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The Lighthouse Secret
On the jagged Cork coast the Ballycotton lighthouse stands tall, protecting ships from its rocks. Four women are waiting there for their husbands to return from watch duty. Four women who swear never to reveal the truth about what happened while they were away. Decades later, Mollie, the granddaughter of one of those women, receives an anonymous letter. Family secrets never stay buried. Only Mollie’s grandmother is still alive of the four – and she’s not well enough to tell. But someone knows the truth and is threatening to reveal it all… Tracing a story of betrayal, friendship, loyalty and love, The Keepers’ Wives sweeps us into the heart of a small coastal community in the 1950s, a young girl desperate for a bigger life – and an event that comes back to haunt the descendants many years later.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 28, 2024
132 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Carmel Harrington
21 books464 followersCarmel Harrington is an International bestseller of thirteen novels. She is from Co. Wexford, where she lives with her husband, Roger, children Amelia and Nate, and their beloved rescue dog, George Bailey.
Her latest novel, The Stolen Child, was a Sunday Times best crime fiction of the year selection and was described as ‘Endlessly surprising. This complex novel requires faultless plotting, and Harrington pulls it off with consummate ease.’ Carmel’s debut was a multi-award-winning novel, and several books have been shortlisted for an Irish Book Award. She is a regular on Irish TV screens and radio and has been a guest speaker at Literary events in Ireland, UK and USA. She was also Chair of the Wexford Literary Festival for three years.
Carmel’s emotional and gripping storytelling, with relatable characters, twisting plots and evocative locations, has captured readers' hearts worldwide. Her novels, including The Lighthouse Secret, The Girl From Donegal, A Mother’s Heart, and The Moon Over Kilmore Quay, have been Irish Times, Sunday Times, USA Today, and Amazon bestsellers.
Carmel loves hearing from readers, so please feel free to connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram @HappyMrsH, or join Curl Up With Carmel Book Club, an online book club on Facebook.
Her latest novel, The Stolen Child, was a Sunday Times best crime fiction of the year selection and was described as ‘Endlessly surprising. This complex novel requires faultless plotting, and Harrington pulls it off with consummate ease.’ Carmel’s debut was a multi-award-winning novel, and several books have been shortlisted for an Irish Book Award. She is a regular on Irish TV screens and radio and has been a guest speaker at Literary events in Ireland, UK and USA. She was also Chair of the Wexford Literary Festival for three years.
Carmel’s emotional and gripping storytelling, with relatable characters, twisting plots and evocative locations, has captured readers' hearts worldwide. Her novels, including The Lighthouse Secret, The Girl From Donegal, A Mother’s Heart, and The Moon Over Kilmore Quay, have been Irish Times, Sunday Times, USA Today, and Amazon bestsellers.
Carmel loves hearing from readers, so please feel free to connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram @HappyMrsH, or join Curl Up With Carmel Book Club, an online book club on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 1, 2024
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Love the setting; the story doesn't have to be this complicated
1951 Ballycotton Coast
Four women wait and watch for their husbands to return from duty. They swear to keep the secret buried forever, no matter what. As the wives of lighthouse keepers, they have much to take care of.
2023 Maine
Mollie is in her father’s place, recovering from certain issues. As the granddaughter of one of these women, she gets a threatening note about buried secrets. However, Mollie’s grandmother (one of the four women) isn’t in a position to share the details due to health concerns.
However, there’s someone out there intent on revealing it all. What is the secret? How can it affect Mollie and her family after all these years?
The story comes in the third-person POV of Mollie (contemporary track), Beth, Katheleen, Mary, and Ellen, with a couple of short chapters in the first-person POV from the stalker/ blackmailer.
My Thoughts:
The book starts with a prologue from the past and moves on to the present timeline to establish the story. Then, we go back and forth with more chapters in the past. Thankfully, there isn’t much repetition, except for the prologue (which also could have been avoided).
The setting is beautiful, with a dose of darkness to suit the circumstances. However, the lighthouse doesn’t play a central role in the story. It is in the background and a presence that cannot be forgotten. Still, there is no scene in the lighthouse. Moreover, the title should have been The Keepers’ Wives or The Secret of the Lighthouse Keepers’ Wives. The story is about these women and not the lighthouse.
The lives of the lighthouse keepers’ wives can be hard, and this comes across clearly as we see Kathleen, Ellen, and Mary adjust to the absence of their husbands for weeks at a time and how they also have social responsibilities in the village.
All characters are flawed, some more than others. They also have redeeming qualities, some more than others. This creates a mixed blend of realistic characters. However, it also makes it hard to root for a single character. Still, I liked Kathleen’s arc more than others.
Beth’s character is a teenager (17+) in the historical timeline. Her actions and reactions don’t always make her endearing, but readers can see her point to an extent.
Since this is women’s fiction, the male characters are not as developed as the women. However, not all of them are bad, so that’s a relief. I think I liked Albie (Mollie’s dad) the most.
My issue with the book comes with the complicated plotline. Even though everything ties up at the end and comes together well, there’s no ignoring the numerous elements to track. This weighs down the plot and the pacing, making it seem longer than a 384-page book. Keeping it simple would have maintained the focus on the core theme(s).
