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Whispering Pines Mystery #11
Burning Secrets
Things are heating up in Whispering Pines, and it’s not just the weather.
Sheriff Jayne O’Shea is on edge. Hopeful applicants have taken over the commons area, all of them begging to become residents. Villagers who left long ago have returned, causing an uproar among the locals. The slow burn feud between the sister witches has reached the boiling point. And her parents are acting just plain weird.
Fortunately, it’s time for the annual Beltane celebration, the last opportunity for everyone to gather before tourists invade the village for the summer. Attendees dance around the Maypole, decorate fairy chairs, weave witch ladders, and nibble Green Man cake. Good, innocent fun.
Except, this year’s fire festival is being held during the driest spring the Northwoods has seen in a decade. And like bees to honey, the event has attracted an arsonist intent on burning the place to the ground one little fire at a time.
Sheriff Jayne O’Shea is on edge. Hopeful applicants have taken over the commons area, all of them begging to become residents. Villagers who left long ago have returned, causing an uproar among the locals. The slow burn feud between the sister witches has reached the boiling point. And her parents are acting just plain weird.
Fortunately, it’s time for the annual Beltane celebration, the last opportunity for everyone to gather before tourists invade the village for the summer. Attendees dance around the Maypole, decorate fairy chairs, weave witch ladders, and nibble Green Man cake. Good, innocent fun.
Except, this year’s fire festival is being held during the driest spring the Northwoods has seen in a decade. And like bees to honey, the event has attracted an arsonist intent on burning the place to the ground one little fire at a time.
343 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2020
426 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
About the author
Shawn McGuire
79 books819 followersMystery and fantasy author Shawn McGuire loves creating characters and places her fans want to return to again and again. She started writing after seeing the first Star Wars movie (that's episode IV) as a kid. She couldn't wait for the next installment to come out so wrote her own. Sadly, those notebooks are long lost, but her desire to tell a tale is as strong now as it was then. She lives in Wisconsin near the beautiful Mississippi River and when not writing or reading, she might be baking, crafting, going for a long walk, or nibbling really dark chocolate. You can learn more about her work on her website www.Shawn-McGuire.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
September 25, 2020
I wish I could visit Whispering Pines. This village, the people in it and the surrounding pine forest feel real. I love this series.
In this book, book 11, the village is preparing for the Beltane celebration. Unfortunately, it has been a very dry spring and Beltane is a fire festival. When an arsonist shows up, everyone’s scared and worried. Add in the escalating feud between two of the original villagers and a personal challenge for Jayne and she is trying to be everywhere at once.
The characters are well-developed and always growing. The relationships are varied and interesting. The challenges are dramatic. Add in humour and romance and this book is complete. These attributes along with the secrets make this book and series a very satisfying read. I am always looking forward to the next one.
In this book, book 11, the village is preparing for the Beltane celebration. Unfortunately, it has been a very dry spring and Beltane is a fire festival. When an arsonist shows up, everyone’s scared and worried. Add in the escalating feud between two of the original villagers and a personal challenge for Jayne and she is trying to be everywhere at once.
The characters are well-developed and always growing. The relationships are varied and interesting. The challenges are dramatic. Add in humour and romance and this book is complete. These attributes along with the secrets make this book and series a very satisfying read. I am always looking forward to the next one.
May 5, 2021
I really love this series... but
*** SPOILER ***
*** SPOILER ***
*** SPOILER ***
Jayne's parents decision doesn't make sense to me. Even if they want nothing to do with Whispering Pines, they don't need the money as they have another business and salary. Wouldn't they share the inheritance with their daughters? Why rob Jayne of a year's worth of investment, knowing that both Jayne and Ros plan to settle in Whispering Pines? It seems really petty and uncaring to me, and out of character.
That aside, another great book. I love the Wiccan content and the characters.
*** SPOILER ***
*** SPOILER ***
*** SPOILER ***
Jayne's parents decision doesn't make sense to me. Even if they want nothing to do with Whispering Pines, they don't need the money as they have another business and salary. Wouldn't they share the inheritance with their daughters? Why rob Jayne of a year's worth of investment, knowing that both Jayne and Ros plan to settle in Whispering Pines? It seems really petty and uncaring to me, and out of character.
That aside, another great book. I love the Wiccan content and the characters.
September 28, 2020
*I received a free ARC of this book with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Phew! Whispering Pines’ eleventh instalment is all go from the first page! More and more often we see our main character, Sheriff Jayne O’Shea, trying to balance the multiple demands of her personal and professional life, as the series reveals layer upon layer of secrets buried within the apparently-peaceful village community.
