This is a good mystery, well-plotted and suspenseful. I love the Northwoods setting and the interesting relationships among families and friends. The only reason it's 3 instead of 4 stars is that it's really a romance novel disguised as a mystery. I don't mind a love interest, but it feels like the love story is really what's driving the book, not the mystery. So, I think lots of readers will love it, but I wish it the marketing were more transparent about what genre book it is.

Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Gripping!

Jordan returns to Northwoods, an old holiday spot she used to go to with her family. When a colleague quits suddenly, she’s offered the chance to be conservation warden there. Hanna has also returned to Northwoods to help care for her aunt Dottie, so is staying with them and helping out at the diner when she meets Jordan. When a body is discovered in the flowage, the community is rocked and Jordan and Hanna are pushed together as they work hard to solve the crime and keep the town safe.

I was intrigued from the very first chapter, then completely gripped by this story, to the point I couldn’t put it down. The plot was brilliant, and for once I thought I’d worked out who was at the centre of all the upset, but due to the clever storytelling and intenseness of the story…no surprise…I was wrong; again! But that really was an unsuspecting way to set the scene and an unexpected twist that just had me desperate to learn the truth. There was so much emotion and empathy packed into all of the characters and their situations that I instantly fell in love with them all. Despite the underlying grimness of what had happened at Northwoods the story also had a light-heartedness and many moments to help balance it and remind you that even when things seems bad there are moments of joy and hope.

Jordan and Hanna had one of those instant connections that drew them unexpectedly together. What I enjoyed most was their relationship was explored realistically in the time frame of the story, without detracting from the importance of finding the answers Jordan needed to learn why they’d found the body in the flowage. It was so obvious that they both had a love for Northwoods as a place as well as for each other. Both Jordan and Hanna were so kind, and definitely the type of people you’d want as friends. They were so likable and made a great team, even if Hanna was determined to also put herself in potential danger when asked not to.

Really enjoyed this and cannot recommend it enough. It’s the type of story you never really forget and a must read for any crime and mystery lovers.

In *Waterlogged* by Nance Sparks, readers are transported to the serene yet mysterious Northwoods, where the promise of a peaceful escape quickly turns into a heart-pounding whodunit. Conservation warden Jordan Pearce, seeking solace from her high-pressure life on Southern Wisconsin’s busy lakes, accepts a transfer to a seemingly idyllic community steeped in childhood nostalgia. But her plans for a tranquil new start are disrupted when unsettling events, culminating in the discovery of a body in the flowage, shatter the quiet charm of the area.

Sparks masterfully weaves romance and suspense through the intersecting lives of Jordan and Hanna Quinn, who has returned to the Northwoods to care for her ailing aunt. The chemistry between the two women is palpable, offering a tender counterbalance to the rising tension in their small community. Hanna’s warmth and resilience contrast beautifully with Jordan’s tough determination, creating a dynamic relationship that feels authentic and deeply human as they navigate love, loss, and danger.

The novel’s atmospheric setting becomes a character of its own, with Sparks vividly capturing the beauty and isolation of the Northwoods. The mounting suspense, combined with the poignant exploration of family and community ties, keeps readers hooked until the final twist. *Waterlogged* is a compelling read, blending romance and mystery in a way that feels both heartwarming and chilling, leaving readers eager for more from Sparks.

A great Mystery romance with a nicely paced plot and well written characters. I found the story very intriguing and enjoyed it tremendously.
I recommend.

Thank You NetGalley and the Publisher Bold Strokes Books.

A great story about a Game Warden and a wandering woman. Hannah cam e home to care for her sick aunt. Jordan accepted a transfer after her friend suddenly resigned. There is love and murder in the plot as a mystery is solved. I recommend this book for all mystery and romance readers.

When I finished reading Appalachian Awakening by Ms Sparks, I felt like I had blisters I was so engaged. With this one, I had wrinkles on the tips of my fingers from spending so long in water…

Jordan moves to a new area to have a quieter time. She’s a warden who patrols water areas and she’s fed up with yobs and drunks. She returns to Northwoods where she holidayed as a child. The previous warden left rather abruptly and Jordan wonders why. The local sheriff isn’t helpful or interested and arriving in the middle of a massive storm, means Jordan doesn’t have much time to be friendly.

