A Splash of Secrets, Book 0.5

A Cozy Prequel to the Mermaid Springs Mysteries

By: Evaine Wells

Narrated by: Cori Trumbull

Codes, Conspiracies, and Cold War Secrets – where the real mysteries hide between the lines.

When ambitious New York Herald journalist Mildred Lancaster is relegated to covering society events instead of hard-hitting news, she never expects an overheard conversation between two librarians to lead her into a web of international espionage. After discovering strange markings and damaged pages in rare art books at the New York Public Library, Mildred's reporter instincts tell her there's more to the story than simple vandalism.

Her investigation leads her to Silas Kendrick, a suspiciously inept "librarian" whose true motives remain unclear. Despite his attempts to block her at every turn, circumstances force them into an uneasy alliance. With her career at stake and danger mounting, Mildred reluctantly teams up with the enigmatic Silas, never quite sure if she can trust him. When her colleague Mason Rigby threatens to steal her story and a blackmailed librarian makes a desperate move, Mildred finds herself in a race against time where trusting the wrong person could have deadly consequences.

Set in 1950s New York against the backdrop of Cold War tensions, Secrets is the thrilling prequel to the Mermaid Springs Mysteries series, revealing how Mildred Lancaster's final big-city case ultimately led her back to her small Florida hometown. Filled with period details, coded messages, and unexpected twists, this historical mystery captures the perfect blend of noir suspense and cozy charm.

Before Mermaid Springs, there was one final case in the city that changed everything. Don’t miss the prequel to the Mermaid Springs Mysteries!

©2025 Lesa Boutin (P)2025 Lesa Boutin

Cracking the code

i really enjoyed this story. Set in the early 50s,Mildred was relegated to reporting social news and not important stories because she was female. She overhears some interesting tidbits and goes to see if there may be a story to cover. The male junior reporter with important political ties tries to steal the story just like others.

Mildred is smart and brave, but unfortunately can't change her gender to get the credit she deserves. This book is a fast, well- paced intro to Mildred's stories.

Great story, great narrator!

I loved this cozy mystery, with plenty of intrigue. The narrator brought the story to life and I was hooked from the beginning!