the novel to a rather low-key yet completely satisfying conclusion. A wonderful addition to A Haunted Bluffs Mystery series that old and new fans are sure to enjoy.
November 12, 2019
Storm of Secrets
A Haunted Bluffs Mystery
by Loretta Marion
Publisher Crooked Lane Books
Publication date : November 12, 2019
2 ⭐⭐
I really struggled with this book for several reasons. First there is a HUGE amount of characters which made it hard to keep up with and very confusing. Then there was the bouncing back and forth through several decades Going from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and current day. There is also several different cases. I had to get out a notebook just to keep up with it all. By the time I reached the halfway point in the book I had used half of my notebook for notes. There was just way too much going on for one book. There was enough going on to fill up three books. I struggled with the slow pace and it just did not keep my attention. It didn't help that I stayed confused. I have been trying not to keep reading books I am not enjoying. But after all the work I had put into it I was determined to finish it. In the end everything ties together and make sense . Still I did not enjoy the story. I did however love the cover . That is what drew me to the book. The Description sounded so good and I had such high hopes for this book. If there was alot less characters ,less jumping around and not so many cases going on it would have been a better fit for me. Many thanks to the Publisher , the Author , and NetGalley for a ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
All in All this book just was not for me.
#StormOfSecrets #NetGalley
A Haunted Bluffs Mystery
by Loretta Marion
Publisher Crooked Lane Books
Publication date : November 12, 2019
2 ⭐⭐
I really struggled with this book for several reasons. First there is a HUGE amount of characters which made it hard to keep up with and very confusing. Then there was the bouncing back and forth through several decades Going from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and current day. There is also several different cases. I had to get out a notebook just to keep up with it all. By the time I reached the halfway point in the book I had used half of my notebook for notes. There was just way too much going on for one book. There was enough going on to fill up three books. I struggled with the slow pace and it just did not keep my attention. It didn't help that I stayed confused. I have been trying not to keep reading books I am not enjoying. But after all the work I had put into it I was determined to finish it. In the end everything ties together and make sense . Still I did not enjoy the story. I did however love the cover . That is what drew me to the book. The Description sounded so good and I had such high hopes for this book. If there was alot less characters ,less jumping around and not so many cases going on it would have been a better fit for me. Many thanks to the Publisher , the Author , and NetGalley for a ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
All in All this book just was not for me.
#StormOfSecrets #NetGalley
November 4, 2019
At last we are able to return to Whale Rock, the fictional town on the Cape, and reunite with all the quirky characters from Marion's first Haunted Bluffs Mystery, House of Ashes. Although Storm of Secrets can certainly be read on its own, I highly recommend reading House of Ashes too, if you can. Some mysteries from the first book have been resolved, but new ones abound that will keep you enthralled as Cassandra Mitchell and her friends cope with a deadly storm, a missing child, a shocking murder and a sinister local legend that has baffled Whale Rock's residents for decades. And while exciting events and plot twists drive the story, it is equally the depth and development of these multi-dimensional characters that will keep you reading. As with House of Ashes, you will regret having to say goodby to them at the end of this very entertaining sequel.
September 1, 2019
I absolutely loved this book! I started it and just couldn’t put it down, so I finished it in a 24 hr period! Marion’s characters are interesting and she has a way of making you feel that you live in this small Cape Cod Village and these people are your neighbors. I loved the back story that was going on and wondered through most of the book how it would mesh with the present, but she did a fabulous job of bringing it all together in a very believable and realistic way! I finished the book wanting to know what happens next in the lives of these characters. Please keep this series going!
July 3, 2021
Awesome book. Didn't realize it was the second book in the mystery but it was good. Now I have to find the first one in order to see how it all gets started. I have never read this author but I believe I am going to like her books.
She keeps you engaged from the first page to the last. She also gets you guess on who did what and why.
Thanks Ms. Marion, can't wait to find House of Ashes to see what happened first.
She keeps you engaged from the first page to the last. She also gets you guess on who did what and why.
Thanks Ms. Marion, can't wait to find House of Ashes to see what happened first.
September 17, 2021
I was surprised that they were getting married already first thing in this book, but okay.
The mystery was better in this book than the first book, and the time-jumping aspect also worked better here. I actually liked Renée's POV a lot.
The very end was pretty predictable for me, I kind of saw that coming already from the first book!
The mystery was better in this book than the first book, and the time-jumping aspect also worked better here. I actually liked Renée's POV a lot.
The very end was pretty predictable for me, I kind of saw that coming already from the first book!
