"Siobhan McSweeney captures each nuance of this creepy yet moving mystery set in 1952 in a decaying English seaside town. Listeners meet Nora, who leaves a convent after 30 years to search for a young novice named Freda, whose letters to her have mysteriously stopped. The suspense begins as Nora moves into Freda’s boardinghouse, where residents include a retired puppeteer, a resentful cook, and a carnival worker. McSweeney sounds determined as Nora subtly observes and questions the odd and secretive residents, who have varied accents and post-WWII memories. After an unexpected murder, suave Inspector Rideout—at first, reluctantly; then, enthusiastically—partners with Nora. The atmospheric weather, scenic promenade, and gentle humor, including religious wordplay, keep listeners fully involved."

– AudioFile magazine