This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
The Widowmaker: A Black Harbor Novel by Hannah MorrisseySeries: Black Harbor Novels #2
Publication Date: December 6, 2022
Publisher: Minotaur Books / Macmillan
Pages: 304
Goodreads
Source: From the Publisher
Genre: Fiction / Thrillers / Suspense
Rating: ★★★★
Synopsis:
A wealthy family shrouded in scandal; a detective tasked with solving an impossible cold case; and a woman with a dark past collide in Hannah Morrissey's stunning new Black Harbor mystery.
Ever since business mogul Clive Reynolds disappeared twenty years ago, the name "Reynolds" has become synonymous with "murder" and "mystery." And now, lured by a cryptic note, down-on-her-luck photographer Morgan Mori returns home to Black Harbor and into the web of their family secrets and double lives. The same night she photographs the Reynolds holiday get-together, Morgan becomes witness to a homicide of a cop that triggers the discovery of a long-buried clue.This could finally be the evidence to crack open the chilling cold case, and Investigator Ryan Hudson has a chance to prove himself as lead detective. If only he could stop letting his need to solve his partner's recent murder distract him. But as Morgan exposes her own dark demons, could her sordid history be the key to unlocking more than one mystery?
REVIEW
I enjoy reading suspenseful, mysterious, and thrilling books, and “The Widowmaker: A Novel” by Hannah Morrissey fits that description perfectly. Honestly, I would even call it a phenomenal book. It immediately captured my attention from the beginning and held it throughout the entire story. Every time I thought I had everything figured out, I was proven wrong. This book delves into dark and difficult topics such as child molestation and exploitation, although they are not the main focus. At its core, this book is a crime novel with various interconnected mysteries and crimes waiting to be solved.
The story revolves around Hannah, who reluctantly returns to her hometown, a place she never wanted to see again. Upon her return, she becomes entangled with the town’s wealthiest family. They are hiding a multitude of deadly secrets behind their prestigious status. We also meet Hudson, who is determined to uncover the truth surrounding his best friend’s death, all while safeguarding his own secrets that could impact his career.
One of the most challenging aspects of “The Widowmaker: A Novel” is the seamless blend of police investigative procedures and the personal secrets of the extensive cast of characters. As the story unfolds, you gradually discover the intricate connections between them. Unlike some books, there are no supernatural elements present, which I appreciate. It can be frustrating when every good or bad occurrence in a book is attributed to something supernatural.
This book focuses on the raw essence of humanity, with all its flaws and darkness, illustrating how the characters’ experiences shape them. While I didn’t develop a deep attachment to any of the characters, I also didn’t despise any of them, even the antagonists. They were all incredibly human and relatable in their actions and experiences, even if I didn’t agree with what they did. Hannah did an exceptional job weaving this complex detective mystery thriller while also shedding light on the darkest aspects of humanity without resorting to excessive gore or graphic scenes.
“The Widowmaker: A Novel” by Hannah Morrissey is a masterfully crafted and thought-provoking story that will captivate you from the start and linger in your mind long after you finish reading. I listened to the audiobook at 1.75 speed, and I was able to absorb all the details and complete the book in a single workday. The audiobook narration was beautifully done, and I particularly appreciated the use of both male and female voice actors. It added a refreshing perspective and helped to break up the narrative.