April 13, 2023
Supernatural thrillers are my favorite so I was excited to read this. I wasn't disappointed, as its a good read. There are a lot of characters so I had to pay attention, but that wasn't hard as the mystery pulled me in. It has all the elements of a good paranormal, and I hope there are more books to come.
May 17, 2020
I love this series because the characters are great and the author puts such a twist on her plots, you won’t even guess!!
June 7, 2021
first time reading a book by Loretta Marion - I will be reading more of her works. a great, fast, interest holding read.
December 17, 2023
I really like this series. It reminds of Louise Penny's Three Pines series. The location is inviting, the characters are genuinely nice people, and there are sufficient hooks to keep me from putting it down.
October 24, 2019
This is the second book in the series. Very well written and enjoyable. It was a nice long book so passed a good bit of time had to really pay attention to what was going on. This book goes back and forth from the past story of a young boy that was found washed up on the coast and the story line of a missing boy now. As they try to find the missing boy more and more of the past comes into play . Kept me reading to see what would happen next. Has very well thought out characters. Great Read.
September 19, 2021
This writer has a lot going for her.
The characters in the book are well thought out and mesh very well.
I would have liked to have known more about some of their lives, however, maybe in follow up books?
And I really was disappointed that her grandparents weren't a lot more active in her life.
Wonderful that losing one child (temporarily) led to finding out who the long buried Barnacle boy was.
I hope to see more from Mz Marion.
The characters in the book are well thought out and mesh very well.
I would have liked to have known more about some of their lives, however, maybe in follow up books?
And I really was disappointed that her grandparents weren't a lot more active in her life.
Wonderful that losing one child (temporarily) led to finding out who the long buried Barnacle boy was.
I hope to see more from Mz Marion.
August 14, 2019
I enjoyed this book very much. This is the first book I’ve read by Loretta Marion and I’d read more by her. Having to put the book down to do life I found I had to concentrate on the who and what as the story goes from one character to another in chapters. Moving from present to past back and forth. The author does a great job with the switches. The story has a lot happening to keep you interested. The story travels through the lives of three separate people. Cassie, a bride to be who’s wedding has to be postponed because of a tropical storm that could develop into a Hurricane about to hit their small town in Cape Cod. Everyone is in evacuate and get to safe areas mode. Cassie’s home is one of the safest and friends family even strangers come to wait out the storm. Unfortunately just before the storm is about to hit a report of a missing three year old boy moves everyone possible into action to find him. Braving the elements in this small town by the water the men set out. Checking boarded up tourist homes along the shore. Fearing the possible loss to the ocean.
The other main character is Renee. We travel back and forth throughout her life from a young girl in Italy to her new persona in America. A sister in America and brother in Italy she has kept secret. She dare not tell her husband or son who don’t even know her real name.
And the third part of the story is “Barnacle Boy” a boy who’s young body was found on the shore of the ocean by Cassie’s father many years before. Never having solved the identity of this child they buried him in the Mitchel graveyard along with Cassie’s great grandparents. There is a man new to the area that seems very interested in the history of the town including the story of barnacle boy. And he’s taken refuge at Cassie’s.
When a three year old boy goes missing just hours before the storm hits the men brave the elements and start searching the waters edge and evacuated boarded up homes along the shore. Then there is the body of an adult male found in the dumpster behind the general store by Cassie.
Finding the child is paramount while trying to keep safe. How do the lives intertwine and could the stranger staying in Cassie’s lodging have secrets the police need to know about?
It’s well worth the read and has some surprises. Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for allowing me to read this ARC this is my honest opinion.
The other main character is Renee. We travel back and forth throughout her life from a young girl in Italy to her new persona in America. A sister in America and brother in Italy she has kept secret. She dare not tell her husband or son who don’t even know her real name.
And the third part of the story is “Barnacle Boy” a boy who’s young body was found on the shore of the ocean by Cassie’s father many years before. Never having solved the identity of this child they buried him in the Mitchel graveyard along with Cassie’s great grandparents. There is a man new to the area that seems very interested in the history of the town including the story of barnacle boy. And he’s taken refuge at Cassie’s.
When a three year old boy goes missing just hours before the storm hits the men brave the elements and start searching the waters edge and evacuated boarded up homes along the shore. Then there is the body of an adult male found in the dumpster behind the general store by Cassie.
Finding the child is paramount while trying to keep safe. How do the lives intertwine and could the stranger staying in Cassie’s lodging have secrets the police need to know about?
