Readers love debut novels. There is just something intoxicating about discovering a new talent on the cusp of their career. Be sure to keep your eye on debut awards for the inside scoop on the next hottest thing. For example, Jennifer K. Breedlove’s Murder Will Out won the Minotaur Books/Mystery Writers of America First Crime Novel Award and with good reason—it’s a well-crafted, compelling traditional crime novel with a twist.
Set in the fictional locale of Little North Island, off the coast of Maine, Murder Will Out begins with church organist Willow Stone learning of the death of her godmother Sue, leading to Willow’s return to the Island and the secrets she left behind. As a teen, Willow had unexpectedly lost touch with the godmother she cherished, never truly understanding the reasons why.
Willow learns that shortly prior to her death, Sue had inherited Cameron House—a local landmark coveted by many. The ownership of the sprawling mansion had long been in question and Sue’s unexpected death (murder?) is about to open a new wound in this troubled lineage. Fortunately, Willow will soon discover she can communicate with the ghosts of the past—who still walk the halls of Cameron House.
With the help of both the ghosts and the very much still-alive friends who cherished Sue, Willow will need to piece together a complex puzzle before more deaths—including her own—occur. With claims of ownership coming from all directions, as well as a scheming developer eyeing Cameron House, Willow will need all the help she can get. And just a little bit of luck.
Jennifer K. Breedlove has populated Little North Island with characters readers will come to love. Not unlike Louise Penny’s Three Pines, Little North Island and the folks who reside there are sure to become beloved by readers as this series progresses. Each unique personality highlights the diversity of the human spirit, making it so much fun to cheer on their investigative successes.
The paranormal element of this novel is handled in a way that never distracts from the more traditional nature of the work. Yes, Willow sees and talks with ghosts of the past, but once the readers acclimate to that, it’s just another investigative avenue. In many ways, it offers a new way to scrutinize historical crime—giving Willow witnesses that otherwise would be unavailable to her.
Another thing that helps to elevate Murder Will Out above other works is the gorgeous prose Jennifer K. Breedlove uses to unspool her narrative. Between the lovely turns-of-phrase, simple yet effective metaphors, and erudite allusions and references, Murder Will Out keeps readers turning the pages for new discoveries. Between the skilled writing, the quirky characters, and the complex plot, it’s almost a guarantee that readers will be anxious to join Jennifer K. Breedlove on her next visit to Little North Island.
BUY LINKS: Murder Will Out by Jennifer K. Breedlove
