Marjorie Kneece’s second book is very personal to her and her family history. 

“I (Heart) Lake Murray” was published last December with more than 400 photos Kneece took of the lake, its surroundings and many of its animal inhabitants. 

“I grew up on Lake Murray and my grandfather bought land in the 1960. [He] used to be a builder in Irmo,” Kneece told the Chronicle. “I went to Chapin schools and lived here most of my life. It’s my home.”

But while there are some parts about Kneece’s family history, her family is not the main focus of the book.

She explained that the first chapter sets the stage with photos she took of the different seasons around the lake. The second chapter looks at activities around the lake including restaurants, recreational activities and landmarks.

The last chapter of the book is about what Kneece calls the “hidden gem of Lake Murray.” She details the Saluda side of the lake, which she said is more natural and less developed.

“It’s a certain ecosystem that many don’t see,” Kneece said. 

While the book is definitely coffee-table-worthy, as Kneece said she has had some people tell her, but it’s more than just a book for decoration, she offered.

“Since I wrote the book, people have come to me saying, ‘I’m surprised about certain things,’” Kneece said. 

There are things many people likely don’t know about Lake Murray which can be found in her book.

For instance, there’s the airplane that was pulled from the reservoir and the islands that were used for bombing practice during World War II.

At the end of the book, Kneece includes an activity checklist to encourage people to explore for themselves.

“If you read my book from cover to cover, it’s from my heart,” Kneece says. “I grew up here and this lake is a huge part of my family. My uncle and dad were also writers and I want to carry on the traditions of my family.”

Prior to writing about Lake Murray, Kneece authored a book about Yellowstone National Park and is in the process of writing a book about Charleston, where she has lived for five years. 

“I (Heart) Lake Murray” is available online and at a number of retailers and local shops, including Wingard’s Market, High Noon, Palmetto Fine Arts.