Moreover, there’s a conflict in the present timeline for Mollie, which pales compared to the past track. I’d have preferred if this wasn’t complex, allowing readers to explore the past secrets and stuff. I couldn’t connect with this track, which meant the ending didn’t work for me.
To summarize, The Lighthouse Secret would make a good book club read and offer a lot for discussion. It will work well for those who like drama and complex plots in women’s fiction.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheLighthouseSecret
***
TW:
One Liner: Love the setting; the story doesn't have to be this complicated
1951 Ballycotton Coast
Four women wait and watch for their husbands to return from duty. They swear to keep the secret buried forever, no matter what. As the wives of lighthouse keepers, they have much to take care of.
2023 Maine
Mollie is in her father’s place, recovering from certain issues. As the granddaughter of one of these women, she gets a threatening note about buried secrets. However, Mollie’s grandmother (one of the four women) isn’t in a position to share the details due to health concerns.
However, there’s someone out there intent on revealing it all. What is the secret? How can it affect Mollie and her family after all these years?
The story comes in the third-person POV of Mollie (contemporary track), Beth, Katheleen, Mary, and Ellen, with a couple of short chapters in the first-person POV from the stalker/ blackmailer.
My Thoughts:
The book starts with a prologue from the past and moves on to the present timeline to establish the story. Then, we go back and forth with more chapters in the past. Thankfully, there isn’t much repetition, except for the prologue (which also could have been avoided).
The setting is beautiful, with a dose of darkness to suit the circumstances. However, the lighthouse doesn’t play a central role in the story. It is in the background and a presence that cannot be forgotten. Still, there is no scene in the lighthouse. Moreover, the title should have been The Keepers’ Wives or The Secret of the Lighthouse Keepers’ Wives. The story is about these women and not the lighthouse.
The lives of the lighthouse keepers’ wives can be hard, and this comes across clearly as we see Kathleen, Ellen, and Mary adjust to the absence of their husbands for weeks at a time and how they also have social responsibilities in the village.
All characters are flawed, some more than others. They also have redeeming qualities, some more than others. This creates a mixed blend of realistic characters. However, it also makes it hard to root for a single character. Still, I liked Kathleen’s arc more than others.
Beth’s character is a teenager (17+) in the historical timeline. Her actions and reactions don’t always make her endearing, but readers can see her point to an extent.
Since this is women’s fiction, the male characters are not as developed as the women. However, not all of them are bad, so that’s a relief. I think I liked Albie (Mollie’s dad) the most.
My issue with the book comes with the complicated plotline. Even though everything ties up at the end and comes together well, there’s no ignoring the numerous elements to track. This weighs down the plot and the pacing, making it seem longer than a 384-page book. Keeping it simple would have maintained the focus on the core theme(s).
Moreover, there’s a conflict in the present timeline for Mollie, which pales compared to the past track. I’d have preferred if this wasn’t complex, allowing readers to explore the past secrets and stuff. I couldn’t connect with this track, which meant the ending didn’t work for me.
To summarize, The Lighthouse Secret would make a good book club read and offer a lot for discussion. It will work well for those who like drama and complex plots in women’s fiction.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheLighthouseSecret
***
TW:
September 17, 2024
A wonderful read and my first book by this author! I loved the depiction of Irish life in the 1950's. I was a child in Ireland in the late 60's, early 70's and things hadn't moved on too much from the time in the novel. Small town and village life was difficult. Everyone knew, or had to know, everyone else's business. Gossip was the order of the day.
The secret was well kept throughout, even though the prologue gives a hint of what's to come. Friendship and camaraderie were strong between the lighthouse keeper's wives. They led hard lives and spent a lot of time on their own with their children. I liked the four main women, Kathleen, the head keeper's wife, Ellen, her best friend living next door, Mary who comes to the village as a new keeper's wife and Beth, Kathleen's daughter, although Beth could be quite trying at times.
Adding in Mollie, in the present day story was nicely done. I liked her journey and how her character developed because of what she learned in Ireland. There was one small niggle for me, hence the dropped star but I will definitely be looking out for more of this authors books!!
The secret was well kept throughout, even though the prologue gives a hint of what's to come. Friendship and camaraderie were strong between the lighthouse keeper's wives. They led hard lives and spent a lot of time on their own with their children. I liked the four main women, Kathleen, the head keeper's wife, Ellen, her best friend living next door, Mary who comes to the village as a new keeper's wife and Beth, Kathleen's daughter, although Beth could be quite trying at times.
Adding in Mollie, in the present day story was nicely done. I liked her journey and how her character developed because of what she learned in Ireland. There was one small niggle for me, hence the dropped star but I will definitely be looking out for more of this authors books!!
March 30, 2024
4.5 stars
For one delightful day, while reading this book, I was flung into a Maeve Binchy-1950s-Ireland vibe and I was there for it. It only lasted a day because once I started this book I found it impossible to put it down.
I loved and admired the strong female characters, the wives and daughters of the lighthouse keepers in Ballycotton in Cork. While the men spend three weeks out of every four keeping watch on the lighthouse island, the women keep everything going at home. They display resilience, kinship and courage in the face of adversity and I admired them all so much.
I enjoyed the secrets that wove through the book making it a page turner, and I genuinely cared the various dilemmas they faced. The relationships between them felt authentic and heartfelt, they added depth and pulled on my heartstrings.
