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The Girl From Venice by Siobhan Daiko

Jun13

So Powerful, So Brave

The Girl From Venice by Siobhan Daiko is a powerful dual timeline novel that has its roots in fact.

The tale is set in 2010 and also during World War II in Italy. It is a search for roots after a grandmother has passed away. All her life, her upbringing has been kept secret for fear of re-living the past. “A painful past still too raw to re-live.” Finding a photo, leads to a trip of discovery that reveals not only the past but also sheds light on roots for the present.

Italy 2010 was very different from war torn Italy. In 2010 the reader ‘feels’ the light, the heat, the food and the welcoming atmosphere. All of which spring to life under the artistic pen of Siobhan Daiko.

In complete contrast Italy during the war years was a terrifying place to be especially if you were Jewish. After Italy’s ceasefire with Britain and America, the Nazi’s marched in, rounding up the Jewish people. Bitter battles with partisans followed, with severe reprisals. Siobhan Daiko has captured the fear and also shown the bravery of the ordinary citizens.

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The Lost Heir by Jane Cable

May23

Cover Reveal

The Lost Heir

Cornwall, 2020

At the beginning of lockdown, teacher Carla Burgess needs to make some changes to her life. She no longer loves her job, and it’s certainly time to kick her on-off boyfriend into touch. But then, while walking on the cliffs she meets Mani Dolcoath, a gorgeous American with a dark aura.

Mani is researching his family history, and slowly their lives and their heritage begin to entwine. The discovery of a locked Georgian tea caddy in the barn on her parents’ farm intrigues Carla, but then she starts to see orbs, something that hasn’t happened since her grandmother died. They terrify her and she’ll do anything to outrun them, but will she lose Mani’s friendship in the process?

Cornwall, 1810

Harriet Lemon’s position as companion to Lady Frances Basset (Franny) perfectly conceals the fact they are lovers. But when Franny is raped and falls pregnant their lives are destined to change forever.

The one person who may be able to help them is Franny’s childhood friend, William Burgess, a notorious smuggler. But he has secrets of his own he needs to protect. Will his loyalties be divided, or will he come through?

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Buttercups In The Basement by Jane Harvey

Apr19

The Dawn Of A New Era

Buttercups In The Basement by Jane Harvey is the delightful second book in the Hummingbird House series which I am really enjoying.

The action alternates between present day and 1967 when the landlord moved in. I recommend reading the books in order so you can follow the action. Present day events are the same as in book one but seen from a different perspective. In 1967 the young lady has her whole future ahead of her. Fast forward to present day to the eighty two year old with a huge heart, love and compassion for others.

The swinging sixties was a time of great change but life was still restricted for some. The world was beginning to change but it is horrific to see that there were back street abortions, and also a character was severely beaten because he homosexual. Characters were not free to be who they were meant to be, placing pressure on them to conform to society’s views.

There is the theme of female camaraderie as a new friendship is birthed providing love and support.

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The Collaborator’s Daughter by Eva Glyn

Apr14

A Beacon Of Hope

The Collaborator’s Daughter by Eva Glyn is a compelling dual timeline tale that I read in just one sitting. This is a tale that enthralls, entertains and enchants the reader. It is a tale that blends fact and fiction, educating as you read.

Much of the book is set in 2010 Croatia but looking backwards to 1944 after the Nazi’s had fled. The lead character grew up in England, after her mother fled with her in 1944. She longs to know her roots, seeking out her father – was he hero or traitor?

It is also a story about new beginnings. We are never too old for a fresh start. The two lead characters are in their sixties. They both have tragedies, regrets and sorrows behind them. Is it time to take a chance, grasp life and learn to live again?

Croatia in 2010 is very different from 1944 when fear and tension were all around, and trust was in short supply. In contrast, in 2010 lives live in freedom, tasting food and coffee, experiencing sun, sea and laughter. As the past unravels, lives in present day mirror the course and open up.

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