Riverside

by Hazel Marie

Leah Simmons lives a simple life as an English teacher in the small town of Riverside, Arkansas. She spends her days planning lessons, going to church, and trying to forget a sister who mysteriously disappeared more than twenty years ago. She spends her nights in a fitful sleep, plagued by nightmares about what might have happened to her. When one of her students goes missing under similar circumstances, Leah thinks she’s the only one making the connection–until a reporter shows up asking questions that only validate her suspicions. Together they come to the same conclusion: Things aren’t as simple as they seem in Riverside, and the town is hiding some dark secrets.

Kindle Edition

Published August 19, 2020

About the author

Hazel Marie is an Arkansas native and creative who aims to make worlds that readers will love falling into. Her debut novel, LIKE SALT AND ASH, released in 2023 and she is currently working on what will hopefully be her sophomore novel.

Reviews

[Tori Thielemier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! The detail given by the author was the perfect amount that I could get a mental image of what was happening, but not so much that I felt like I was just getting filler information. It changed from the main character’s point of view to the main character’s sister in the past as the story was progressing and I thought it was done at the perfect timing and had the right amount of answers to keep me engaged. I would highly recommend this book to someone who likes mysteries or psychological thrillers!
Will read again.

[Ze'Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story was short but it had all the qualities of a great murder mystery. I couldn’t put the book down and read it in one sitting. I kept waiting for the next twist in Leah’s adventure that kept me captivated and engaged. When the book was over I just wanted more of Leahs adventure revealing the town’s and ultimately, her own secrets. I’d recommend this! The author is a local writer and very talented.

[Alicia Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could NOT put this book down! This was an emotional and suspenseful thrill ride from the beginning! Some characters I loved, some I loved to hate, but I definitely loved seeing Leah evolve into a strong woman who takes control of her life and takes matters into her own hands. If you love being on the edge of your seat you’ll love this story!

[Sharon Loniak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riverside is the type of book that you will not want to put down. I finished it in two days!

At first, I thought I knew where the book was going- but I continued to be fascinated with the story until the end! I could have been in the room with the characters.

The reason I gave it a five star is it is the best first novella I have ever read!

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author did a great job of putting me in small town Arkansas and making me feel like I knew these people like my own neighbors. Riverside is a normal, boring little town that is anything but. As the secrets emerge, the pacing was just right. I couldn’t put it down until I knew it all!
Short but well done.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book! I loved that the author kept me engaged and wanting more! I could not put the book down. I loved everything about this book and I hope that there will be more to Leah’s story! Anyone who enjoys mystery or suspense novels should definitely read this book.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. It’s a little on the short side, so it’s an easy read for a day at the lake or ocean. Loved it and love the author!