This month, my local library’s Nonfiction Book Club took a deep dive into Cold Water Crossing: An Account of the Murders at the Isles of Shoals by David Faxon—a gripping true crime mystery rooted in the history of the Isles of Shoals, a cluster of islands just off the coast of New Hampshire. Told through a unique chapter-by-chapter format that chronicles the events by date, the story is as much about the harsh weather of a New England March as it is about the tragic events themselves.
I read this book during the same time of year as the events unfolded, which added a remarkable layer of connection for me. Living on a mountain in central New Hampshire, I experienced firsthand the type of weather described so vividly in Faxon’s narrative—bone-chilling winds, snow, and the rugged relentlessness of early spring in New England.
In this review, I’ll explore how the author’s atmospheric storytelling, combined with the book’s historical intrigue, created a hauntingly immersive experience. Despite some flaws, it’s a read I’d recommend to anyone fascinated by true crime, survival stories, or the rich history of the New Hampshire coast.
Cold Water Crossing: An Account of the Murders at the Isles of Shoals by David Faxon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
David Faxon’s Cold Water Crossing takes you deep into a gripping tale of resilience and tragedy tied to a real-life disaster in 1902. As someone who’s lived on a mountain in Central New Hampshire, Faxon’s vivid portrayal of harsh March weather on the Isle of Shoals hit close to home for me. His descriptions are so detailed and accurate, it’s almost like he’s experienced the brutal New England winters firsthand. The format of the book as a dated journal adds an intriguing layer, making my experience even more immersive, especially reading about the murders exactly 150 years to the day they occurred—truly a chilling coincidence.
However, this book isn’t without its flaws. Poor grammar and repetitive sections occasionally mar the narrative, detracting from the overall experience and making it a 4-star read for me. Despite these issues, Cold Water Crossing is still a compelling read for anyone interested in true crime or the history of New England, particularly the NH and Maine coasts. Although the pacing can slow down due to extensive character backstories, the richly woven tales make it worth the patience. For those fascinated by survival stories and local history or just looking for a story that brings the chill of the past to life, Cold Water Crossing shouldn’t be missed.
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If you enjoy exploring historical mysteries, tales of survival, or true crime with a local twist, Cold Water Crossing is a book you won’t want to miss. The gripping story and vivid setting make it a compelling read, especially for those interested in New England history.
Have you read it or have thoughts about similar true crime stories? I’d love to hear your take in the comments—let’s discuss! And if you’re intrigued but haven’t picked up a copy yet, check with your local library or download it digitally through the Libby app. Supporting libraries not only gives you access to great reads but also connects you to your community’s shared love of books. Happy reading!
All artwork featured on this blog is proudly created and rendered by Xine Segalas.
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