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Cypress Coast #1
Second Wind
Desperate to escape her abusive fiancé, kinetic sculptor Laurel McDowell pawns her engagement ring, loads everything she owns into her VW Beetle, and heads for the sanctuary of her family home in Big Sur. She lands a job in an art gallery in picturesque Carmel-by-the-Sea and begins a new life.
After her ex’s body washes up on the beach, Laurel finds herself dragged into a scheme involving money-laundering Russians, a pair of amiable biker gang members, and a good-looking government number-cruncher who’s more comfortable in a T-shirt and shorts than a suit.
As a forensic accountant for the FBI, Jake Carlson is used to nailing bad guys by following the money trail. His current investigation is floundering until he meets Laurel McDowell, a young woman with connections to an alarming number of his suspects. Is she a witness, an accomplice, or a victim? All he has to do is to keep her alive long enough to find out.
After her ex’s body washes up on the beach, Laurel finds herself dragged into a scheme involving money-laundering Russians, a pair of amiable biker gang members, and a good-looking government number-cruncher who’s more comfortable in a T-shirt and shorts than a suit.
As a forensic accountant for the FBI, Jake Carlson is used to nailing bad guys by following the money trail. His current investigation is floundering until he meets Laurel McDowell, a young woman with connections to an alarming number of his suspects. Is she a witness, an accomplice, or a victim? All he has to do is to keep her alive long enough to find out.
- GenresRomantic Suspense
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2019
147 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Alison Henderson
15 books72 followersI grew up in Kansas City on the edge of the prairie. Like any good pioneer, I’ve always been intrigued by new places and experiences. I went off to New York to study art history at Vassar College, and by the time I was twenty-one I had traveled the world from Japan to Tunisia. Little did I know I was collecting material for future stories!
Unlike many writers, I didn’t grow up knowing I wanted to write, but I’ve always been an avid reader and eventually decided to try my hand at writing the kind of stories I loved. I was quickly hooked on the creative process.
I recently retired after a long career in business and moved with my husband to the glorious Central Coast region of California. If we ever get homesick for the Midwest, we can hop on a plane and visit our daughter in Chicago.
Unlike many writers, I didn’t grow up knowing I wanted to write, but I’ve always been an avid reader and eventually decided to try my hand at writing the kind of stories I loved. I was quickly hooked on the creative process.
I recently retired after a long career in business and moved with my husband to the glorious Central Coast region of California. If we ever get homesick for the Midwest, we can hop on a plane and visit our daughter in Chicago.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 13, 2022
Second Wind is book one in the Cypress Coast series by Alison Henderson. Laurel McDowell wanted to go home to Big Sur and away from her abusive fiance. However, she needed money, so she pawned her engagement ring. Laurel McDowell thought she was starting a new life when she found a job working at an art gallery in Carmel-by-the-Sea until her ex-fiance found her. FBI forensic accountant Jake Carlson lastest case was floundering until meeting Laurel McDowell, who is involved with all his suspects. Jake Carlson needs to find out if she is a witness or a suspect. The readers of Second Wind will continue to follow Laurel McDowell and Jake Carlson to find out what happens.
Second Wind is the first book I have read of Alison Henderson, and I had no problem engaging with the characters and the plot of this book. I did enjoy the way Alison Henderson highlighted the issues of domestic violence and the issues it causes communities. I love Alison Henderson's portrayal of her characters and how they intertwine with each other throughout this book. Second Wind is well written and researched by Alison Henderson. I like Alison Henderson's description of Second Wind's settings that allowed me to imagine between a part of this book's plot.
I readers of Second Wind will learn about Forensic Accountant's role in law enforcement investigations. Also, the readers of Second Wind will learn about the beautiful seaside towns of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur Village.
I recommend this book.
Second Wind is the first book I have read of Alison Henderson, and I had no problem engaging with the characters and the plot of this book. I did enjoy the way Alison Henderson highlighted the issues of domestic violence and the issues it causes communities. I love Alison Henderson's portrayal of her characters and how they intertwine with each other throughout this book. Second Wind is well written and researched by Alison Henderson. I like Alison Henderson's description of Second Wind's settings that allowed me to imagine between a part of this book's plot.