With this series, I would definitely recommend you start from Book 1 (Family Secrets) and read through in order, as both Jayne and the wider Whispering Pines community develop and change as the series progresses, and whilst the individual plot might stand alone, you miss all of the background and subtle nuances of the worldbuilding if you don’t follow the bigger storyline. Which, as the titles suggest, is all about secrets – old and new.
Jayne is experiencing Beltane in Whispering Pines, along with the village tradition of interviewing prospective new villagers. As usual, however, there is trouble bubbling just below the celebratory surface and Jayne has to somehow keep a lid on it, whilst also trying to defuse a long-burning feud and protect the village that she has come to love from being damaged from both overt and more subtle threats.
All of this, while still running her popular B&B with her partner (not just in business), Tripp, finding time for a social life, keeping an eye on her pregnant bestie, and trying to remember where she left her K9, Meeka! Never a dull moment for the sheriff – and founding descendant – of the Pines!
Shawn McGuire delivers a well-crafted mystery every time, but the draw that keeps pulling readers (myself included) back every time, is the warm, slightly woo-woo community she has created in this series. The characters are interesting and well-developed, and the setting is enchanting – I can’t help wanting to move there every time I read another story, despite the murders and mayhem. I’m sure a cosy, bookshop stuffed with books about Wicca, magic and mystery would be a perfect fit for the Council, even if I have to wait until next May to apply!
Recommended for fans of cosy mysteries with a female investigator as lead, with plenty of family intrigue, mild peril, and a large helping of spiritual mysticism. I can’t wait to find out what Jayne uncovers in Whispering Pines next!
“You can’t stop us from moving here,” a female voice insisted.
I scanned the quartet. A man and woman, a couple if the way they held hands was any sign, had their eyes fixed on their leader of the moment. Another woman, with her jaw set in defiance, took in the council with a sweeping glance.
Five foot four, approximately one hundred ten pounds, wavy dishwater-blonde hair just past her shoulders, a ring on either side of her lower lip.
Lip rings worn that way were called snake bites. My sister, Rosalyn, had considered getting a set during one of her phases. I convinced her to get a faux set that didn’t require actual piercings.
“Actually,” Sugar replied to Snake Bite, “we can.”
“It’s a free country,” Snake Bite pushed.
“But Whispering Pines is a privately owned property.” I matched her supposedly intimidating stare. “My family owns this land. My grandmother formed the council decades ago to be sure all villagers had a voice, but being able to live here is by invitation only.”
– Shawn McGuire, Burning Secrets
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Phew! Whispering Pines’ eleventh instalment is all go from the first page! More and more often we see our main character, Sheriff Jayne O’Shea, trying to balance the multiple demands of her personal and professional life, as the series reveals layer upon layer of secrets buried within the apparently-peaceful village community.
With this series, I would definitely recommend you start from Book 1 (Family Secrets) and read through in order, as both Jayne and the wider Whispering Pines community develop and change as the series progresses, and whilst the individual plot might stand alone, you miss all of the background and subtle nuances of the worldbuilding if you don’t follow the bigger storyline. Which, as the titles suggest, is all about secrets – old and new.
Jayne is experiencing Beltane in Whispering Pines, along with the village tradition of interviewing prospective new villagers. As usual, however, there is trouble bubbling just below the celebratory surface and Jayne has to somehow keep a lid on it, whilst also trying to defuse a long-burning feud and protect the village that she has come to love from being damaged from both overt and more subtle threats.
All of this, while still running her popular B&B with her partner (not just in business), Tripp, finding time for a social life, keeping an eye on her pregnant bestie, and trying to remember where she left her K9, Meeka! Never a dull moment for the sheriff – and founding descendant – of the Pines!
Shawn McGuire delivers a well-crafted mystery every time, but the draw that keeps pulling readers (myself included) back every time, is the warm, slightly woo-woo community she has created in this series. The characters are interesting and well-developed, and the setting is enchanting – I can’t help wanting to move there every time I read another story, despite the murders and mayhem. I’m sure a cosy, bookshop stuffed with books about Wicca, magic and mystery would be a perfect fit for the Council, even if I have to wait until next May to apply!
Recommended for fans of cosy mysteries with a female investigator as lead, with plenty of family intrigue, mild peril, and a large helping of spiritual mysticism. I can’t wait to find out what Jayne uncovers in Whispering Pines next!
“You can’t stop us from moving here,” a female voice insisted.
