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[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Right Across the Bay" by Quinn Avery.]

Right Across the Bay by Quinn Avery is a mystery novel with a romantic twist. Maxine, a natural beauty, lives an unassuming life in Minnesota. She is close with her fitness guru cousin, Britta, and sweet neighbor, Gabby. Max is married to her high school sweetheart, Noah, after being reunited in adulthood. Max seems to have a perfect life, but something sinister emerges when Britta's lifeless body washes up on the shore of the lake they all live on.

I appreciate how the author opens the book immediately with action. Britta's body washes up in chapter one, but the author uses past tense chapters to explain the background between characters. Max, Britta, and Noah have a complicated past, but who would have enough rage to end Britta's life? Was her estranged husband, a scorned lover, or a jealous woman? The author allows for a changing POV, which helped develop the story from all angles and kept me on my toes. The reader learns about Maxine's childhood, her days with Noah as a teenager, and what happens throughout the investigation from each character's perspective.

I found nothing about this book to dislike. The storyline is fast-paced and well-constructed. I found a few grammatical errors, but the book was otherwise well-edited and exciting! I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. I could not put this book down during the last 10 chapters, as the author did an excellent job keeping the mystery alive, especially when another body washes up in the same fashion mid-investigation.

Lovers of mystery will enjoy this book as the author will keep you guessing who the killer is throughout the entire book. Additionally, if readers are interested in a hint of romance, the chapters about Max and Noah are electric. I changed my mind no less than 5 times about who I thought was responsible. I caution young readers from this book as there are some sexual components and violence.

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Right Across the Bay
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Review of Right Across the Bay

Right Across the Bay is a charming and evocative novel that immerses readers in a world where human connection, love, and the complexities of life in a coastal town intertwine seamlessly. The story, set against the backdrop of a picturesque bay, explores the lives of several characters whose fates become intertwined as they navigate their personal journeys.

One of the novel’s strongest attributes is its vivid setting. The bay, with its tranquil yet ever-changing nature, serves as a symbolic anchor for the narrative. It’s not just a physical location but a reflection of the emotional landscapes the characters traverse. The author’s descriptive prowess shines through, painting the bay as a place of both solace and turbulence, much like the inner lives of the characters themselves.

The plot centers on the themes of longing and discovery. At the heart of the story is a poignant romance, marked by moments of hesitation and miscommunication. The slow burn of the relationship feels natural and heartfelt, with the bay acting as both a literal and metaphorical boundary between the characters, suggesting the distance they need to overcome—both physically and emotionally. It’s a tale of two souls searching for connection, weighed down by their pasts, yet hopeful for what might lie ahead.

Character development is another area where the novel excels. Each character is deeply layered, with their own flaws, desires, and vulnerabilities. As the story unfolds, we see them grow, face their fears, and take risks that push them toward self-discovery. While some moments of the plot feel a bit predictable, the characters’ emotional journeys are nuanced, and their relationships are developed with care and authenticity.

The pacing of Right Across the Bay is steady, with a gradual build-up to a satisfying and introspective conclusion. There are moments of tension that keep readers engaged, but the book never rushes toward a climax. It allows the story and the characters to breathe, making the emotional payoffs all the more rewarding.

In conclusion, Right Across the Bay is a beautiful exploration of love, loss, and the search for belonging. With its rich setting, compelling characters, and thoughtful prose, it’s a novel that lingers long after the final page. Perfect for readers who appreciate character-driven narratives and reflective, atmospheric storytelling.

The mystery in Right Across the Bay sounds intriguing, especially with the multiple POVs and the unexpected twists, like another body showing up. The romantic aspect between Max and Noah adds an interesting layer to the story too. I’d definitely be interested in reading it, especially to figure out who the killer is!

This is a well-constructed mystery that is suspenseful until the end by keeping the reader guessing who's the culprit. Various pointes of view and twists create layers that enrich this novel. Thank you for your great review!