I readers of Second Wind will learn about Forensic Accountant's role in law enforcement investigations. Also, the readers of Second Wind will learn about the beautiful seaside towns of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur Village.
I recommend this book.
January 13, 2020
Laurel McDowell escapes her abusive fiance and runs home to her loving family in Big Sur. Little does she know that not only was he an abusive SOB, he was also a money launderer. When his body washes up, Laurel hopes it's the end of an era in her life. Unfortunately, it's the beginning of a nightmare where mobsters are trying to find something the fiance left with her, something she cannot find.
Jake Carlson, a shorts-wearing, easy going FBI forensic accountant and friend to her family, shows up to help Laurel out in the nick of time repeatedly. Is he really interested in her? Or does he want to get the same thing the mobsters want? He seems like a good guy, but does his interest in Laurel stop when the case is solved?
Laurel and Jake take on bikers, mobsters, and a 30 pound cat. Okay, it's her cat, but still, he's thirty pounds of attack cat. Who will find the elusive thing? And what happens when they do? No spoilers from me! I give this book five big cat shining grins and an enthusiastic recommendation for all those who love romantic suspense.
Jake Carlson, a shorts-wearing, easy going FBI forensic accountant and friend to her family, shows up to help Laurel out in the nick of time repeatedly. Is he really interested in her? Or does he want to get the same thing the mobsters want? He seems like a good guy, but does his interest in Laurel stop when the case is solved?
Laurel and Jake take on bikers, mobsters, and a 30 pound cat. Okay, it's her cat, but still, he's thirty pounds of attack cat. Who will find the elusive thing? And what happens when they do? No spoilers from me! I give this book five big cat shining grins and an enthusiastic recommendation for all those who love romantic suspense.
November 23, 2019
I loved every page of this exceptional book. It is action-packed, wonderfully paced, and full of gripping suspense. The story opens with 32-year-old Laurel on the run from her abusive fiance. In a definitive move, she packs her cat in her car and hits the road from Seattle to the sanctuary of Big Sur, California, where her mother owns and operates a cliffside, vegetarian restaurant, and her two sisters live close by. But home is not an immediate sanctuary, for the truth of her fiance's hidden life follows her to the coast and unfurls in threatening unforeseen episodes that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. Cleverly written with spot-on dialogue, the breathtaking setting of Big Sur, California and the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea as described by Henderson is much of what's to love in this delightful story. The Monterey Peninsula is the perfect setting for the life the artistic Laurel hopes to create, but when she is met by one obstacle after another, she is unwittingly helped by a rugged FBI agent named Jake. This story is wonderfully told. I believe it will greatly appeal to all readers because it is so very engaging. It is the kind of book you'll look forward to returning to until its climactic end. You'll love the characters, and will feel as if you're spending time in the expertly drawn Big Sur, California. Five Stars! I look forward to reading the next book in the Cypress Coast Book series!
January 16, 2022
This book has all the ingredients that make my reading day. I love a mix of crime and romance and have always been intrigued by the windswept area around Big Sur, California. The plot weaves its way around wonderful descriptions of the rugged coastline, delicious food and local landmarks. The storyline is highlighted by the author's finely drawn characters and intimate knowledge of the region. I read this in a single day and was thrilled to discover there is another book in the Cypress Coast series.
November 28, 2019
Intriguing mystery woven into a tight knit story
I was on vacation in Carmel when I began reading this book which was amazing since the descriptions were so vivid. The storyline was thrilling and fast paced, with great writing and wonderful characters. A definite read if you love mystery and want to escape to a beautiful setting, even just through this book.
I was on vacation in Carmel when I began reading this book which was amazing since the descriptions were so vivid. The storyline was thrilling and fast paced, with great writing and wonderful characters. A definite read if you love mystery and want to escape to a beautiful setting, even just through this book.
November 29, 2019
Wonderful!
Alison Henderson books are always a delight, with engaging and compelling characters, interesting plot and locations. She is a hoot to follow on Facebook with hilarious posts as well as beautiful photos she takes. I'm definitely a fan.
