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Toussaints Detective Agency #1
Kadunud märkmik
Saladusi täis märkmik, kaks ootamatut surma – midagi pahaendelist raputab idüllilise kuurortlinna Morannez’i elu …
On suvi, Bretagne’i imekaunile rannikule saabuvad puhkajad. Kui aga kummalisel kombel sureb vana rändurnaine ning veel üks inimene võtab endalt elu tõenäoliselt laimukampaania tõttu, hakkavad sündmused omandama üha süngemat värvi. Mila Shepherd tuli Prantsusmaale hoolitsema oma õetütre Ani eest, kelle vanemad jäid mereõnnetuses kadunuks. Mila asub oma õe asemel tööle ka kadunud inimeste otsimisega tegelevasse agentuuri, kuni sellele kohale värvatakse uus töötaja Carter Jackson. On selge, et Morannez’is tegutsevad pahatahtlikud jõud, ent kohalik politsei ei näi midagi märkavat. Mila ja Carter on ainsad, kes suudavad välja selgitada, mis selles imelises, kuid saladusi varjavas paigas tegelikult toimub. Samal ajal püüab keegi iga hinna eest kohutava tõe paljastumist takistada.
On suvi, Bretagne’i imekaunile rannikule saabuvad puhkajad. Kui aga kummalisel kombel sureb vana rändurnaine ning veel üks inimene võtab endalt elu tõenäoliselt laimukampaania tõttu, hakkavad sündmused omandama üha süngemat värvi. Mila Shepherd tuli Prantsusmaale hoolitsema oma õetütre Ani eest, kelle vanemad jäid mereõnnetuses kadunuks. Mila asub oma õe asemel tööle ka kadunud inimeste otsimisega tegelevasse agentuuri, kuni sellele kohale värvatakse uus töötaja Carter Jackson. On selge, et Morannez’is tegutsevad pahatahtlikud jõud, ent kohalik politsei ei näi midagi märkavat. Mila ja Carter on ainsad, kes suudavad välja selgitada, mis selles imelises, kuid saladusi varjavas paigas tegelikult toimub. Samal ajal püüab keegi iga hinna eest kohutava tõe paljastumist takistada.
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First published September 5, 2022
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About the author
Louise Douglas
32 books842 followersHello and thank you for visiting my profile page. I write contemporary Gothic novels which are usually inspired by places close to where I live in the Mendips, close to Bristol in the UK, or by places I've visited, especially Italy and Sicily. The House by the Sea won the Jackie Collins Romantic Suspense Award in 2021. The Love of My Life, my first book, was longlisted for the Romantic Novel of the Year Award. My second book, Missing You, won the RNA Readers' Choice Award, and my third, The Secrets Between Us was a 2012 Richard and Judy Summer Read.
The next book, The Room in the Attic is due to be published in October 2021 and is a ghost story set in a Victorian asylum-turned-boarding school on Dartmoor.
If you'd like to connect, you'll find me on Facebook Louise Amy Douglas or Twitter: @LouiseDouglas3.
The next book, The Room in the Attic is due to be published in October 2021 and is a ghost story set in a Victorian asylum-turned-boarding school on Dartmoor.
If you'd like to connect, you'll find me on Facebook Louise Amy Douglas or Twitter: @LouiseDouglas3.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 433 reviews
August 5, 2022
The summer seaside calm of Morannez in Brittany is disturbed when an elderly female traveller is found dead and sadly, things take a much darker turn. Mila Shepherd is currently living in the area looking after her niece Ani (Anais) following the death of her parents Sophie and Charlie who drown at sea, Mila is also working covering Sophie’s job at an agency that specialises in tracking down missing persons. As Mila’s suspicions grow that something sinister is afoot in the idyllic area she undertakes an investigation alongside new agency employee Carter Jackson, a friend of Sophie’s and herself since their teenage years.
Although this starts a bit slowly and feels slightly disjointed this soon settles into a really compelling slow burner mystery that I thoroughly enjoy. There are several cleverly intertwined mysteries that become more and more intriguing the further into the book you get as it takes you in several unexpected directions.
The setting is fantastic as Louise Douglas has me drooling at the Patisserie (mines a Religieuses s’il vous plaît, merci) and in the restaurants, she incorporates the areas traditions but also some history as part of the storytelling is set around an archaeological dig. This is especially fascinating and makes a superb backdrop to the drama. She also takes us back to Sophie and Mila growing up here as teenagers with a group known as the ‘band sauvage’ .
The mystery builds well, suspicions grown, there is tension and lack of trust in some areas. It becomes very unsettling as you almost find yourself looking over your own shoulder! I like the ending, it’s so plausible and comes together well and I’m really hoping there’s a follow on novel as the author has left me with my suspicion antennae twitching!
I like the characters especially Ani and Mila and I love that through Mila we get to hear Sophie’s voice.
Overall, this has a well developed, immersive and multilayered plot and I look forward to being back in France with Mila, fingers crossed! Great cover too!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Boldwood Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Although this starts a bit slowly and feels slightly disjointed this soon settles into a really compelling slow burner mystery that I thoroughly enjoy. There are several cleverly intertwined mysteries that become more and more intriguing the further into the book you get as it takes you in several unexpected directions.
