Can’t-Wait Wednesday (On a Thursday): Coastal Views to Die For by Sam Lumley

Can’t-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings, to spotlight and discuss the books we’re excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they’re books that have yet to be released. It’s based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This month I’m highlighting Coastal Views to Die For by Sam Lumley. This is Book 2 of Oliver Popp’s Travel Guides to Murder, and I adored book 1: How to Have a Killer Time in D.C. (See my review of book 1 here.) 

May 26, 2026 by Kensington Cozies, 288 pages

Summary:

The fabulous Oregon coast is a scenic getaway to behold, but for a gay, autistic travel writer and amateur sleuth, there is no such thing as a vacation from murder…

Though sparks flew between travel writer Oliver Popp and extroverted photographer Ricky Warner on their last assignment together, when they’re teamed up again for a road trip, they agree to keep things low-key. But that’s a little at odds with Oliver’s new finding romance on the Oregon coast. The destination is a picturesque inn overlooking the Pacific. With the crashing waves below, it seems like an ideal spot for dramatic love connections.

Curiously, the other guests are innkeeper Mary Alice’s large extended family, headed by a fabulously wealthy aunt, with various children, in-laws, husbands and wives, all vying to stay in her good graces…and her will. Then on the first night, settling into their room, Oliver and Ricky make an unsettling a dead man in their hot tub—one of Mary Alice’s tragically unlucky relatives who, from the looks of it, dropped in from the balcony above. The sheriff concludes it was an accident. Considering the circumstances of this odd family reunion, Oliver and Ricky have doubts.

When another body turns up, the vibes on what was supposed to be a relaxing getaway take an absolutely sinister turn. As family secrets, old grudges, and greedy motives come to light, Oliver’s sleuthing side is coming out. Who’s the next heir in line to die? As the suspects pile up, Oliver is certain of only one it’s no mystery that murder is bringing him and Ricky closer together…



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About Me

Welcome! I started my career as a children’s librarian, later becoming a public library director and now I’m a stay at home mom. While my career might have changed, my love of reading has been a constant since I was in 4th grade, and I read over 200 books a year. I love talking about books and connecting readers of all ages with just the right book. Thanks for reading!