Alison Henderson books are always a delight, with engaging and compelling characters, interesting plot and locations. She is a hoot to follow on Facebook with hilarious posts as well as beautiful photos she takes. I'm definitely a fan.
November 24, 2019
Romance, suspense and a whole lot more!
Laurel McDowell thought she was heading for a place of safety when she fled her abusive fiance and returned home to Big Sur on California’s Cypress Coast. Little did she know that trouble would find her almost before she could catch her breath.
Carmel-by-the Sea is a quaint, peaceful village, known for its quirky residents and its plethora of art galleries. Laurel quickly lands a job in a prestigious gallery in the heart of the commercial district, only to find herself in the crosshairs of a moneylaundering investigation spearheaded by FBI forensic accountant, Jake Carlson.
This is the first book in a new trilogy by Alison Henderson, whose knowledge of the art scene and love for the Cypress Coast shine clearly through the entire narrative. Her verbal paintbrush brings the details of the settings and the characters to life without slowing the pace of the narrative or distracting from the story.
As in her previous books, Henderson indulges her quirky sense of humor to insert comic reiief into the plot. Watch for the antics of Rufus, a feline with more than his share of attitude, and a pair of bikers with the improbable handles of Snowflake and Twitchy.
Did I mention romance? Jake Carlson is a hunk as well as a savvy accountant and overall nice guy. The romance between Jake and Laurel warms at a satisfying pace over the course of the novel.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the Cypress Coast trilogy.
Laurel McDowell thought she was heading for a place of safety when she fled her abusive fiance and returned home to Big Sur on California’s Cypress Coast. Little did she know that trouble would find her almost before she could catch her breath.
Carmel-by-the Sea is a quaint, peaceful village, known for its quirky residents and its plethora of art galleries. Laurel quickly lands a job in a prestigious gallery in the heart of the commercial district, only to find herself in the crosshairs of a moneylaundering investigation spearheaded by FBI forensic accountant, Jake Carlson.
This is the first book in a new trilogy by Alison Henderson, whose knowledge of the art scene and love for the Cypress Coast shine clearly through the entire narrative. Her verbal paintbrush brings the details of the settings and the characters to life without slowing the pace of the narrative or distracting from the story.
As in her previous books, Henderson indulges her quirky sense of humor to insert comic reiief into the plot. Watch for the antics of Rufus, a feline with more than his share of attitude, and a pair of bikers with the improbable handles of Snowflake and Twitchy.
Did I mention romance? Jake Carlson is a hunk as well as a savvy accountant and overall nice guy. The romance between Jake and Laurel warms at a satisfying pace over the course of the novel.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the Cypress Coast trilogy.
October 31, 2025
Neurotic Much?!
This is primarily about a neurotic 32 year old woman who is attempting to adult for the first time. Ironically, she does this by returning home to her mother’s after breaking up with her abusive, art dealer boyfriend, only to find out that he was laundering money for the Russian mob. It just so happens that she meets an FBI agent, who is a friend of the family, as well as, investigating money laundering by Russians using art galleries on the West Coast. Just a tad of a coincidence.
As she second guesses all her life choices, like an immature twit, her ex comes after her for a memory stick of incriminating criminal information, gets himself murdered, and then she becomes a target for the Russian Mob. Of course, her current art dealer boss and his antique dealer boyfriend are being extorted by the same Russians via a motorcycle gang due to gambling debts. Ultimately, the neurotic lady becomes the damsel in distress to be saved by the FBI agent boyfriend. There are a few kisses exchanged, and with the bad guys dispatched they become a happy couple with plans for both their families to spend Christmas together.
This was an overly padded, predictable and very PG-13 romantic suspense. The main female character was neurotic, indecisive, immature, and irritating. Her cat, Rufus, was the most interesting character of the entire book. I can’t believe that I bothered to finish this book. It is b-rated Hallmark movie material.
