About the book
Blurb from Goodreads
People disappear. Secrets remain . . .
1940: In south-west Ireland, the young and beautiful Lady Charlotte Rathmore is pronounced dead after she mysteriously disappears by the lake of Blackwater Hall. In London, on the brink of the Blitz, Nancy Rathmore is grieving Charlotte’s death when a letter arrives containing a secret that she is sworn to keep – one that will change her life for ever.
2019: Decades later, Ellie Fitzgerald is forced to leave Dublin disgraced and heartbroken. Abandoning journalism, she returns to rural Kerry to weather out the storm. But, when she discovers a faded letter, tucked inside the pages of an old book, she finds herself drawn in by a long-buried secret. And as Ellie begins to unravel the mystery, it becomes clear that the letter might hold the key to more than just Charlotte’s disappearance.
My Thoughts
Being a fan of historic fiction, this book set in Ireland, involving a mysterious manor house, a long-lost letter found in a charity shop and a curious family disappearance, immediately grabbed my attention.
Told with multiple timelines and POVs, the author made the transition and time jumps feel effortless and well-connected. Amanda Geard’s writing is beautifully descriptive and engaging, bringing this well-thought-out story to life.
Firstly, I was keen to find out what Ellie’s back story was. How did she end up “disgraced”, having lost her job in Dublin and moving in with her mother in Kerry County? And then, discovering the letter in the bookshop, linking to a family who has lived in the area for quite a long time. A family that no one seems to know a lot about, and hearing whispers of a dark family secret.
As usual, I want to keep the review spoiler-free, but what I will say is to expect a few twists and surprises along the way. All while getting lost in the gorgeous Ireland scenery and captivating characters.
What to expect:
• Descriptive scenery and well-developed characters
• Family intrigue and drama
• Strong female Friendships
• Multi-layered story
• Captivating debut!
With thanks to Exclusive Books for the opportunity to read this book.
RRR (Roelia Reads Rating) 4/5 stars
About the author: https://www.amandageard.com/