It’s well worth the read and has some surprises. Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for allowing me to read this ARC this is my honest opinion.
December 3, 2019
This is the second book in the Haunted Bluffs Mystery series. I have not read the first book but will go back and do so based on this book.
This book follow multiple timelines between the 1960’s and present day. It involves family secrets and what happens when they ultimately come to light.
Cassandra Mitchell is the amateur detective about to marry a retired FBI agent/tourist boat owner. They, along with her reporter friend, assist the local force search for a lost boy and a murderer when two separate cases hit the cozy tourist town at the same times as a hurricane delays Cassandra’s wedding.
I loved the writing style and unwinding and uniting the various stories slowly. The author builds memorable characters that quickly pull you into their story as she transitions between the plot lines.
I am thankful for the advanced copy I received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book follow multiple timelines between the 1960’s and present day. It involves family secrets and what happens when they ultimately come to light.
Cassandra Mitchell is the amateur detective about to marry a retired FBI agent/tourist boat owner. They, along with her reporter friend, assist the local force search for a lost boy and a murderer when two separate cases hit the cozy tourist town at the same times as a hurricane delays Cassandra’s wedding.
I loved the writing style and unwinding and uniting the various stories slowly. The author builds memorable characters that quickly pull you into their story as she transitions between the plot lines.
I am thankful for the advanced copy I received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2019
While this book isn't as fast pace as I usually like my books, it DOES grab a hold of you practically from the very beginning, and doesn't let you go until you close the book after you've read the last word, and the actual story is one that will stay with you long after you've read the end of the book! There are so many different characters, both big and small, and it's the people you least expect that leave the biggest impact on you. Loretta Marion does an amazing job at grabbing hold of all the different people and intertwining their lives into such a complicated tapestry woven together. I honestly can't wait to see what else Ms. Marion has to offer us! She is now on my One-Click and Auto Buy lists!
November 12, 2019
A gripping and entertaining book, poignant and well written.
The cast of characters is well written and interesting, the plot is well crafted and keeps you hooked till the end.
It was a bit hard to get into the plot because there's a high number of characters but once you're hooked you won't put it down.
The mystery is solid and the paranormal element enrich it.
I look forward to read other books in this series.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
The cast of characters is well written and interesting, the plot is well crafted and keeps you hooked till the end.
It was a bit hard to get into the plot because there's a high number of characters but once you're hooked you won't put it down.
The mystery is solid and the paranormal element enrich it.
I look forward to read other books in this series.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
August 16, 2019
I really, really enjoyed this book. All the twists and suspense from the beginning keeps you hooked from beginning to end. I liked how the author intertwines each character and the trail of mystery. Really great story.
Thank you Netgalley, the author and publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Netgalley, the author and publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2019
Storm of Secrets is a good mystery with some interesting characters. The beginning is a bit confusing, but stick with it because it is well worth it.
November 17, 2019
The second installment of this series continues to build on the mystery of the paranormal circumstances enveloping the mansion at The Bluffs that protagonist Cassie Mitchell has inherited, saved, and refurbished along with an adjacent rental/studio in the Carriage House. Along with her fiancé Daniel, a former FBI agent, the town dives into prep for the massive storm that canceled their wedding when Cassie discovers a body in the dumpster behind one of the merchants downtown.
Daniel is enlisted in the search for a missing three-year-old, Lucas, as well as gleaning clues regarding the identity of the man in the dumpster. Daniel and she work unofficially with the Whale Rock Police Department, sussing clues and trading information.
This supernatural thriller introduces a fascinating sub-plot beneath the main plot using current and historical timeline background to the mysterious Christopher Savage, a displaced person staying temporarily at the Carriage House. The extra layer adds a depth of complexity to the storyline that interspersed with the frantic search for the boy and investigation into the dumpster body keeps the intensity at high level.
I enjoyed the paranormal aspect of the narrative, her great-grandparents often confusing Cassie with messages she is unable to immediately interpret. The relationship between she and Daniel is painted as an ordinary middle-aged couple and her relationship with estranged sister, Zoe, fitful. The author weaves an fascinating correlation between that of Cassie and her family with that of Christopher and his and gradually more secrets find their way to the surface.
I was given this digital download by the publisher through NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. I've enjoyed both books in this series and would welcome the chance to read the third. Although this novel would function quite well as a standalone, you might wish to start with Book 1 to get a full explanation of the recurrent paranormal activities. Recommended for any who enjoy a little supernatural vibe to their mysteries. 4/5 stars
See my full review and that of my associate reviewer at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
Daniel is enlisted in the search for a missing three-year-old, Lucas, as well as gleaning clues regarding the identity of the man in the dumpster. Daniel and she work unofficially with the Whale Rock Police Department, sussing clues and trading information.
