Daniel Islander to talk about her debut novel, ‘At Loggerheads’

Murder on a South Carolina barrier island brings together a sea turtle biologist and a local detective to unravel a mystery that might impact the race for the White House. 

 

That’s the logline for “At Loggerheads,” Daniel Island author Kristen Ness’ debut novel. Ness will be the featured speaker at The Daniel Island News Author Series event on May 24 at Mpishi Restaurant, 162 Seven Farms Drive.

 

Ness is an immigration attorney who is obsessed with marine biology. The setting and topic reflect her obsession and her background. A graduate of Duke University and the University of South Carolina School of Law, she grew up in South Carolina and is a volunteer for the Island Turtle Team on the Isle of Palms. 

 

Published by Evening Post Books, the novel is already garnishing praise. Mary Alice Monroe, New York Times bestselling author of 27 books, including The Beach House series, said, “Kristen Ness’ ‘At Loggerheads’ is a thrilling debut novel intertwined with mystery, nature, romance, and betrayal. Set on a lush barrier island, Ness offers the reader a rich sense of place in a whodunit that reflects on the meaning of home. A must read – especially if you love sea turtles!”

 

Promotional materials for the book promise more than just a whodunit: “This murder mystery includes romance, nature, politics, real estate, and science. With a captivating sense of place, the story unfolds as a love letter to the barrier islands and coastal towns of the South Carolina Lowcountry, where the often-opposing forces of

Mother Nature and human nature influence what people will do for money, for power, and for love.”

 

The novel revolves around scientist and Anders Island resident Brooke Edens and detective Drew Young, her closest friend and sometimes love interest. When a dead body is found on the same day as a mutilated loggerhead, the duo team up to solve the crime.

 

While Brooke’s knowledge of sea turtles helps Drew discover and decipher evidence, the many revelations, betrayals, and secrets threaten not only the investigation but also Brooke’s closest relationships and her beloved turtles. Will they be able to untangle the web of crimes and catch the killer before it’s too late?

 

Shelby Van Pelt, bestselling author of “Remarkably Bright Creatures,” said, “I came for the sea turtles and stayed for the mystery and intrigue! ‘At Loggerheads’ is a delightful debut that deftly shifts from twisty to tender, delivering a page-turning murder mystery while examining the complicated relationship between humans and the incredible creatures we share this world with. I loved this book!”

 

The event is set for Wednesday, May 24, at Mpishi Restaurant, 162 Seven Farms Drive. Dessert and drinks begin at 6:30. The author talk begins at 7 p.m. Space is limited. Tickets are free – sign up on EventBrite at bit.ly/DINews_Ness or use the QR code.

 

The author series is organized by The Daniel Island News and made possible by the generous support of the Daniel Island Community Fund and Bublish, Inc. and by donations from the community.