Review of Pleading the Fish: Seaside Cafe Mysteries, Book 7
As a longtime fan of cozy mysteries, I couldn’t resist diving into Pleading the Fish by the talented Bree Baker. The cover—a beachy paradise blurred with the promise of intrigue—pulled me in immediately. Everly Swan, the protagonist and owner of a charming iced tea shop in the idyllic Charm, North Carolina, offers the perfect blend of warmth, humor, and tenacity. As I settled into this seventh installment of the Seaside Cafe Mysteries series, I realized I was in for another delightful journey packed with sun, suspense, and a sprinkle of Southern charm.
At its heart, Pleading the Fish explores themes of community, resilience, and, naturally, the complexities of human nature. Everly, who seems to have an uncanny knack for stumbling into murders, is back again, this time trying to enjoy her seaside oasis while grappling with the chaos that invariably surrounds her. The book cleverly weaves together the lightheartedness of beach life with the weight of mystery and the darker undertones of betrayal. I found myself captivated not only by the unfolding mystery but also by how connection—whether through friendship or rivalry—was intricately portrayed.
Baker’s writing style is both approachable and vivid; the descriptions of Charm transport you straight to sandy beaches and the sweet aroma of iced tea wafting through the air. The pacing feels just right, balancing the suspenseful moments with lighter interactions that make you chuckle. One particularly clever moment that made me smile was when Everly cheekily compared her love life to the local fish market—both are full of surprises! Baker’s humor shines through, making this a cozy read that doesn’t take itself too seriously while still delivering a solid plot.
Everly’s character continues to grow, becoming more multi-dimensional as she juggles her business and personal life with unmistakable sass and strength. The supporting cast, from her loyal friends to the occasional troublesome neighbor, all add rich layers to the narrative. It’s the relationships that create a homey atmosphere, resonating deeply with readers like me, who enjoy cozy mysteries not just for the plots but for the community that builds around them.
One highlight for me was when Everly faced an unexpected twist—without giving too much away, it reminded me that life, like any good mystery, is full of surprises, and you never know what is lurking just around the corner. Baker captures this beautifully, and her ability to keep readers guessing while building emotional stakes is commendable.
I can confidently recommend Pleading the Fish to anyone who enjoys vibrant settings, quirky characters, and a dash of suspense. Whether you’re already a fan of Everly Swan or new to the series, this installment will charm you with its delightful mix of mystery and heart. Reading it felt like sipping a refreshing iced tea on a sunny beach day—refreshing and satisfying, you simply don’t want to put it down!
If you’re in the mood for some cozy intrigue that feels like a beach getaway, this book just might be your ticket to Charm, North Carolina. Happy reading!
You can find Pleading the Fish: Seaside Cafe Mysteries, Book 7 here >>