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Healer's Saga #1
The Healer's Secret
Book #1 in the Healer series.
From medieval times to present day, the Healer saga spans generations of the Innocenti family, telling the stories of the women healers whose lives are entwined with legends, curses, and tragedy.
Jennifer’s life isn’t going as she planned. Fired from her job and on the brink of divorce, her only salvation lies at the bottom of a wine bottle. When her mother insists she get away from everything, she reluctantly agrees to explore her Italian roots in Tuscany.
Staying in her family’s centuries-old cottage, she becomes embroiled in a mysterious tragedy involving her great-grandmother. As she delves further into her ancestors’ history, she discovers there is more to her heritage than meets the eye.
Ghosts from the past could give Jennifer something she thought she’d never have: a future. But that depends on whether she can resist temptation and avoid slipping back into her old ways.
Will she be able to conquer her inner demons and discover the healer’s secret?
From medieval times to present day, the Healer saga spans generations of the Innocenti family, telling the stories of the women healers whose lives are entwined with legends, curses, and tragedy.
Jennifer’s life isn’t going as she planned. Fired from her job and on the brink of divorce, her only salvation lies at the bottom of a wine bottle. When her mother insists she get away from everything, she reluctantly agrees to explore her Italian roots in Tuscany.
Staying in her family’s centuries-old cottage, she becomes embroiled in a mysterious tragedy involving her great-grandmother. As she delves further into her ancestors’ history, she discovers there is more to her heritage than meets the eye.
Ghosts from the past could give Jennifer something she thought she’d never have: a future. But that depends on whether she can resist temptation and avoid slipping back into her old ways.
Will she be able to conquer her inner demons and discover the healer’s secret?
Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
September 7, 2020
This was a perfect read for the sunshine and garden. It transported me to the mountains of Italy and I completely escaped my surrounding. Pryke’s novel is a great beach read that could be enjoyed at all times – just to give you a break from the world around you!
This is a dual-narrative story but carefully divided into two parts: present day for the first half of the novel, then sixty years previous for the latter part. I thought this was a neat way of dividing the story because it meant I could fully focus on Jen (present day) and then her great-grandmother. The story finishes back in the present but I did think I wanted to have more focus on the past, with more magic – as is implied by the title.
There are a range of issues covered by Pryke’s narrative. Alcholism, mental health, rape, miscarriages… there’s a lot of grief and tragedy between these pages. I think this made the characters more believable because underlying all of these saddening topics is the importance of family. Synonymous to Italian living, Pryke’s depiction of Jen’s Italian cousins illustrates the importance of family support and, quite simply, being there during difficult times. I think this topic is even more poignant in current circumstances and reinforces the need to communicate with others.
Pryke’s description of the Italian countryside was equally beautiful and relaxing – I wanted to be with Jen in the Grove and up on the mountainside! One of Jen’s trips in the local area was visiting the caves – popular with tourists. The setting transported me back to my own childhood when I used to visit similar caves with my parents. This made the book even more enjoyable because of my reminiscing.
I had hoped for a more ghostly, magical story and think this will probably come in later stories. The Prologue is set in the fourteenth century which had me anticipating more from this time period. I was therefore surprised when this did not happen. Again, I guess more will be focused on in later books. Indeed, discovering that this was part of a series was unexpected and I do wonder if Pryke could have made one lengthy novel, rather than three shorter ones?
I wasn’t too blown away by the cover but can see how significant it is to the Grove setting that Jen discovers. Jen’s exploration into the Grove unearths more secrets about her family heritage and I think the novel’s cover could have captured this more prominently. However, without focusing too much on the cover, I still really enjoyed the story.
I’m excited by the promise of this series and felt a little saddened when it had ended – it felt as if it had just got going! It was mystical and the Italian setting added to my enjoyment. I can’t wait to see what new secrets of old are revealed in the next book.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a dual-narrative story but carefully divided into two parts: present day for the first half of the novel, then sixty years previous for the latter part. I thought this was a neat way of dividing the story because it meant I could fully focus on Jen (present day) and then her great-grandmother. The story finishes back in the present but I did think I wanted to have more focus on the past, with more magic – as is implied by the title.
There are a range of issues covered by Pryke’s narrative. Alcholism, mental health, rape, miscarriages… there’s a lot of grief and tragedy between these pages. I think this made the characters more believable because underlying all of these saddening topics is the importance of family. Synonymous to Italian living, Pryke’s depiction of Jen’s Italian cousins illustrates the importance of family support and, quite simply, being there during difficult times. I think this topic is even more poignant in current circumstances and reinforces the need to communicate with others.
Pryke’s description of the Italian countryside was equally beautiful and relaxing – I wanted to be with Jen in the Grove and up on the mountainside! One of Jen’s trips in the local area was visiting the caves – popular with tourists. The setting transported me back to my own childhood when I used to visit similar caves with my parents. This made the book even more enjoyable because of my reminiscing.