I’m always fascinated about lighthouses and this snippet of what the families lives might have been like captured my imagination. The lighthouse might have shone a bright beacon to warn sailors of danger, but the women had no warning of the darkness surrounding them. However, together they were a force to be reckoned with and I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery, drama and friendship between them.
Highly recommended if you enjoy books with emotional themes, books with a strong sense of time and place, and characters that forge their own destinies.
For one delightful day, while reading this book, I was flung into a Maeve Binchy-1950s-Ireland vibe and I was there for it. It only lasted a day because once I started this book I found it impossible to put it down.
I loved and admired the strong female characters, the wives and daughters of the lighthouse keepers in Ballycotton in Cork. While the men spend three weeks out of every four keeping watch on the lighthouse island, the women keep everything going at home. They display resilience, kinship and courage in the face of adversity and I admired them all so much.
I enjoyed the secrets that wove through the book making it a page turner, and I genuinely cared the various dilemmas they faced. The relationships between them felt authentic and heartfelt, they added depth and pulled on my heartstrings.
I’m always fascinated about lighthouses and this snippet of what the families lives might have been like captured my imagination. The lighthouse might have shone a bright beacon to warn sailors of danger, but the women had no warning of the darkness surrounding them. However, together they were a force to be reckoned with and I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery, drama and friendship between them.
Highly recommended if you enjoy books with emotional themes, books with a strong sense of time and place, and characters that forge their own destinies.
April 4, 2024
Carmel Harrington - The Lighthouse Secret.
It’s once again that time of year, when the world is treated to a new book from one of my favourite authors, Carmel Harrington.
I was caught in the spell of The Lighthouse Secret by the end of the prologue.
It’s 1951 and four women wait at the harbour of Ballycotton, for the safe return of the lighthouse keepers who are their husbands, boyfriends, fathers and friends.
These women have a secret that they hope they will never have to speak of again.
Fast forward to the present day and it seems that the past is coming to call on the surviving women and their descendants.
Told over a dual timeline story, we meet several generations of women from a small Irish seaside village. These women all had courage and spark. They understood the value of friendships and were loyal to one another.
The story raced along at a good pace. And I was gripped!
I wanted to know what these feisty ladies had done and who knew their secret.
I was not disappointed with the outcome.
As always, Carmel Harrington writes with words that flow effortlessly and are full of Irish charm.
As well as reading a bloomin good story, this book also seamlessly blends some fascinating history about lighthouse keepers. I found it all very interesting, especially how their role and that of their family extended into the community.
It was also a treat to learn that Ballycotton is a real place. I spent an enjoyable hour exploring it on google maps. (Other maps are available!) and I was thrilled that Carmel Harrington had so realistically brought it to life in this book.
#TheLighthouseSecret is another outstanding read from Carmel Harrington.
It’s intriguing, big hearted and completely unputdownable.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to
Netgalley and Harper Collins Uk for a digital arc of this title.
It’s once again that time of year, when the world is treated to a new book from one of my favourite authors, Carmel Harrington.
I was caught in the spell of The Lighthouse Secret by the end of the prologue.
It’s 1951 and four women wait at the harbour of Ballycotton, for the safe return of the lighthouse keepers who are their husbands, boyfriends, fathers and friends.
These women have a secret that they hope they will never have to speak of again.
Fast forward to the present day and it seems that the past is coming to call on the surviving women and their descendants.
Told over a dual timeline story, we meet several generations of women from a small Irish seaside village. These women all had courage and spark. They understood the value of friendships and were loyal to one another.
The story raced along at a good pace. And I was gripped!
I wanted to know what these feisty ladies had done and who knew their secret.
I was not disappointed with the outcome.
As always, Carmel Harrington writes with words that flow effortlessly and are full of Irish charm.
As well as reading a bloomin good story, this book also seamlessly blends some fascinating history about lighthouse keepers. I found it all very interesting, especially how their role and that of their family extended into the community.
It was also a treat to learn that Ballycotton is a real place. I spent an enjoyable hour exploring it on google maps. (Other maps are available!) and I was thrilled that Carmel Harrington had so realistically brought it to life in this book.
#TheLighthouseSecret is another outstanding read from Carmel Harrington.
It’s intriguing, big hearted and completely unputdownable.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to
Netgalley and Harper Collins Uk for a digital arc of this title.
March 28, 2024
In the Prologue we find a few women, some seemingly injured, at the harbour of Ballycotton, Co Cork, looking out to the Lighthouse. 'If anyone finds out, we'll hang for what we've done'.
Well, of course, I needed to know more. And Carmel Harrington has done it again. What a beautifully written book about friendship, resilience, and empathy.
Thank you, Netgalley and Harper Collins, for this wonderful arc.
Well, of course, I needed to know more. And Carmel Harrington has done it again. What a beautifully written book about friendship, resilience, and empathy.
Thank you, Netgalley and Harper Collins, for this wonderful arc.
February 4, 2024
Another absolutely wonderful read by Carmel Harrington who is fast becoming one of my favourite authors . Right from the prologue I was captivated by the story of these women and their lives and what happened back in 1951. I also enjoyed the current timeline which we also had in the book and the relationship between Mollie and Beth. This was a book that I wanted to go on forever as I was so engrossed in everything about all these characters . This is one that will stay with my for a very long time . Simply wonderful.