This is primarily about a neurotic 32 year old woman who is attempting to adult for the first time. Ironically, she does this by returning home to her mother’s after breaking up with her abusive, art dealer boyfriend, only to find out that he was laundering money for the Russian mob. It just so happens that she meets an FBI agent, who is a friend of the family, as well as, investigating money laundering by Russians using art galleries on the West Coast. Just a tad of a coincidence.
As she second guesses all her life choices, like an immature twit, her ex comes after her for a memory stick of incriminating criminal information, gets himself murdered, and then she becomes a target for the Russian Mob. Of course, her current art dealer boss and his antique dealer boyfriend are being extorted by the same Russians via a motorcycle gang due to gambling debts. Ultimately, the neurotic lady becomes the damsel in distress to be saved by the FBI agent boyfriend. There are a few kisses exchanged, and with the bad guys dispatched they become a happy couple with plans for both their families to spend Christmas together.
This was an overly padded, predictable and very PG-13 romantic suspense. The main female character was neurotic, indecisive, immature, and irritating. Her cat, Rufus, was the most interesting character of the entire book. I can’t believe that I bothered to finish this book. It is b-rated Hallmark movie material.
March 26, 2020
A gripping tale which drew me in from page one
I was drawn to this book by the dreamy cover, the theme of making a fresh start and the memories of a fab couple of holidays on the Californian Coast ~ The Big Sur.
As Laurel was nearing her mother’s vegetarian restaurant, following a long and arduous drive from Seattle and a traumatic break up with her fiance, she passed Monterrey and Carmel, places which had also made vivid imprints in my mind. ‘Home’ was the best place for her to be and the possibility of turning a room above a garage into an apartment overlooking the sea and the garage into a studio felt like seventh heaven to Laurel ~ especially when her cat recovered from his ordeal. There was even a tentative love interest to Jake ~ who was not what he seemed.
That was until trouble followed her big time, putting both herself and her family in grave danger …
A gripping tale which drew me in from page one with characters which appealed to me and plausible villains. A novel I highly recommend to take your mind of the plot we are all experiencing in the real world! I know I’ll be reading more of Alison Henderson’s books now that I’ve discovered her.
I was drawn to this book by the dreamy cover, the theme of making a fresh start and the memories of a fab couple of holidays on the Californian Coast ~ The Big Sur.
As Laurel was nearing her mother’s vegetarian restaurant, following a long and arduous drive from Seattle and a traumatic break up with her fiance, she passed Monterrey and Carmel, places which had also made vivid imprints in my mind. ‘Home’ was the best place for her to be and the possibility of turning a room above a garage into an apartment overlooking the sea and the garage into a studio felt like seventh heaven to Laurel ~ especially when her cat recovered from his ordeal. There was even a tentative love interest to Jake ~ who was not what he seemed.
That was until trouble followed her big time, putting both herself and her family in grave danger …
A gripping tale which drew me in from page one with characters which appealed to me and plausible villains. A novel I highly recommend to take your mind of the plot we are all experiencing in the real world! I know I’ll be reading more of Alison Henderson’s books now that I’ve discovered her.
March 26, 2020
I was drawn to this book by the dreamy cover, the theme of making a fresh start and the memories of a fab couple of holidays on the Californian Coast ~ The Big Sur.
As Laurel was nearing her mother’s vegetarian restaurant, following a long and arduous drive from Seattle and a traumatic break up with her fiance, she passed Monterrey and Carmel, places which had also made vivid imprints in my mind. ‘Home’ was the best place for her to be and the possibility of turning a room above a garage into an apartment overlooking the sea and the garage into a studio felt like seventh heaven to Laurel ~ especially when her cat recovered from his ordeal. There was even a tentative love interest to Jake ~ who was not what he seemed.
That was until trouble followed her big time, putting both herself and her family in grave danger …
A gripping tale which drew me in from page one with characters which appealed to me and plausible villains. A novel I highly recommend to take your mind of the plot we are all experiencing in the real world! I know I’ll be reading more of Alison Henderson’s books now that I’ve discovered her.