I had hoped for a more ghostly, magical story and think this will probably come in later stories. The Prologue is set in the fourteenth century which had me anticipating more from this time period. I was therefore surprised when this did not happen. Again, I guess more will be focused on in later books. Indeed, discovering that this was part of a series was unexpected and I do wonder if Pryke could have made one lengthy novel, rather than three shorter ones?
I wasn’t too blown away by the cover but can see how significant it is to the Grove setting that Jen discovers. Jen’s exploration into the Grove unearths more secrets about her family heritage and I think the novel’s cover could have captured this more prominently. However, without focusing too much on the cover, I still really enjoyed the story.
I’m excited by the promise of this series and felt a little saddened when it had ended – it felt as if it had just got going! It was mystical and the Italian setting added to my enjoyment. I can’t wait to see what new secrets of old are revealed in the next book.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2021
This book was recommended to me by my daughter who loved this series. I too thought it was lovely and read it over two days. Set in different time-lines I found it fast paced and was sorry when I finished it.
April 29, 2018
Right from the start, I was hooked. Jennifer was a lady with problems and many of us can relate to that as no one's life is perfect.The supporting characters in the book were realistic and I was quickly pulled into her life, her problems and her mum's agony for her daughter. I loved the way the family history was given to us in snippets here and there. Though I did think, from the title that the Healing part would have been more mystical than it turned out to be. But all in all, I enjoyed the book and would recommend it.
June 21, 2019
I loved this fascinating story which begins with Jennifer who has a serious drink problem as she struggles to deal with the loss of a job and her divorce. With her mothers help, she gets an opportunity to move into a neglected family cottage in Tuscany and discover her Italian roots. But as she gets to work on cleaning up the cottage and the garden, as well as searching for some inner peace, she unearths some disturbing, as well as inspiring family secrets.
Helen Pryke certainly knows how to get under the skin of her characters, and this is an enchanting read that takes you into the heart of Tuscany and into the hearts of a fascinating family. This is the first novel I've read by this author and it certainly won't be my last.
Helen Pryke certainly knows how to get under the skin of her characters, and this is an enchanting read that takes you into the heart of Tuscany and into the hearts of a fascinating family. This is the first novel I've read by this author and it certainly won't be my last.
January 18, 2018
Three miscarriages, a failed marriage, and a problem with alcohol, Jennifer is convinced by her mother Angela to go to Italy. While there, Jennifer meets family and stays in her grandmother’s cottage, a place that hasn’t been lived in for a while but holds something magical.
The Healer’s Secret is an intriguing story filled with mystery and secrets. It is fast paced and well written.
I enjoyed reading this story and look forward to the continuation, The Dragonfly Grove, due to release later in 2018.
The Healer’s Secret is an intriguing story filled with mystery and secrets. It is fast paced and well written.
I enjoyed reading this story and look forward to the continuation, The Dragonfly Grove, due to release later in 2018.
January 10, 2018
I read and enjoyed Walls of Silence by Helen Pryke a few months ago. I was so impressed by the quality of her writing that I vowed to read her next book. I found The Healer’s Secret even more enjoyable. The author has beautifully encapsulated the essence of the Italian countryside and tells a compelling, magical, easily understood story. She’s built credible multi-layered characters and has set them in an easily visualised setting, enchanting me from beginning to end. The main character, Jennifer, moves her life to her Italian ancestors’ home in Tuscany to help combat her alcoholism, brought about by her miscarriages and marriage breakdown. She seems a hopeless case until her life is changed forever when she begins to unearth her Italian ancestors’ secrets. It’s rare for a book to uplift me, especially when some of the subject matter is occasionally distressing, but Helen Pryke has the skill to inspire optimism, without being mawkish. I was delighted to read at the back of The Healer’s Secret that she’s writing another book about the Innocenti family. I’ll certainly be reading it.
December 16, 2017
There’s a little bit of magic in this book, and I don’t mean the kind with magic wands and spells. It’s enchanting and yet pulls on the threads of normal life. Family tragedies, a mysterious heritage and the strength to pull through the obstacles that life throws at us. Filled with colourful characters, the author Helen Pryke takes us on a tale of self-discovery and courage, and in doing so takes on tough topics. The book is beautifully presented, and I especially liked the little details such as the family tree and illustrations. Discovering Tuscany and Italian life, this is an emotional journey not to be missed.
November 3, 2020
This was a wonderful book to read over a few cold rainy nights in autumn, transporting me to a mountain village in Italy where the main character, Jennifer, discovers family secrets whilst fighting her own demons. The story is both heartwarming yet tragic, the layers slowly being peeled back as revelations unfold. The author has captured the essence of a family saga beautifully, history flowing back & forth between the generations perfectly. There is so much to enjoy, from family bonds to magical memories. I’m really looking forward to reading more from this novelist.
