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In the Beautiful Dark
Melissa Payne
Publication Date: April 22nd, 2025
Lake Union Publishing
333 Pages
Amazon | Goodreads | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Sci Fi & Fantasy | Women’s Fiction
I loved this author’s book, A Light in the Forest. And this one did not disappoint. Once again, Payne writes a wonderfully engaging story that mixes suspense and heart with truly amazing characters you want to cheer on and will remember for a long time. This story is about Birdie, a strong and independent woman who finds herself mixed up in a murder from the past.
Payne’s writing is expressive and heartwarming. She immediately drew me into Sunny Pines and its quirky residents. The mystery itself is interesting and has plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. There is also some humour within the pages, and the residents of Sunny Pines are a hoot. I loved the character development along the way and felt truly invested in Birdie and her journey to find the truth. I was especially pleased by the friendships she made along the way.
But this book is more than just a mystery, it’s a celebration of life, friendship and community that isn’t just heartwarming but very entertaining. It left me with a smile on my face and an appreciation for growing old(er). Overall, this book was a wonderful mix of mystery, heartwarming moments, and amazing characters. If you enjoy a mystery with a lot of heart and character-driven stories that show how friendship and community can mean a lot, this is the book for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
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