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Shell House Detectives #2
The Harbour Lights Mystery
As The Shell House Detectives try to solve a family mystery, their investigation runs dangerously close to a murder case. Are the two linked?
It’s December in Cornwall, and Mousehole harbour is illuminated with its famous Christmas lights. Ally Bright is among the crowd listening to the carol singers—and then to the piercing screams that rip through the darkness. A body has been found, brutally murdered and dumped in a fisherman’s boat.
The victim is chef JP Sharpe and there is no shortage of people who might have wanted him dead. Eager for a new case for The Shell House Detectives, Ally calls ex-cop Jayden, but he’s keen to leave it to the police—until a letter in Sharpe’s pocket draws them into a seemingly unconnected family mystery. As they take on this highly charged mission, the duo can’t help scrutinising the murder suspects. Who among the close-knit community has reason to kill, and how far will they go to protect themselves?
As fear spreads, Ally and Jayden need answers—fast. Could the letter offer a clue to the murder case or will it reveal a terrible truth? And when a new witness comes to light, Jayden closes in on a desperate killer…but can he warn Ally in time?
It’s December in Cornwall, and Mousehole harbour is illuminated with its famous Christmas lights. Ally Bright is among the crowd listening to the carol singers—and then to the piercing screams that rip through the darkness. A body has been found, brutally murdered and dumped in a fisherman’s boat.
The victim is chef JP Sharpe and there is no shortage of people who might have wanted him dead. Eager for a new case for The Shell House Detectives, Ally calls ex-cop Jayden, but he’s keen to leave it to the police—until a letter in Sharpe’s pocket draws them into a seemingly unconnected family mystery. As they take on this highly charged mission, the duo can’t help scrutinising the murder suspects. Who among the close-knit community has reason to kill, and how far will they go to protect themselves?
As fear spreads, Ally and Jayden need answers—fast. Could the letter offer a clue to the murder case or will it reveal a terrible truth? And when a new witness comes to light, Jayden closes in on a desperate killer…but can he warn Ally in time?
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2023
1423 people are currently reading
3200 people want to read
About the author
Emylia Hall
22 books250 followersEmylia Hall lives with her husband and son in Bristol, where she writes from a hut in the garden and dreams of the sea. THE SHELL HOUSE DETECTIVES is her first crime novel and is inspired by her love of Cornwall’s wild landscape. Emylia has published four previous novels, including Richard and Judy Book Club pick THE BOOK OF SUMMERS and THE THOUSAND LIGHTS HOTEL. Her work has been translated into ten languages and broadcast on BBC Radio 6 Music. She is the founder of Mothership Writers and is a writing coach at The Novelry.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
October 17, 2023
The second book in the Shell House Detective series and every bit as good as the first.
The series is set in beautiful Mousehole in Cornwall, England. Ally Bright is an older, recently widowed woman who has made friends with Jayden, a younger, married, ex policeman. In the previous book they worked together to solve a murder and here they are doing the same again.
I enjoyed everything about this book. I loved the scenery and the descriptions of places I know from childhood holidays. I really like both main characters, especially since they work seriously at their investigations and do not do silly things as MCs do in many Cosies. I found the mystery and the resulting investigation to be interesting and never dull.
I hope there will be more books in the series for me to read!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The series is set in beautiful Mousehole in Cornwall, England. Ally Bright is an older, recently widowed woman who has made friends with Jayden, a younger, married, ex policeman. In the previous book they worked together to solve a murder and here they are doing the same again.
I enjoyed everything about this book. I loved the scenery and the descriptions of places I know from childhood holidays. I really like both main characters, especially since they work seriously at their investigations and do not do silly things as MCs do in many Cosies. I found the mystery and the resulting investigation to be interesting and never dull.
I hope there will be more books in the series for me to read!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 19, 2023
The Harbour Lights Mystery is the 2nd book in the Shell House Detective series. It takes place in the town of Porthpella. Ally Bright owns The Shell House as well as a partner in the Shell House Investigation company. Jaden is an ex-policeman and her partner. There are the original characters in the town from the first book as well as the new characters that add to the story.
Ally and Gus are visiting the town of Mousehole to see the harbour lights. While there they hear a scream and to to investigate. They find that there is a dead body of the chef from a restaurant, Mermaid's Rest, John Paul Sharpe (JP), The body is found in the dingy, The Sea Pup who is owned by Trip Stevens. A letter is found in his pocket addressed to Saffron Weeks telling her that he is her father - later determined that he is not. Saffron goes to Ally and Jaden asking them to try to find her father.
This is where I will leave the story to the reader to enjoy as there is too much to put on paper. The reader will be surprised at the ending of who killed John Paul with an exciting ending. The book ends with the celebration of Tom Cowcock Day. Saffron hosted a get-to-gether at the Shell House to celebrate the occasion.
I have enjoyed this series and look forward to the 3rd book to see what Ally and Jaden get into.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for this ARC.
Ally and Gus are visiting the town of Mousehole to see the harbour lights. While there they hear a scream and to to investigate. They find that there is a dead body of the chef from a restaurant, Mermaid's Rest, John Paul Sharpe (JP), The body is found in the dingy, The Sea Pup who is owned by Trip Stevens. A letter is found in his pocket addressed to Saffron Weeks telling her that he is her father - later determined that he is not. Saffron goes to Ally and Jaden asking them to try to find her father.
This is where I will leave the story to the reader to enjoy as there is too much to put on paper. The reader will be surprised at the ending of who killed John Paul with an exciting ending. The book ends with the celebration of Tom Cowcock Day. Saffron hosted a get-to-gether at the Shell House to celebrate the occasion.
