A secret. A black book. A Catholic Schoolgirl who asks too many questions.
“One cannot help but visualize and feel each scene through rich observation and insightful, time-tethered imagery. While suspense prevails, the gifted author’s sense of humor entertains throughout. Enjoy. Feel. Think. Learn.”
-SUSAN ROSENBERG
Asbury Park Historical Society
Docent, Stephen Crane House
Asbury Park, New Jersey, 1958. Sixteen-year-old Ivy Jean Munroe longs to escape the rigid confines of her Catholic school and the narrow life mapped out for her. Inspired by the fearless women of espionage she’s read about, Ivy dreams of becoming a detective, an ambition dismissed by her parents and impossible from within the walls of St. Teresa’s.
When Ivy stumbles upon a secret tied to the school’s domineering head nun, she sees an unexpected opportunity. Teaming up with Stella, the resident troublemaker, Ivy forms an unlikely alliance to uncover the truth. But as their investigation deepens, so do the risks. In a world governed by strict rules, unspoken power, and dangerous loyalties, some secrets are not meant to be exposed.
Fifteen years later, the past her parents thought she had put behind her resurfaces, and Ivy must reveal the truth.
Set against the vivid backdrop of the mid-century beach town, this coming-of-age mystery blends the discovery of desire before understanding love with suspense and richly observed historical detail. At its heart is a story about female ambition, moral courage, and the cost of defying expectations in a time when girls were taught to stay silent.
Perfect for the young adult and the young at heart. Readers who enjoy historical fiction with mystery elements, strong female protagonists, and emotionally resonant storytelling, such as The Book of Lost Names, The Secret Book of Flora Lea, Out of the Easy, and the historical fiction of Kate Quinn. Whispers of Sea Glass explores faith, rebellion, and the quiet bravery it takes to choose one’s own path.
Author: Wendy Lynn Decker
Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Virtual Serenity
Published: 04/14/2026
Pages: 308
Weight: 0.79lbs
Size: 8.50h x 5.50w x 0.69d
ISBN: 9798994997819
Language: English
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