Hanna has moved back to spend time with her Aunt Dottie and her partner when her aunt’s cancer is getting her down. Hanna helps out and also works at her aunts’ diner. Cue a meeting with Jordan. They dance round each other but when you know, you know… the romance element does move quickly but when there’s stress and danger, it does tend to focus the mind.

The plotting is nicely paced, the characters are well drawn - including all the ancillary ones - the interaction between the sheriff and Jordan is credible, and overall a great mystery which kept me turning pages.

I do enjoy Ms Sparks writing. I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley

Jordan Pearce is a conservation warden or what would be called a game warden law officer in my state. She has almost twenty years of experience. She is sent temporarily to her dream location in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. It is a place that she used to vacation with as a child and learned to fish. The assignment is temporary as the previous warden left abruptly resigning via email. Jordan realizes quickly things don’t feel right but the local sheriff doesn’t think things are suspicious until they find a body.

Hannah Quinn has returned to the area to help care for her aunt while she battles cancer. She also helps keep her aunt's cafe. The attraction sizzles quickly between Jordan and Hannah. The aunts and other locals help Jordan as she tries to figure out what happened to her old colleague. Hannah is confident and flirty. She’s attracted to Jordan’s solid frame and isn't concerned about her own curviness or thick thighs.

This is a mystery that has to be solved by following the investigation. And I enjoy procedural books. I am intrigued that the cover refers to the book as a Northwoods Mystery. To me that implies that there may be more stories for the characters in the future. If I’m wrong, I got plenty of closure and highly enjoyed the story. And if there are more cases in the future for Warden Pearce I will be happy to read them.

I have read all of the author’s previous books and she is an auto read for me. (4.5 Stars)

This book has a lot of great things going for it. It’s well-written, has good pacing, and both mc’s have distinct backgrounds and narrative voices. I especially liked Hanna’s gay aunts! The problem I had, however, is the romance between Jordan and Hanna was just…odd. The relationship just felt kind of forced and the dialogue between the two was just super cringey at times. I don’t know, maybe the author was going for insta-lust but she didn’t quite pull it off.

I did keep reading the book however, because the story was intriguing and by that point I was invested enough in the characters to want to know how the case played out. No spoilers, but I will say that the conclusion to the mystery was satisfying and there was a HEA for all. Well everyone except the bad guy, that is. I think if the romance had been either left out or re-edited this could be a 4 or maybe even a 5 star book, but as is it was only mediocre.

Excellent prose and a heartfelt story that was full of tension. It left me aching to get through the story and find out what happened.

This is a really good book. The characters were very believable and the romance was really sweet between the main characters. The mystery part of this book was very good as well. There's some angst and plenty of drama to go around. I liked everything about this book. It had romance, mystery and drama all my favorites. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family, and I look forward to what's next from this author.

If you're looking for a cozy mystery/lesbian romance/place-based book, this is for you. There is nothing tragic or surprising - it's simply a very nice read, centering lesbian-positive relationships and strong female characters. Set against the Northwoods backdrop, this book is a feel-good read (with some murder and mayhem!) with action and water-filled adventure.

Murder mysteries have always captivated readers’ imaginations. They delve into the darker aspects of human nature, allowing readers to explore the complexities of what drives people to commit acts of violence. These stories often take readers on an emotional rollercoaster filled with suspense and tension. When experienced from the safety of a cozy chair, the thrill of danger becomes irresistibly appealing. That is precisely what Nance Sparks delivers in her new novel, Waterlogged.

Sparks masterfully sets the stage for this gripping murder mystery, beginning with a compelling premise. The story opens with a curious set of circumstances involving Warden Deb Ryder. Her puzzling actions immediately capture readers’ attention, drawing them into the investigation alongside Warden Jordan Pearce. Jordan’s determination to uncover the truth is tested when the standoffish and evasive sheriff shows little interest in assisting her. Events take a shocking turn when Deb is found dead in the very waters she patrols in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. As suspicions about the sheriff’s behavior grows, the mystery deepens, making the unraveling of clues an engaging challenge that keeps readers hooked.

Waterlogged offers more than just a gripping murder mystery, though. Sparks skillfully weaves romance into the narrative, adding layers of emotional complexity. What’s more, the romantic tension between Jordan and Hanna works to raise the stakes, which in turn amplifies the urgency and suspense within the storytelling. Sparks crafts Jordan and Hanna’s love story delicately though, creating a balance between tenderness and tension. Their intimate moments stand in stark contrast to the darker aspects of the murder investigation. Ultimately, this highlights the fragility of love and makes the themes within the story more poignant in the end.

It is evident Sparks did her research for Waterlogged; the setting is immersive and transportive. The Northwoods of Wisconsin, with its serene lakes and dense forests, is vividly brought to life. Sparks’ detailed descriptions of the lush greenery and shimmering waters enable readers to picture the tranquil beauty of the area. However, this idyllic backdrop also becomes the stage for tragedy, adding layers of tension and intrigue. This enriches the storytelling immensely, ultimately playing a pivotal role in shaping the narrative’s tone and tenor.

Knowing how to use and manipulate literary devices within this genre is crucial, and Sparks clearly shows she is no novice. She expertly juxtaposes the peacefulness of the outdoors with the darkness of the unfolding mystery, creating a story world that is rich, dynamic, and textured. The veneer of tranquility lulls readers into a sense of calm—only to shatter it with sudden moments of danger and uncertainty. This interplay between serenity and menace mirrors the complexities of human nature, adding a psychologically rich dimension to the narrative.

Sparks’ mastery of pacing is also worth mentioning; she uses it to ensure that readers remain fully engaged. The narrative alternates between moments of high-stakes action and quiet contemplation, creating a rhythm that keeps readers on edge. These contrasting rhythms also serve to deepen the emotional impact of the journey, ultimately heightening the suspense. However, Starks makes sure to balance the frenetic energy of the action with poignant pauses, inviting readers to fully digest the story. This, combined with Sparks skillful foreshadowing, makes Waterlogged an impactful piece of fiction. Sparks takes care to end each chapter with the right amount of anticipation and suspense, and it underscores exactly why Waterlogged is a true page-turner.

Final Remarks…

Nance Sparks’ Waterlogged is a finely crafted murder mystery that blends suspense and romance with an emotional depth that’s quite remarkable. Her skillful use of pacing, immersive settings, and intricate plot development ensures a captivating reading experience for murder mystery fans. The interplay of these elements not only drives the story forward but also sheds light on the complex nature of human behavior. This is a gripping, psychologically rich tale and should not be missed.

Strengths…

Well-written, well-plotted
Immersive story world
Suspenseful, page-turning narrative
Well-drawn characters
Thrilling who-done-it
Solid 4.5 stars

Jordan Pearce DNR, has had a requested in for permanent assignment in on a lake she lives as a kid. Now she’s been informed a spot is available due to another DNR’s officer sudden departure. But why did the other officer leave and where is she?
Hanna has found herself back also due to her aunts health concern.
But things aren’t going as well as hoped for Jordan and her new job, a b9dy has been found and there are a lot of questions. What’s going on on the lake? What’s the sheriff up to?
Are Jordan and Hanna going to find time for each other.
This is another well written book by Nance Sparks with some twisty storyline you’ll think you have figured out…but.

Jordan is ready for quiet pace after been working some of the busiest lakes as a conservation warden. She gets her chance when a current warden Deb resigns via email and strangely hasn’t been heard from since. Hanna returns to help her Aunt Dottie following her cancer diagnosis while helping her other Aunt Ruthie run the town diner. Hanna and Jordan meet as they get to know each other there’s a mystery going on as Jordan tries to figure out what happen to Deb the mysterious stranger she seen and a missing kayaker. I enjoy the mystery it’s isn’t how I thought it will go I like chemistry between MCs their romance although a bit quick flow easily. The descriptions of lakes and islands were beautiful.


I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.

*Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of the ARC of this book in return for my honest review.*

This was a good read with believable characters and an example of instalove that I didn't immediately hate (that's a rarity, let me tell you). The mystery also didn't go where I thought it would, which was good.

The problem was, I wish things were more fleshed out, the relationship and the mystery both. The book, in my opinion, needed to be longer. The mystery took too much of a back seat to the romance like it was a second thought and that was a bit disappointing. But as I said, it was still an enjoyable read.