April 4, 2024
The book is divided into two timelines, one set in present day and the other in 1950s Ireland. The portrayal of the 50s era is well-crafted, with accurate depictions of the polite manners and language used at the time.
The wives of the lighthouse keepers were responsible for managing the household while their husbands spent three out of four weeks at the lighthouse. Despite the challenges they faced, the women found solace in each other's company and always supported each other. Their bond was unbreakable.
However, when one of the lighthouse keepers passes away, his wife Ellen is left in a difficult position with no job, no money, and nowhere to live with her children. Thankfully, the support of the other women helps her avoid becoming homeless. Meanwhile, an American man arrives in the village, posing as a gentleman, but his true nature is soon revealed. Ellen is also troubled by her late husband's brother, who has ulterior motives.
The other women - Beth, Mary, and Kathleen - each have their own struggles. As the story progresses, several unexpected twists occur, making the book even more exciting. The themes of support, secrets, jealousy, and love are central to the plot.
I adored this book for its historical charm and the strong-willed women who kept the suspense alive, despite harboring many secrets. But as with every secret, it eventually comes to light.
This book is far more profound and breathtaking than you may initially believe. Once you read it, you will discover a literary gem with a depth that will captivate and enthrall you.
The wives of the lighthouse keepers were responsible for managing the household while their husbands spent three out of four weeks at the lighthouse. Despite the challenges they faced, the women found solace in each other's company and always supported each other. Their bond was unbreakable.
However, when one of the lighthouse keepers passes away, his wife Ellen is left in a difficult position with no job, no money, and nowhere to live with her children. Thankfully, the support of the other women helps her avoid becoming homeless. Meanwhile, an American man arrives in the village, posing as a gentleman, but his true nature is soon revealed. Ellen is also troubled by her late husband's brother, who has ulterior motives.
The other women - Beth, Mary, and Kathleen - each have their own struggles. As the story progresses, several unexpected twists occur, making the book even more exciting. The themes of support, secrets, jealousy, and love are central to the plot.
I adored this book for its historical charm and the strong-willed women who kept the suspense alive, despite harboring many secrets. But as with every secret, it eventually comes to light.
This book is far more profound and breathtaking than you may initially believe. Once you read it, you will discover a literary gem with a depth that will captivate and enthrall you.
March 30, 2024
This book transported me to Ballycotton in Cork. I read of the lives of the lighthouse keepers who spent three out of four weeks on lighthouse island leaving behind their wives and families.
This is a dual timeline novel set in 1951 and 2023. Mollie has returned to stay with her grandmother Beth to sort out her own problems. Little does she realise that a Pandora box is about to open which threatens to expose secrets from the past which will impact her family.
The strong female characters who not only held their families together but also supported each other with loyalty friendship and sisterhood really added to the story for me.
The family stories and secrets made this a pageturner for me. A lovely read which explores a time not so long ago but one which seems a like a different world!! If you like strong family based historical fiction you will love this one .
This is a dual timeline novel set in 1951 and 2023. Mollie has returned to stay with her grandmother Beth to sort out her own problems. Little does she realise that a Pandora box is about to open which threatens to expose secrets from the past which will impact her family.
The strong female characters who not only held their families together but also supported each other with loyalty friendship and sisterhood really added to the story for me.
The family stories and secrets made this a pageturner for me. A lovely read which explores a time not so long ago but one which seems a like a different world!! If you like strong family based historical fiction you will love this one .
July 18, 2025
A book that predominantly features female characters who encounter some situations that result in keeping secrets for generations. The setting is a small village in Ireland that features a lighthouse and also a community in Camden , Maine The women all have a connection to the lighthouse . A quaint read with one or two surprises.
March 14, 2024
I’m sorry to say that I just couldn’t get into this book. I’ve read other books by this author and have really enjoyed them; this one, though, I found a bit predictable and slow.
June 9, 2024
Mysterious, Intricate, Captivating.
When I first saw the cover of this book, I was really intrigued. My mind started whirring trying to figure out what way the secret could go or what sort of secret the characters could be hiding.
I always want to savour reading Carmel Harrington's books, they have so many aspects I love in a book. The book has a dual timeline which is something I didn't realise I enjoy so much until I started reading it.
The intergenerational tale with all the characters so intrinsically linked is so moving at times. I may admit to shedding a tear reading it, the bond between Mollie and her grandmother is so lovely.
I have never been to Ballycotton and knew very little about it or the lighthouse but reading this definitely makes me want to add it to a list of places I want to visit.
This book was a 5 star read for me. I love Carmel Harrington's writing and look forward to reading more books by the author.
Thank you so much to the author and publisher, Harper Collins for a gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
When I first saw the cover of this book, I was really intrigued. My mind started whirring trying to figure out what way the secret could go or what sort of secret the characters could be hiding.
I always want to savour reading Carmel Harrington's books, they have so many aspects I love in a book. The book has a dual timeline which is something I didn't realise I enjoy so much until I started reading it.
The intergenerational tale with all the characters so intrinsically linked is so moving at times. I may admit to shedding a tear reading it, the bond between Mollie and her grandmother is so lovely.
I have never been to Ballycotton and knew very little about it or the lighthouse but reading this definitely makes me want to add it to a list of places I want to visit.
This book was a 5 star read for me. I love Carmel Harrington's writing and look forward to reading more books by the author.
