Cathy C. (cathyskye) -
Helpful Score: 2
Ellery Adams' Books by the Bay series has long been one of my favorites for the plots, the three-dimensional characters, the local history, the mouth-watering food, and the insights into a writing group each book has provided.
In Writing All Wrongs, Olivia and Rawlings have a problem or two to iron out in their brand-new marriage, and Olivia has another chance to come to terms with her biological father. Adams once again does a superb job in showcasing the history of the North Carolina coast. (It's certainly rich enough to fuel hundreds of crime fiction plots.) There's also a spine-chilling sense of dread throughout the scene involving the opening of a bookstore.
I have to admit that there were a couple of things I missed. The Bayside Book Writers were primarily sleuths in this book, and I did miss their meetings. I've found it fascinating to learn what can go on in groups like this-- from developing an idea to writing a book to actually getting it published. Scarcely any mention was made of Olivia's new book, although to be honest, the woman didn't have time to pick up a pen let alone do any writing. Another thing missed? I've come to look forward to descriptions of mouth-watering meals in this series, and they were scarcely to be found here.
The suspect list is a long one in Writing All Wrongs, the plot threads are many, and everything was concluded in a bit of a rush at the end. It felt a bit perfunctory, as if this book could very well have been the last. Fortunately I know that it isn't. Although this particular book may have a few little flaws, it is very enjoyable, and I still give this entire series my strongest recommendation.
In Writing All Wrongs, Olivia and Rawlings have a problem or two to iron out in their brand-new marriage, and Olivia has another chance to come to terms with her biological father. Adams once again does a superb job in showcasing the history of the North Carolina coast. (It's certainly rich enough to fuel hundreds of crime fiction plots.) There's also a spine-chilling sense of dread throughout the scene involving the opening of a bookstore.
I have to admit that there were a couple of things I missed. The Bayside Book Writers were primarily sleuths in this book, and I did miss their meetings. I've found it fascinating to learn what can go on in groups like this-- from developing an idea to writing a book to actually getting it published. Scarcely any mention was made of Olivia's new book, although to be honest, the woman didn't have time to pick up a pen let alone do any writing. Another thing missed? I've come to look forward to descriptions of mouth-watering meals in this series, and they were scarcely to be found here.
The suspect list is a long one in Writing All Wrongs, the plot threads are many, and everything was concluded in a bit of a rush at the end. It felt a bit perfunctory, as if this book could very well have been the last. Fortunately I know that it isn't. Although this particular book may have a few little flaws, it is very enjoyable, and I still give this entire series my strongest recommendation.
