Mermaid Cove

By: Michelle Bennington

Narrated by: Courtney Patterson

Though Rook Campbell's life is full of challenges with work and caring for her ailing grandma, she's decided it's time to focus on her job at a local distillery, reignite her love life, and move forward from her ex—all which proves to be much easier said than done.

Meanwhile, distillers from all over have entered a prestigious bourbon contest for big bucks, prizes, and coveted bragging rights in the bourbon community. The Mermaid Cove Distillery, co-owned by Rook's friend, Patrice Dawson, is poised to take away the prize, which will solve many financial problems for the struggling business. But another distiller at the competition isn't interested in fighting fair. So when Patrice goes missing, Rook is certain the culprit is within the bourbon community. She's determined to find Patrice or die trying.

©2023 Michelle Bennington (P)2024 HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books

The protagonist in this series is soo annoying

This first book in the series was not bad, the main character was very immature for someone her age. She's even worse in the second book - the story is not very believable - this inexperienced, immature, reckless woman is supposed to solve all these murders because she is so much smarter than the professionals? And she has two great guys chasing after her? The best character is the grandmother and she has terminal cancer so won't be around much longer. Not buying the 3rd (if there is one). So many other books like this that are good.

Great Read

There is a lot to unpack in this latest book in an entertaining series. In her second outing in the small community of Rothdale, Kentucky, Michelle Bennington has upped her game as she takes readers a little deeper into the art and business of the bourbon industry, introduces more of Rook Campbell's community, and has Rook entwined in multiple mysteries, both current and past.

The characters are interesting, from likeable but frustrating Rook to her spunky but wise grandmother to the very different men in Rook's life to the women who complete their community. They will perplex, entertain, infuriate, and warm your heart.

This book will challenge mystery lovers and frustrate romance lovers. While I am never a fan of the love triangle trope, be prepared to enjoy the roller coaster.

As usual, Courtney Patterson does an excellent job of voicing these characters.