The setting is fantastic as Louise Douglas has me drooling at the Patisserie (mines a Religieuses s’il vous plaît, merci) and in the restaurants, she incorporates the areas traditions but also some history as part of the storytelling is set around an archaeological dig. This is especially fascinating and makes a superb backdrop to the drama. She also takes us back to Sophie and Mila growing up here as teenagers with a group known as the ‘band sauvage’ .
The mystery builds well, suspicions grown, there is tension and lack of trust in some areas. It becomes very unsettling as you almost find yourself looking over your own shoulder! I like the ending, it’s so plausible and comes together well and I’m really hoping there’s a follow on novel as the author has left me with my suspicion antennae twitching!
I like the characters especially Ani and Mila and I love that through Mila we get to hear Sophie’s voice.
Overall, this has a well developed, immersive and multilayered plot and I look forward to being back in France with Mila, fingers crossed! Great cover too!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Boldwood Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
September 6, 2022
This book starts off as more of a slow-burn but the sense of intrigue and mystery helped me to stay interested. Once the clues had started coming together, I was gripped and couldn't put it down. The plot was interesting and well researched, and I liked the characters that took the story forward.
It's only for the slower beginning (which isn't good for my poor attention span!) that I felt the need to deduct a star from my rating, but this book was well worth it!
It's only for the slower beginning (which isn't good for my poor attention span!) that I felt the need to deduct a star from my rating, but this book was well worth it!
August 28, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
It's the summer, holidaymakers are flocking to the idyllic Brittany coast. But first when an old traveller woman dies in suspicious circumstances, and then a campaign of hate drives another victim to take his own life, events take a very dark turn. Mila Shepherd has come to France to look after her niece, Ani, following the accident in which both Ani's parents were lost at sea. Mila has moved into their family holiday home - The Sea House - as well as taking her sister Sophie's place in an agency which specialises in tracking down missing people, until new recruit Carter Jackson starts.
The pace is slow to begin with. Mila moved back to Morranez to take care of her niece, Ani, after her parents were lost at sea. This is a descriptively written story. Mila stumbles on an elderly lady who had written a notebook spanning over several years. when the lady is killed, the notebook is missing. This story is filled with great characters that are well developed. This twist filled read has a few threads to follow. I had to keep reading to find out the truth. I didn't like the way the book ended so I took off half a star.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LouiseDouglas for my ARC of #TheLostNotebook in exchange for an honest review.
It's the summer, holidaymakers are flocking to the idyllic Brittany coast. But first when an old traveller woman dies in suspicious circumstances, and then a campaign of hate drives another victim to take his own life, events take a very dark turn. Mila Shepherd has come to France to look after her niece, Ani, following the accident in which both Ani's parents were lost at sea. Mila has moved into their family holiday home - The Sea House - as well as taking her sister Sophie's place in an agency which specialises in tracking down missing people, until new recruit Carter Jackson starts.
The pace is slow to begin with. Mila moved back to Morranez to take care of her niece, Ani, after her parents were lost at sea. This is a descriptively written story. Mila stumbles on an elderly lady who had written a notebook spanning over several years. when the lady is killed, the notebook is missing. This story is filled with great characters that are well developed. This twist filled read has a few threads to follow. I had to keep reading to find out the truth. I didn't like the way the book ended so I took off half a star.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LouiseDouglas for my ARC of #TheLostNotebook in exchange for an honest review.
December 29, 2022
I really struggled to get into this French mystery by Douglas. This is my second read by this author but I certainly did not connect with the narrative like I did previously. I also thought that the cover was quite misleading: it portrays a stormy, brooding narrative, despite the fact this takes place in the height of summer and there are lots of positive references to the warm weather.
From the beginning I thought that something felt ‘off’ with the narrative and I think I could put this down to two reasons. Firstly, I did not understand Mila’s obsession with connecting with Gosia’s son after her unexpected death. It seemed rather rash and inexplicable because Mila barely knew the woman and I thought she was becoming unnecessarily involved in a stranger’s affairs. Secondly, I quickly disliked Mila and her attitudes towards her family. She treats her niece with disdain: she is a burden that is preventing Mila from returning to England; she dislikes her step-mother and is exasperated by being the interim carer for Ani.
I would have preferred if Douglas had developed Gosia’s character throughout the narrative because Mila’s investigations made it all seem rather one-sided. Incorporating some flashbacks would have helped me understand this absent character a bit more and likely sympathise with Mila’s caring approach. Instead, it felt like all the revelations came in the last ten or so chapters; this is when I felt the story was most interesting and picked up a pace that was largely lethargic and slow.
I found it interesting how Mila is haunted by her sister. Throughout the story, Mila “hears” Sophie’s responses in her head. Not only does this represent Mila’s raw grief, but also the isolation she feels. Reinforced by looking after Sophie’s daughter, I think it demonstrated how detached Mila had become to everyone around her – symbolised by how few friends she has and the suspicions she has of so many. Furthermore, I was saddened about how Mila treated her niece, particularly with regards to her future plans, and I think this added to my dislike of the protagonist.