I have enjoyed this series and look forward to the 3rd book to see what Ally and Jaden get into.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for this ARC.
August 25, 2024
This is very similar to the first book in The Shellhouse Detectives series in the sense that it is told from many different perspectives. Normally when books do this I get confused quite easily and struggle to keep up with who’s who, but somehow the author has made it work here by making all the characters very memorable and fully formed.
I would say I liked the actual plot of this book better than the first, it was a more straight forward mystery and the Christmas timeline made it feel very festive.
I hissed through this book in a weekend and found it very hard to put down.
I would say I liked the actual plot of this book better than the first, it was a more straight forward mystery and the Christmas timeline made it feel very festive.
I hissed through this book in a weekend and found it very hard to put down.
September 18, 2023
Christmas is getting ever closer, and the lights are about to be switched on in Mousehole, Cornwall. A popular and eagerly anticipated event, the harbour is full of people wrapped up against the inclement weather, enjoying the carol singers, and their festive repertoire. Ally Bright has taken her friend, Gus, along to enjoy the spectacle, but when a scream rips through the air, it effectively ends their evening.
As Ally and her partner in the newly established Shell House Detective Agency, Jayden Weston, both know, murder is way above their pay grade, but a friend in need definitely isn't. When they are asked to find someone who could be linked to the Mousehole death their investigation soon involves them in both cases. As clues begin to lead toward one suspect in particular, will Ally or Jayden realise before they become targeted by a killer with nothing to lose?
The second in Emylia Hall's brilliant new detective series is like returning to your favourite holiday destination and reconnecting with the locals. Once again, the case is a complex mix of twists, turns, and surprises, which merge seamlessly with the private lives of the main protagonists and their small Cornish village. Although not a quick read, it is absolutely worth the time spent enjoying every word.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the opinions expressed are my own. I loved this and recommend it highly and unreservedly.
As Ally and her partner in the newly established Shell House Detective Agency, Jayden Weston, both know, murder is way above their pay grade, but a friend in need definitely isn't. When they are asked to find someone who could be linked to the Mousehole death their investigation soon involves them in both cases. As clues begin to lead toward one suspect in particular, will Ally or Jayden realise before they become targeted by a killer with nothing to lose?
The second in Emylia Hall's brilliant new detective series is like returning to your favourite holiday destination and reconnecting with the locals. Once again, the case is a complex mix of twists, turns, and surprises, which merge seamlessly with the private lives of the main protagonists and their small Cornish village. Although not a quick read, it is absolutely worth the time spent enjoying every word.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the opinions expressed are my own. I loved this and recommend it highly and unreservedly.
October 17, 2023
Chef JP Sharpe has been murdered.
All I really want to say is that The Harbour Lights Mystery is totally, completely and unequivocally fabulous and everyone should read it immediately. However, as that doesn’t articulate why I think that I suppose I had better try to write some kind of review.
The plot is brilliant. It is so skilfully constructed so that the reader is given hints and clues but is not entirely sure of outcomes until the end of the narrative. I can imagine comparisons to the best of Agatha Christie but I think that is to do Emylia Hall a disservice, because I believe she is a writer far more skilled not just in storytelling, but in setting and character too.
There are several characters to get to know here, some of whom have previously featured in The Shell House Detectives, but each is so well depicted that the transition into The Harbour Lights Mystery doesn’t need any previous knowledge of them at all. Ally, Jayden and Mullins feel well loved and familiar, but they also act as a glorious foundation against which all the other characters can be discovered. And they have such depth. In a few words Emylia Hall enables her reader to understand these people in all their frailties, delusions, secrets and desires. That’s not to say everything is revealed all at once, but getting to know Saffy, Dominic et al is an absolute delight.
There’s a really intelligent irony that the murder victim JP is such an important pivot for the action, because he only appears very briefly. I loved trying to work out who had killed him and given that there are any number of folk who would like to see him dead, Emylia Hall kept me guessing throughout, making for a riveting read.
The Cornish setting is glorious. There’s not a wasted or extraneous syllable here and the idea of place serves to enhance the plot whilst enabling the reader to visualise where things are happening. I loved the fact that this is no idealised or romanticised concept of Cornwall, but that weather, seas and surroundings can have moods and attitudes every bit as much as the people.
However, what is so utterly fantastic about The Harbour Lights Mystery is Emylia Hall’s ability to entertain, to wrong-foot and mesmerise her reader whilst simultaneously breaking their hearts. This might be a mystery story with murder as the catalyst, but it is so very much more. The understanding of who we are as people, of how our flawed, imperfect lives intersect with others, simply shines through the pages of this wonderful, wonderful story. The Harbour Lights Mystery is a fast paced, cracking thriller, but it’s steeped in love and emotion too. Emylia Hall entertained me to perfection and reduced me to tears in the process!
Atmospheric, absorbing and amazing, The Harbour Lights Mystery has no right to be this fabulous. I totally adored it.
All I really want to say is that The Harbour Lights Mystery is totally, completely and unequivocally fabulous and everyone should read it immediately. However, as that doesn’t articulate why I think that I suppose I had better try to write some kind of review.
The plot is brilliant. It is so skilfully constructed so that the reader is given hints and clues but is not entirely sure of outcomes until the end of the narrative. I can imagine comparisons to the best of Agatha Christie but I think that is to do Emylia Hall a disservice, because I believe she is a writer far more skilled not just in storytelling, but in setting and character too.