I scanned the quartet. A man and woman, a couple if the way they held hands was any sign, had their eyes fixed on their leader of the moment. Another woman, with her jaw set in defiance, took in the council with a sweeping glance.
Five foot four, approximately one hundred ten pounds, wavy dishwater-blonde hair just past her shoulders, a ring on either side of her lower lip.
Lip rings worn that way were called snake bites. My sister, Rosalyn, had considered getting a set during one of her phases. I convinced her to get a faux set that didn’t require actual piercings.
“Actually,” Sugar replied to Snake Bite, “we can.”
“It’s a free country,” Snake Bite pushed.
“But Whispering Pines is a privately owned property.” I matched her supposedly intimidating stare. “My family owns this land. My grandmother formed the council decades ago to be sure all villagers had a voice, but being able to live here is by invitation only.”
– Shawn McGuire, Burning Secrets
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
September 28, 2020
Wow, if I could leave more than 5 stars as a review for this latest book in the series, I would.
With her gift of immediately drawing you into the story, Shawn has become one of my favourite authors.
Like other books in the series, this book was brilliant on so many levels. Fantastic story-line, relatable and well-developed characters, excellent narration easy writing and so many surprises totally enraptured me. It all felt as if it was happening right in front of me. The suspense kept me reading into early hours of the morning, when I should have been sleeping!
I am absolutely hooked on these books and so looking forward to the next one. Can’t wait for 2021 to roll on any faster so I can find out what happens next. I need answers!
Highly recommend this book and the preceding ones in the series, that is, if you haven’t already read them. And, like me if you have, guess it’s time to re-read all of them once again!!
With her gift of immediately drawing you into the story, Shawn has become one of my favourite authors.
Like other books in the series, this book was brilliant on so many levels. Fantastic story-line, relatable and well-developed characters, excellent narration easy writing and so many surprises totally enraptured me. It all felt as if it was happening right in front of me. The suspense kept me reading into early hours of the morning, when I should have been sleeping!
I am absolutely hooked on these books and so looking forward to the next one. Can’t wait for 2021 to roll on any faster so I can find out what happens next. I need answers!
Highly recommend this book and the preceding ones in the series, that is, if you haven’t already read them. And, like me if you have, guess it’s time to re-read all of them once again!!
October 20, 2023
Although I don’t read at the rapid pace I did 20 months ago - im really trying to get back to reading copious books. It is a struggle but I’m seriously trying.
This series is absolutely excellent. The characters are believable in kind of a strange way. The plots are amazing. Everything about the writing of these books is totally excellent. I am almost at the end of this series and I’m actually sad. I will miss these characters as they have made a strange kind of impact on my life.
This series is absolutely excellent. The characters are believable in kind of a strange way. The plots are amazing. Everything about the writing of these books is totally excellent. I am almost at the end of this series and I’m actually sad. I will miss these characters as they have made a strange kind of impact on my life.
September 29, 2020
I read A LOT of books, like several hundred a year. I love series books, but keeping the plot new and interesting after four or do books can be difficult. So, you can believe me when I say reading the WP series is a delight! I love Jayne and all the quirky characters each book introduces. I love how Jayne is growing as a person (yes, she is a character in a book but feels like a real person), and it's so fun to learn more about the villagers and see how they evolve as well.
Specific to this book, I recommend reading the other main books in order first (the prequel can be read at any point in the series); otherwise, you'll miss out on so much and probably be confused about references to things from those books. Your heart will be invested by the time you reach Burning Secrets. The writing it witty and fun! Character development is top notch; you'll feel like you KNOW these people and will wish WP was real. The violence in the story is not gory, yet you can see every detail vividly and feel tense from the build up of what's happening. I can sometimes guess some of what's going to happen but not often enough to be annoyed by how easy it was to guess. Also, there are so many times I wasn't expecting what happens that I feel gobsmacked, staying up waaay past my bedtime to read on. I cannot wait for the next book!
Specific to this book, I recommend reading the other main books in order first (the prequel can be read at any point in the series); otherwise, you'll miss out on so much and probably be confused about references to things from those books. Your heart will be invested by the time you reach Burning Secrets. The writing it witty and fun! Character development is top notch; you'll feel like you KNOW these people and will wish WP was real. The violence in the story is not gory, yet you can see every detail vividly and feel tense from the build up of what's happening. I can sometimes guess some of what's going to happen but not often enough to be annoyed by how easy it was to guess. Also, there are so many times I wasn't expecting what happens that I feel gobsmacked, staying up waaay past my bedtime to read on. I cannot wait for the next book!
