A Delightful Blend of Mystery and Charm: Seaside Bookclub Delivers!
I just finished Meredith Summers' Seaside Bookclub, and let me tell you, it was an absolute treat! As someone who loves a good murder mystery with a side of cozy charm, this book hit all the right notes for me. I’m giving it a solid 4.5 stars because it perfectly balanced the suspense of a crime story with a wonderfully light-hearted and fun atmosphere.
The true star of the show for me was Bunny Howard. At seventy, she's determined to prove her worth, and the way she stumbles into her own real-life mystery thanks to her new book club at Tides Inn is just brilliant. Her keen observations about the inn's mysterious guest, eerily mirroring the killer in their current book, had me completely hooked. You can't help but root for Bunny as she navigates her amateur sleuthing!
Then there's Sam Campbell, the retired detective who’s lost his spark. His interactions with Bunny, fueled by his suspicion of her "nefarious activities," were incredibly entertaining. It was genuinely heartwarming to see how Bunny, even unwittingly, helps him rediscover his zest for life. And Dooley, his dog, added such a sweet touch to their dynamic.
Beyond the central mystery, Summers weaves in delightful subplots that add layers of richness to the story. Claire's culinary endeavors, especially her new line of dog treats, were a fun diversion, and the rivalry with her ex-husband's new wife brought some relatable friction. And Jane's personal conundrum with Mike kept me guessing about their future – is a proposal on the horizon, and what will Jane decide? These interwoven stories kept the pacing lively and ensured there was always something engaging happening.
What I truly appreciated was how Summers managed to maintain a cheerful and engaging tone even with the underlying crime suspense. It never felt too dark or heavy, striking that perfect balance between intriguing mystery and feel-good narrative. If you're looking for a book that will keep you guessing while also making you smile, Seaside Bookclub is definitely one to pick up. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Bunny and the gang, and I'm already looking forward to my next visit to the Seaside Bookclub!