Thank you so much to the author and publisher, Harper Collins for a gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2024
This book gives the vibes of something your great aunt would read, maybe on the beach. What about it gives those vibes? I can't really place it. The all female cast of characters, the secrets, the lighthouse, the way romantic relationships are spoken about, just all of it.
An enjoyable book! I'm not blown away, but I enjoyed reading it. It did take me some time to figure out who was who, and all the relationships between the characters. There was also some unexpected things which were great, really thickened up the story.
An enjoyable book! I'm not blown away, but I enjoyed reading it. It did take me some time to figure out who was who, and all the relationships between the characters. There was also some unexpected things which were great, really thickened up the story.
March 24, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for my copy on The Lighthouse Secret by Carmel Harrington.
Mollie is receiving anonymous notes about her family’s past and the secrets they are hiding.
They only way she can get to the truth is to go to Ireland and ask her grandmother what happened in 1951.
A dual timeline story set in the fifties and present day, about the love, strength and loyalty of women.
Mollie is receiving anonymous notes about her family’s past and the secrets they are hiding.
They only way she can get to the truth is to go to Ireland and ask her grandmother what happened in 1951.
A dual timeline story set in the fifties and present day, about the love, strength and loyalty of women.
March 27, 2024
The Lighthouse Secret by Carmel Harrington publishes March 28th with Harper Collins and is described as a ‘sweeping, secretive and emotional new historical novel.’ Set between Ballycotton in East Cork and Maine in The States, The Lighthouse Secret is another atmospheric and captivating novel from Carmel Harrington.
I live quite close to Ballycotton so it was delightful to read about it, from an historical perspective, through the eyes of the lighthouse keeper’s wives in the 1950s. The lighthouses we see today are all automated but, back then, all around Ireland, lighthouses were habitable and run by lighthouse keepers. These were primarily men, who worked in shifts, spending quite a bit of time away from their home and family. In 1951, the principal keeper was Patrick Kenefick. It was a tradition handed down over the years from father to son and it was a lifestyle that wasn’t for everyone. His wife Kathleen has known nothing different throughout her married life but she misses Patrick. She misses the conversations and the closeness of their relationship. Her teenage daughter Beth is flighty and, although Kathleen and Patrick want to see her continue the tradition, Beth has other plans. Beth wants to travel, to see the world beyond her sheltered upbringing. She fantasises about exploring foreign lands and meeting new people. The restrictive life of a lighthouse keeper’s wife is something that Beth dreads the prospect of. She would suffocate living her mother’s life.
When a circus comes to town, Beth’s head is turned and she becomes enchanted by the costumes, the lifestyle and the folk who work there. There is a freedom that they have, one she feels she can never achieve if she remains in Ballycotton and settles for a future in a small seaside cottage off the Atlantic coast.
Mollie Kenefick is on edge. Working in the media and settled with her husband, Mollie had thought her life was pretty much sorted, but things don’t always work out as planned. She takes a journey to Ireland with her Dad to spend time in Ballycotton and to join her grandmother who went ahead of them. Born in East Cork, her grandmother remembers that year in 1951 when everything changed. All her life she has carried a secret close to her heart but now it seems that a mysterious person knows something and is looking for answers. Mollie finds herself caught up in a story that she never could have imagined possible as the reader is immersed in an Ireland of a different time, an Ireland where secrets were plentiful among many communities across the land.
Carmel Harrington writes very warm-hearted and absorbing tales that capture the imagination and immerse the reader in a different time and place. The Lighthouse Secret is an emotional story of secrets, regret, forgiveness and love. The windswept coast of East Cork with its lighthouse and local beaches provides a dramatic setting for this sweeping family drama. There is an underlying sadness and darkness that permeates the book with the truth slowly unravelling, revealing an affecting tale highlighting the importance and strength of female friendship. A perfectly balanced dual timeline novel, The Lighthouse Secret is an emotive reading experience with an intriguing mystery at its core. Another sure fire bestseller for Carmel Harrington!
I live quite close to Ballycotton so it was delightful to read about it, from an historical perspective, through the eyes of the lighthouse keeper’s wives in the 1950s. The lighthouses we see today are all automated but, back then, all around Ireland, lighthouses were habitable and run by lighthouse keepers. These were primarily men, who worked in shifts, spending quite a bit of time away from their home and family. In 1951, the principal keeper was Patrick Kenefick. It was a tradition handed down over the years from father to son and it was a lifestyle that wasn’t for everyone. His wife Kathleen has known nothing different throughout her married life but she misses Patrick. She misses the conversations and the closeness of their relationship. Her teenage daughter Beth is flighty and, although Kathleen and Patrick want to see her continue the tradition, Beth has other plans. Beth wants to travel, to see the world beyond her sheltered upbringing. She fantasises about exploring foreign lands and meeting new people. The restrictive life of a lighthouse keeper’s wife is something that Beth dreads the prospect of. She would suffocate living her mother’s life.
When a circus comes to town, Beth’s head is turned and she becomes enchanted by the costumes, the lifestyle and the folk who work there. There is a freedom that they have, one she feels she can never achieve if she remains in Ballycotton and settles for a future in a small seaside cottage off the Atlantic coast.