This was a very slow-burner of a mystery that I found I cared less and less about. I persevered because I wanted to see how Mila’s character would change and, when some action started to happen, was keen to understand the motives driving this. However, it was largely a struggle to read this book and I found it quite disappointing overall.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
From the beginning I thought that something felt ‘off’ with the narrative and I think I could put this down to two reasons. Firstly, I did not understand Mila’s obsession with connecting with Gosia’s son after her unexpected death. It seemed rather rash and inexplicable because Mila barely knew the woman and I thought she was becoming unnecessarily involved in a stranger’s affairs. Secondly, I quickly disliked Mila and her attitudes towards her family. She treats her niece with disdain: she is a burden that is preventing Mila from returning to England; she dislikes her step-mother and is exasperated by being the interim carer for Ani.
I would have preferred if Douglas had developed Gosia’s character throughout the narrative because Mila’s investigations made it all seem rather one-sided. Incorporating some flashbacks would have helped me understand this absent character a bit more and likely sympathise with Mila’s caring approach. Instead, it felt like all the revelations came in the last ten or so chapters; this is when I felt the story was most interesting and picked up a pace that was largely lethargic and slow.
I found it interesting how Mila is haunted by her sister. Throughout the story, Mila “hears” Sophie’s responses in her head. Not only does this represent Mila’s raw grief, but also the isolation she feels. Reinforced by looking after Sophie’s daughter, I think it demonstrated how detached Mila had become to everyone around her – symbolised by how few friends she has and the suspicions she has of so many. Furthermore, I was saddened about how Mila treated her niece, particularly with regards to her future plans, and I think this added to my dislike of the protagonist.
This was a very slow-burner of a mystery that I found I cared less and less about. I persevered because I wanted to see how Mila’s character would change and, when some action started to happen, was keen to understand the motives driving this. However, it was largely a struggle to read this book and I found it quite disappointing overall.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2022
My goodness this was quite a slog, I found the characters very muddled and confusing. Not one of her best I think. I liked the twist at the end but, it took a long time to get to the end. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
September 6, 2022
OK, everybody hold on there’s a lot to unpack here. First of all Mila lives in London, but she’s in France to take care of her stepsister Sophia‘s daughter due to the fact Sophia and her husband were lost at sea and although they found Sophia‘s body her husband was never recovered oh yes and Sophia lives as a voice in Milla’s head. She also works at the families investigation business one night when Anja her niece it’s late getting home she goes out to look for her and find her sitting next to a horse trailer with the vagrant lady. This is where she notices the thick scrapbook her name is Gosia and Mila offers for her to stay in their extra bedroom but the house a home less Lady refuses so the next day Mila decides to go check on her and when she does she finds her dead in her bed in the scrapbook that caught her attention the night before seems to be gone. Her niece Anya and best friend Purvo say it’s due to The fact they archaeologists that are digging up local ancient ground have released a curse but Mila blows this off as teen-age superstition .When her stepmom Cici invite’s her for lunch to meet her replacement at the family business she is shocked to see it is Carter a Canadian who has recently moved back to the area this is not only Sophia‘s ex but her Frenemy but soon she will have to learn to get along with him because when one of the archaeologist is “wife“ comes to higher their services for an infidelity case because she thinks her professor husband is cheating on her one thing leads to another in what they uncover will connect all the mysteries together and go with the mystery it is. This book was a lot but it was a lot of greatness OMG moments and oh my goodness! Let me just say I know I said Sophia is a voice in Mila‘s head I mention the curse but there isn’t anything supernatural about this book except that this is a super book and naturally if you love mysteries you want to read it. I loved it and can’t say enough about it. I received this book from NetGalleyShelf and the publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind to dictate my review but all opinions are definitely my own.
August 18, 2022
Fans of Louise Douglas’ heartwarming stories infused with mystery and sprinkled with a touch of history will not be disappointed. Patience is needed in giving the author space to give multiple backstories and build the mysteries in this intricately plotted story. You’ll be glad you kept reading because the mysteries and multiple subplots eventually unite into a feverish type page-turner you won’t be able to set down.
I don’t know how she does it but Douglas ties together things that one wouldn’t expect and readers just accept it and keep reading; an archaeological dig, teenage angst, French traditions, an orphaned child, a gypsy woman with a secret, a professor with questionable actions, a private investigator and a well-dressed woman with a mistaken identity.
My favourite character was Malgorzata ‘Gosia’ Kowalczyk, the eccentric old traveller woman living in the back of a converted horsebox. Douglas’ descriptions of her left nothing to the imagination ~ spectacular. It’s not often I finish a book thinking I’d like to meet a character and I did wish I could sit and chat with Gosia.
I suspect we’ll hear that there’s a sequel in the works. Regardless, you’ll love this mystery set in the south of France and the unique cast of characters.
I was gifted this advanced copy by Boldwood Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I don’t know how she does it but Douglas ties together things that one wouldn’t expect and readers just accept it and keep reading; an archaeological dig, teenage angst, French traditions, an orphaned child, a gypsy woman with a secret, a professor with questionable actions, a private investigator and a well-dressed woman with a mistaken identity.
My favourite character was Malgorzata ‘Gosia’ Kowalczyk, the eccentric old traveller woman living in the back of a converted horsebox. Douglas’ descriptions of her left nothing to the imagination ~ spectacular. It’s not often I finish a book thinking I’d like to meet a character and I did wish I could sit and chat with Gosia.
I suspect we’ll hear that there’s a sequel in the works. Regardless, you’ll love this mystery set in the south of France and the unique cast of characters.