There are several characters to get to know here, some of whom have previously featured in The Shell House Detectives, but each is so well depicted that the transition into The Harbour Lights Mystery doesn’t need any previous knowledge of them at all. Ally, Jayden and Mullins feel well loved and familiar, but they also act as a glorious foundation against which all the other characters can be discovered. And they have such depth. In a few words Emylia Hall enables her reader to understand these people in all their frailties, delusions, secrets and desires. That’s not to say everything is revealed all at once, but getting to know Saffy, Dominic et al is an absolute delight.
There’s a really intelligent irony that the murder victim JP is such an important pivot for the action, because he only appears very briefly. I loved trying to work out who had killed him and given that there are any number of folk who would like to see him dead, Emylia Hall kept me guessing throughout, making for a riveting read.
The Cornish setting is glorious. There’s not a wasted or extraneous syllable here and the idea of place serves to enhance the plot whilst enabling the reader to visualise where things are happening. I loved the fact that this is no idealised or romanticised concept of Cornwall, but that weather, seas and surroundings can have moods and attitudes every bit as much as the people.
However, what is so utterly fantastic about The Harbour Lights Mystery is Emylia Hall’s ability to entertain, to wrong-foot and mesmerise her reader whilst simultaneously breaking their hearts. This might be a mystery story with murder as the catalyst, but it is so very much more. The understanding of who we are as people, of how our flawed, imperfect lives intersect with others, simply shines through the pages of this wonderful, wonderful story. The Harbour Lights Mystery is a fast paced, cracking thriller, but it’s steeped in love and emotion too. Emylia Hall entertained me to perfection and reduced me to tears in the process!
Atmospheric, absorbing and amazing, The Harbour Lights Mystery has no right to be this fabulous. I totally adored it.
October 22, 2023
When I discovered the second book in the Shell House Detectives series was available, I simply had to grab a copy. I enjoyed the first book with the protagonists, Ally and Jayden. I also recalled Shell House, Ally's home near the sea. In reality, probably described too close to the sea for real life, but the house in book one was magical in its description.
My preference for cosy mysteries is for the POV to focus on the protagonists. After all, they are investigating the mystery. This book switches through many POVs. I lost count of how many there were, but Ally and Jayden appear often forgotten as the story focus shifts. Other readers may not mind that approach, but I think it removes the protagonists from the mystery. And that was a shame, because I thought book one focused on them more.
Unlike the first book, this also took a long time to engage me. I'd say I was a third of the way into the story before I felt drawn into the plot. Part of that is because of the multi-POV removing our protagonists from the story. But I also think it's because the story casts all the new characters in suspicion with a heavy hand. It seemed every new character could have been guilty. On the one hand, it offers a range of suspects and red herrings, which I do enjoy. But on the other hand, it felt a little forced.
The overall mystery is well done. It's clever. It reminded me of Murder She Wrote, in a way. I'm note sure of it's the coastal setting, or the way the dialogue is written, or Ally, but Jessica Fletcher popped into my mind more than once. And that's not a bad thing.
I'll be interested in what book three brings to the series.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for provided a copy of this book for an honest review. All comments are my own.
My preference for cosy mysteries is for the POV to focus on the protagonists. After all, they are investigating the mystery. This book switches through many POVs. I lost count of how many there were, but Ally and Jayden appear often forgotten as the story focus shifts. Other readers may not mind that approach, but I think it removes the protagonists from the mystery. And that was a shame, because I thought book one focused on them more.
Unlike the first book, this also took a long time to engage me. I'd say I was a third of the way into the story before I felt drawn into the plot. Part of that is because of the multi-POV removing our protagonists from the story. But I also think it's because the story casts all the new characters in suspicion with a heavy hand. It seemed every new character could have been guilty. On the one hand, it offers a range of suspects and red herrings, which I do enjoy. But on the other hand, it felt a little forced.
The overall mystery is well done. It's clever. It reminded me of Murder She Wrote, in a way. I'm note sure of it's the coastal setting, or the way the dialogue is written, or Ally, but Jessica Fletcher popped into my mind more than once. And that's not a bad thing.
I'll be interested in what book three brings to the series.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for provided a copy of this book for an honest review. All comments are my own.
September 19, 2023
I didn’t like the first part of this book. It feels disjointed and jumps all over the place. You really don’t get to know the characters very well. The 2nd half is better as all the different threads come together. The settings aren’t described very well, it’s just kind of she/he went there or there. Nothing given in relationship to each other. The killer is just sprung on readers by a last minute clue. #TheHarbourLightsMystery #NetGalley
December 28, 2025
I read The Shell House Detectives a few months ago and had book two, The Harbour Lights Mystery on my TBR pile ready to read. When I saw a post on Instagram by the author, Emylia Hall, saying that it was set in December and featured the Christmas lights that go up annually in Mousehole, it seemed the perfect book to add to my Christmas reading pile.
It really was ideal and I enjoyed it so much. The Shell House Detectives consist of Ally Bright, whose late and much missed husband Bill was the local sergeant, and Jayden Weston, an ex-constable from Leeds who now lives in Cornwall with his wife and baby daughter. After inadvertently becoming amateur detectives and solving their first case in book one, in this book they get involved in the case of the murder of a local chef, JP Sharpe, a man with a few foes and an unexpected link to one of their friends, local beach/surf cafe owner, Saffron.