January 1, 2021
Wonderful
A beautifully crafted, engaging and emotionally charged read. You will instantly be transported to the charisma and secrets of Tuscany. Pryke's writing is as assured as it is sensitive and descriptive. Here is an author who doesn't shy away from the important topics, weaving them effortlessly into an unputdownable narrative that is properly escapist! The family theme is strong and fascinating, revealing breathtaking and shocking twists and turns. I loved the multiple timelines too. I can only imagine the level of historical and geographical research required. It's no mean feat to meld these aspects into a novel, and this one was full of plot complexities besides, yet the author does so with ease and grace. Very much looking forward to the test of the books in this series to see where the story goes next.
A beautifully crafted, engaging and emotionally charged read. You will instantly be transported to the charisma and secrets of Tuscany. Pryke's writing is as assured as it is sensitive and descriptive. Here is an author who doesn't shy away from the important topics, weaving them effortlessly into an unputdownable narrative that is properly escapist! The family theme is strong and fascinating, revealing breathtaking and shocking twists and turns. I loved the multiple timelines too. I can only imagine the level of historical and geographical research required. It's no mean feat to meld these aspects into a novel, and this one was full of plot complexities besides, yet the author does so with ease and grace. Very much looking forward to the test of the books in this series to see where the story goes next.
December 15, 2017
The Healer’s Secret is beautifully disturbing story. Not a cozy read, it deals with controversial topics like alcoholism, domestic violence and decisions that can turn the fate of a whole family. Strung out over several generations of women who pass their healer’s knowledge on from mother to daughter, the tale draws the reader into their troubles and heartaches. The author unfolds things nobody wants to talk about, but she does so in such a quiet way that the drama of the situations touches the reader gently, allowing for emotions to well up and settle again without the strenuous rush of modern sensationalism. While the themes of this book are deeply disturbing, the story is one of hope and courage, filled with the strength of blood ties and heritage and the will to overcome the bad things life tends to throw in one’s face. A highly recommended read!
November 22, 2019
AWWW!!!
A great, make you feel good, even if it's got a couple murders in it, kind of book. Absolutely enjoyed this book.
A great, make you feel good, even if it's got a couple murders in it, kind of book. Absolutely enjoyed this book.
May 1, 2018
Weaving events from different generations of the same family, The Healer's Secret is an engaging and enchanting read. Main character Jennifer's descent into alcoholism is chronicled sensitively and the many tough issues touched on are done well and without over-dramatisation. The flashback chapters are well placed and give a new layer to the overall story, which requires an element of willing suspension of disbelief but not so much that it's distracting. I enjoyed this and would read more from the author.
October 23, 2023
Way back in mid-fourteenth-century Italy, Agnes creates her Dragonfly garden, growing the herbs with which she prepares the salves and lotions to treat the ailments and injuries of the members of her community, albeit with varying results.
Fast-forward to twenty-first century England and Jennifer, a descendent of Agnes, is in a bad place. Deep in the throes of alcoholism, she's lost her marriage, her job, and almost her place at the AA meetings after arriving very drunk and belligerent. Her mother, at her wits' end with trying to help her daughter, suggests that Jennifer take some time out in the old family cottage in Italy which she inherited.
Given little choice in the matter, Jennifer jets off--and lands in the midst of a whole group of new connections, old family, new friends, some rock-solid, some questionable. She also turns up some surprises, and secrets, as she works to turn her life around.
Author Helen Pryke is to be commended for adding some magic and originality to a well-written story of recovery from abuse and trauma. It's the beginning of a series too, with the promise of yet more magic to be revealed. Good work.
Fast-forward to twenty-first century England and Jennifer, a descendent of Agnes, is in a bad place. Deep in the throes of alcoholism, she's lost her marriage, her job, and almost her place at the AA meetings after arriving very drunk and belligerent. Her mother, at her wits' end with trying to help her daughter, suggests that Jennifer take some time out in the old family cottage in Italy which she inherited.
Given little choice in the matter, Jennifer jets off--and lands in the midst of a whole group of new connections, old family, new friends, some rock-solid, some questionable. She also turns up some surprises, and secrets, as she works to turn her life around.
Author Helen Pryke is to be commended for adding some magic and originality to a well-written story of recovery from abuse and trauma. It's the beginning of a series too, with the promise of yet more magic to be revealed. Good work.
April 4, 2022
I'm Hooked! Looking Forward to the Next Book in the Series
I stepped outside of my usual genres to read this one, and it did not disappoint! I’ve been in a reading funk lately, not being able to get into and finish books. Not with this one. I was hooked, getting to know the characters, exploring the family’s past and Tuscany with the main character. I’m completely hooked now, and looking forward to the next book in the series.
I stepped outside of my usual genres to read this one, and it did not disappoint! I’ve been in a reading funk lately, not being able to get into and finish books. Not with this one. I was hooked, getting to know the characters, exploring the family’s past and Tuscany with the main character. I’m completely hooked now, and looking forward to the next book in the series.
