For those who don’t know, Francine Matthews and Stephanie Barron are the same person. As Matthews, the author has written a series of excellent mysteries that take place on Nantucket. They are set in the present. As Barron, her books are historical mysteries with Jane Austen as a character. I like both series but have a preference for the Merry Folger ones.
This book has a slow burn. There is not a murder until about a third at least into the novel. However this works well as it gives readers a chance to spend time with the characters. There are those who are on the island filming a TV series. Also on the island is a Secretary of State and her family. The teens from each of these groups gravitate towards one another; both have experienced loss and addiction. Readers will hope that they thrive.
The interconnections in these groups form a basis for the story. The controlling husband on one goes missing. A world famous photographer is on the island but off the grid. There will be murder during what is meant to be one of Nantucket’s nicest weekends of the year.
Readers will enjoy spending time with Merry and her team as they work on the case. The story is very well told.
Highly recommended to those who enjoy mysteries that are intriguing but not filled with gore.
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 