September 28, 2020
Family - Suppers on your own tonight.......Shawn's new book is here! Beltane [Fire Festival] preparations are happening all over the village. Its been a dry year and the influx of tourists and an arsonist has the entire village on high alert. An arsonist and trouble between Sister's Flavia and Reva makes for a lot of heat. Its also the time of year when the council decides to allow people to join their village. A long day of interviews and no new villagers accepted. Could one of the groups interviewed be responsible for the fires or the return of two past members of the village? Jayne's parents have made a decision that will change Jayne's, and the villagers lives forever. What will become of Whispering Pines?
Before reading Burning Secrets I pulled all my Whispering Pines Mystery's off the shelves and devoured Books 1-10 again. I love the way Shawn describes the village and the characters so we can become a part of Whispering Pines as we read her stores of it. Once again she doesn't disappoint. In Burning Secrets you learn a little more about each character, their fears, troubles and triumphs in their lives. I am in my canoe, on the lake, waiting for Book 12.
I received a free ARC of this book with thanks to the author and voluntarily provide this review.
Before reading Burning Secrets I pulled all my Whispering Pines Mystery's off the shelves and devoured Books 1-10 again. I love the way Shawn describes the village and the characters so we can become a part of Whispering Pines as we read her stores of it. Once again she doesn't disappoint. In Burning Secrets you learn a little more about each character, their fears, troubles and triumphs in their lives. I am in my canoe, on the lake, waiting for Book 12.
I received a free ARC of this book with thanks to the author and voluntarily provide this review.
September 29, 2020
It's time for the Beltane celebration, a Fire Festival. Extra care must be taken as it's been a very dry year. It's the last celebration before tourists start coming to visit. There are also a number of people wanting to get permission to move to the village. Two used to live there and moved away and now want to come back. Also, a group that has an attitude wishes to live there. They are turned down and are very unhappy about it. A problem between two sister witches has come to a head. And now fires are popping up. Too often to be accidental. Has an arsonist come to Whispering Pines? And what is going on with Jayne's parents? They are acting weird. Jayne gets news which makes her very unhappy and could cause a huge problem. The biggest problem right now is with the fires. Though the villagers are working together to put them out. Jayne and Reed are trying to find a way to catch the arsonist with the help of the villagers. As always characters are fleshed out, the plot is well thought out and well constructed and Shawn keeps us on the edge of our seats with the twists and turns.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
December 22, 2022
So many developments and changes
This is a turning point book in the series. Aside from the crime spree of arson that has Jayne worried about the village during a particularly dry season, there are other huge worries afoot.
There is one huge worry Jayne has hanging over her head and this is a turning point for the village. (No spoilers) It’s quite an interesting development though it infuriated me. First, it seems unbelievably out of character, ridiculously selfish and self centered not to mention ill informed. Secondly the timing attached is just stupid and given the people involved exceedingly cruel. I kept wondering what the hell was going on and if this was just a weird setup of some kind. It really, really bothered me and I wanted to throw some vitriol at those precipitating it. As for the resolution, I immediately thought of one scenario that I am surprised Jayne and Tripp didn’t.
The crime part of the plot has a pretty anti-climactic ending but getting there is suspenseful. The bigger and life changing plot has a wonderful conclusion and signals some very interesting times ahead for Whispering Pines.
This is a turning point book in the series. Aside from the crime spree of arson that has Jayne worried about the village during a particularly dry season, there are other huge worries afoot.
There is one huge worry Jayne has hanging over her head and this is a turning point for the village. (No spoilers) It’s quite an interesting development though it infuriated me. First, it seems unbelievably out of character, ridiculously selfish and self centered not to mention ill informed. Secondly the timing attached is just stupid and given the people involved exceedingly cruel. I kept wondering what the hell was going on and if this was just a weird setup of some kind. It really, really bothered me and I wanted to throw some vitriol at those precipitating it. As for the resolution, I immediately thought of one scenario that I am surprised Jayne and Tripp didn’t.
The crime part of the plot has a pretty anti-climactic ending but getting there is suspenseful. The bigger and life changing plot has a wonderful conclusion and signals some very interesting times ahead for Whispering Pines.
November 5, 2025
4 Stars
Burning Secrets is the eleventh book in the Whispering Pines Mystery Series by Shawn McGuire. This is a perfect blend of cozy mystery, small-town charm, and just the right sprinkle of supernatural elements.
following Jane O’Shea who has a knack for solving mysteries that seem to find her no matter how much she tries to avoid them. The town itself is a character in its own right – a little quirky, idyllic, and full of secrets. The locals are a fun mix of personalities, from the nosy neighbours to more endearing eccentrics - and their interactions gives the series an extra element of interest along with some ‘warm-fuzzies’.
