I was very excited for "Typewriter Beach" and it definitely doesn't disappoint. After being inundated with WWII historical fiction lately, it's refreshing to see more authors exploring the post-war period instead. The classic Hollywood elements are really interesting and will appeal to fans of Hitchcock and old cinema. The atmosphere and tone capture that era beautifully!

As for the narration, I had never listened to anything by Gilli Messer before, but her voice was perfect for capturing that old Hollywood tone. She has excellent range in distinguishing between characters, especially with Chazan. This was my first time hearing her narrate, and I found her voice ideal for the story's atmosphere.

Overall, this is exactly what I've been hoping to see more of in historical fiction. If you're looking for something fresh in the genre, this one's worth your time.

The story came out of the gate with "the issue". I prefer something more subtle that will take me on the journey and as the story evolves. I only listened to half due to that abrupt beginning. The story itself was interesting and could be a good book if the editor could help to not slap us in the face right away.

I really liked this book. It was a little slow to start, but eventually it picked up. It successfully weaves two narratives with split timelines and makes you care about the characters. There is a lot going on, so sometimes it is confusing, but overall, I really enjoyed it.

This book has many of my favorite elements: Old Hollywood, dual timelines, beautiful location, Alfred Hitchcock! A lot of history plus a few surprises and some timely criticism add up to an excellent story. I highly recommend this beautifully written—and thoughtfully narrated—book.

Title: Typewriter Beach
Author: Meg Waite Clayton
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Gilli Messes
Publisher: Harper Audio
Genre: Mystery
Pub Date: July 1, 2025
My Rating: 3 stars
Pages: 320

Story setting is Hollywood and Carmel by the Sea in the 1950’s also goes into 2018.

There is a lot going on in this story ~
In 1950 we follow the relationship of actress Isabella Giori, and Leon Chazan, an Oscar nominated screenwriter. I was curious of the name been to Carmel which is beautiful and not aware of Typewriter Beach – turns out that as a young writer he would take his typewriter to the beach as it found it an inspiration to write there. Have to admit I did laugh as sand does get everywhere but true the ocean is always an inspiration!!!

In 2018 Screenwriter Gemma Chazan, must sell her grandfather's Carmel cottage. She finds a hidden safe with several items rising questions about a unknown side of ‘Chazan’.

I know there is a dark side of Hollywood but it isn’t fun to read . Doesn’t mean this tory wasn’t good but not what I was expecting.

Want to thank NetGalley and Harper Audio for this Audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for July 1, 2025.

Typewriter Beach weaves an engaging dual timeline narrative that explores the hidden lives behind Hollywood glamour and the secrets passed through generations. In 1957, Isabella Giori’s story of ambition and fear amidst the blacklist adds a compelling historical layer, while Léon Chazan’s struggles with reputation and artistic dreams paint a vivid picture of that era’s challenges. Fast forward to 2018, where Gemma Chazan’s discovery of her grandfather's secrets in Carmel brings the past into the present, raising intriguing questions about identity and legacy. Meg Waite Clayton expertly captures the moody, foggy atmosphere of Big Sur and Carmel, immersing readers in both the scenic beauty and the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys. Typewriter Beach is a thoughtful exploration of how secrets shape us, set against a backdrop of Hollywood history and the stunning California coast. An enjoyable read that combines history, mystery, and family drama seamlessly.