The Woman Who Walked into the Sea

November 1, 2013

A rugged corner of northern Scotland and its accompanying wild seas draw oceanographer Cal McGill to meet fellow beachcomber Duncan Boyd, who has collected something rare that Cal wants to research. Wrong beach, wrong town: Cal has inadvertently stumbled into a place that harbors deep secrets. Once upon a time, a local rich man, trapped in a lackluster marriage, fell in love with young woman, who got pregnant. But Megan, the young woman, committed suicide by drowning, although her body was never recovered. However, a bitter housekeeper, Mrs. Mary Anderson, now wants the truth to be told: the baby was born, and Megan was murdered. Enter Violet Wells, who believes she's Megan's daughter. Not surprisingly, Cal wants to help the lovely Violet. Let the drama begin. VERDICT Douglas-Home's sophomore series entry for his oceanographer sleuth (after The Sea Detective) is simply intoxicating. The young protagonist has a romantic streak that complements his typical scientific method. The author effectively uses multiple points of view, explains without overwhelming, and ties up loose ends neatly. Recommend for Elly Griffiths fans.

Copyright 2013 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.