Ms. McGuire manages to balance lighthearted coziness with genuinely intriguing mysteries. Each book has its own unique twist, and while the stakes aren’t overly high/intense, they’re enough to keep you flipping pages late into the night. Plus, the touch of the paranormal adds an extra layer of fun without overwhelming the story.
Recommend for a binge-worthy read.
Happy Reading…
Burning Secrets is the eleventh book in the Whispering Pines Mystery Series by Shawn McGuire. This is a perfect blend of cozy mystery, small-town charm, and just the right sprinkle of supernatural elements.
following Jane O’Shea who has a knack for solving mysteries that seem to find her no matter how much she tries to avoid them. The town itself is a character in its own right – a little quirky, idyllic, and full of secrets. The locals are a fun mix of personalities, from the nosy neighbours to more endearing eccentrics - and their interactions gives the series an extra element of interest along with some ‘warm-fuzzies’.
Ms. McGuire manages to balance lighthearted coziness with genuinely intriguing mysteries. Each book has its own unique twist, and while the stakes aren’t overly high/intense, they’re enough to keep you flipping pages late into the night. Plus, the touch of the paranormal adds an extra layer of fun without overwhelming the story.
Recommend for a binge-worthy read.
Happy Reading…
September 20, 2020
Jayne O’Shea is the Sheriff of Whispering Pines in northern Wisconsin, as well as the co-proprietor of a local Bed and Breakfast that she runs with her personal and professional partner, Tripp.
The author is so adept at describing the village and the people involved that you fall right into the story. If Whispering Pines were real, I’d move there in a heartbeat (but that is easier said than done, as you’ll discover).
Of course, it wouldn’t be Whispering Pines without crime, drama, love, antagonism, and one or two mysteries along the way, which always surprise me.
I very much enjoy the author’s style of writing and, as always, I am eager for the next book in the series. I have read and enjoyed every book Ms. McGuire has written about Whispering Pines and consider this one among my favorites. Even though the stories are a series, each book can be a stand-alone because the author does a wonderful job explaining who the people of Whispering Pines are. I received an ARC from the author.
The author is so adept at describing the village and the people involved that you fall right into the story. If Whispering Pines were real, I’d move there in a heartbeat (but that is easier said than done, as you’ll discover).
Of course, it wouldn’t be Whispering Pines without crime, drama, love, antagonism, and one or two mysteries along the way, which always surprise me.
I very much enjoy the author’s style of writing and, as always, I am eager for the next book in the series. I have read and enjoyed every book Ms. McGuire has written about Whispering Pines and consider this one among my favorites. Even though the stories are a series, each book can be a stand-alone because the author does a wonderful job explaining who the people of Whispering Pines are. I received an ARC from the author.
September 25, 2020
Another delightful read! I cannot believe how entertaining the Whispering Pines series has been. It continues to delight. THIS, for instance: “I’d just put the future of the village into the hands of an un-nun and a woman who believed the truth could be determined by looking through a hole in a rock. Sounded about right.” Also, I get a lot of life quotes that just seem to hit me at the right time: “It’s terrifying when mob mentality takes over. People don’t even know what they’re fighting for anymore and just act without thinking. It’s so scary to think that given the right circumstance, any of us could get swept up in that.” Then, there’s Jayne, being herself, trying to muddle through keeping a village of very diverse personalities safe. Trying not to believe in the ‘woo-woo’, but taking some things seriously. Jayne: “There were days when I felt like I didn’t know enough to be Jayne.” Don’t we all?
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July 17, 2021 4.67 · Rating details · 431 ratings · 56 reviews
Things are heating up in Whispering Pines, and it’s not just the weather.
Sheriff Jayne O’Shea is on edge. Hopeful applicants have taken over the commons area, all of them begging to become residents. Villagers who left long ago have returned, causing an uproar among the locals. The slow burn feud between the sister witches has reached the boiling point. And her parents are acting just plain weird.
Fortunately, it’s time for the annual Beltane celebration, the last opportunity for everyone to gather before tourists invade the village for the summer. Attendees dance around the Maypole, decorate fairy chairs, weave witch ladders, and nibble Green Man cake. Good, innocent fun.
Except, this year’s fire festival is being held during the driest spring the Northwoods has seen in a decade. And like bees to honey, the event has attracted an arsonist intent on burning the place to the ground one little fire at a time.
good
Things are heating up in Whispering Pines, and it’s not just the weather.