I was gifted this advanced copy by Boldwood Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 18, 2023
The summer season has started on the idyllic Brittany coast, where holidaymakers are flocking. But everything changes when an old traveller woman dies in suspicious circumstances and then a campaign of hate seems to drive another victim to suicide.
Mila Shepherd has moved into her family home to look after her niece, whose parents Sophie and husband Charles were lost at sea.
She has taken her sister's place in an agency that specialises in tracking down missing people.
Mila's suspicion grows that something sinister is happening in this idyllic location.
A great read that starts slowly and builds to a thrilling conclusion.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange fir an honest review.
Mila Shepherd has moved into her family home to look after her niece, whose parents Sophie and husband Charles were lost at sea.
She has taken her sister's place in an agency that specialises in tracking down missing people.
Mila's suspicion grows that something sinister is happening in this idyllic location.
A great read that starts slowly and builds to a thrilling conclusion.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange fir an honest review.
September 21, 2022
This book started out a bit slow for me, but as it went on I was brought into the story and eagerly turned the pages. A compelling family drama involving Mila Shepherd who is in France, on the Brittany coast. She is there to help with her niece, Ani, whose parents, Sophie, and her husband, Charlie had an accident and were lost at sea.
She is also helping her mother by taking Sophie's place at the agency that they had. They handle missing person's cases. Carter Jackson, a new recruit starts at the agency. Mila is not a fan because they knew each other when they were younger and Carter was a good friend of Sophie's.
Mila goes looking for Ani one day and finds her with an old woman traveler, Gosia, and when she finds the old woman dead, she is compelled to find the woman's son Tomaz. The police think that Gosia just died but Mila is not happy with that, she intends to investigate when she finds out that Ani tells her of a book that the old woman had, it cannot be found. Inside that book are the clues as to who Gosia was and what she has written in the book may be enough to have had her murdered.
There is an archaeological dig and Professor Perry, a respected man from Cambridge. Someone is trying to ruin his reputation and Mila thinks that there is a connection between Gosia and the professor. Mila along with Carter's help decides that they need to investigate. They need to be careful or they could be the next victims.
Like I said before, it was slow going, just setting up the back story, and I soon became hooked. The descriptions of France, the scenery, and the food were enough to have me wanting more. The mystery of Gosia and who she was was very interesting. The characters were very likable and the plot was also interesting. A murder mystery, not a cozy mystery though.
I love a good mystery and this one fit right in, I even liked Ani who was surly most of the time and missed her parents tremendously. If you like a good story this is one I would recommend.
I give it 4 stars!
I received a copy for review purposes only!
She is also helping her mother by taking Sophie's place at the agency that they had. They handle missing person's cases. Carter Jackson, a new recruit starts at the agency. Mila is not a fan because they knew each other when they were younger and Carter was a good friend of Sophie's.
Mila goes looking for Ani one day and finds her with an old woman traveler, Gosia, and when she finds the old woman dead, she is compelled to find the woman's son Tomaz. The police think that Gosia just died but Mila is not happy with that, she intends to investigate when she finds out that Ani tells her of a book that the old woman had, it cannot be found. Inside that book are the clues as to who Gosia was and what she has written in the book may be enough to have had her murdered.
There is an archaeological dig and Professor Perry, a respected man from Cambridge. Someone is trying to ruin his reputation and Mila thinks that there is a connection between Gosia and the professor. Mila along with Carter's help decides that they need to investigate. They need to be careful or they could be the next victims.
Like I said before, it was slow going, just setting up the back story, and I soon became hooked. The descriptions of France, the scenery, and the food were enough to have me wanting more. The mystery of Gosia and who she was was very interesting. The characters were very likable and the plot was also interesting. A murder mystery, not a cozy mystery though.
I love a good mystery and this one fit right in, I even liked Ani who was surly most of the time and missed her parents tremendously. If you like a good story this is one I would recommend.
I give it 4 stars!
I received a copy for review purposes only!
June 19, 2023
*Suspicions*
After tragic circumstances Mila Shepherd goes to France to support and look after her niece and a female cat called Berthaud (lol)
Mila is writing a book but there are several distractions that peak her interest. Mila plans to stay a while but needs to get back to the U.K.
In the meantime until that happens she is working for her stepmother who runs an agency that tracks down missing people. With Mila due to leave it opens up a vacancy and a blast from the past Carter Jackson steps in. There is tension between the two, why?
The story starts off quite slowly and I wondered where it was going then it takes an unusual turn. Firstly Mila can smell smoke she goes off to investigate and she finds the traveller woman deceased. Is it suspicious? Mila notices a huge notebook is missing and her phone is missing. The police view it as a straightforward death are they right?
Other strange things happen and Mila cannot ignore her gut feeling, what they uncover shakes the book up and I was hooked. Now despite Mila’s irritation with Carter they must pull together as things take a dangerous turn….
After tragic circumstances Mila Shepherd goes to France to support and look after her niece and a female cat called Berthaud (lol)
Mila is writing a book but there are several distractions that peak her interest. Mila plans to stay a while but needs to get back to the U.K.
In the meantime until that happens she is working for her stepmother who runs an agency that tracks down missing people. With Mila due to leave it opens up a vacancy and a blast from the past Carter Jackson steps in. There is tension between the two, why?
