The Mill on the Shore

The Mill on the Shore by Ann Cleeves plunges readers into a suspenseful mystery that interweaves family dynamics, environmental advocacy, and the enigma of an unfinished life. As the seventh novel featuring the dynamic duo, George and Molly Palmer-Jones, this gripping tale promises to captivate fans of the crime genre.

At the heart of the story is Meg Morrissey, a woman determined to unearth the truth behind her husband James's untimely death. Refusing to accept the ruling of suicide, Meg's suspicion is heightened by the lack of a suicide note and the mysterious disappearance of James's long-awaited autobiography. This magnum opus, detailing his life's work in environmental achievements, held not just his ambitions but secrets potentially worth killing for.

Faced with these unsettling circumstances, Meg enlists the help of amateur sleuths George and Molly Palmer-Jones. As George and Molly delve deeper into the Morrissey family's affairs, they uncover a web of tensions and hidden affairs. The apparently serene family relations, particularly between James and his ex-wife Cathy, are far more strained than Meg had suggested. To complicate matters further, James's affections might have been swayed by another woman.

Yet, the pivotal mystery lies with the vanished autobiography. Could it be that James had uncovered a secret so perilous it cost him his life? As George and Molly sift through clues and piece together the fragmented information, they must untangle a complex narrative to discover who had the most to gain from James's death. Intrigue, betrayal, and a quest for truth drive the plot forward, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

Ann Cleeves, renowned for her Shetland and Vera Stanhope crime series, once again showcases her talent for crafting complex characters and intricately woven plots. The Mill on the Shore promises a memorable journey through the darker corners of human motives and relationships. Perfect for fans of compelling mysteries, this novel stands testament to Cleeves's storytelling prowess.