May 23, 2019
I loved this book, filled with lots of emotions, it grabbed my attention and I was desperate to find out what was going on. Gorgeous characters and some heartbreaking stories, it really touched my heart.
Jennifer’s struggle and her efforts to overcome her past were really inspiring to me.
I loved the little magic episodes, and I was happy with how things ended up. A lovely family story that warmed my heart.
Now I want to book my flight to Italy!
Jennifer’s struggle and her efforts to overcome her past were really inspiring to me.
I loved the little magic episodes, and I was happy with how things ended up. A lovely family story that warmed my heart.
Now I want to book my flight to Italy!
November 26, 2021
Part of a trilogy that spans generations, healing,herbs & a little bit of magic make for an entertaining read.
September 6, 2020
The Healer’s Secret by Helen Pryke is a powerful and uplifting story, set in a beautiful Tuscan scenery of a small town where the Innocenti family have been living for centuries. The Innocentis are a traditional Italian family, having a very special gift which has been transmitted from generation to generation. But this family used to have some secrets and dark moments as well, which influenced some of them, often in extremely difficult ways, determining their lives forever. Some secrets seem impossible to bear. Some past events remind about themselves in the present. We meet Jennifer, the protagonist, in a critical moment in her life, the moment when she can either make a bold move to change everything or just wallow in her grief and continue to live a miserable life. The choice she makes requires confronting the past and finding strength to overcome her own weakness but also to find a new sense in her life and be able to accept what the future brings.
The Healer’s Secret is a very powerful and emotional read that you will not be able to put down easily, a book that stays with you and makes you think about the characters for a long time. I was deeply touched by the stories some of the characters had to tell – I found especially Bruna’s and Tommaso’s stories so moving and heartwrenching that it was really difficult to hold tears. This book also tells us about the strength of human character and the power of tradition and family ties. And love which is timeless and so powerful. The setting of the story brisks the reader’s imagination and gives the book incredible atmosphere - and magic.
I hope I convinced you to reach for The Healer’s Secret and step in the Grove where magic happens and where past meets present so that all the puzzles could fit where they belong! I really encourage you to read The Healer’s Secret, which opens the Innocenti family saga, and I bet you will want to reach for more books in this series!
The Healer’s Secret is a very powerful and emotional read that you will not be able to put down easily, a book that stays with you and makes you think about the characters for a long time. I was deeply touched by the stories some of the characters had to tell – I found especially Bruna’s and Tommaso’s stories so moving and heartwrenching that it was really difficult to hold tears. This book also tells us about the strength of human character and the power of tradition and family ties. And love which is timeless and so powerful. The setting of the story brisks the reader’s imagination and gives the book incredible atmosphere - and magic.
I hope I convinced you to reach for The Healer’s Secret and step in the Grove where magic happens and where past meets present so that all the puzzles could fit where they belong! I really encourage you to read The Healer’s Secret, which opens the Innocenti family saga, and I bet you will want to reach for more books in this series!
December 12, 2020
I’m a huge fan of any story that’s woven through generations, where the past influences the present.
The thing that drives the narrative could be a family secret or a house with history and a personality of its own.The Healers Secret introduces us to Jennifer,
a modern woman who is escaping a miserable life in England to live in her maternal family house in Italy.
Traditionally, the eldest daughter is the healer in the family, the house and its gardens provide all the ingredients for potions and treatments, as it has done for centuries past.
Jennifers mother didn't want to take the mantle, now the house is empty and unloved.The house holds secrets, as we progress through this beautifully written tale,
we find out why things are the way they are. The Innocenti family has had its share of scandal and intrigue over the years, the more Jennifer relaxes into her new life the more is revealed,
by family members of all generations.
The setting is beautifully imagined, you can almost feel the Italian sun on your back as the house, garden, and the village of Gallicano come to life.
Everything feels authentic, from the taxi driver to the structure of an extended Italian family.
The house and garden help Jennifer to heal and escape from her past, which involves dealing with some uncomfortable topics, these passages are powerful and sensitively done.
They show us the transformation in Jennifer, as she comes to see where her future lies and the part that her past has played in it.
She changes, from someone who wanted to leave to someone who wants to stay.
This is the first of a series, which is extremely good news.
All in all a very well written story of how a family deals with life and all that goes with it.
The thing that drives the narrative could be a family secret or a house with history and a personality of its own.The Healers Secret introduces us to Jennifer,
a modern woman who is escaping a miserable life in England to live in her maternal family house in Italy.
Traditionally, the eldest daughter is the healer in the family, the house and its gardens provide all the ingredients for potions and treatments, as it has done for centuries past.
Jennifers mother didn't want to take the mantle, now the house is empty and unloved.The house holds secrets, as we progress through this beautifully written tale,
we find out why things are the way they are. The Innocenti family has had its share of scandal and intrigue over the years, the more Jennifer relaxes into her new life the more is revealed,
by family members of all generations.
