Jess Kidde writes wonderful historic fiction with a slightly supernatural twist. This book, which may be the first of a series, has a murder mystery twist instead. The story takes place in the early 1950’s. Gull’s Nest is a run-down boarding house by the sea in Kent. Nora, our protagonist is a former nun who has come to Gull’s Nest to discover why her friend and fellow nun, Frieda has stopped writing to her. Frieda was at Gull’s Nest to be near the sea air to help her convalesce from an illness. They corresponded weekly.
When Nora arrives, she discovers Frieda has disappeared. Nora, who always loved a good puzzle decides she is going to help solve Frieda’s disappearance. Meanwhile, she gets to know the other boarders. Newlyweds, Teddy and Stella, the house owner Helena and her strange daughter Dinah, chef Bill Carter, Old timer, Professor Poppy and the mysterious Karel Jezek. Suddenly, Teddy is found dead (murdered?) and now Nora is determined to get to the bottom of both these mysteries.
She finds herself sometimes at odds with the opinions of Inspector Rideout, but as Nora demonstrates her ability to solve puzzles, he begins to come around to her way of thinking. Is this a budding relationship? Maybe subsequent books in the series will tell.
The mysteries are both subtle and twisty, so perfectly enjoyable for mystery fans. For those who like a more character driven piece, this fits the bill as well. Nora, who had been in her convent for 30 years is now adjusting to the freedoms of her life on the “outside,” sometimes to great comedic relief.
This is a wonderful read as are all Jess Kidde’s books.
Enjoy!
This book is available to borrow from the Caledon Public Library or if you’d prefer to own it, Booklore in Orangeville will give a 10% discount if you mention you saw this book review in JustSayinCaledon and ask for ‘Donna’s Discount.’