Mollie Kenefick is on edge. Working in the media and settled with her husband, Mollie had thought her life was pretty much sorted, but things don’t always work out as planned. She takes a journey to Ireland with her Dad to spend time in Ballycotton and to join her grandmother who went ahead of them. Born in East Cork, her grandmother remembers that year in 1951 when everything changed. All her life she has carried a secret close to her heart but now it seems that a mysterious person knows something and is looking for answers. Mollie finds herself caught up in a story that she never could have imagined possible as the reader is immersed in an Ireland of a different time, an Ireland where secrets were plentiful among many communities across the land.
Carmel Harrington writes very warm-hearted and absorbing tales that capture the imagination and immerse the reader in a different time and place. The Lighthouse Secret is an emotional story of secrets, regret, forgiveness and love. The windswept coast of East Cork with its lighthouse and local beaches provides a dramatic setting for this sweeping family drama. There is an underlying sadness and darkness that permeates the book with the truth slowly unravelling, revealing an affecting tale highlighting the importance and strength of female friendship. A perfectly balanced dual timeline novel, The Lighthouse Secret is an emotive reading experience with an intriguing mystery at its core. Another sure fire bestseller for Carmel Harrington!
April 5, 2024
Off the coast of Cork in 1951, four women make a vow to never reveal what they’ve done. But now, in 2023, when one of the women’s granddaughters starts receiving letters about the past, it seems that the women’s secret may not stay hidden for much longer.
The dual storyline in this book works so well in unravelling the story. I loved how Carmel Harrington brought rural Ireland of the 50s to life - I was fully immersed in the world of these women and their lives. Beth, our protagonist, is a 17 year old on the brink of womanhood, battling with her desires of love and travel, and the responsibility that comes with being the daughter of a Keeper. As with all of the characters in this book, she is flawed, but I really fell for her. Also special shoutout to Mary, the young, inner-city Dub, who has recently married the newest Keeper in Ballycotton. Her spirit and background reminded me of my own grandmother. ❤️
The parts of the book set in the present day mainly follow Mollie who is battling her own struggles with infertility and IVF, and I thought the storyline here was done really well. Mollie, as a tv presenter, is a family face, and her husband and her are understandably going through a rough patch, trying to figure out their next steps while having the world watching them.
At 424 pages this is not a short book, but I flew through it. The dual timelines really made it impossible for me to put this one down! Just as I’d finish one part, I’d be dying to get back to the other time to see what was happening next. As the women’s secrets begin to unravel, they don’t stop unravelling right until the very end of the book.
I’m not sure what genre I would put this book in. It’s a mix of mystery, women’s fiction, historical fiction, coming-of-age, and contemporary fiction! Either way, it all works so well. The story is full of heart, and the characters are well thought out.
What a pleasant surprise this book was for me, my first Carmel Harrington book certainly won’t be my last. I’ve already reserved two more from my local library, and have been recommended by @bookswithdoots to listen to another on audiobook.
Thank you to @harpercollinsire for the #gifted copy!
The dual storyline in this book works so well in unravelling the story. I loved how Carmel Harrington brought rural Ireland of the 50s to life - I was fully immersed in the world of these women and their lives. Beth, our protagonist, is a 17 year old on the brink of womanhood, battling with her desires of love and travel, and the responsibility that comes with being the daughter of a Keeper. As with all of the characters in this book, she is flawed, but I really fell for her. Also special shoutout to Mary, the young, inner-city Dub, who has recently married the newest Keeper in Ballycotton. Her spirit and background reminded me of my own grandmother. ❤️
The parts of the book set in the present day mainly follow Mollie who is battling her own struggles with infertility and IVF, and I thought the storyline here was done really well. Mollie, as a tv presenter, is a family face, and her husband and her are understandably going through a rough patch, trying to figure out their next steps while having the world watching them.
At 424 pages this is not a short book, but I flew through it. The dual timelines really made it impossible for me to put this one down! Just as I’d finish one part, I’d be dying to get back to the other time to see what was happening next. As the women’s secrets begin to unravel, they don’t stop unravelling right until the very end of the book.
I’m not sure what genre I would put this book in. It’s a mix of mystery, women’s fiction, historical fiction, coming-of-age, and contemporary fiction! Either way, it all works so well. The story is full of heart, and the characters are well thought out.
What a pleasant surprise this book was for me, my first Carmel Harrington book certainly won’t be my last. I’ve already reserved two more from my local library, and have been recommended by @bookswithdoots to listen to another on audiobook.
Thank you to @harpercollinsire for the #gifted copy!
April 24, 2024
Let me start by saying I love the cover of this book, and I am a fan of the author after reading one of her previous books. Sadly, I didn't enjoy this book quite so much. I think on seeing the cover and reading the title, I expected the story to take place in a lighthouse. This is not actually the case. The lighthouse isn't even really involved in the story other than the ladies in the book are married to lighthouse keepers.
The book is told in two different timelines. We start on the Ballycotton, Coast of Cork, Ireland in 1951. We meet the lighthouse keepers wives who have formed a firm friendship and look after one another whilst their husbands are away for weeks at a time on the island. Kathleen, Ellen, and Mary all have a close bond. They have responsibilities to their own families and jobs to do around the town and keep the place going whilst their husbands are away. Both Kathleen and Ellen both have children trying to make their own way in the world, with different ideas of how life should be. When Ellens husband is killed on duty the girls stick together and do whatever they have to, to ensure her and the children have a roof over their heads.
