Unraveling Secrets: A Riveting Journey into the Beryl Swallows Mystery by Sharon Mierke

This is the first cozy mystery book I read, and I must say, not knowing what to expect in this genre, I fell in love with the story and the richly developed characters. The plot was so captivating that I wanted to read more long after I closed the final page. This book became the inspiration for me to write my own cozy mystery series, igniting a passion for the genre that continues to this day.

Beryl, a former police officer now turned private investigator, is a character I always look forward to following. This time, while recuperating from an old injury, Beryl stumbles upon one of her mother’s diaries from 1986. The story takes an intriguing turn as Beryl uncovers secrets about her mother, Rosie, that she never imagined. A few years before the diary entries, Beryl’s father, also a police officer, had been involved in a controversial shooting. The diary’s revelations cast new light on this incident, painting a complex and shadowy picture of Rosie Swallows.

The diary format is masterfully employed throughout the novel, drawing readers in with each entry and maintaining suspense right to the last page. The secrets Beryl uncovers weave a tale so compelling, it kept me turning pages late into the night. The question of trust looms large, and the ending is one you won’t anticipate.

Sharon Rose, writing under her pen name, delivers another outstanding mystery in the Parson Cove series. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is both clever and engaging. This book is a prime example of good mystery reading, and I always prioritize her latest releases when seeking a gripping read. If you enjoy a mystery that keeps you guessing with well-crafted twists and turns, this book is a must-read.

Amazon Link to Case Closed: not A Beryl Swallows mystery