The story starts off quite slowly and I wondered where it was going then it takes an unusual turn. Firstly Mila can smell smoke she goes off to investigate and she finds the traveller woman deceased. Is it suspicious? Mila notices a huge notebook is missing and her phone is missing. The police view it as a straightforward death are they right?
Other strange things happen and Mila cannot ignore her gut feeling, what they uncover shakes the book up and I was hooked. Now despite Mila’s irritation with Carter they must pull together as things take a dangerous turn….
September 19, 2022
Found the story rather slow, nothing really interesting happens until nearly half way through the story. It ends on an odd note too, with no resolution over of a possible misunderstanding/relationship issue, some aspects of the story left open ended - this may be so that the reader can draw their own conclusions, or the author possibly may be writing a sequel to this.
Unfortunately though, it left me feeling rather “Meh”.
2 stars
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my review.
Unfortunately though, it left me feeling rather “Meh”.
2 stars
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my review.
July 3, 2023
An intriguing story set in France where the main character is taking care of her orphaned niece with the help of her step mum. They befriend the elderly traveller lady who lives in her wagon in the woods not far from their property when one night there is a fire at her camp. The elderly lady is found dead in her wagon and her notebook with her life’s work is missing and hereby sets off a chain of events.
The story is interesting and well written but a little slow in places and I couldn’t connect with the characters none of them were very likeable and left me a bit empty.
The story is interesting and well written but a little slow in places and I couldn’t connect with the characters none of them were very likeable and left me a bit empty.
January 22, 2023
Just awful
Seriously one of the worst books I’ve ever read. I tried to read until the end but had to give up. Stay away!
Seriously one of the worst books I’ve ever read. I tried to read until the end but had to give up. Stay away!
May 23, 2023
I wanted to love this one - sounded like it would be a mystery with a side plot of suspense and romance set in Brittany, France....yes please!
However, I think it ended up being none of those things. For me, I think it boils down to the plot and pacing.
At almost no point did I as a reader feel like the plot was building towards something or get any sense of increasing tension or the stakes being raised. The plot seemed to just meander slowly ith no real point. Various seemingly disconnected plot points were raised but again, without ratcheting up the suspense, there was no build-up to the climax.
The climax, as it was, was so brief and resolved so quickly that it sucked any suspense, drama, or sense of payoff for this reader.
So to summarize: a rambling, meandering, slow plot with lots of red herrings and plot lines that didn't go anywhere resolves with a very lackluster climax and some pretty significant loose threads that imply a sequel.
I almost DNF'ed several times but what saved this book for me is that the characters and the writing itself were interesting and compelling enough to keep me going.
I didn't understand Mila's motivations in digging into the death of the traveler woman beyond a good-faith effort to contact her son. I didn't get why the wife of the missing man trusted Mila, a random stranger with ties to the agency that damaged his reputation, or why Mila felt it was her responsibility to sort that out too.
Other than serving as a means to bring Mila from England to France, the whole plot line of her sister's death and her serving as a caretaker for her niece didn't impact the core plot in any meaningful way. It made Mila a more interesting and conflicted character, but what was really the point of all of that? What I mean is that the entire story could have unfolded exactly as it did (with a slight tweak to the climax) with or without this element. For example, she could have inherited the house there or could be spending the summer with family etc.
The ultimate reveal of the connection between the traveler woman and the archaeologist felt sudden and a little contrived with how Mila found it and I didn't understand why she didn't immediately go to the police. For that matter, I didn't understand why the woman or the archaeologist didn't contact the police either.
And now the end of the story.... spoilers ahead!
Disappointing.
However, I think it ended up being none of those things. For me, I think it boils down to the plot and pacing.
At almost no point did I as a reader feel like the plot was building towards something or get any sense of increasing tension or the stakes being raised. The plot seemed to just meander slowly ith no real point. Various seemingly disconnected plot points were raised but again, without ratcheting up the suspense, there was no build-up to the climax.
The climax, as it was, was so brief and resolved so quickly that it sucked any suspense, drama, or sense of payoff for this reader.
So to summarize: a rambling, meandering, slow plot with lots of red herrings and plot lines that didn't go anywhere resolves with a very lackluster climax and some pretty significant loose threads that imply a sequel.
I almost DNF'ed several times but what saved this book for me is that the characters and the writing itself were interesting and compelling enough to keep me going.
I didn't understand Mila's motivations in digging into the death of the traveler woman beyond a good-faith effort to contact her son. I didn't get why the wife of the missing man trusted Mila, a random stranger with ties to the agency that damaged his reputation, or why Mila felt it was her responsibility to sort that out too.
Other than serving as a means to bring Mila from England to France, the whole plot line of her sister's death and her serving as a caretaker for her niece didn't impact the core plot in any meaningful way. It made Mila a more interesting and conflicted character, but what was really the point of all of that? What I mean is that the entire story could have unfolded exactly as it did (with a slight tweak to the climax) with or without this element. For example, she could have inherited the house there or could be spending the summer with family etc.
The ultimate reveal of the connection between the traveler woman and the archaeologist felt sudden and a little contrived with how Mila found it and I didn't understand why she didn't immediately go to the police. For that matter, I didn't understand why the woman or the archaeologist didn't contact the police either.
And now the end of the story.... spoilers ahead!
Disappointing.