The setting is beautifully imagined, you can almost feel the Italian sun on your back as the house, garden, and the village of Gallicano come to life.
Everything feels authentic, from the taxi driver to the structure of an extended Italian family.
The house and garden help Jennifer to heal and escape from her past, which involves dealing with some uncomfortable topics, these passages are powerful and sensitively done.
They show us the transformation in Jennifer, as she comes to see where her future lies and the part that her past has played in it.
She changes, from someone who wanted to leave to someone who wants to stay.
This is the first of a series, which is extremely good news.
All in all a very well written story of how a family deals with life and all that goes with it.
August 22, 2022
The Healer's Secret is a wonderfully written novel, with clear and immersive descriptions. I've always wanted to travel to Italy and I certainly felt transported to Tuscany. I found I was rooting for the main character, Jennifer, pretty much immediately. I had lots of empathy for her struggles in the novel. The journey of her relationship with her mother was a particular favourite.
I also really enjoyed the jump into the past and following Luisa's story. The two women, though living decades apart, are connected by the same cottage and Grove garden. As Jennifer delves into the past secrets of Luisa, she also begins her own journey of battling her inner demons.
I really wanted to give this novel five stars, but I found the storyline of the character Mark a bit jarring to the rest of the plot, especially towards the end of the book. However, this did not spoil my enjoyment of this poignant and immensely readable novel, which has just a bit of magic in it.
Absolutely recommended to other readers, but just to say a trigger warning that issues such as alcohol addiction, miscarriage and domestic violence are explored. There is also an uncomfortable death scene. I don't want to say anymore as I don't want to spoil things, but readers may well find some scenes upsetting. There is also occasional strong language within dialogue and possibly Jennifer's internal dialogue.
Overall I definitely enjoyed this book and I'm glad it's the first of a series. I'm looking forward to reading what Jennifer gets up to next.
I also really enjoyed the jump into the past and following Luisa's story. The two women, though living decades apart, are connected by the same cottage and Grove garden. As Jennifer delves into the past secrets of Luisa, she also begins her own journey of battling her inner demons.
I really wanted to give this novel five stars, but I found the storyline of the character Mark a bit jarring to the rest of the plot, especially towards the end of the book. However, this did not spoil my enjoyment of this poignant and immensely readable novel, which has just a bit of magic in it.
Absolutely recommended to other readers, but just to say a trigger warning that issues such as alcohol addiction, miscarriage and domestic violence are explored. There is also an uncomfortable death scene. I don't want to say anymore as I don't want to spoil things, but readers may well find some scenes upsetting. There is also occasional strong language within dialogue and possibly Jennifer's internal dialogue.
Overall I definitely enjoyed this book and I'm glad it's the first of a series. I'm looking forward to reading what Jennifer gets up to next.
February 7, 2018
Secrets and pain transformed to self esteem and growing inner power
'The Healer’s Secret' is such a formidable book. Helen Pryke writes about tough topics as women and child abuse in a way that it's not a read which leaves you in tears. No, the victims become strong characters and the story is in fact uplifting. And this is what also happens in The Healer’s Secret.
The book takes us back to the 1300’s where the healers tradition of the Innocenti family started. Since then, for hundreds of years, the first daughter of every healer has become the next healer, till one moment the chain is broken.
Jennifer, a British woman with Italian blood and main character in the book, leaves England to stay a while in her Italian grandmother’s cottage, where she hopes to combat her alcoholism, her miscarriages and broken up marriage. Little by little she start to unravel the family’s secrets which the writer brings in clever flash backs. Helen Pryke has great skills to inspire and bring optimism. What the secret is, and what specific Jennifer has to do in this story, you have to find out yourself. But I am sure that you will regret not one moment you started to read this book.
In any case, I am lined up to read the new book about the Innocenti family that Helen Pryke promised on the back cover of this book. Reading her books is entertaining, joy, self-exploration, growing, connect you with your inner power.
'The Healer’s Secret' is such a formidable book. Helen Pryke writes about tough topics as women and child abuse in a way that it's not a read which leaves you in tears. No, the victims become strong characters and the story is in fact uplifting. And this is what also happens in The Healer’s Secret.
The book takes us back to the 1300’s where the healers tradition of the Innocenti family started. Since then, for hundreds of years, the first daughter of every healer has become the next healer, till one moment the chain is broken.
Jennifer, a British woman with Italian blood and main character in the book, leaves England to stay a while in her Italian grandmother’s cottage, where she hopes to combat her alcoholism, her miscarriages and broken up marriage. Little by little she start to unravel the family’s secrets which the writer brings in clever flash backs. Helen Pryke has great skills to inspire and bring optimism. What the secret is, and what specific Jennifer has to do in this story, you have to find out yourself. But I am sure that you will regret not one moment you started to read this book.