Sheriff Jayne O’Shea is on edge. Hopeful applicants have taken over the commons area, all of them begging to become residents. Villagers who left long ago have returned, causing an uproar among the locals. The slow burn feud between the sister witches has reached the boiling point. And her parents are acting just plain weird.
Fortunately, it’s time for the annual Beltane celebration, the last opportunity for everyone to gather before tourists invade the village for the summer. Attendees dance around the Maypole, decorate fairy chairs, weave witch ladders, and nibble Green Man cake. Good, innocent fun.
Except, this year’s fire festival is being held during the driest spring the Northwoods has seen in a decade. And like bees to honey, the event has attracted an arsonist intent on burning the place to the ground one little fire at a time.
good
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2020
Jayne's really got her hands full now. The village of Whispering Pines is threatened. What should be a celebration has turned into fear. Fires are popping up around the village. Jayne and Reed try to figure out who is behind this, with the help of the villagers.
A new group with an attitude wants to join the village. Could it be one of them?
Sisters Reva and Flavia are really feuding, and Flavia is threatening Reva. When one of the fires takes Reva's soap shack, Flavia becomes a suspect.
Rae and Gabe have returned to the village after leaving many many years ago, which brings both happiness and tension to the village.
If that isn't enough, Jayne has a secret to tell that threatens the village more than fires and feuds.
Such a good series. The characters and relationships continue to ebb and flow and the stories are complex and interesting.
I received an ARC and voluntarily provided this review.
A new group with an attitude wants to join the village. Could it be one of them?
Sisters Reva and Flavia are really feuding, and Flavia is threatening Reva. When one of the fires takes Reva's soap shack, Flavia becomes a suspect.
Rae and Gabe have returned to the village after leaving many many years ago, which brings both happiness and tension to the village.
If that isn't enough, Jayne has a secret to tell that threatens the village more than fires and feuds.
Such a good series. The characters and relationships continue to ebb and flow and the stories are complex and interesting.
I received an ARC and voluntarily provided this review.
September 28, 2020
In one of the driest seasons on record in the Northwoods, it’s time for the festival of Beltane in Whispering Pines and the villagers are gearing up for it and the upcoming influx of tourists. This is a celebration of May Day and also of fire. First the town council must meet to decide whether to admit any new residents, which of course leads to some unhappy people. Two residents have returned after being gone and some residents are not happy about that. A group who was all ready to move there was very upset that they were not approved. In the midst of all the preparations and celebrations, several suspicious fires indicate a serial arsonist. Jayne and the villagers work together to catch the responsible party before their town goes up in smoke. This is another great installment about the little Wiccan village founded by Jayne’s grandmother. I thank the author for allowing me to read an early copy. I have not read all the series but I want to catch up on it. The characters are already like old friends and I can feel the peace of the village as the wind blows through the trees.
September 16, 2020
Wow, just wow! I didn’t think the series could get any better but boy was I wrong. Great characters, terrific suspense, and more twists and turns than a roller coaster. I can’t wait for the next installment which I’m sure will again keep me on the edge of my seat.
Throughout Whispering Pines even the most minor character has their own story and in this book some of those stories take center stage. In many ways the people of the village are tied to each other both past and present. As some issues come to a head to be resolved others are festering under the surface. Can Jayne continue to smooth the tensions and bring peace to the community or will the past prove too disruptive to the greater good?
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
Throughout Whispering Pines even the most minor character has their own story and in this book some of those stories take center stage. In many ways the people of the village are tied to each other both past and present. As some issues come to a head to be resolved others are festering under the surface. Can Jayne continue to smooth the tensions and bring peace to the community or will the past prove too disruptive to the greater good?
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
September 29, 2020
I received ARC of Shawn McGuire new book about Whispering pines, I enjoy the way she writes. I have enjoyed the whole series. Sheriff Jayne and Tripp are unique characters in the book, just like all the other villagers. The sheriff is trying to keep the village together and Tripp is opening a bed and breakfast. The council members get together once a year to take applications from people who want to live in Whispering pines. The title Burning Secrets says it all, about old secrets and new secrets that are causing Whispering pines problems. The villagers are all standing together to solve the problems with new people and old villagers, plus we have to though in an original villager who always seems to cause problems. Pick up this book and see the what the secrets are, if you enjoy a different type of story line, you will enjoy this story with individuals who can use herbs, food and there minds to help there village.
October 4, 2020
Great story!
