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REVIEW
I cannot begin to know what to say about this powerful mystery romance that took me on such a mysterious and satisfying emotional journey, it left me speechless. I will never forget The Diary at the Last House Before the Sea or its brave Audrey, clever Clara, gentle River, duplicitous Bartie, suppressed Geoffrey and devoted Julie. This is to date my all-time favourite of a mesmerising series I truly love. Although book seven of Heaven’s Cove can be enjoyed as a stand-alone with no issue, it will most likely inspire readers to check out the first six as they are all compelling reads. Liz Eeles is an exceptional author and for me, she keeps going from strength to strength. Her characters are believable, her plots exciting and her writing extraordinary. Without question, this story stormed into my heart and took up residence!
A fascinating complex mystery centred on the past is at the heart of this novel. A diary comes to light that becomes the bridge to the past. It has been tucked away in Violet’s (Clara’s late grandmother) belongings until Clara discovers it. The owner of this personal journal is Audrey Brellasham. Once Clara finds it, she is overwhelmingly tempted to read its’ contents. What harm can it do, she reasons, since the woman is dead? So, her conscience ignores rules of privacy in exchange for thoughts that it could help her better understand what happened to this woman. This in turn, may help Geoffrey, who was deeply affected by his stepmother’s disappearance.
So what really happened to this beautiful woman who by the world’s standards had everything of material value? What made her so unhappy and distraught that she would abandon her own life? She was last seen walking into the ocean fully dressed and believed to have drowned but her body was never recovered. Liz Eeles takes us on a fascinating journey to uncover the truth that will shake the foundations of the Brellasham family. But it will also set them free.
Although Violet has passed on long before the novel begins, the story still carries her presence. We learn a fair bit about her, her job at the manor and also how she was accused of stealing a very valuable diamond necklace but was later acquitted. The false accusation resulted from the fact she was seen leaving Audrey’s room. When in fact, she had been collecting the diary (unknown to others). Her reason was a good one and will make sense in the future. For this woman played an important role in Audrey’s life—at a time when women did not have much support— when they found themselves in difficult marital circumstances. Suffice it to say, the diary becomes an invaluable tool in the investigation of what happened to Audrey. And in uncloaking a major secret well concealed within its pages. A message that will rock Geoffrey and all those around him.
Thirty-one-year-old Clara has grown up on the Brellasham manor premises. She has returned to live in the cottage with her mother after the passing of her father. She has an enquiring mind and a determined spirit: the perfect person to uncover the mystery that has encircled this woman since 1957. Clara is captivated first by the commissioned painting of Audrey. Looking at her face, pose and the items that surround her, Clara notices various oddities on the canvas that gets her thinking about this woman once married to Geoffrey’s father. She discovers that two items Daphne DeMaurier’s novel Rebecca and Palmer’s Grand Dictionary of the English Language will serve as unique clues in unlocking the strange entries in Audrey’s diary. River, son of Geoffrey and her childhood friend, joins her on the exploration and together they make a great team. Along the way, romantic feelings re-germinate amidst the chaos.
The narrative is delivered by Clara, River and Geoffrey thus presenting a well-rounded picture of events and the characters’ thoughts. The old manor setting is gorgeous, too, even if it does need major repairs, as there still is a sense of grandness, elegance and awe-inspiring aura about the place. It is easy to see why Geoffrey wants to keep it in his family. But there are financial challenges we learn about, solutions presented and certain events happen that will expose some less than honourable intentions.
I won’t say anymore but there are many unique threads to this story that give it great depth and poetic beauty. I could not set it down for it drew me in from the first page with its historical mystery, intriguing characters, use of literature and tri-perspectives. I cannot rave enough about this beautiful story that has a most wonderful ending! And just look at the gorgeous cover! The best book yet of this inspiring series. Loved it immensely and highly recommend it with my whole heart. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