I loved how the story unfolded and it was as much about Saffron as about solving the murder. The case itself offers a twisty storyline but I think what stands out most for me are the regular characters and the Cornish settings. Both are so vividly drawn by Hall to the point that I felt a bit lost when I finished the book. It’s abundantly clear how much the author loves Cornwall and the way of life there of fishing, surfing and community.
The Harbour Lights Mystery is a wonderful book and I was thoroughly engrossed in the story and the characters’ lives in Porthpella and Mousehole. I’ve now lined up book three, The Rockpool Murder, and I’m looking forward to another Cornish escapade.
It really was ideal and I enjoyed it so much. The Shell House Detectives consist of Ally Bright, whose late and much missed husband Bill was the local sergeant, and Jayden Weston, an ex-constable from Leeds who now lives in Cornwall with his wife and baby daughter. After inadvertently becoming amateur detectives and solving their first case in book one, in this book they get involved in the case of the murder of a local chef, JP Sharpe, a man with a few foes and an unexpected link to one of their friends, local beach/surf cafe owner, Saffron.
I loved how the story unfolded and it was as much about Saffron as about solving the murder. The case itself offers a twisty storyline but I think what stands out most for me are the regular characters and the Cornish settings. Both are so vividly drawn by Hall to the point that I felt a bit lost when I finished the book. It’s abundantly clear how much the author loves Cornwall and the way of life there of fishing, surfing and community.
The Harbour Lights Mystery is a wonderful book and I was thoroughly engrossed in the story and the characters’ lives in Porthpella and Mousehole. I’ve now lined up book three, The Rockpool Murder, and I’m looking forward to another Cornish escapade.
June 10, 2025
This is the second in the series. Apparently since the last book, Ally and Jayden have set up an informal detective agency and have solved some rather boring crimes. But as the book opens, a seemingly unpleasant man is murdered, with a potential connection to one of Ally and Jayden’s friends. Soon, they are in the thick of the investigation.
Like the first in the series, while Ally and Jayden are the main characters, each chapter is told from the POV of a wide variety of minor characters, in addition to Ally and Jayden. I didn’t remember most of the characters from the last book, and there were a bunch of new ones, mostly unlikeable. While the mystery was interesting, and I do like Ally, Jayden, Saffron, and Gus, I would like a lot more focus on Ally and Jayden, and fewer chapters from the POV of everyone loosely related to the mystery.
As a warning, this is told from third person present tense, so if you can’t deal with present tense, you might want to give it a pass. It’s not my favorite tense, but after a short while I adjusted to it.
Like the first in the series, while Ally and Jayden are the main characters, each chapter is told from the POV of a wide variety of minor characters, in addition to Ally and Jayden. I didn’t remember most of the characters from the last book, and there were a bunch of new ones, mostly unlikeable. While the mystery was interesting, and I do like Ally, Jayden, Saffron, and Gus, I would like a lot more focus on Ally and Jayden, and fewer chapters from the POV of everyone loosely related to the mystery.
As a warning, this is told from third person present tense, so if you can’t deal with present tense, you might want to give it a pass. It’s not my favorite tense, but after a short while I adjusted to it.
October 4, 2024
Very, very, good - almost better than book 1. Never saw the killer coming and was totally shocked. I am really loving this series an the dynamic of Ally and Jayden. Can't wait for book 3!!
November 28, 2023
In the spring, a neighbor came to Ally Bright for assistance, with Ally receiving guidance on how to proceed and help from Jayden Weston. Success by the widow of the former police sergeant in Porthpella, and a former cop from Leeds evolved into Ally and Jayden forming a partnership known in the community as the Shell House Detectives.
The joyful sights and sounds of Mousehole Harbour on the Cornish coast delight everyone enjoying a night during the Christmas holiday season. They are interrupted by screams that vibrate and penetrate the senses of all who hear them, including Ally and her neighbor Gus Munro. What involvement will the Shell House Detectives have in this case?
The mystery is well-written with interlocking pieces that are more intricate than the speculation of the investigation first suggests, even with the awareness that the victim was well-known but not well-loved by the community. Ally and Jayden's differences in ages naturally have different perspectives from their life experiences, and it is thoughtfully portrayed through their thoughts on their personal lives and approaches when working on a case.
I look forward to the continuation of the series.
Reviewer's Note: I discovered Book 1 on NetGalley and loved the characters, so I was delighted that a series was planned. Each novel may be read as a stand-alone. Still, I recommend reading the books in series order to fully appreciate the characters as they evolve in life's decisions and adventures.
The joyful sights and sounds of Mousehole Harbour on the Cornish coast delight everyone enjoying a night during the Christmas holiday season. They are interrupted by screams that vibrate and penetrate the senses of all who hear them, including Ally and her neighbor Gus Munro. What involvement will the Shell House Detectives have in this case?
The mystery is well-written with interlocking pieces that are more intricate than the speculation of the investigation first suggests, even with the awareness that the victim was well-known but not well-loved by the community. Ally and Jayden's differences in ages naturally have different perspectives from their life experiences, and it is thoughtfully portrayed through their thoughts on their personal lives and approaches when working on a case.
I look forward to the continuation of the series.
Reviewer's Note: I discovered Book 1 on NetGalley and loved the characters, so I was delighted that a series was planned. Each novel may be read as a stand-alone. Still, I recommend reading the books in series order to fully appreciate the characters as they evolve in life's decisions and adventures.