In any case, I am lined up to read the new book about the Innocenti family that Helen Pryke promised on the back cover of this book. Reading her books is entertaining, joy, self-exploration, growing, connect you with your inner power.
May 13, 2018
The Healer's Secret, the book that takes you for a trip to Italy while discovering secrets hidden in the past of broken Italian family.
Jennifer is going through hell in her personal life, after shattered marriage, miscarriages, alcohol problem, she doesn't see the light in her future. She isn't sure she can ever get out of her drinking habit that is not only hurting herself but also people around, mostly her mother.
It's her mother that suggests, she takes a break and moves to Italy, where the house of her great grandmother lays abandoned and might need a bit of care and love, place where she can find the missing pieces of herself and maybe rebuild her life and her future again. The house is known for it's magic and even if Jennifer doesn't believe it can heal her, she agrees and decides it can't hurt to take a little break from her currently destroyed life.
Getting to know her family in Italy, getting close to them, discovering more of the family's past, it all makes Jennifer as part of something new and makes her feel welcome and at home. She finds passion in gardening and it all leads to discovering more magic and secrets hidden in their family.
I loved the story, the feeling this book gave me, like I was reading it in the sunset on the veranda in Italy and sipping on sweet wine I could literally taste just through the pages. Jennifer's character developed and grew throughout the book as she fought her demons. It was interesting story that touched different and sometimes very difficult to write about topics and ways to deal with them. I think many people can find something they can take away from this book with them and remember. I can definitely recommend it!!
Jennifer is going through hell in her personal life, after shattered marriage, miscarriages, alcohol problem, she doesn't see the light in her future. She isn't sure she can ever get out of her drinking habit that is not only hurting herself but also people around, mostly her mother.
It's her mother that suggests, she takes a break and moves to Italy, where the house of her great grandmother lays abandoned and might need a bit of care and love, place where she can find the missing pieces of herself and maybe rebuild her life and her future again. The house is known for it's magic and even if Jennifer doesn't believe it can heal her, she agrees and decides it can't hurt to take a little break from her currently destroyed life.
Getting to know her family in Italy, getting close to them, discovering more of the family's past, it all makes Jennifer as part of something new and makes her feel welcome and at home. She finds passion in gardening and it all leads to discovering more magic and secrets hidden in their family.
I loved the story, the feeling this book gave me, like I was reading it in the sunset on the veranda in Italy and sipping on sweet wine I could literally taste just through the pages. Jennifer's character developed and grew throughout the book as she fought her demons. It was interesting story that touched different and sometimes very difficult to write about topics and ways to deal with them. I think many people can find something they can take away from this book with them and remember. I can definitely recommend it!!
September 7, 2020
This enchanting book captivated me from the first page. A departure from my usual reading, but its magic quickly drew me into a world of healing — both in the physical and emotional sense.
Jen, for me, was such a credible character. Struggling to cope without the aid of alcohol, she seeks refuge in Tuscany and soon becomes embroiled in Italian life and family secrets. A woman on the edge, unsure if she has the strength to fight her demons.
But all I could see was my life floating away out of reach, the umbilical cord that tethered me to the earth trailing behind it, frayed, swinging uselessly in the air
Layer by layer, we discover untold tragedies spanning generations. So much heartbreak buried beneath the weight of shame, or the burden of guilt.
It was as if the pain had suddenly become a gigantic ball that was choking her, filling her with a poisonous gas, the fog in her head becoming more and more dense, dulling her mind.
There is an air of the mystical — the dragonfly motif injects a sense of something otherworldly at play — but ultimately the story is uplifting and incredibly moving.
She took me in her arms and this time I didn't resist. Her love washed over me and began to heal some of the wounds I'd thought were too deep to ever be reached
I'm deliberately not delving deep into the plot, because you need to read this book. Beautifully written and highly recommended.
Jen, for me, was such a credible character. Struggling to cope without the aid of alcohol, she seeks refuge in Tuscany and soon becomes embroiled in Italian life and family secrets. A woman on the edge, unsure if she has the strength to fight her demons.
But all I could see was my life floating away out of reach, the umbilical cord that tethered me to the earth trailing behind it, frayed, swinging uselessly in the air
Layer by layer, we discover untold tragedies spanning generations. So much heartbreak buried beneath the weight of shame, or the burden of guilt.
It was as if the pain had suddenly become a gigantic ball that was choking her, filling her with a poisonous gas, the fog in her head becoming more and more dense, dulling her mind.
There is an air of the mystical — the dragonfly motif injects a sense of something otherworldly at play — but ultimately the story is uplifting and incredibly moving.
She took me in her arms and this time I didn't resist. Her love washed over me and began to heal some of the wounds I'd thought were too deep to ever be reached
I'm deliberately not delving deep into the plot, because you need to read this book. Beautifully written and highly recommended.