This supernatural thriller introduces a fascinating sub-plot beneath the main plot using current and historical timeline background to the mysterious Christopher Savage, a displaced person staying temporarily at the Carriage House. The extra layer adds a depth of complexity to the storyline that interspersed with the frantic search for the boy and investigation into the dumpster body keeps the intensity at high level.
I enjoyed the paranormal aspect of the narrative, her great-grandparents often confusing Cassie with messages she is unable to immediately interpret. The relationship between she and Daniel is painted as an ordinary middle-aged couple and her relationship with estranged sister, Zoe, fitful. The author weaves an fascinating correlation between that of Cassie and her family with that of Christopher and his and gradually more secrets find their way to the surface.
I was given this digital download by the publisher through NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. I've enjoyed both books in this series and would welcome the chance to read the third. Although this novel would function quite well as a standalone, you might wish to start with Book 1 to get a full explanation of the recurrent paranormal activities. Recommended for any who enjoy a little supernatural vibe to their mysteries. 4/5 stars
See my full review and that of my associate reviewer at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
November 5, 2019
With a small-time drug dealer dead in a dumpster, a small child missing, and a hurricane on the way, small Whale Rock Village on Cape Cod Bay is waiting on disaster amid a Storm of Secrets.
Cassie’s wedding is scheduled but canceled by the upcoming hurricane. To make the day worse, she finds a dead body in a dumpster. Cassie doesn’t let it get her down. To help people living in low-lying coastal areas, she opens her huge house, Battersea Bluffs, to a multitude of friends, wedding guests, and strangers. She serves them the catered food that was purchased for her now-canceled wedding reception.
With three-year-old Lucas still missing after the storm, the entire village searches for him. Was he kidnapped? Or was he swept out to sea? Is he to have the same fate as the nameless “Barnacle Boy” who washed up dead on the coast fifty years earlier?
There is a lot going on here. It truly is a Storm of Secrets. In addition to the mysteries mentioned above, later in the book Cassie and her family resolve several old issues. Two other families also have secrets that are discovered and unraveled. My favorite part of the novel was the family dynamics that are portrayed. When each family’s secret is exposed, honest and genuine feelings are shown. I did have a concern with so many people introduced during the first several chapters in the book. Luckily, I was reading on a Kindle so I could highlight them in case I needed to know their story later. By the middle of the book, all the different characters were easily sorted in my mind.
With a total of two crimes and three family secrets, this book will appeal to both women’s fiction and mystery readers. The pacing is not as fast as a thriller. Also, the emphasis is on the characters’ actions and emotions more than solving the mysteries. Probably not a good choice for action thriller readers—unless they want to try something different. I enjoyed it a great deal for the excellent characterizations of the main protagonists. 4 stars!
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Cassie’s wedding is scheduled but canceled by the upcoming hurricane. To make the day worse, she finds a dead body in a dumpster. Cassie doesn’t let it get her down. To help people living in low-lying coastal areas, she opens her huge house, Battersea Bluffs, to a multitude of friends, wedding guests, and strangers. She serves them the catered food that was purchased for her now-canceled wedding reception.
With three-year-old Lucas still missing after the storm, the entire village searches for him. Was he kidnapped? Or was he swept out to sea? Is he to have the same fate as the nameless “Barnacle Boy” who washed up dead on the coast fifty years earlier?
There is a lot going on here. It truly is a Storm of Secrets. In addition to the mysteries mentioned above, later in the book Cassie and her family resolve several old issues. Two other families also have secrets that are discovered and unraveled. My favorite part of the novel was the family dynamics that are portrayed. When each family’s secret is exposed, honest and genuine feelings are shown. I did have a concern with so many people introduced during the first several chapters in the book. Luckily, I was reading on a Kindle so I could highlight them in case I needed to know their story later. By the middle of the book, all the different characters were easily sorted in my mind.
With a total of two crimes and three family secrets, this book will appeal to both women’s fiction and mystery readers. The pacing is not as fast as a thriller. Also, the emphasis is on the characters’ actions and emotions more than solving the mysteries. Probably not a good choice for action thriller readers—unless they want to try something different. I enjoyed it a great deal for the excellent characterizations of the main protagonists. 4 stars!
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
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