In present day Maine, we are introduced to Mollie, her Grandmother Betty is very poorly in hospital and starts to reminisce about the past. Her Mum is one of the ladies told in the 1950's timeline and a secret they left buried is about to be revealed.
As I said, I am already a fan of the authors other works and I really wanted to love this book but sadly I just felt that the pace really slow and I just couldn't gel with any of the characters. Whilst there was lots going on and various plot twists I just wasn't invested in the characters at all. I found it a little too predictable. I do however love how the author writes about these small communities living and surviving together through all life throws at them.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book is told in two different timelines. We start on the Ballycotton, Coast of Cork, Ireland in 1951. We meet the lighthouse keepers wives who have formed a firm friendship and look after one another whilst their husbands are away for weeks at a time on the island. Kathleen, Ellen, and Mary all have a close bond. They have responsibilities to their own families and jobs to do around the town and keep the place going whilst their husbands are away. Both Kathleen and Ellen both have children trying to make their own way in the world, with different ideas of how life should be. When Ellens husband is killed on duty the girls stick together and do whatever they have to, to ensure her and the children have a roof over their heads.
In present day Maine, we are introduced to Mollie, her Grandmother Betty is very poorly in hospital and starts to reminisce about the past. Her Mum is one of the ladies told in the 1950's timeline and a secret they left buried is about to be revealed.
As I said, I am already a fan of the authors other works and I really wanted to love this book but sadly I just felt that the pace really slow and I just couldn't gel with any of the characters. Whilst there was lots going on and various plot twists I just wasn't invested in the characters at all. I found it a little too predictable. I do however love how the author writes about these small communities living and surviving together through all life throws at them.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 29, 2024
My first book by this author and what a way to start.
Set in Ballycotton Ireland between 1951 and 2023 it’s told in a dual timeline. In 1951 four women agree to keep a secret which has changed their life’s forever. In 2023 one of them receives a letter telling it’s no longer a secret.
Kathleen, Ellen and Mary are lighthouse keepers wife’s and this is their story of how loyal the keepers wife’s are to each other. Also involved in the secret is Kathleen’s daughter Beth. This will impact on her future forever.
Carmel describes Ballycotton beautifully and makes me feel I’d like to be there to see exactly where these women shared their secret.
In the present day Mollie Beth’s granddaughter is running to Ballycotton to escape facing up to her future with her husband Nolan back in Maine. The sisterhood she learns about gives her the strength to face up to her reality and what she wants in life.
A truly magical book of love and loyalty.
Set in Ballycotton Ireland between 1951 and 2023 it’s told in a dual timeline. In 1951 four women agree to keep a secret which has changed their life’s forever. In 2023 one of them receives a letter telling it’s no longer a secret.
Kathleen, Ellen and Mary are lighthouse keepers wife’s and this is their story of how loyal the keepers wife’s are to each other. Also involved in the secret is Kathleen’s daughter Beth. This will impact on her future forever.
Carmel describes Ballycotton beautifully and makes me feel I’d like to be there to see exactly where these women shared their secret.
In the present day Mollie Beth’s granddaughter is running to Ballycotton to escape facing up to her future with her husband Nolan back in Maine. The sisterhood she learns about gives her the strength to face up to her reality and what she wants in life.
A truly magical book of love and loyalty.
October 31, 2024
This dual timeline story set around the families of the lighthouse keepers that work on Ballycotton Lighthouse was wonderful!
In 1951 we meet four women waiting for their husbands to return from their duty on the island lighthouse. They promise to each other to keep their secret between themselves to protect their families.
In 2023 Mollie is trying to find an escape from her life so joins her dad in a visit to her grandmother in Ireland. Mollie receives a threatening note alluding to a hidden secret. She visits with other friends and family members to try to figure out what this secret is before the mysterious person reveals all.
The setting was great and while I usually am not a huge fan of historical fiction I actually enjoyed the 1951 part of the story so much more than the modern day part.
Each of the characters was so well developed and I loved how we got insight into all the different stories going on.
This was my first Carmel Harrington read but won't be my last!
In 1951 we meet four women waiting for their husbands to return from their duty on the island lighthouse. They promise to each other to keep their secret between themselves to protect their families.
In 2023 Mollie is trying to find an escape from her life so joins her dad in a visit to her grandmother in Ireland. Mollie receives a threatening note alluding to a hidden secret. She visits with other friends and family members to try to figure out what this secret is before the mysterious person reveals all.
The setting was great and while I usually am not a huge fan of historical fiction I actually enjoyed the 1951 part of the story so much more than the modern day part.
Each of the characters was so well developed and I loved how we got insight into all the different stories going on.
This was my first Carmel Harrington read but won't be my last!
June 11, 2024
This was my first book by Carmel Harrington. This book was so beautifully written! A story of friendship, secrets & solidarity.
I loved every aspect of this book. It’s divided into two timelines it goes between the 1950’s & 2023. I loved the picture that Carmel painted of the 1950’s, and seeing the way they spoke and used such manners. Such simpler times.
The book has so many secrets that keeps you guessing throughout the story.
It was so nice to see such strong relationships between all the women and especially between Beth and her mother Kathleen.
It was interesting to learn a little about light houses and as to what life was like for the lighthouse keepers and their families.