February 13, 2023
3⭐️ When an eccentric old woman called Gosia traveling through the small town of Morannez, France is found dead in her mobile home, no one thinks much of it. Except for Mila Shepherd. Mila has been guardian of her 14 year old niece, Ani, for almost a year- ever since her step-sister Sophie and husband Charlie died at sea. Mila left her comfortable home in Bristol with her boyfriend of ten years, Luke who works for the police, to take care of Ani as well as temporarily fill in for Sophie who worked with her mother Ceci doing investigative work for the Toussaint’s Agency. With Gosia’s death, things don’t sit right with Mila- the circumstances seem a bit off but no one is willing to look into it. When an adolescent acquaintance of Mila and Sophie, named Carter Jackson is hired to replace Mila at the agency, things get more complicated when a person the agency was looking into disappears under suspicious circumstances. As Mila searches for the truth in both situations, she starts to suspect they might be related but doesn’t realize how desperate someone is to keep the truth from coming to the light.
I feel like this book had so much potential but it ended up letting me down. It started off with a slow burn with the pieces of the puzzle slowly being introduced and in the end, although the story’s main resolution is given, there were so many things unresolved. Who was the shadowy figure that left the rocks/shell on the beach? What exactly happened with Mila and Carter in the past? Things were hinted at but never explained. Who was the person that Sophie knew a secret about but never got a chance to tell Mila?
I was also confused by the video Mila found when doing her research of Gosia. How would that incriminating video have found it’s way to the Internet?? Especially with the names of the seven young men easily written out for all to see who exactly was guilty of the crime that was just committed on film? Although that information was key in helping Mila understand what Gosia was doing, only one of the killers would have had that video so why would they post incriminating evidence online with the names of those involved? It didn’t make sense to me.
I’m really sad with this one because I enjoyed the whole idea behind it with the beautiful setting in France with the beach and riding bikes throughout the town, the pastry shop and all, but unfortunately there were too many things that didn’t come together that left me disappointed.
I feel like this book had so much potential but it ended up letting me down. It started off with a slow burn with the pieces of the puzzle slowly being introduced and in the end, although the story’s main resolution is given, there were so many things unresolved. Who was the shadowy figure that left the rocks/shell on the beach? What exactly happened with Mila and Carter in the past? Things were hinted at but never explained. Who was the person that Sophie knew a secret about but never got a chance to tell Mila?
I was also confused by the video Mila found when doing her research of Gosia. How would that incriminating video have found it’s way to the Internet?? Especially with the names of the seven young men easily written out for all to see who exactly was guilty of the crime that was just committed on film? Although that information was key in helping Mila understand what Gosia was doing, only one of the killers would have had that video so why would they post incriminating evidence online with the names of those involved? It didn’t make sense to me.
I’m really sad with this one because I enjoyed the whole idea behind it with the beautiful setting in France with the beach and riding bikes throughout the town, the pastry shop and all, but unfortunately there were too many things that didn’t come together that left me disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2024
Нямаше кой знае каква загадка в тази история, нямаше достатъчно напрежение, героите не блестяха с остър ум, тъмно минало, липсваха тайни. Всичко това направи цялата история скучна и определено не препоръчвам. Единственото нещо, което ми хареса, беше мястото, на което се развиваше действието.
August 13, 2022
The Lost Notebook by Louise Douglas was a thriller that kept the reader in suspense until the end. Mila, the British aunt to Ani, takes responsibly to take care of her sister's daughter because both the parents were deceased due to a boating accident. Mila moves to French Morranez to assist in Sophie's business and to parent Ani temporarily.
Mila however, has discovered two deaths while on the island and has made it her role to investigate the murders. Also Mila has to learn parenting skills immediately. Learn who the murdered victims are and how they are related. Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read this novel prior to its publication date.
Mila however, has discovered two deaths while on the island and has made it her role to investigate the murders. Also Mila has to learn parenting skills immediately. Learn who the murdered victims are and how they are related. Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read this novel prior to its publication date.
November 7, 2025
Deze recensie werd eerder gepubliceerd op mijn blog GraagGelezen.
Met 'Het verdwenen dagboek' levert Louise Douglas het veelbelovende eerste deel af van de serie 'Detectivebureau Toussaint'. De auteur, bekend van haar sfeervolle en vaak melancholieke psychologische romans, neemt de lezer ditmaal mee naar het schilderachtige, maar geheimzinnige, Morranez in Bretagne.
De setting in een idyllisch, maar blijkbaar sinister, Bretons kustplaatsje is direct een grote troef. De rustige façade van het dorpje wordt abrupt verstoord door twee vreemde sterfgevallen en het mysterie van een verdwenen dagboek.
“De kerk was zo oud dat ze, net als de menhirs die overal op het platteland te vinden waren, een natuurlijk element in het landschap leek, in plaats van een door mensen ontworpen gebouw. De grijze, stenen muren waren net zo dik en verweerd als de staande stenen waar de regio Finistère in Bretagne bekend om staat.”
We volgen de Britse Mila Shepherd, die door een persoonlijk drama (het verlies van haar zus en zwager) in de voetsporen van haar zus treedt bij het gespecialiseerde Detectivebureau Toussaint. Deze persoonlijke betrokkenheid, gecombineerd met haar nieuwe, onzekere rol als detective, maakt haar een direct sympathieke en kwetsbare hoofdpersoon. De onwil van de lokale politie om de zaken te onderzoeken, dwingt Mila en haar nieuwe collega Carter Jackson om zelf de duistere waarheid op te graven.
