Death on the Adriatic by Georgina Stewart (Little, Brown Book Group UK | Constable)

"Death on the Adriatic" takes us to Koper, Slovenia, where the breathtaking coastline of the Adriatic Sea becomes the setting for a twisted tale of murder, secrets, and heartache. This contrast sets up an engrossing whodunit, diving deep into themes like loss, betrayal, and the tangled webs we weave in our relationships.

We follow a relentless investigator as they untangle a web of lies and hidden agendas, which draws us into a story that's both suspenseful and emotionally moving. Stewart expertly brings together personal stories and bigger societal problems, making the investigation more than just about cracking the case—it's also about figuring out how everyone's connected and what they've been through.

The mood is intense and vivid. Stewart paints a picture of Koper's stunning scenery so well that it feels like you're right there, watching the sun-kissed beaches and crystal-clear waters clash with the dark reality of crime. Emotions run high as suspicions grow and relationships are tested, and the characters are complex, each one bringing their own troubled past into the mix, making their interactions and motivations richer.

Stewart's writing is engaging, with sharp dialogue and insightful observations that bring the characters to life. Although some plot twists might be a little predictable, the book still pulls you in.

As someone from Slovenia, I felt a personal connection to the locations mentioned in the book and was thrilled that the author was inspired by their beauty. But I also found myself getting frustrated with the Slovenian words and the descriptions of the police ranks—these felt unnecessary and disrupted the flow of the crime novel for me. Still, that unique writing style with foreign words might inspire someone to visit our country—who knows?

3/5