February 28, 2024
An unpleasant chef is murdered among the run-up to Christmas in a popular Cornish tourist town. There are almost too many suspects, but the Shell House detectives (a former police constable from Leeds and the widow of a local policeman) aren't concerned with the murder. They are drawn into the puzzle when it seems as though the chef may be the hitherto unknown father of a charming local woman who is their friend. How can they find out about him without getting in the way of the police investigation? Saffron's now-dead mother had never spoken about Saffron's father, and the girl had not missed him. Yet now that the subject had come up, she's unwilling to turn her back on what may be--or have been--her only living relative. Beautifully written from multiple viewpoints. I plan to go back and read the first in the series, and look forward to further volumes.
October 20, 2024
I absolutely loved being back in Porthpella, and I have come to love its characters as well.
This book, the second in The Shell House detective series, follows Ally and Jayden’s adventures as a new murder victim is discovered in a nearby town.
J.P. Sharpe, brilliant chef and known for rubbing people the wrong way, has been murdered. The problem is not a lack of likely suspects, rather there are too many of them!
They shouldn’t get involved - murders are police business, after all. But a parallel case throws them headlong into things, and before long they are in too deep.
I feel like the people of Porthpella are now old friends, and I’ve really enjoyed spending time with them over the past weeks. This is a delightful and light read, and cozy crime at its best. Would recommend this and the first one - The Shell House Detectives.
Happy reading ☺️
This book, the second in The Shell House detective series, follows Ally and Jayden’s adventures as a new murder victim is discovered in a nearby town.
J.P. Sharpe, brilliant chef and known for rubbing people the wrong way, has been murdered. The problem is not a lack of likely suspects, rather there are too many of them!
They shouldn’t get involved - murders are police business, after all. But a parallel case throws them headlong into things, and before long they are in too deep.
I feel like the people of Porthpella are now old friends, and I’ve really enjoyed spending time with them over the past weeks. This is a delightful and light read, and cozy crime at its best. Would recommend this and the first one - The Shell House Detectives.
Happy reading ☺️
September 30, 2024
I absolutely adore this series. Yes they are part of the cosy mystery genre, but they are also so much more than that. There is real character development as well as a good plot. I can’t wait to read the next instalment and maybe have a look at the author’s previous work.
February 11, 2025
This is such a sweet series with lots of lovable people. The murder of a head chef gets the attention of the Shell House detectives. Many twists and turns and several story lines happen with surprising results.
May 12, 2024
This series is growing on me, it does show a love of Cornwall.
January 20, 2025
Enjoyable characters and setting. An interesting gentle mystery, I found it ideal for picking up
on kindle when out and about, will move back to the first one now
on kindle when out and about, will move back to the first one now
March 17, 2025
Cute
Another sweet cozy mystery. And yet again, I did not guess whodunnit! I really tried this time too. Oh well, that’s what makes a good mystery, good.
Another sweet cozy mystery. And yet again, I did not guess whodunnit! I really tried this time too. Oh well, that’s what makes a good mystery, good.
May 18, 2024
I found some errors.
March 28, 2025
Perfect cosy crime and in my favourite county of Cornwall
October 5, 2023
Ally Bright is the still grieving widow of former Sergeant Bill Bright whose daughter wants her to move to Australia, trying to find her place in life, and can't quite get back to her artistic use of plastic waste from the coast.
Jayden Weston is an ex-cop suffering survivor's guilt from the death of his partner, recently moved to Cornwall to live near the in-laws as he and his wife learn how to live now that they have their first baby.
Together Ally and Jayden begin working as the Shell House Detectives once again and delve into the mystery of a note in the pocket of a murdered man known in the village. They find out many things, not all of them pleasant or for town consumption. The characters are so clearly portrayed that I felt as if I had known them for years. The investigation is filled with red herrings and a few unexpected twists. I liked this one just as much as the first.
I requested and received an EARC from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. Thank you!
Jayden Weston is an ex-cop suffering survivor's guilt from the death of his partner, recently moved to Cornwall to live near the in-laws as he and his wife learn how to live now that they have their first baby.
Together Ally and Jayden begin working as the Shell House Detectives once again and delve into the mystery of a note in the pocket of a murdered man known in the village. They find out many things, not all of them pleasant or for town consumption. The characters are so clearly portrayed that I felt as if I had known them for years. The investigation is filled with red herrings and a few unexpected twists. I liked this one just as much as the first.
I requested and received an EARC from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. Thank you!
April 15, 2024
An intelligent cozy series with likable characters and well plotted mysteries. I also really enjoy the setting.
March 16, 2024
4.5* Not quite 5. After the first book in this series I wondered how Ally and Jayden could further their detecting, but they have (honestly though how does Jayden support his family?) This was a particularly interesting book with the themes of fatherhood in all its many guises. So many books look at motherhood, especially single mothers with little thought or space for the missing part of the equation. Look forward to more in this series. So glad a fortuitous library grab introduced me to Emylia Hall
October 18, 2023
This was a pleasant surprise! The writing was excellent, the characters all felt real and distinct, and the mystery kept me guessing till the end. I actually had to go back and reread certain chapters to check on some of the clues that were laid.
Chef JP Sharpe is murdered before Christmas - he's a bad piece of work and of course there are a lot of suspects. Was it Bev, the resentful ex-employee? A fisherman with a grudge? Friends and Shell House Detectives Ally and Jayden are curious but don't want to get in the way. Then might there be a case of finding a young woman's long-lost father?
Usually I read the first book in a series before reading any further, but I didn't feel like I lost anything by starting here at book 2. I am curious which characters show up in Book 1 (like Saffron and Mullins) and I'm sure the relationship between Ally and Jayden would have been even more rewarding, but this book gave me all the feels. I definitely want to read more of this series. Emylia Hall has a wonderful way with words, and hits a lot of topics (new parenthood, difficult job market, being a widow, etc) without being over-the-top. The mystery was good as well, but the payoff was in the characters' relationships (my personal favorite being Bev with my second favorite being Phil).
