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.

Some dialogue leaned toward being more expository, particularly when characters shared backstories. While these moments helped fill in important gaps, they occasionally slowed the pace of the story. For instance, the flashback explaining Joe and Stefan’s connection, while insightful, interrupted the flow of the active search for Hanna. Still, 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.

Pages: 237 | ASIN: B0BVW8XNGF