Master Chronology & Reading Order

The Saltstone Cases

Begin with Maeve Vance, a stormbound island, and one estate with too many secrets. Follow the clues from there; Saltstone has a habit of keeping its most interesting stories tucked away.

Case 01 · Start here

The Last Lot of Douglas Haddock

Maeve Vance returns to Saltstone to catalogue the workshop of a retired ferry pilot. She expects weathered charts, family quarrels, and coffee left warming on the stove too long.

Then someone is found dead beneath an overturned drafting table. The storm has stopped the ferry. Everyone has a story, and Maeve is beginning to notice what their stories leave out.

A few things worth noticing

A sounding lead in the wrong place.
A missing piece of indigo cloth.
A fresh coat of oil that has not quite dried.

The island has more to tell

Cases on the horizon

These stories are taking shape. Their titles and details may change as Cora follows the clues.

CASE 02

A Shrewd Appraisal

One more valuation. One more reason to suspect that on Saltstone, the figures never tell the whole story.

In the works

CASE 03

The Clockmaker's Bequest

A clockmaker’s legacy has Maeve looking twice at what was left behind—and at who is keeping time.

In the works

CASE 04

The Widow's Walk

An old house overlooks the harbor. Its best view may be of the secrets below.

In the works

CASE 05

The Cooper's Measure

A familiar craft, an unfamiliar measure, and another island story waiting to be opened.

In the works

A note from the ferry desk

A few good questions

The coffee pot is on. Here are the answers readers usually ask for first.

Where should I begin?

Start with Case 01, The Last Lot of Douglas Haddock. It introduces Maeve, Saltstone, and a houseful of evasive people.

Should I follow the cases in order?

That is the loveliest way to know the island. Each case stands alone, while friendships and old grudges keep growing.

Can I read a little first?

Of course. Open the first chapter of Case 01 above and see how you feel about the ferry ride.

How will I hear about new cases?

The Saltstone Press will carry notes from Cora and island news. Signups will open when the mailing desk is ready.