At times I did think it was a bit slow - mostly the Saffron bits - but the ending picked up and I could picture the location. The last chapter was amazing and I will definitely read more in the series. Thanks to Emylia Hall and NetGalley for the chance to discover this series!
Chef JP Sharpe is murdered before Christmas - he's a bad piece of work and of course there are a lot of suspects. Was it Bev, the resentful ex-employee? A fisherman with a grudge? Friends and Shell House Detectives Ally and Jayden are curious but don't want to get in the way. Then might there be a case of finding a young woman's long-lost father?
Usually I read the first book in a series before reading any further, but I didn't feel like I lost anything by starting here at book 2. I am curious which characters show up in Book 1 (like Saffron and Mullins) and I'm sure the relationship between Ally and Jayden would have been even more rewarding, but this book gave me all the feels. I definitely want to read more of this series. Emylia Hall has a wonderful way with words, and hits a lot of topics (new parenthood, difficult job market, being a widow, etc) without being over-the-top. The mystery was good as well, but the payoff was in the characters' relationships (my personal favorite being Bev with my second favorite being Phil).
At times I did think it was a bit slow - mostly the Saffron bits - but the ending picked up and I could picture the location. The last chapter was amazing and I will definitely read more in the series. Thanks to Emylia Hall and NetGalley for the chance to discover this series!
November 15, 2023
This second story in the Shell House Detectives Mystery series felt just like coming home!
I loved that the pace kept up all the way through. Once the crime has been committed, the suspects and their lives are laid out for us (but some secrets are held back until later of course). I had my suspicions about half-way through, changed my mind a couple of times, but was still shocked at how far one person was willing to go!
Jayden’s life has changed with the arrival of baby Jasmine (who is now 9 months old) but he still has a key part to play. One scene in particular gave me palpitations! Emylia Hall’s writing really brought this to life, so much so that it was me there feeling and experiencing everything he did. OMG, I have goosebumps reliving it now. I didn’t see that coming!
As in all types of relationships, Ally and Jayden are still finding the balance to who they are as a team. I enjoyed the push and pull, the conflict of decisions and the compromising.
I was hoping Saff would have a larger part to play in this story but I wasn’t expecting what was coming for her! I really enjoyed getting to know her. Such an emotional rollercoaster with what happens. And Broady! just goes to show how easy it is to make assumptions …
Another character we get an insight into is Detective Sargeant Skinner. There are a few surprises there too!
Oh yes and another thing I loved – the custom/old tradition in Mousehole of Tom Bawcock and the Stargazy Pie and how it weaves through the story.
Something I realised when I finished reading The Harbour Lights Mystery, there’s an array of human motivation and behaviours in the rawness and vulnerability of all the characters; Trip Stephens, Bev Potter and her husband Neil, Phil Butt and his wife Melissa, Dominic and Wilson. The murder and investigation are gripping enough (I found it hard to put the book down) but when you throw into the mix their vulnerability and emotions, this is such a powerhouse of a story.
An easy 5* from me!
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/the-h...
I loved that the pace kept up all the way through. Once the crime has been committed, the suspects and their lives are laid out for us (but some secrets are held back until later of course). I had my suspicions about half-way through, changed my mind a couple of times, but was still shocked at how far one person was willing to go!
Jayden’s life has changed with the arrival of baby Jasmine (who is now 9 months old) but he still has a key part to play. One scene in particular gave me palpitations! Emylia Hall’s writing really brought this to life, so much so that it was me there feeling and experiencing everything he did. OMG, I have goosebumps reliving it now. I didn’t see that coming!
As in all types of relationships, Ally and Jayden are still finding the balance to who they are as a team. I enjoyed the push and pull, the conflict of decisions and the compromising.
I was hoping Saff would have a larger part to play in this story but I wasn’t expecting what was coming for her! I really enjoyed getting to know her. Such an emotional rollercoaster with what happens. And Broady! just goes to show how easy it is to make assumptions …
Another character we get an insight into is Detective Sargeant Skinner. There are a few surprises there too!
Oh yes and another thing I loved – the custom/old tradition in Mousehole of Tom Bawcock and the Stargazy Pie and how it weaves through the story.
Something I realised when I finished reading The Harbour Lights Mystery, there’s an array of human motivation and behaviours in the rawness and vulnerability of all the characters; Trip Stephens, Bev Potter and her husband Neil, Phil Butt and his wife Melissa, Dominic and Wilson. The murder and investigation are gripping enough (I found it hard to put the book down) but when you throw into the mix their vulnerability and emotions, this is such a powerhouse of a story.
An easy 5* from me!
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/the-h...
July 15, 2024
"The Harbour Lights Mystery" is book #2 in the "Shell House Detectives Mystery" by Emylia Hall.
"It’s December in Cornwall, and Mousehole harbour is illuminated with its famous Christmas lights. Ally Bright is among the crowd listening to the carol singers—and then to the piercing screams that rip through the darkness. A body has been found, brutally murdered and dumped in a fisherman’s boat.
The victim is chef JP Sharpe and there is no shortage of people who might have wanted him dead. Eager for a new case for The Shell House Detectives, Ally calls ex-cop Jayden, but he’s keen to leave it to the police—until a letter in Sharpe’s pocket draws them into a seemingly unconnected family mystery. As they take on this highly charged mission, the duo can’t help scrutinising the murder suspects. Who among the close-knit community has reason to kill, and how far will they go to protect themselves?
