It’s October 1987, and life gets complicated for Sheriff Wade Thompson when he’s asked to assume guardianship over seventeen-year-old Lily, the daughter of his childhood best friend, Emma Parker, who disappeared just months after Lily was born.
With Lily now in his life, memories of Emma come rushing back, and Wade becomes obsessed with solving the mystery of her disappearance. When the body of a young woman is discovered on the beach of a nearby island, Wade convinces himself there’s a connection, and he decides to officially reopen an investigation into Emma’s case.
Wade suspects that Lily’s unknown father might be the man responsible, not only for Emma’s disappearance, but also for the woman on the beach. He’s determined to find the truth about Lily’s paternity and, ultimately, the truth about Emma. But the truth might not be something Wade is prepared to hear.
With Atlantic coastal beaches and tidewater marshes as a backdrop, the novel interweaves two timelines, recounting a friendship almost ruined by pride and jealousy, and lives forever changed by a mysterious disappearance.
The Solace of Autumn is a touching, heartbreaking, character-driven novel about time and place, love and loss, friends and family, and a mystery born from secrets.
The Solace of Autumn, Michael's debut novel, arrives on January 14, 2025.
"This is a wonderfully atmospheric and character-driven story that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. . . . Michael D. Pappas’ character development is fantastic. He brings each character to life so vividly that I felt as though I knew them intimately."
~ Caroline / Dog Tails and Crime Tails
"Like a wonderfully looking and sumptuously tasty statement cake this is a book full of delicious ingenious. . . . With beautifully crafted and memorable locations the book reads in bold colours and expansive landscapes. The story is told in lyrical and expressive language. The writer’s craft evident here, in his knowledge of this period, locale and relationships."
~ Richard / BooksRfun
"A beautifully atmospheric debut novel. Expertly written in a way that you can feel the landscape and the characters through the pages. The pacing was spot on, building up suspense leading into a crescendo at the end, and everything was tied up neatly. . . . Loved the setting and I could really picture it."
~ Leila / Pacos Book Club
"This was an atmospheric book with a continuous pace that made pleasurable reading. . . . It's an intricate yet simple storyline at the same time, demonstrating the author's skill at weaving a story. . . . Please do read. You won't regret it."
~ Diane Loves Books
"It’s a beautifully written story that’s packed with suspense, emotion, and unforgettable characters."
~ Tiffany R.
"Great read . . . . this is an outstanding first novel by Michael D. Pappas and if this is his first, one eagerly looks forward to his next work. I highly recommend The Solace of Autumn . . . ."
~ Michael R.
"I love a story that makes me feel that I am living it. Pappas’ writing lets you see, smell and feel every scene and you feel you know his characters - their heart and their flaws. And when you think you know how it’s going to turn out, there is something to make you think again. Please write more. I want to know what is next for Wade and Ginny!"
~ MT at Duck
"I liked the writing style and the storyline. I also really enjoyed the characters in this book and how each of their stories were told."
~ Jessica W.
"The Solace of Autumn is an action-packed debut novel by Michael D. Pappas. The setting is the Eastern Shore, and Pappas does a wonder job of painting this part of the East Coast. His characters are well developed and come across as real people of the area."
~ Gail P.
"This is a well-written and compelling debut novel by Michael Pappas. . . . The characters are memorable, although on the surface they seem like regular folks. . . . I would like to read more work by Mr. Pappas."
~ Sharon S.
"[E]xcellence in plot, writing, shifting timelines between the 60's and 80's, and alternating POV. . . . [T]he surprise of The Solace of Autumn is how perfectly detailed the social life of high school seniors in the 80's is written. I was transported back in time and continually impressed this is a debut novel."
~ MJ
"I very much enjoyed this read. It was a very smooth, well-developed story that pulls the reader into caring about each character. . . . Overall, I believe this is an incredible debut novel. I look forward to reading this author's next novel!"
~ Liz
"Overall, The Solace of Autumn is a masterful blend of mystery and drama, a story that lingers in the mind long after the final page. Pappas’s evocative storytelling and his ability to delve into the hearts of his characters make this a must-read for fans of literary mysteries. A solid 5/5."
~ Brendon
"I thoroughly enjoyed every page of the book. Character development was awesome. Please take the time to purchase and review this book."
~ Donna H.
"Hard to believe this was a debut novel. It’s brilliantly written with depictions of eastern Maryland described as if the author is painting a portrait. . . . Can’t wait to see what future stories Mr. Pappas will have in store for us. Highly recommend this to all."
~ Adam W.
"This book was a great read. This is a powerful out of the gate performance for Mr. Pappas."
~ JDB
"Interesting characters and gripping story line. I enjoyed this book I was glued to the pages until the end. I highly recommend this book."
~ Melinda S.
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