A review by women_using_words
The Advice Columnist by Cade Haddock Strong

mysterious fast-paced

4.0

Cade Haddock Strong’s new release, The Advice Columnist, is a mystery romance that’s quite captivating. Though this is Strong’s sixth book, it’s her “first foray into the realm of true mystery writing,” her words, not mine. Although I’m new to her writing, I was still surprised to learn that this is her first mystery, as she definitely seems to know her way around the genre. The story’s plot is complex. Its unexpected twists, suspenseful moments, and intriguing secrets add depth and excitement to the narrative, keeping readers engaged and excited until the very end. 

Strong is a solid story crafter; she gives her readers relatable, but somewhat quirky characters that they can sink their teeth into. The protagonist, Lydia Swann, is a well-rounded, likable character with a distinct personality. Her vulnerabilities, insecurities, and desires perfectly facilitate the storytelling, feeding the mystery and letting events unfold with intent and interest. Lydia’s actions—as well as her emotions—drive the plot forward at a steady pace, making the storytelling reliable and credible. 

Strong provides the mystery with well-developed supporting characters as well. Many of these characters don’t have large roles, but they are fundamental to the story arc. They push the plot, reveal clues and generally make the story more cohesive and interesting. Strong uses them wisely and purposefully, expanding the narrative and making it more fun to read.

The story world of The Advice Columnist nicely enhances the overall mood and tone of the story. The Washington Post’s advice column department, with all its employees and processes, is vividly detailed and intelligibly described. This attention to detail and construction contributes greatly to the story’s sense of mystery and intrigue. Furthermore, the newspaper serves as an excellent  backdrop for clues and hidden secrets to be worked into the storyline. These clues are strategically placed throughout the story, allowing readers to piece together information and make their own deductions. Strong keeps readers on their feet, though. She uses red herrings to misdirect readers. It’s a wise move as it creates suspense and keeps things fun. However, she doesn’t overdo it. Strong knows how to execute a balance; she keeps readers surprised but not discouraged.

This is tagged as a romantic mystery, but to be honest, the story’s true strength lies in the mystery, not the romance. Though readers will like Sophia, Lydia’s love interest, they won’t spend a lot of time worrying if they will make it past the friend stage or not. They will, however, worry about Lydia’s safety as she tries to capture The Red Scarf Murderer. He needs to be caught, and they will flip pages fast to make sure that happens!

Final remarks…

The Advice Columnist provides readers with a satisfying resolution as all the pieces of the puzzle come together, revealing the truth behind the mystery as well as providing a new beginning for Lydia and Sophia. The storytelling combines a suspenseful storyline with exciting plot twists and interesting characters, guaranteeing readers will be enthralled until the very end. If you like mysteries, you won’t want to miss this.

Strengths…

• Intriguing plot
• Well-developed story world
• Well-developed characters
• Satisfying ending