Review of Surf and Sand
Posted: 19 Dec 2023, 20:32
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Surf and Sand" by W. B. Edwards.]
Meet Mary Nell Morgan, an 11-year-old, exuberant, and naturally inquisitive girl whose discovery of a 21-year-old unsolved case sparks her inner detective. Drawn by curiosity, she embarks on unraveling the mystery behind the serene pool—a cherished sanctuary that provides her solace and escape. As she delves deeper, her quest for answers yields little, until a strikingly similar disappearance occurs, echoing history. Will this new enigma also remain shrouded in secrecy? Does the pool hold a deeper mystery? Will the long-buried secrets between Ginger and Lois resurface, or are they destined to remain hidden forever? Dive into 'Surf and Sand: The Girl in the Seaside Hotel' by W. B. Edwards for an enthralling revelation.
'Surf and Sand: The Girl in the Seaside Hotel' by W. B. Edwards presents an enthralling tale seen through the curious eyes of a young girl determined to uncover the secrets of a vanished past. Narrated from a third-person omniscient viewpoint, the novel beautifully unfolds Nell's adventure within the seaside hotel. While categorized as a mystery thriller, the story's charm lies in the protagonist's endearing yet subtly goofy nature, adding depth to the intricate plot. Within its pages, the book portrays a world brimming with themes of love, friendship, family, and the poignancy of loss, fostering a deep connection with the characters' journeys. It cleverly highlights the impact of the novel and film "Gidget," showcasing how they facilitated greater accessibility to surfing for girls, ultimately inspiring Nell to embark on her own surfing journey. The interwoven narratives from different timeframes captivate readers, leaving them guessing at every turn.
The novel captures my imagination with vivid landscapes, transporting readers into the heart of the story. The author meticulously crafts each character, allowing their development to unfold beautifully, enhancing the understanding of their distinct personalities. The gripping plot held me captivated throughout, and the engaging narrative style kept me glued to my seat. The author's meticulous attention to detail captivates the readers' hearts, creating an immersive experience throughout the narrative. The author's friendly tone adds an inviting touch. Seamlessly crafted, the storyline fosters an air of anticipation, compelling readers to eagerly await each chapter's revelations.
However, I found the occasional repetitive storytelling across settings somewhat slowed the pace; it's not so impactful that Nell’s discovery of the hidden room was entirely by accident. It would have been more wonderful if her findings had orchestrated the discovery.
Overall, I rate the book five out of five stars. The author skillfully weaves the intricate relationships between characters, and the story strikes a balance between mystery, suspense, and heartfelt moments. I particularly appreciated the book's realistic portrayal while maintaining a gripping sense of mystery, culminating in a satisfying conclusion. Well-edited and compelling, 'Surf and Sand: The Girl in the Seaside Hotel' is a recommended read for enthusiasts of mystery and coming-of-age novels.
******
Surf and Sand
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Meet Mary Nell Morgan, an 11-year-old, exuberant, and naturally inquisitive girl whose discovery of a 21-year-old unsolved case sparks her inner detective. Drawn by curiosity, she embarks on unraveling the mystery behind the serene pool—a cherished sanctuary that provides her solace and escape. As she delves deeper, her quest for answers yields little, until a strikingly similar disappearance occurs, echoing history. Will this new enigma also remain shrouded in secrecy? Does the pool hold a deeper mystery? Will the long-buried secrets between Ginger and Lois resurface, or are they destined to remain hidden forever? Dive into 'Surf and Sand: The Girl in the Seaside Hotel' by W. B. Edwards for an enthralling revelation.
'Surf and Sand: The Girl in the Seaside Hotel' by W. B. Edwards presents an enthralling tale seen through the curious eyes of a young girl determined to uncover the secrets of a vanished past. Narrated from a third-person omniscient viewpoint, the novel beautifully unfolds Nell's adventure within the seaside hotel. While categorized as a mystery thriller, the story's charm lies in the protagonist's endearing yet subtly goofy nature, adding depth to the intricate plot. Within its pages, the book portrays a world brimming with themes of love, friendship, family, and the poignancy of loss, fostering a deep connection with the characters' journeys. It cleverly highlights the impact of the novel and film "Gidget," showcasing how they facilitated greater accessibility to surfing for girls, ultimately inspiring Nell to embark on her own surfing journey. The interwoven narratives from different timeframes captivate readers, leaving them guessing at every turn.
The novel captures my imagination with vivid landscapes, transporting readers into the heart of the story. The author meticulously crafts each character, allowing their development to unfold beautifully, enhancing the understanding of their distinct personalities. The gripping plot held me captivated throughout, and the engaging narrative style kept me glued to my seat. The author's meticulous attention to detail captivates the readers' hearts, creating an immersive experience throughout the narrative. The author's friendly tone adds an inviting touch. Seamlessly crafted, the storyline fosters an air of anticipation, compelling readers to eagerly await each chapter's revelations.
However, I found the occasional repetitive storytelling across settings somewhat slowed the pace; it's not so impactful that Nell’s discovery of the hidden room was entirely by accident. It would have been more wonderful if her findings had orchestrated the discovery.
Overall, I rate the book five out of five stars. The author skillfully weaves the intricate relationships between characters, and the story strikes a balance between mystery, suspense, and heartfelt moments. I particularly appreciated the book's realistic portrayal while maintaining a gripping sense of mystery, culminating in a satisfying conclusion. Well-edited and compelling, 'Surf and Sand: The Girl in the Seaside Hotel' is a recommended read for enthusiasts of mystery and coming-of-age novels.
******
Surf and Sand
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon