Folly Beach’s appeal is far-reaching. People travel from all over the country and the world to walk the beaches, surf the waves, and fish from the pier. Some visitors take their love and appreciation even further—by weaving Folly Beach’s shores and streets into literature. Over the years, Folly Beach has served as the backdrop for several novels, drawing readers into its unique coastal charm and rich history.
Folly Beach in Literature: A Coastal Muse
Folly Beach: A Lowcountry Tale by Dorothea Benton Frank
Dorothea Benton Frank, perhaps the Lowcountry’s best-known author, published Folly Beach: A Lowcountry Tale in 2011. The novel follows Cate Cooper, who returns to her childhood home after facing personal hardships. As Cate settles back into life on Folly Beach, her story begins to parallel that of Dorothy Heyward, the wife of DuBose Heyward, a playwright and collaborator of George Gershwin. The novel interweaves contemporary struggles with historical narratives, offering a deep dive into Folly Beach’s literary and theatrical past.
On Folly Beach by Karen White
On Folly Beach by Karen White blends history and mystery in a compelling dual-timeline narrative. Recently widowed Emmy Hamilton moves to Folly Beach to purchase a local bookstore, hoping for a fresh start. What she doesn’t expect to find are forgotten love letters, enigmatic bottle trees, and a mystery tied to Lulu, the former owner’s sister. As Emmy pieces together the past, she finds that Folly Beach holds more secrets than she ever imagined.
The Folly Beach Mystery Series by Bill Noel
Bill Noel’s Folly Beach Mystery Series is a must-read for mystery lovers who appreciate a coastal setting. The series includes Folly, The Pier, Washout, The Edge, Ghosts, and Missing, each featuring amateur sleuth Chris Landrum. After retiring to Folly Beach, Chris finds himself entangled in various local mysteries, solving crimes with the help of his quirky best friend, Charles. Noel’s series captures the island’s charm while delivering intrigue and suspense.
Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina by Loree Lough
Loree Lough’s Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina is a heartwarming novel about looking beyond first impressions. The protagonist, Holly, arrives in Folly Beach with her own set of expectations, only to discover that both the island and the people she meets have far more depth than she assumed. The story is a sweet reminder that sometimes, taking a chance on the unexpected leads to life’s greatest joys.
More Fictional Journeys to Folly Beach
In addition to these standout novels, more authors have been drawn to Folly Beach’s unique allure. Whether you’re looking for historical depth, a mystery to unravel, or a romance set against the soothing rhythm of the Atlantic, there’s a book set in Folly Beach to suit your reading taste.
Where to Find These Books
You can find these novels at major booksellers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores. Additionally, check out the authors’ websites for more information on their works and upcoming releases:
- Bill Noel – Folly Beach Mystery Series
- Dorothea Benton Frank – Lowcountry Tales
- Karen White – Southern Women’s Fiction
- Loree Lough – Inspirational Romance
If your heart and mind are already captivated by Folly Beach, let your reading material wander there too. These books offer the perfect escape, allowing you to immerse yourself in the magic and mystery of one of South Carolina’s most beloved coastal gems.