May 16, 2024
When it seems that Jen has burned all her bridges in England and is in the grips of alcohol addiction, her mother suggests she take a trip to her great grandmothers cottage in Tuscany in the hope that the magic of the place will act as a balm for the soul and set her back on the right path.
What Jen finds in Tuscany opens up a whole new realm of possibilities for her, she gets to work cleaning up the cottage, restoring the gardens, and getting to know her family, as she comes across grandmothers book of potions and salves she soon discovers that she comes from a long line of healers, as Jen works her way through the families history we are taken on a journey back in time, back to when her great grandmother was a young woman and the local healer. The story was really nicely written, I particularly enjoyed the trips back in time, without diminishing the work (because I’m about to begin the 2nd, I liked it so much) it is very much an interest grabber, a clear first in the series that gives you lots to be interested in and just enough to make you want more.
The narration overall was really nice, although there was a slight confusion in and accent that had me backtracking a couple of times as it added confusion, other than that, really enjoyable, on to the next one
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up
What Jen finds in Tuscany opens up a whole new realm of possibilities for her, she gets to work cleaning up the cottage, restoring the gardens, and getting to know her family, as she comes across grandmothers book of potions and salves she soon discovers that she comes from a long line of healers, as Jen works her way through the families history we are taken on a journey back in time, back to when her great grandmother was a young woman and the local healer. The story was really nicely written, I particularly enjoyed the trips back in time, without diminishing the work (because I’m about to begin the 2nd, I liked it so much) it is very much an interest grabber, a clear first in the series that gives you lots to be interested in and just enough to make you want more.
The narration overall was really nice, although there was a slight confusion in and accent that had me backtracking a couple of times as it added confusion, other than that, really enjoyable, on to the next one
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up
August 29, 2020
Since having 3 miscarriages, Jennifer has drunk far too much. In part 1 of the book, her marriage has fallen apart and her husband has now left her and has a new girlfriend. Jennifer’s Mum has had enough and packs her off to Tuscany to live in her Great Grandmother, Luisa’s house. While there, Jennifer will need to work hard on the dilapidated home and also meet her Italian relatives. It doesn’t take long for her to settle into the Italian life, will she stay and become a healer like her great grandmother or will she go back to England?
In part 2, we go back in time to read about Luisa’s life from 1940-2014. We learn about her marriage, children and hardships. There are numerous secrets and lies throughout. Everything Luisa does is for her family and she loves helping out the community with her healing potions.
The author has written an interesting book that kept me engrossed. I enjoyed the characters and reading about their lives and exploits. There are some really sad and awful moments which were written sympathetically by the author. I was really touched by this story and look forward to reading more about the family.
In part 2, we go back in time to read about Luisa’s life from 1940-2014. We learn about her marriage, children and hardships. There are numerous secrets and lies throughout. Everything Luisa does is for her family and she loves helping out the community with her healing potions.
The author has written an interesting book that kept me engrossed. I enjoyed the characters and reading about their lives and exploits. There are some really sad and awful moments which were written sympathetically by the author. I was really touched by this story and look forward to reading more about the family.
August 31, 2020
Jennifer’s path of self-destruction has finally come to a screeching halt. Her mother knows she can no longer help her daughter come to terms with all of the consecutive losses in her life and pleads with her to explore her Italian roots in the country side of Tuscany. A change of scenery could be just the motivation she needs to turn her life around. A reluctant Jennifer accepts the challenge and finds herself headed off to a country she’s never visited, to meet with relatives she’s never met and stay at the family’s centuries-old cottage she’s only heard stories about.
Wanting to explore her family history she discovers the honourable roll that the women in her family held throughout history. But she could never imagine the depth of the secrets that the family has held onto for all these years.
This is a beautifully written story following the bloodline of a family of Healer’s. It’s quite the departure from what I usually gravitate towards and once I started felt transported to magical time. Don’t get me wrong, this is not a fluff piece. There is deception, heart ache and the vilest of family secrets.
Wanting to explore her family history she discovers the honourable roll that the women in her family held throughout history. But she could never imagine the depth of the secrets that the family has held onto for all these years.
This is a beautifully written story following the bloodline of a family of Healer’s. It’s quite the departure from what I usually gravitate towards and once I started felt transported to magical time. Don’t get me wrong, this is not a fluff piece. There is deception, heart ache and the vilest of family secrets.
August 29, 2020
The Healer’s Secret has to be one of the best books I’ve read. Set in Italy, it tells the tale of generations of Healers; the first born girl in the family each time from the 1300s onwards. Each healer lives in the same cottage in Tuscany which has magic of its own with its herb garden and dragonflies.
Jennifer grew up in England as her grandmother moved there in her early 20s. She has problems of her own that she needs to escape from so her mother suggests she go to Italy to the cottage that she now owns, her grandmother having left it to her in her will. She experiences different feelings whilst she is there and has very vivid dreams.
