Ruth Hogan really knows how to set the scene inviting her readers into what promises to be a magical and mesmerising tale full of entertaining characters of both the human and canine variety. I’ve read and loved this author’s previous three novels and couldn’t wait to dive right in!
Set in 1972/3 and the present the narrative switches effortlessly between the two so we are not only are treated to Imelda’s fascinating life as a clairvoyant, all the holiday park shenanigans and a bittersweet love story but to a present day mystery which may connect London based Billie, to our Brighton based keeper of secrets.Billie’s parents are now both dead, much like her marriage and career and with the sale of the family home comes a confession that will inevitably lead her to crossing paths with Madame Burova, a trusted caretaker of the truth. Imelda’s booth has served as a confessional over the years and she alone might hold the answers to the questions Billie now faces. With writing that reads like a dream Hogan gives you permission to don your rose tinted spectacles, (save for parts of Treasure and Randall’s backstory) as you solve a riddle that’s begging to see the light of day, bringing this lost woman a whole host of new friendships and a place in the world that feels just like home. Tread the pebbles with Madame Burova and Billie, along with Dasha, Star, Mabel and Sparrow, inhale the bracing sea air and raise a glass (of vodka!) in anticipation of reaching a successful and satisfying conclusion.
Reading this novel felt like taking a trip down memory lane to another era where good old fashioned seaside fun was the norm for British holidaymakers.
Set in 1972/3 and the present the narrative switches effortlessly between the two so we are not only are treated to Imelda’s fascinating life as a clairvoyant, all the holiday park shenanigans and a bittersweet love story but to a present day mystery which may connect London based Billie, to our Brighton based keeper of secrets.Billie’s parents are now both dead, much like her marriage and career and with the sale of the family home comes a confession that will inevitably lead her to crossing paths with Madame Burova, a trusted caretaker of the truth. Imelda’s booth has served as a confessional over the years and she alone might hold the answers to the questions Billie now faces. With writing that reads like a dream Hogan gives you permission to don your rose tinted spectacles, (save for parts of Treasure and Randall’s backstory) as you solve a riddle that’s begging to see the light of day, bringing this lost woman a whole host of new friendships and a place in the world that feels just like home. Tread the pebbles with Madame Burova and Billie, along with Dasha, Star, Mabel and Sparrow, inhale the bracing sea air and raise a glass (of vodka!) in anticipation of reaching a successful and satisfying conclusion.
Reading this novel felt like taking a trip down memory lane to another era where good old fashioned seaside fun was the norm for British holidaymakers.