De plot zit goed in elkaar met meerdere lagen van mysterie:
*Het raadsel van de twee sterfgevallen (waaronder dat van een bewoonster van een paardentrailer).
*De link met archeologische opgravingen – een onverwacht, intrigerend element.
*Het ontbrekende dagboek, ongetwijfeld de sleutel tot het ontrafelen van de duistere geheimen van Morranez.
Douglas blinkt uit in het creëren van een beklemmende sfeer en het langzaam onthullen van geheimen uit het verleden die doorwerken in het heden. De belofte van 'kwaadaardige krachten' suggereert dat de dreiging dieper gaat dan een simpele misdaad.
“Mila stopte met rennen en bleef stokstijf staan. Het voelde alsof haar hart stilstond. Ze had een brandende pijn in haar benen.
Nu herinnerde ze zich wat ze zich eerder had moeten realiseren: degene die verantwoordelijk was voor de dood van Gosia had geweten dat zij daar onderzoek naar deed; diegene had haar bericht op het forum gezien; was naar haar huis gekomen en had op haar laptop gekeken.”
'Het verdwenen dagboek' is een sfeervolle en meeslepende roman, perfect voor lezers die houden van een plot gedreven door gelaagde personages, een broeierige setting, en een langzaam opbouwende spanning. De combinatie van een charmant, maar verdorven, dorp met een privédetectivebureau zorgt voor een frisse kijk op het genre.
'Het verdwenen dagboek' is een uitstekende kennismaking met Mila Shepherd en Detectivebureau Toussaint, en ik kijk zeker uit naar de volgende delen in de serie.
Met 'Het verdwenen dagboek' levert Louise Douglas het veelbelovende eerste deel af van de serie 'Detectivebureau Toussaint'. De auteur, bekend van haar sfeervolle en vaak melancholieke psychologische romans, neemt de lezer ditmaal mee naar het schilderachtige, maar geheimzinnige, Morranez in Bretagne.
De setting in een idyllisch, maar blijkbaar sinister, Bretons kustplaatsje is direct een grote troef. De rustige façade van het dorpje wordt abrupt verstoord door twee vreemde sterfgevallen en het mysterie van een verdwenen dagboek.
“De kerk was zo oud dat ze, net als de menhirs die overal op het platteland te vinden waren, een natuurlijk element in het landschap leek, in plaats van een door mensen ontworpen gebouw. De grijze, stenen muren waren net zo dik en verweerd als de staande stenen waar de regio Finistère in Bretagne bekend om staat.”
We volgen de Britse Mila Shepherd, die door een persoonlijk drama (het verlies van haar zus en zwager) in de voetsporen van haar zus treedt bij het gespecialiseerde Detectivebureau Toussaint. Deze persoonlijke betrokkenheid, gecombineerd met haar nieuwe, onzekere rol als detective, maakt haar een direct sympathieke en kwetsbare hoofdpersoon. De onwil van de lokale politie om de zaken te onderzoeken, dwingt Mila en haar nieuwe collega Carter Jackson om zelf de duistere waarheid op te graven.
De plot zit goed in elkaar met meerdere lagen van mysterie:
*Het raadsel van de twee sterfgevallen (waaronder dat van een bewoonster van een paardentrailer).
*De link met archeologische opgravingen – een onverwacht, intrigerend element.
*Het ontbrekende dagboek, ongetwijfeld de sleutel tot het ontrafelen van de duistere geheimen van Morranez.
Douglas blinkt uit in het creëren van een beklemmende sfeer en het langzaam onthullen van geheimen uit het verleden die doorwerken in het heden. De belofte van 'kwaadaardige krachten' suggereert dat de dreiging dieper gaat dan een simpele misdaad.
“Mila stopte met rennen en bleef stokstijf staan. Het voelde alsof haar hart stilstond. Ze had een brandende pijn in haar benen.
Nu herinnerde ze zich wat ze zich eerder had moeten realiseren: degene die verantwoordelijk was voor de dood van Gosia had geweten dat zij daar onderzoek naar deed; diegene had haar bericht op het forum gezien; was naar haar huis gekomen en had op haar laptop gekeken.”
'Het verdwenen dagboek' is een sfeervolle en meeslepende roman, perfect voor lezers die houden van een plot gedreven door gelaagde personages, een broeierige setting, en een langzaam opbouwende spanning. De combinatie van een charmant, maar verdorven, dorp met een privédetectivebureau zorgt voor een frisse kijk op het genre.
'Het verdwenen dagboek' is een uitstekende kennismaking met Mila Shepherd en Detectivebureau Toussaint, en ik kijk zeker uit naar de volgende delen in de serie.
September 6, 2022
Just Magnificient.............
The Lost Notebook by Louise Douglas brings to you a lovely mystery fiction spanning a murder which took ages earlier. Each character has been crafted carefully. The plot sparks off right from the start. As a reader you can expect storyline which keeps you on your toes. Each and every character has a separate part to play. The only thing which disappoints is that you are going to feel Mila's character left hanging in the end. My favorite part would be the scene where Gosia's life is narrated. All the trauma and findings were very interesting.
