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Copper Waters - A New Zealand Cottage Mystery (Annalisse series book #4)

By Marlene M. Bell

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DHRUV PANCHAL

Reviewed on Mar 24, 2023

Loved it! 😍

Copper Waters is a well-crafted and immersive mystery that will transport you to the stunning landscape of New Zealand.

Synopsis

Antiquities expert Annalisse Drury and tycoon Alec Zavos are at an impasse in their relationship when Alec refuses to clear up a paternity issue with an ex-lover.
Frustrated with his avoidance when their future is at stake, Annalisse accepts an invitation from an acquaintance to fly to New Zealand—an idyllic escape from the recent turbulence in her life.

Trouble follows Annalisse to her cottage getaway on the family sheep farm.

Alec asks a mutual friend and detective, Bill Drake, to accompany her on the flight. But not long after their arrival she's confronted by two peculiar deaths - either accidental, or the deliberate acts of a psychopath.

Local investigators are closing both cases too quickly. They want Annalisse to exit the country before she unearths the town’s dirty secrets.

As she and Bill pursue their own leads at serious cost, the dual mysteries force Annalisse to question everything she thought she knew about family ties, politics, and the art of small-town betrayal.

The fourth book in Marlene M. Bell's Annalisse series, Copper Waters, is a fascinating and atmospheric mystery set in the breathtaking scenery of New Zealand. The narrative of the book centres on American author Annalisse Drury, who moves to New Zealand in order to leave her past behind and start over.


Beginning with Annalisse finding a body in the waters near her cottage, the narrative takes place. It soon becomes clear that the victim was a well-known local artist as she gets more deeply involved in the inquiry, and the case swiftly becomes trickier than she had anticipated. Annalisse's research takes her across the close-knit neighbourhood, and as she digs further, she discovers a web of lies, secrets, and betrayal that poses a threat to the lives of everyone in her immediate vicinity.


The stunning location is one of the characteristics that makes Copper Waters unique. Marlene M. Bell has a gift for evocatively capturing the environment of New Zealand in her writing. The vivid and absorbing descriptions of the landscape, the shoreline, and the ambiance of the little towns give the narrative depth and complexity. The setting also acts as a character in and of itself, influencing the plot and enhancing the tension in the narrative.


The characters in Copper Waters are realistically rendered and well-drawn. The protagonist, Annalisse, is a likeable and likeable figure who is attempting to move on from a difficult past. She displays bravery and tenacity as she becomes involved in the investigation, even in the face of risk. The supporting characters have their own distinct personalities and motivations and are as well-developed. Their individual tales are expertly combined by the author to form a compelling and engaging plot.


The mystery itself is captivating and holds the reader's interest all the way through. Red herrings, unexpected disclosures, and narrative twists aplenty keep the tension at an all-time high. The story becomes more urgent as Annalisse puts herself in danger as she approaches the truth. The mystery is satisfactorily solved, and all loose ends are tied.


In Copper Waters, the prose is interesting and simple to read. The wording of the author is expressive and descriptive, and it has a good sense of pace that keeps the story going. The genuine and realistic conversation gives the characters more nuance and complexity. An good reading experience is made possible by the author's attention to detail and capacity to build a rich and vivid universe.


Copper Waters is a fantastic addition to the Annalisse series overall. It's a masterfully written mystery with a vivid backdrop, likeable characters, and a compelling storyline that makes it a really delightful read. Copper Waters is a book you won't want to miss, whether you're a fan of the series or unfamiliar with Marlene M. Bell's work.

Reviewed by

Dhruv Panchal is a seasoned book reviewer with 5+ years of experience. He's known for his insightful analysis, engaging writing style, and personal approach to reviews. Featured in The New York Times and The Guardian, Dhruv's recommendations are a must-read for any avid reader.

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