The dream scenes are beautifully written and you are drawn in to feeling like you are part of it. It is obvious from the descriptions of Jen’s Italian relatives that the author has experience of an Italian family as they are perfectly described!
It certainly made me want to visit Tuscany again and I can’t wait for book number 2.
Jennifer grew up in England as her grandmother moved there in her early 20s. She has problems of her own that she needs to escape from so her mother suggests she go to Italy to the cottage that she now owns, her grandmother having left it to her in her will. She experiences different feelings whilst she is there and has very vivid dreams.
The dream scenes are beautifully written and you are drawn in to feeling like you are part of it. It is obvious from the descriptions of Jen’s Italian relatives that the author has experience of an Italian family as they are perfectly described!
It certainly made me want to visit Tuscany again and I can’t wait for book number 2.
August 31, 2020
This was a beautifully and sensitively written book of love and loss and how the powerful magic of being in her late grandmothers cottage in Tuscany has the power to help heal Jennifer from her current situation and all she is going through and how the secrets of the past unfold. The author takes the reader on a journey were they are transported into the beauty of the Italian countryside and tranquil setting and are taken from the present day when Jennifer arrives at the cottage to try and find some respite from all that is troubling her back to the 1300’s when her late family first explored the healing properties of the plants in the cottage garden and how a dark secret has been hidden in the past and how it as it unfolds Jennifer finds freedom and happiness To face the future. I am looking forward to reading the second book in this series the healers curse to continue Jennifer’s journey.
January 28, 2019
A novel set in Tuscany, in a tumbledown cottage following Jennifer, a woman down on her luck appealed to me – the mix of picture perfect setting and the drama of family relationships was intriguing. I loved how the past married with the present, the story entwining seamlessly through the generations as Jennifer delved deeper into the history of her ancestors, the Innocenti family.
An Italian setting, family conflict and intrigue, interesting characters, drama, a strong historical element and a little bit of magic makes for a winning combination and a memorable read. The author doesn’t shy away from challenging and emotional themes, exploring the darker side of life, which she handles skillfully. And yet, The Healer’s Secret is an enchanting story. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next instalment.
An Italian setting, family conflict and intrigue, interesting characters, drama, a strong historical element and a little bit of magic makes for a winning combination and a memorable read. The author doesn’t shy away from challenging and emotional themes, exploring the darker side of life, which she handles skillfully. And yet, The Healer’s Secret is an enchanting story. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next instalment.
September 1, 2020
A beautiful heartwarming read with an essence of mystery running through it.
I loved this book; a story through generations of strong women, women who have had to overcome the loss of a child, the loss of loved ones and the struggles of those women across the centuries.
A story of true family beliefs through the generations of the Innocenti family, with each character having their own story to tell.
This is one of those storylines that had me going through several emotions all the way through.
It was heartbreaking in places, but then at times had me sat on the edge of my seat. For me it was truly magical, but also it felt so real, and to get those two things so perfectly in tune with each other is what makes this such an amazing read.
I actually felt like I was walking in Jens shoes.
A remarkable read that I don’t think I will forget for a long time.
I read a lot of books, but this I am definitely adding to my most favourite list of books I’ve read this year.
I loved this book; a story through generations of strong women, women who have had to overcome the loss of a child, the loss of loved ones and the struggles of those women across the centuries.
A story of true family beliefs through the generations of the Innocenti family, with each character having their own story to tell.
This is one of those storylines that had me going through several emotions all the way through.
It was heartbreaking in places, but then at times had me sat on the edge of my seat. For me it was truly magical, but also it felt so real, and to get those two things so perfectly in tune with each other is what makes this such an amazing read.
I actually felt like I was walking in Jens shoes.
A remarkable read that I don’t think I will forget for a long time.
I read a lot of books, but this I am definitely adding to my most favourite list of books I’ve read this year.
May 15, 2024
Listened on audiable.
The title immediately caught my attention of this book and the ones following. Being a healer, I was so intrigued by this also hava passion for dual timelines and herritage, etc.
I enjoyed The healers secret, although being a dual timeline, it did seem to give a little more detail on the now however given the fact this is a series, it leaves the space open for more moving forward.
There is so much involved in this plot that can open up to really make for a fantastic series, and I am already listening to the second in the series.
The narration was well done, flowed easily, and was a pleasure to listen to, I completed this book within a couple of days moving on to book 2....
The title immediately caught my attention of this book and the ones following. Being a healer, I was so intrigued by this also hava passion for dual timelines and herritage, etc.
I enjoyed The healers secret, although being a dual timeline, it did seem to give a little more detail on the now however given the fact this is a series, it leaves the space open for more moving forward.
There is so much involved in this plot that can open up to really make for a fantastic series, and I am already listening to the second in the series.
The narration was well done, flowed easily, and was a pleasure to listen to, I completed this book within a couple of days moving on to book 2....
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