As Laurel was nearing her mother’s vegetarian restaurant, following a long and arduous drive from Seattle and a traumatic break up with her fiance, she passed Monterrey and Carmel, places which had also made vivid imprints in my mind. ‘Home’ was the best place for her to be and the possibility of turning a room above a garage into an apartment overlooking the sea and the garage into a studio felt like seventh heaven to Laurel ~ especially when her cat recovered from his ordeal. There was even a tentative love interest to Jake ~ who was not what he seemed.
That was until trouble followed her big time, putting both herself and her family in grave danger …
A gripping tale which drew me in from page one with characters which appealed to me and plausible villains. A novel I highly recommend to take your mind of the plot we are all experiencing in the real world! I know I’ll be reading more of Alison Henderson’s books now that I’ve discovered her.
June 9, 2020
When Laurel escapes from her possessive ex, she thought she was safe. What could be worse than him following her and ending up dead on her beach? She's a suspect. Enter FBI agent Jake who takes to heart the admonition "follow the money." Unbeknownst to her, Laurel is right in the middle of his investigation. Will he help or arrest her?
The reader is on the edge of her/his seat as this fascinating story develops. The small resort town is believable as are the characters. Plenty of twists and action make this a real page-turner.
The reader is on the edge of her/his seat as this fascinating story develops. The small resort town is believable as are the characters. Plenty of twists and action make this a real page-turner.
November 29, 2019
If only it were easy to make life changes, but the past dogs Laurel, bringing complication, even danger to her life. Laurel has the help of family and a handsome Fed agent, but the villains have their own nasty agenda. I love suspense/makeover plots, so Second Wind by Alison Henderson was perfect for me. Reno #1: Laurel has left a rotten relationship and returned to her California coast home, drawing strength from her family to re-examine her goals. Reno #2: A job at an art studio helps her re-boot her career. Reno #3 She gets to craft a glorious space for her new home/studio…until the villains come calling. Good to the very last “renovation.”
February 25, 2020
The setting alone will rope you into this story. Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-Sea are vivid characters as much as the people who populate this novel. Ms. Henderson steeps us in the art world. She also weaves a great story of suspense around kinetic sculptor Laurel McDowell and her abusive ex-fiancé as well as a new love interest who happens to be a forensic accountant for the FBI. The art, the food, the love, the suspense…I recommend this read.
December 2, 2019
Authentic, gorgeous setting! The author paints a beautiful word picture of the Big Sur/Carmel area. Add relatable characters and an interesting, original suspense story, and you have a very engaging read. Oh, I can't forget the giant cat that creates a lot of humorous moments! Readers won't be disappointed with the first book in this new series.
February 20, 2020
Suspense and humor
Very good suspense. Great subtle humor. Enjoyed all the characters in this story. It was a rich mix of competent professionals and personalities of the other people in the novel.
Very good suspense. Great subtle humor. Enjoyed all the characters in this story. It was a rich mix of competent professionals and personalities of the other people in the novel.
February 26, 2021
A good story!
This was a new author for me & I enjoyed the storyline &the characters. I personally would have enjoyed a little more romance & a bit more suspense , overall it was good. Looking forward to reading future stories!
This was a new author for me & I enjoyed the storyline &the characters. I personally would have enjoyed a little more romance & a bit more suspense , overall it was good. Looking forward to reading future stories!
June 7, 2021
Delightful read
Once again I am left smiling at the end of a Henderson book I could not put down. After this second book, I feel like I've always known Rosemary and her girls. Romance, intrigue, and excellent writing. Looking forward to the next one.
Once again I am left smiling at the end of a Henderson book I could not put down. After this second book, I feel like I've always known Rosemary and her girls. Romance, intrigue, and excellent writing. Looking forward to the next one.
April 22, 2020
Excellent read. I'm looking forward to Book 2. I enjoyed the characters, especially Rufus.
March 24, 2023
This series is mystery with romance. The setting is nice. I read each of the 3 books in the series, in order. Hoping it continues.
February 9, 2025
Kept me reading nonstop
I couldn't put the book down. Strong plot, plot twists and intrigue. Scenic descriptions throughout the storyline, you could visualize easily.
I couldn't put the book down. Strong plot, plot twists and intrigue. Scenic descriptions throughout the storyline, you could visualize easily.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews