Murder Au Naturel

By: Sally Principale

Narrated by: Emily Shank

Length: 4 hrs and 31 mins

Publisher's summary

In a rash search for meaning and direction in her own life, Sarah Cromley finds herself on a getaway at Hidden Paradise, a nudist resort on the outskirts of Phoenix, Arizona.

With only a “butt” towel in hand, she wanders the resort and tries to fit in until someone discovers the dead body of a long-term resident who happened to serve as president of the Society of International Nudists and Naturists (SINN). Sarah’s journalism background kicks in and she embarks on a madcap adventure, combing the resort for clues and analyzing the other guests. Soon, though, she realizes the resort’s colorful characters’ willingness to “bare all” goes only skin deep. Their reticence compels her to sneak into the victim’s motorhome where she finds a hidden photo of a little girl nobody knows.

Sarah makes a sincere effort to befriend the resident psychic, Raynebow, who helps her root out information on Sam and the mysterious young girl. A sensible guest, John, also steps up, taking Sarah on an enlightening literal and metaphorical walkabout. On her journey with her new friends to identify Sam’s killer, what else will Sarah uncover?

©2022 Sallylyn Hill (P)2024 Sallylyn Hill

A Mystery at A Nudist Resort!

Sarah Cromley, an average middle-aged woman finds herself questioning her life direction. Normally, one would take a vacation, choose a new job, or move to a new city. Sarah finds herself at Hidden Paradise – a nudist resort! Oh, and she finds a dead body too!

The author, Sally Principale weaves a hilarious, yet intrigue-filled mystery. Principale creates and develops the characters richly and vividly through details and action. The dialogue is authentic feeling as well keeping the narrative moving at a solid pace. The plot twists are unexpected and well executed blending into the narrative well.

The narrator, Emily Shank, delivers a stellar performance, accurately capturing and projecting each character’s essence.
Combined with her well-paced delivery, her clear and energetic voice heightens the excitement.

This is a delightful cozy mystery-styled narrative that keeps the listener listening!

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.

Good short listen

4/5 stars

I enjoyed this audiobook, particularly its unique setting at a nudist resort, which added a fascinating layer to the story. The protagonist, Sarah, was well-developed and relatable, making her journey engaging. The supporting characters were also well-defined,

While the central mystery was intriguing, I was more invested in Sarah's personal interactions with the resort's other inhabitants. Those were really really good with different sorts of personalities.

However, I'm not a fan of the narrator, it took me a while getting used to.

Overall, this was a good, short and sweet listen, and I would definitely like to check more of the author's upcoming works in the future.