Murder by the Seaside – A Haunting Mystery That Unravels a Quiet Town | Addictive Audiobook Review

1. About the Author – Jackie Baldwin

Jackie Baldwin is a Scottish author best known for her gripping crime and cozy mystery novels. Before becoming a full-time writer, she practiced law in the field of criminal defense, which lends a unique authenticity to her storytelling.

She first gained attention with the DI Frank Farrell series, and has since expanded her literary universe with a new cozy mystery series featuring private investigator Grace McKenna. Baldwin’s writing is praised for its emotional depth, realistic characters, and a subtle blend of suspense and humanity. Her ability to portray personal trauma and resilience makes her work stand out in the genre.

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2. About the Narrator – Samara Maclaren

Samara Maclaren is a seasoned audiobook narrator known for her clear diction, dynamic pacing, and ability to bring characters to life with distinctive voices. Her performances span across genres such as mystery, romance, and historical fiction.

In Murder by the Seaside, Samara’s narration is consistently praised for enhancing the listening experience. Her soothing tone, well-paced delivery, and emotional range perfectly complement the novel’s cozy-yet-haunting atmosphere, making the story feel incredibly immersive and alive.

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3. Book Overview – Murder by the Seaside

Murder by the Seaside: A Completely Unputdownable Cozy Mystery Novel is the first installment in Jackie Baldwin’s new mystery series featuring Grace McKenna, a former police officer turned private investigator. Set in the quaint coastal town of Portobello, the story opens with the murder of a popular psychic. As Grace and her quirky team—including friends Hannah, Jean, and a lovable dog named Harvey—begin to investigate, secrets buried beneath the surface of the community begin to emerge.

Genre: Cozy Mystery
Setting: Portobello, a seaside town in Scotland
Average Rating: 4.3/5 on Goodreads (approx. 2,000 reviews)
Awards: None reported
Sales: Not disclosed, but ranked highly on audiobook platforms

What sets this novel apart is the rich atmosphere of a small-town mystery, paired with an emotionally compelling lead character and clever plot twists that keep readers guessing until the final sentence.

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4. Book Review – Murder by the Seaside

Murder by the Seaside offers a delightful blend of warmth and suspense. Jackie Baldwin crafts a story that is emotionally engaging without losing its mystery-driven core. Grace McKenna is a refreshing protagonist—emotionally scarred yet sharp-witted and tenacious. The friendship among the main characters adds layers of charm and humanity to the investigation.

Strengths:

• Intriguing plot with surprising twists

• Strong character development, especially Grace, Hannah, and Jean

• A cozy, emotionally engaging tone

• Excellent pacing and setting

Weaknesses:

• Some dialogues may feel repetitive in the middle

• Grace’s vulnerability can sometimes feel exaggerated for a former detective

Notable Reader Quotes:

“A perfect weekend read—mysterious and comforting at the same time.” – BookBeat Reviewer
“Couldn’t put it down. I stayed up all night listening.” – NetGalley Reviewer

Personal Thoughts: If you’re looking for a book that offers both emotional depth and satisfying mystery, Murder by the Seaside delivers. It’s a rare find in the cozy mystery genre—both heartwarming and unsettling in just the right balance.

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5. Audiobook Review – Murder by the Seaside

The audiobook version of Murder by the Seaside is a standout. Samara Maclaren’s narration brings nuance and energy to the story, helping listeners stay engaged from beginning to end.

Strengths:

• Clear voice with good character distinction

• Excellent emotional delivery

• Smooth pacing that matches the story’s rhythm

Weaknesses:

• Descriptive passages may feel slow-paced to some listeners unfamiliar with cozy mysteries

Critical Reception:

• Audiobooks.com: 4.5/5

• Audible: 4.3/5

Notable Listener Quotes:

“Samara brought Grace McKenna to life. I felt like I was right there with her.” – Audiobook Listener
“I only meant to listen to one chapter. I finished the whole book in one sitting.” – Audible Reviewer

Personal Reflection: For audiobook fans, this is a must-listen. Samara’s narration elevates the narrative, making even the quietest scenes resonate with subtle emotion.

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6. Who Should Listen to or Read This Book?

Murder by the Seaside is ideal for:

• Fans of cozy mysteries and small-town whodunits

• Listeners seeking an emotional, well-paced audiobook

• Readers who enjoy strong female protagonists with complex backstories

• Those transitioning from traditional books to audiobooks

It’s also perfect for listeners who enjoy a mystery with minimal violence, emotional depth, and a touch of Scottish charm.

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7. Conclusion

Murder by the Seaside is a remarkable entry into the cozy mystery genre. With Jackie Baldwin’s heartfelt storytelling and Samara Maclaren’s captivating narration, this audiobook is as emotionally satisfying as it is mysterious. Whether you’re curled up on a rainy afternoon or out on a walk with headphones, this story will pull you in and not let go.

Add this audiobook to your must-listen list today—it’s a mystery you’ll want to revisit.

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8. Where to Listen to the Audiobook

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You can listen on the following platforms:

• Audiobooks.com – Stream or download, with a free first book for new members.

• Audible – Free trial available with offline listening support.

We recommend signing up for a membership to enjoy seamless access to this and many other high-quality audiobooks anytime, anywhere.