What I liked about this book, as I like about all Sparks' books is that it's intelligently written. No detail is too small, no detail left out. Sparks obviously researches her plots and everything her characters do. This book is perfectly edited and it flows as all books should flow.

Hanna Quinn has come to help her Aunt Dottie while Dottie is being treated for cancer. In short time, she meets Conservation Warden Jordan Pearce, an even-tempered, supremely ethical warden of the Turtle Flambeau Flowage in the Wisconsin Northwoods. Jordan has recently taken this job after being in law enforcement in the big city. She's ready for a quieter job with less pressure. Fate has other plans.

In this twisty, angsty and dangerous story, Jordan and her surrounding cast of characters are thrown into a murder mystery that none of them could have imagined. In the middle of this murder investigation, Hanna and Jordan become attracted to each other, that I will tell you, and you'll be enchanted with their story.

Sparks writes this story with care and talent. For me to give away any of the plot would be criminal. Make sure to add this book to your collection of Nance Sparks' other works!

My appreciation to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for providing an ARC of this book.

Loved subtle information at the start, meaning I am also trying to solve the mystery. The sherif seems unsubtle so I am discounting her! Well, further in I'm not so sure discounting was correct! This may not be a “solvable by the reader novel” but it certainly is an enjoyable read. I would rate it 3.5, up to 4 possibly because the blend part was really strong, possibly not because I found the romance a bit too insta. In the end I wasn't swept up by the romance therefore also not the expression of it, so not rounded up.

Not my first book by Nance Sparks, but it is my first mystery. Just as well as the MC, thinking I knew who did it, there was more clues to follow. I enjoyed the pursuit of catching the person.
The romance was sweet with the instant attraction; loving how they worked together. The MC's were artfully created, a treasure to know. I enjoyed the secondary characters as well.
This was a great read to enjoy, another one of Spark's books that I couldn't resist. Looking forward to more in the future.

With the exception of the Epilogue, Waterlogged takes place over the course of about six days after conservation warden Jordan Pearce arrives in the Northwoods from the Southern Wisconsin lakes. Jordan wants to permanently be transferred to this "quieter" location as well as the fact that this place holds the only good memories of her childhood. Jordan accepts a temporary assignment in hopes for a permanent transfer when the current warden, Deb Ryder, suddenly resigns via email.. Deb is not seen from again following her resignation.

Hanna Quinn returns to the Northwoods to help care for her Aunt Dottie following her cancer diagnosis. She is also there to help her Aunt Ruthie run the town diner.

There is immediate attraction between Hanna and Jordan when they meet. But there is also a mystery unfolding with Deb Ryder, a mysterious person that Jordan spots in a storm, and a missing kayaker.

This book certainly held my attention with the fast-paced plot, the twists and turns, and the mistaken identity scenarios. The chemistry between Jordan and Hanna was also solid even though their relationship moved very quickly. The descriptions of the lTurtle-Flambeau Flowage with the loons, the lakes, the reeds, the islands, and the other wildlife was spectacular. I found myself reviewing maps to try to fully absorb where all the action was taking place. 4 stars
 
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

After nineteen years as a conservation warden on some of the busiest lakes in Southern Wisconsin, Jordan Pearce is ready for a change of pace in the quiet of the Northwoods on the same lake she used to vacation on with her family. Her wish is granted when a colleague quits without notice. Everything seems to be falling into place.

Hanna Quinn returns to the Northwoods to help care for her aunt Dottie after a cancer diagnosis. Both her aunts have been her saving grace and now it’s her turn to be their strength. There’s plenty to keep her busy, and the new conservation warden is a welcome distraction from her overflowing plate. Odd occurrences put the community on edge, and the serenity of the Northwoods is rocked when a body is discovered floating in the flowage. Jordan pushes the limits of her authority to keep Hanna and her new town safe, but the truth isn’t always as it seems.

The vibes in this book are so well-written. Talk about creating atmosphere. 🙂 I loved the mystery part of this and really enjoyed the romance aspect of it as well. Both characters were relatable and well developed.

I received an advanced complimentary digital copy of this book from Netgalley. Opinions expressed are my own.