REVIEW
What a beautiful uplifting story of hope and healing! It tackles the very sensitive subject of infertility, some of its causes and the struggles couples have with treatment and possible options. The longing for a child can be fierce and even more heartbreaking when a pregnancy ends in miscarriage. It is a topic dear to my own heart and I applaud Kennedy Kerr for handling it all so well and with such respect and compassion. She has aptly shown how this trial can leave a woman feeling like a failure and a man not sure what to do. Sadly, the stresses and expectations can break up a relationship. The waiting, the dreaming and the disappointment cut deep when things do not happen.
But although A Secret at the Cottage by the Loch deals with the trauma of childlessness and a failed relationship, the story does not end there. The gorgeous green and purple hues of heather wrap around the hearts of everyone who draws near to this beautiful Scottish landscape. For here, visitors and residents are reminded of the magic and healing power of this stunning setting and the warm close knit community that dwells within its hills.
This story ultimately is about thirty- seven year old Liz Parson. A very talented women who helps businesses get back on their feet. She has a glowing reputation so is hired for a new job in the quaint village of Loch Cameron to boost a failing distillery. But why would a successful business woman leave a large organisation in the city and come to a remote location for less pay and less visibility? She knows she can do the job well, of course, but this move offers her a fresh start. She has suffered great personal loss and needs to get as far away from her sadness and disappointment as possible—in a place nobody knows her. But can distance erase the pain? Maybe not, but different surroundings and a new job can change her focus. And when she meets Ben, the owner of the distillery, an unexpected spark begins. The journey is a gentle one but there are errors and bumps, too. They work well together, though, and Liz comes up with a great plan for the business that also uncovers some interesting secrets of the Old Maids of Loch Cameron. I loved learning about these pioneers of the past and also more about Gretchen (such a sweet and fiery soul) who owns the cottage where Liz lives.
The two men in Liz’s life are quite different. Her ex was a challenge but I adored Ben for so many reasons. His understanding heart and winsome warmth shines on these pages. But there are rumours about his past. A failed relationship that sets Liz’s mind into a panic. Can she trust him? Is he what he seems or is there a colder, darker side of him? Confusion grips her for what she sees and what she hears are polar opposites.
It was such a delight to curl up in a comfy chair and get lost in the lives of Liz and Ben: to explore the Scottish wonders with them. I absolutely adored this gorgeous heart-warming novel by Kennedy Kerr. There is sadness, yes, but joy, too. Tribulations are part of life. But things have a way of working out. Just as they did for Liz. Reading this novel rejuvenated my heart and reminded me of some of my own past trials and triumphs. Fiction can do that and this tender novel has led me back to the gorgeous setting of Loch Cameron.
I must add, the writing style is effortless and haunting. The words flow like moonlight on a silken sea. Kennedy delivers all the beauty and magic of the Scottish landscape. The natural elements burst forth in vibrant crisp images that fire your imagination. I appreciate this novel and thank Kennedy for delivering such an exceptional message. It is a lighthouse for women who seek hope and healing. Self-fulfilment is possible even when things don’t go as planned. This treasure excels even beyond the glorious heights of book one! And that is saying a lot, since it is very special, too. I highly recommend this perfect passionate story. 5 Brilliant Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