This is a powerful series. As soon as you finish one book, you want to start the next one. Whispering Pines is such a lovely place - the people are kind, the town is restful and there is plenty to do. Most of the residents are friendly and are there to serve. Some, not so much. Sheriff Jayne and her beloved Tripp run a bed and breakfast in the town that caters mainly to visitors. Daily life revolves around the tourists, but this time some of their visitors are up to no good. Coupled with this is a family feud that added more stress. No spoilers! If you have read this series before, you already know how great it is. If this is your first book, you have a treat in store!
This is a powerful series. As soon as you finish one book, you want to start the next one. Whispering Pines is such a lovely place - the people are kind, the town is restful and there is plenty to do. Most of the residents are friendly and are there to serve. Some, not so much. Sheriff Jayne and her beloved Tripp run a bed and breakfast in the town that caters mainly to visitors. Daily life revolves around the tourists, but this time some of their visitors are up to no good. Coupled with this is a family feud that added more stress. No spoilers! If you have read this series before, you already know how great it is. If this is your first book, you have a treat in store!
November 8, 2020
Beltane, a celebration revolving around fire, so what's the worst that could happen? How about arson, and could there be multiple arsonists putting the residents, forest and the entire town of Whispering Pines in danger? The town rallies around Jayne is catching whoever the fire bug is, and making sure the only real fire that is of importance is the Beltane fire on the lake's beach.
Many questions will be answered for Jayne in this #11 of the series, but there will be more that pop up to test her resolve. Anyone enjoying this series will find her or him self on the edge of the seat, quickly turning the pages to find out what's next! #12 won't be out till sometime in 2021, and that is just too long to wait!!!
Oh, and Flavia, her comeuppance is quickly coming uppance!
Many questions will be answered for Jayne in this #11 of the series, but there will be more that pop up to test her resolve. Anyone enjoying this series will find her or him self on the edge of the seat, quickly turning the pages to find out what's next! #12 won't be out till sometime in 2021, and that is just too long to wait!!!
Oh, and Flavia, her comeuppance is quickly coming uppance!
September 17, 2020
I have read every book in the Whispering Pines Mystery series and have fallen in love with both the village and the occupants. I have loved seeing how Jayne's character has grown with the acceptance of the villagers and her allowing herself to love and be loved.
Burning Secrets had me on tenterhooks more so than any of the previous books in this series. Jayne receives news that impacts the entire village and which put me on edge more than any of the issues she has had to deal with since coming to Whispering Pines.
This series just keeps on getting better with each book. Happy reading. Annemarie
I received a free A.R.C. of Burning Secrets and have chosen to leave a review.
Burning Secrets had me on tenterhooks more so than any of the previous books in this series. Jayne receives news that impacts the entire village and which put me on edge more than any of the issues she has had to deal with since coming to Whispering Pines.
This series just keeps on getting better with each book. Happy reading. Annemarie
I received a free A.R.C. of Burning Secrets and have chosen to leave a review.
September 29, 2020
Shawn McGuire continues to capture my full attention with this 11th book in her Whispering Pines series!
Sheriff Jayne is at it again, trying to maintain peace and keep people safe in Whispering Pines. This time it’s Beltane season, and open season for applications to live in Whispering Pines. This, along with characters that are now my close friends, two returning members and an arsonist on the loose, cause disruption and many questions in the community.
The twists and turns in this “who done it?” novel had me unable to put the book down until I finished!
One of the best yet!
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
Sheriff Jayne is at it again, trying to maintain peace and keep people safe in Whispering Pines. This time it’s Beltane season, and open season for applications to live in Whispering Pines. This, along with characters that are now my close friends, two returning members and an arsonist on the loose, cause disruption and many questions in the community.
The twists and turns in this “who done it?” novel had me unable to put the book down until I finished!
One of the best yet!
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
September 17, 2020
I felt something wrong about this book a few pages into the first chapter. It stayed with me for another chapter or so, then the “wrong” became “different”. Something different about this book in the Whispering Pines series. And different it is! The new danger to the village, the long-standing feud between the two sisters Flavia and Reeva, the past revisits the village, Morgan and River, Sheriff Jayne’s parents. — this book completely threw me for a loop! Shawn McGuire has outdone herself this time.
September 28, 2020
Another wonderful installment in the Whispering Pines series! I am really enjoying getting to know Jayne and watch her continue to grow in her role as sheriff and as a leader of the community. The annual Beltane celebration brings new people and a new mystery to be solved to Whispering Pines - complete with a few twists.