As fear spreads, Ally and Jayden need answers—fast. Could the letter offer a clue to the murder case or will it reveal a terrible truth? And when a new witness comes to light, Jayden closes in on a desperate killer…but can he warn Ally in time?"
My thoughts:
The second book in this series did not disappoint! A unique mix of core characters, compelling story and sub plots that keep readers turning the pages. Ongoing storylines of individual characters and the day to day living also bring dimension to the stories.
The murder of Sharpe led to a number of suspects but sorting out who had the biggest motive wasn't easy. So many twists and stunning turns before the big reveal! A couple of heart pounding moments along the way!
The contents of the mysterious letter in Sharpe's pocket came as a shock - especially to one character. Deciding to find out who wrote it led to a number of uncomfortable questions.
As the story is set in December, there are also some of the usual (and unusual) holiday traditions of the area.
All in all, a thoroughly entertaining page turning read with wonderful characters!
"It’s December in Cornwall, and Mousehole harbour is illuminated with its famous Christmas lights. Ally Bright is among the crowd listening to the carol singers—and then to the piercing screams that rip through the darkness. A body has been found, brutally murdered and dumped in a fisherman’s boat.
The victim is chef JP Sharpe and there is no shortage of people who might have wanted him dead. Eager for a new case for The Shell House Detectives, Ally calls ex-cop Jayden, but he’s keen to leave it to the police—until a letter in Sharpe’s pocket draws them into a seemingly unconnected family mystery. As they take on this highly charged mission, the duo can’t help scrutinising the murder suspects. Who among the close-knit community has reason to kill, and how far will they go to protect themselves?
As fear spreads, Ally and Jayden need answers—fast. Could the letter offer a clue to the murder case or will it reveal a terrible truth? And when a new witness comes to light, Jayden closes in on a desperate killer…but can he warn Ally in time?"
My thoughts:
The second book in this series did not disappoint! A unique mix of core characters, compelling story and sub plots that keep readers turning the pages. Ongoing storylines of individual characters and the day to day living also bring dimension to the stories.
The murder of Sharpe led to a number of suspects but sorting out who had the biggest motive wasn't easy. So many twists and stunning turns before the big reveal! A couple of heart pounding moments along the way!
The contents of the mysterious letter in Sharpe's pocket came as a shock - especially to one character. Deciding to find out who wrote it led to a number of uncomfortable questions.
As the story is set in December, there are also some of the usual (and unusual) holiday traditions of the area.
All in all, a thoroughly entertaining page turning read with wonderful characters!
October 25, 2023
The second book in this modern mystery series takes place the winter after the previous book, with Ally and her young friend Jayden having established a bit of a name for themselves in the local area as the Shell House Detectives. A fiery chef is murdered in the nearby village of Mousehole (which is apparently an actual real place, as is Tom Bawcock's Eve, around which the action takes place) and although the Shell House Detectives don't want to get involved, the fact that the murdered man may turn out to be their friend Saffron's absent father brings them into it.
I continued to enjoy the friendship between recently widowed older woman, Ally, and new father Jayden as this adventure tests the boundaries of that friendship. There wasn't nearly as much Gus as I would have liked, as Ally struggles with any potential feelings she may or may not have for him. Mullins still really tries to be a "loveable rogue" while still being just a bit of a dick (but getting better at not being so). We see a bit into Jayden's marriage and seeds are obviously being planted for future storylines there.
The murder itself and its solution is a bit of a damp squib, and gets solved pretty much by accident, without any active work from either the protagonists or the police. But then this series seems to be much more about the characters than the crimes. It's about Ally coming out of her shell; Jayden's deep love of fatherhood; Saffron's grief; and the relationships between all of them. There's a few too many side characters, each with their own PoV chapters, but it's still a very pleasant read, and I'll probably dive into the next one too.
I continued to enjoy the friendship between recently widowed older woman, Ally, and new father Jayden as this adventure tests the boundaries of that friendship. There wasn't nearly as much Gus as I would have liked, as Ally struggles with any potential feelings she may or may not have for him. Mullins still really tries to be a "loveable rogue" while still being just a bit of a dick (but getting better at not being so). We see a bit into Jayden's marriage and seeds are obviously being planted for future storylines there.
The murder itself and its solution is a bit of a damp squib, and gets solved pretty much by accident, without any active work from either the protagonists or the police. But then this series seems to be much more about the characters than the crimes. It's about Ally coming out of her shell; Jayden's deep love of fatherhood; Saffron's grief; and the relationships between all of them. There's a few too many side characters, each with their own PoV chapters, but it's still a very pleasant read, and I'll probably dive into the next one too.
January 7, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in this cosy crimes series so it has been a real pleasure to return to Cornwall to see what The Shell House Detectives get up to in this latest offering from this talented writer.
The discovery of a murder victim in the festively decorated Mousehole harbour upsets the local community during their annual carol singing in December and when the identity of the victim is known there are people in the community who have no reason to mourn JP Sharpe's tragic demise. With the local police doing what they can to find the murderer, private detectives, Ally Bright and her Shell House detective partner, Jayden Weston are tasked with finding the identity of someone who hasn't wanted to be found for over thirty years and in doing so they become inextricably linked to the murder case. With more questions than answers this complicated plot veers off in several different directions and I had enjoyed trying to put together all the jigsaw puzzle pieces in this complex murder mystery. The Harbour Lights Mystery flows well, the many twists and turns of the plot certainly keep up the momentum and the characters who flit into and out of the story bring their own special brand of Cornish warmth, wit and charm.
