Fagan, an attorney, crisply portrays police and criminal procedure, instilling a sense of realism into the in-depth investigation of the kidnappings. He also draws a vivid picture of Cape Cod, alluding to the tourists’ impression of summer idyll while highlighting the round-the-clock efforts of police. He evocatively captures the antics of Pepper, whose self-destructive behavior belies his altruistic efforts to follow in the footsteps of his law enforcement family. Pepper is clearly on the cusp of adulthood, sometimes self-serving while also showing bursts of heroism. His budding romance with his bandmate Delaney Lynn provides a strong subplot, especially when she asks him to move to Nashville with her.

The narrative is fast-paced and intensifies with the introduction of a myriad of suspects and red herrings, and readers will eagerly turn the pages as they try to identify the culprit. The riveting conclusion and hints of future installments will thoroughly satisfy returning series fans as well as new readers.

Takeaway: Fans of amateur sleuth stories and beach reads will be captivated by this magnetic mystery set amid the beauty of a Cape Cod summer.

Great for fans of Ruth Howard’s Murder on Cape Cod, Rick Cochran’s Bound Brook Pond.

Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: -
Editing: A
Marketing copy: B