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  ALYSSA HALL

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Hero of Blackpool         JAN 14
Posted by Literary Titan
   ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️           FOUR STARS
Alyssa Hall’s Hero of Blackpool is a gripping detective mystery featuring the steadfast Joe Parrott and a host of characters with intertwining lives and dilemmas. The novel kicks off with a tense prologue, setting a dark tone under the moonlit pier, and gradually shifts to the bustling streets of Sheffield and the intriguing yet dangerous seaside town of Blackpool. When Sally Booth’s roommate Hanna goes missing, the story follows Sally, Joe, and an ambitious budding investigator, Stefan Nowak, as they untangle a web of secrets and navigate personal challenges.
What stood out to me first was Hall’s atmospheric descriptions. Early in the story, the tension under the pier immediately drew me in, as did Sally’s frazzled journey through Sheffield’s noisy, chaotic streets. The detailed settings made me feel like I was walking alongside her. Hall captures a strong sense of place and mood, particularly in scenes like Stefan’s ill-prepared trip to the zoo, which was a humorous yet poignant moment showing his naivety as a private investigator.
The writing balances suspense and human emotion well, only occasionally dipping into melodrama. I found Stefan’s character a delightful addition. His eagerness to impress Joe and his half-cooked plans to solve Hanna’s disappearance lend a layer of endearing vulnerability to the plot. At the same time, Sally’s frantic yet brave persistence in finding her friend adds urgency. One standout scene for me was when Stefan discovers Hanna’s photos with the mysterious Ian and another shadowy figure. It was chilling, and Hall’s subtle hints here made my heart race.
Hero of Blackpool is an engaging blend of mystery and personal drama. I enjoyed Hall’s ability to weave the complexities of relationships, whether Joe’s mentor-like bond with Stefan or the fraught ties between Sally and her roommate, into the suspenseful narrative. It made the stakes feel real and relatable.
I’d recommend this book to fans of private investigator stories with a personal touch. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys mysteries with richly drawn characters and a sense of place, especially those who appreciate a mix of action, heartfelt moments, and the occasional touch of humor. The charm of the characters and the layered mystery make it a worthwhile read.

MY WRITING JOURNEY

With no formal background in writing, I nonetheless felt driven to try. I was surprised at how easily the words flowed ... and I managed to write my first novel, Trusting Claire, in three months. This was followed by Wanting Aidan, which was published four months later. Then I somewhat slowed down with Romero Pools, my third novel - the three of which were written within a year and a half - my first year as a published author. Romero Pools was released Christmas 2021. Now my fourth is on the way. I have, up to now, written maybe half of Hero of Blackpool. But I have slowed down considerably. I have developed patience and discipline, and feel I have grown in my art. Thank you for following my journey.
I am so proud of Romero Pools, and very excited about Hero of Blackpool, which will be released in the fall of 2022. In the story I bring back PI Joe Parrott, from Wanting Aidan. Please enjoy my books, and keep reading!
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​Now also available in select Chapters/Indigo locations.

Review of "Wanting Aidan"  theprairiesbookreview.com

10/1/2021

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Addictive, thoroughly gripping…
Hall’s solid latest sees the private investigator Joe Parrott on the trail of a young woman’s killer. Joe finds himself entangled into a murder investigation after the body of a young woman is found near his home. Determined to uncover the woman’s identity and get her justice, Joe begins his quest, unaware the truth will impact his own life. Replete with relentless suspense and shocking revelations, the narrative moves at swift pace, offering almost nonstop twists throughout. Hall layers much emotion into her writing as she deepens her flawed but empathetic protagonist’s character. Readers will be on the edge of their seats as Joe is pressed into a long spiral of twisted investigation while trying to find the truth. With its tight plotting, deeply realized characters, and crisp writing that energizes a familiar plot, the novel makes for a page-turner. Hall deserves a wide readership.

A Goodreads coffee table selection.

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