As always, Cornwall forms an integral part of the story, we learn of the challenges facing local fishermen, the anguish of not having enough money and the constant worry of businesses who need to thrive during the tourist season so that they may survive the leaner months of winter. I've thoroughly enjoyed my visit back to Cornwall and love spending time with The Shell House Detectives and look forward to the next book in the series, which I hope is coming soon.
The discovery of a murder victim in the festively decorated Mousehole harbour upsets the local community during their annual carol singing in December and when the identity of the victim is known there are people in the community who have no reason to mourn JP Sharpe's tragic demise. With the local police doing what they can to find the murderer, private detectives, Ally Bright and her Shell House detective partner, Jayden Weston are tasked with finding the identity of someone who hasn't wanted to be found for over thirty years and in doing so they become inextricably linked to the murder case. With more questions than answers this complicated plot veers off in several different directions and I had enjoyed trying to put together all the jigsaw puzzle pieces in this complex murder mystery. The Harbour Lights Mystery flows well, the many twists and turns of the plot certainly keep up the momentum and the characters who flit into and out of the story bring their own special brand of Cornish warmth, wit and charm.
As always, Cornwall forms an integral part of the story, we learn of the challenges facing local fishermen, the anguish of not having enough money and the constant worry of businesses who need to thrive during the tourist season so that they may survive the leaner months of winter. I've thoroughly enjoyed my visit back to Cornwall and love spending time with The Shell House Detectives and look forward to the next book in the series, which I hope is coming soon.
November 30, 2023
It’s the characters who really make this book. The murder investigation is almost incidental and not actually what Ally and Jayden are looking into. Although their search for a missing person of sorts does rather overlap with the murder case. I was pleased to see Mullins grow in confidence in his police role and receive some recognition for his abilities too. Long term renter Gus makes his quiet presence felt and I would like to see more of him in another book. We get to know more about Saffron who is the focus of the mystery in this book. I could really sympathise with Jayden’s exhaustion as a new parent while also feeling that all consuming love for his small daughter. Emylia Hall writes so well about the intricacies and complications of relationships and life that even the more incidental characters feel very authentic and well rounded.
The Cornish setting is wonderful to revisit and the author’s vivid descriptions bring both fictional Porthpellow and real Mousehole vividly to life. We get to know a community which is not just holiday makers but year round residents with all their traditions. I hadn’t heard about the Mousehole Harbour Lights before but now that I’ve had a look at the website, I’d love to go and visit sometime. https://www.mouseholelights.org.uk/
The Harbour Lights Mystery is another compelling read from Emylia Hall. It is so well written with lots to keep the reader guessing and turning the pages. She has created a great partnership in Jayden and Ally and this perhaps unlikely pair of detectives complement each other perfectly. I highly recommend this intelligent, absorbing and emotionally engaging read.
The Cornish setting is wonderful to revisit and the author’s vivid descriptions bring both fictional Porthpellow and real Mousehole vividly to life. We get to know a community which is not just holiday makers but year round residents with all their traditions. I hadn’t heard about the Mousehole Harbour Lights before but now that I’ve had a look at the website, I’d love to go and visit sometime. https://www.mouseholelights.org.uk/
The Harbour Lights Mystery is another compelling read from Emylia Hall. It is so well written with lots to keep the reader guessing and turning the pages. She has created a great partnership in Jayden and Ally and this perhaps unlikely pair of detectives complement each other perfectly. I highly recommend this intelligent, absorbing and emotionally engaging read.
November 5, 2023
I love this series. It's a cozy in the sense of a non-professional detective, but the main solvers are the widow of a police chief and a former police officer. They want to solve mysteries, and there's none of the "but I'm a baker/seamstress/crafter/brewer/barista, and I really shouldn't get involved" aspect that's of course a trope of cozy series (and I like some of those very much too:>).
This author does such a great job of making this feel like a real place with real people and real problems and feelings. Both Ally and Jayden feel like completely real characters. I would know them if I met them at a party. And she also makes me care about the secondary characters, like Saffron and Bev. Even though we pop in and out of different characters' lives, I both care about them and I don't get them confused with each other.
The writing is really good. It's complex and subtle and yet fast-reading. She really sets a mood. When someone is about to reveal something important: "In the tree above them, a wood pigeon takes off with a clapping of wings that sounds like gunfire."
I always like the mystery and the actions Ally and Jayden take to solve the mystery. But I also feel tender and invested in the various characters' problems. Is Cat cheating on Jordan? What will Ally do about Gus? How will Bev fix the mess she's gotten herself into. These are bighearted books, and I look forward to the next one.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This author does such a great job of making this feel like a real place with real people and real problems and feelings. Both Ally and Jayden feel like completely real characters. I would know them if I met them at a party. And she also makes me care about the secondary characters, like Saffron and Bev. Even though we pop in and out of different characters' lives, I both care about them and I don't get them confused with each other.
The writing is really good. It's complex and subtle and yet fast-reading. She really sets a mood. When someone is about to reveal something important: "In the tree above them, a wood pigeon takes off with a clapping of wings that sounds like gunfire."
I always like the mystery and the actions Ally and Jayden take to solve the mystery. But I also feel tender and invested in the various characters' problems. Is Cat cheating on Jordan? What will Ally do about Gus? How will Bev fix the mess she's gotten herself into. These are bighearted books, and I look forward to the next one.
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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