I particularly like the skillful way that Shawn has of weaving important story elements from earlier books into the current story so that both new and returning readers are on the same "page" with the plot line.
I particularly like the skillful way that Shawn has of weaving important story elements from earlier books into the current story so that both new and returning readers are on the same "page" with the plot line.
October 1, 2020
5.0 out of 5 stars Such a good story!
Reviewed in the United States on September 30, 2020
I loved heading back to Whispering Pines and all my friends! Jane is really enjoying the community and feeling at ease with herself and her job. Now at the time of the Spring celebration, and in the midst of the driest season, an arsonist has set their sights on Whispering Pines. Pick up the book to read this well- written book with quirky characters and a heck of a story! I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion! Read them all!
Reviewed in the United States on September 30, 2020
I loved heading back to Whispering Pines and all my friends! Jane is really enjoying the community and feeling at ease with herself and her job. Now at the time of the Spring celebration, and in the midst of the driest season, an arsonist has set their sights on Whispering Pines. Pick up the book to read this well- written book with quirky characters and a heck of a story! I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion! Read them all!
Read
September 27, 2020This book was sensational. The author keeps you you up, down, and excited for the next page. The book reveals many secrets and yet creates more. The author never ceases to amaze me. I have read every one of her books and await more. It is bright, sorrowful, and uplifting. The book transports you until you believe you too live in Whispering Pines. Reading her books is like a soft cuddling blanket that is wrapped around you and telling you “You are home”.
Denise
Denise
September 27, 2020
Wow! There is a lot going on in this episode!
The village is under threat. There are fires being set- who is doing this, and why? Understandably, this causes a lot of fear. Jayne and Reed, and the villagers try to solve who is setting the fires. Jayne also has a secret that could really cause more harm than the fires.
This is a well-written story and will draw you in. I am so glad that I found this series and this author.
The village is under threat. There are fires being set- who is doing this, and why? Understandably, this causes a lot of fear. Jayne and Reed, and the villagers try to solve who is setting the fires. Jayne also has a secret that could really cause more harm than the fires.
This is a well-written story and will draw you in. I am so glad that I found this series and this author.
September 28, 2020
Shawn McGuire does not disappoint.
Such wonderful characters and storylines.
You simply can't predict what is around the next corner. A bit of humour and a few tears. Of course there are also some tense situations that make you grasp and others that take your breath away. And then there is Flavia......What horrors could this woman possibly concoct next?
I couldn't put it down. Feels good to be back in the Pines.
Waiting on the edge of my seat for #12.
Such wonderful characters and storylines.
You simply can't predict what is around the next corner. A bit of humour and a few tears. Of course there are also some tense situations that make you grasp and others that take your breath away. And then there is Flavia......What horrors could this woman possibly concoct next?
I couldn't put it down. Feels good to be back in the Pines.
Waiting on the edge of my seat for #12.
October 2, 2020
Excellent book about a wonderful place, this series just keeps getting better.
I thought the first book in this series was great and I seriously recommend starting with that one. This is book 11, some villagers are familiar old friends by now but nothing is getting stale or boring in Whispering Pines. Some new characters, the development of others along with the answers to some old questions and new challenges for Jayne. Great read, once I started it I couldn't put it down.
I thought the first book in this series was great and I seriously recommend starting with that one. This is book 11, some villagers are familiar old friends by now but nothing is getting stale or boring in Whispering Pines. Some new characters, the development of others along with the answers to some old questions and new challenges for Jayne. Great read, once I started it I couldn't put it down.
October 19, 2020
Another wonderfully written book in the Whispering Pines series. I love to escape with Jayne, Tripp and everyone in the amazing village Shawn has created. I typically don’t read anything contemporary, but there’s enough mystery, supernatural happenings and quirkiness to the characters and the village that I enjoy going back for every instalment.
I can’t wait to read more when the series continues.
I can’t wait to read more when the series continues.
January 15, 2021
A wonderful author!
I've read all 11 of Shawn McGuire's Whispering Pines series. I can't wait for number12! The best part to me were the mysteries with no foul language, overt sex, and a lot of love and friendships. All the books kept me fascinated to the end. If you're like me and love wholesome entertainment, you will love following Jayne , Tripp , and Media on their adventures.
I've read all 11 of Shawn McGuire's Whispering Pines series. I can't wait for number12! The best part to me were the mysteries with no foul language, overt sex, and a lot of love and friendships. All the books kept me fascinated to the end. If you're like me and love wholesome entertainment, you will love following Jayne , Tripp , and Media on their adventures.
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