Overall I highly recommend this fantastic historical fiction. Thanks so much to harpercollins and NetGalley for this copy
I loved every aspect of this book. It’s divided into two timelines it goes between the 1950’s & 2023. I loved the picture that Carmel painted of the 1950’s, and seeing the way they spoke and used such manners. Such simpler times.
The book has so many secrets that keeps you guessing throughout the story.
It was so nice to see such strong relationships between all the women and especially between Beth and her mother Kathleen.
It was interesting to learn a little about light houses and as to what life was like for the lighthouse keepers and their families.
Overall I highly recommend this fantastic historical fiction. Thanks so much to harpercollins and NetGalley for this copy
January 25, 2024
Okay, so spoiler alert, I ADORE Carmel Harrington's books - and it seems to me that each one only gets better than the last. In saying that, I think she's out-done herself this time. I was transported half way round the world, while sitting on my sofa and looking out at the tail end of a category red storm Isha - perfect!
This is the story of a long buried secret and a woman who sets out to learn about the past, but somehow stumbles on much more than she bargained for.... Perfect!
Thank you to the publisher for my advance copy.
This is the story of a long buried secret and a woman who sets out to learn about the past, but somehow stumbles on much more than she bargained for.... Perfect!
Thank you to the publisher for my advance copy.
May 23, 2024
As with all Carmel Harrington books, this story is filled with emotion, heartbreak, challenges and a host of secrets - some to be revealed, some to be kept forever. Loved the detail about lighthouse life and the hardships endured, especially by the wives and families who are charged with keeping their lives together while the men tend to the lighthouse.
A wonderful dual timeline story weaving the past into the present, with a wonderful splash of total Irishness throughout. Brava! Carmel Harrington.
A wonderful dual timeline story weaving the past into the present, with a wonderful splash of total Irishness throughout. Brava! Carmel Harrington.
May 12, 2025
it was low-key a good book, though slow at the start, but it was sweet and has the good feeling when u read it
the first secret/plot twist was kinda predicatable to me, but idk if that was intentional but still a good plot line
the second secret/ plot twist was such surprise for me - that Joanne had a child and it was Ted's?!?
honestly thought Christian was Beth's meant to be but I was wrong abt that 😭
overall would recommend for people cuz it's set in 1951 and 2033, its makes me want to read more, obviously I preferred 1951 entries
favourite charachter: Beth and mary
the first secret/plot twist was kinda predicatable to me, but idk if that was intentional but still a good plot line
the second secret/ plot twist was such surprise for me - that Joanne had a child and it was Ted's?!?
honestly thought Christian was Beth's meant to be but I was wrong abt that 😭
overall would recommend for people cuz it's set in 1951 and 2033, its makes me want to read more, obviously I preferred 1951 entries
favourite charachter: Beth and mary
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2025
Oh my, what a story. Kept me flicking through the pages, I could not put it down. Thoroughly enjoyed taking in this book. The only thing that made me roll my eyes so hard so many times was the overuse of the word 'dancing' as a metaphor, you'll find it numerous times throughout the book that is started to sound silly. Despite this, this has been one of the best books I have read in a long time. I would definitely recommend.
February 19, 2024
I was extremely lucky to win this paperback book in a giveaway (don't know why I've listed it as a Kindle edition). I loved it and finished it in two days. The story is told in two parallel time lines connected through family relationships and a secret. The characters are beautifully depicted and believable. There was a huge surprise towards the end which I don't want to spoil for anyone.
November 3, 2024
A dual timeline book - not a fan of this style- but if you are going to do it, do it properly. Carmel Harrington does it in a way that works for me. There are genuine links between generations, there a mysteries and women who stand by each other - mostly. Women's friendship and support wins in this novel. Secrets eventually all out - all out, even the ones you the reader don't expect.
February 1, 2024
I devoured this book! The perfect mix of intrigue, drama, heartbreak and romance, this story will transport you to a gorgeous setting with characters you’ll adore.
This was my first Carmel Harrington and it certainly won’t be my last. Loved it!
This was my first Carmel Harrington and it certainly won’t be my last. Loved it!
March 29, 2024
The Lighthouse Secret is a dual-timeline novel set in 1951 & 2023. I loved it.
Carmel Harrington has composed a beautiful tale of friendship, determination, empathy and love. A wonderful story that will capture many a heart.
Carmel Harrington has composed a beautiful tale of friendship, determination, empathy and love. A wonderful story that will capture many a heart.
May 11, 2024
Brilliant story telling i was on the edge of my seat wondering if their secret would stay buried or come to light.
I would give this many more than 5 stars if i could.
So my rating should read 5 stars+ + + + +.
I would give this many more than 5 stars if i could.
So my rating should read 5 stars+ + + + +.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2025
Very Good
Reading the first couple of pages I thought this might all be a bit "twee" for me but overall the story was well composed with a couple of but surprises towards the end and an epilogue which healed parts I didn't know needed healing.
Reading the first couple of pages I thought this might all be a bit "twee" for me but overall the story was well composed with a couple of but surprises towards the end and an epilogue which healed parts I didn't know needed healing.
December 24, 2025
3.5 ⭐️- overall, entertaining read. Towards the end, I couldn’t put it down as I wanted to see how things played out. Some of the mystery part felt a bit Scooby Doo-ish - otherwise would have rated it higher.
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