Definitely a 5 star book. Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
The Lost Notebook by Louise Douglas brings to you a lovely mystery fiction spanning a murder which took ages earlier. Each character has been crafted carefully. The plot sparks off right from the start. As a reader you can expect storyline which keeps you on your toes. Each and every character has a separate part to play. The only thing which disappoints is that you are going to feel Mila's character left hanging in the end. My favorite part would be the scene where Gosia's life is narrated. All the trauma and findings were very interesting.
Definitely a 5 star book. Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
April 22, 2024
It was okay and gradually grew on me! Set in Brittany during the summer months the descriptions of the area are a pleasure to read - great for a holiday brochure but the village has a dark side. Two suicides close together make Mila suspicious- she has been working in her stepmother’s investigation bureau. At the same time she is looking after her niece whose parents had been drowned in a boating accident. The gendarmerie are not interested in investigating the supposed suicides not believing there has been foul play. Of course there has and it is gruesome.
Mila and her niece are in danger and the tension increases.
What I found unbelievable is the conversations Mila has with her dead sister and the idea that sending her niece to a boarding school in Switzerland would be a good for the 14 year old and help her forget what had happened to her parents.
Mila and her niece are in danger and the tension increases.
What I found unbelievable is the conversations Mila has with her dead sister and the idea that sending her niece to a boarding school in Switzerland would be a good for the 14 year old and help her forget what had happened to her parents.
August 26, 2022
Set sail to the Brittany coast where something sinister is lurking. Mila moved back to Morranez to take care of her niece ,Ani when her parents were lost at sea. While making preparations to return home, Mila's determined to discover what's behind the notebook's disappearance.
Readers will find themselves submerged and at times treading water with Mila and Ani as they unravel the mysteries. Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the early edition in exchange for an honest review. Be warned, once you're hooked on the story, you'll need to discover the truth.
Readers will find themselves submerged and at times treading water with Mila and Ani as they unravel the mysteries. Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the early edition in exchange for an honest review. Be warned, once you're hooked on the story, you'll need to discover the truth.
August 24, 2022
The Lost Notebook will draw you slowly but surely into the story of Mila and her resolve to find out who killed the Traveller Woman Gosia.
Mila is also in charge of her niece as her parents were tragically killed.
I loved how Sophie her deceased sister talked to her in that sisterly tone.
There are mysteries with mysteries and another murder to solve.
I was cheering on Mila and just knew she was on the right path to solving the puzzle.
Hoping there will be a sequel as I hated the book to end
Louise Douglas can tell a story that will have you wanting more and racing to the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a compelling read.
Mila is also in charge of her niece as her parents were tragically killed.
I loved how Sophie her deceased sister talked to her in that sisterly tone.
There are mysteries with mysteries and another murder to solve.
I was cheering on Mila and just knew she was on the right path to solving the puzzle.
Hoping there will be a sequel as I hated the book to end
Louise Douglas can tell a story that will have you wanting more and racing to the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a compelling read.
March 1, 2023
A really good read, a little slow to start but gripping at times.
A notebook full of secrets… and two dead’s in small seaside town of Morranez.
And only two people Mila and Carter can uncover what is really going on.
A truth is worth keeping at any cost or is it? This book will keep you glued and turing pages right till the end.
A notebook full of secrets… and two dead’s in small seaside town of Morranez.
And only two people Mila and Carter can uncover what is really going on.
A truth is worth keeping at any cost or is it? This book will keep you glued and turing pages right till the end.
November 10, 2022
Kinda open ended. Main character really needed to listen to the ghost in her head or me (I spent a lot of this book trying to shake some self awareness into her).
August 21, 2022
Great read. Slow burn as you go through gathering information with Mika and Carter, but once you have enough background and pieced it together this book takes off! The characters are well written and the story line captivating and that aha moment when it clicks is phenomenal!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you NetGalley, Louise Douglas and Boldwood Books for hearing my honest review. Looking forward to reading more with you
#partner
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you NetGalley, Louise Douglas and Boldwood Books for hearing my honest review. Looking forward to reading more with you
#partner
August 11, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of The Lost Notebook by Louise Douglas in return for my honest review.
I really enjoy reading books by Louise Douglas they are a perfect holiday read and this one is no exception, it is a beautifully written story I recommend reading.
I really enjoy reading books by Louise Douglas they are a perfect holiday read and this one is no exception, it is a beautifully written story I recommend reading.
July 25, 2022
As with all Louise Douglas books this one draws you into the story. I found this a slower burn than her previous books but by the middle of the book I couldn't put it down.
An interesting plot with relatable characters there's a lothappening but it all draws in to an interesting conclusion
An interesting plot with relatable characters there's a lothappening but it all draws in to an interesting conclusion
September 8, 2022
★★★ 3.5 stars
Having simply adored "The Room in the Attic" I was excited to read this latest offering by Louise Douglas but I have to say as intriguing as it was, it lacked the same compelling storytelling that the former ultimately had. It is something of a slow burn and despite this I was immediately drawn into the tale that had begun to unfold...but then the further it went, the more drawn out it became that it just kind of dwindled off. I did enjoy it though...to a point.
The story takes place in France on the idyllic Brittany coast. Mila has put her life in Bristol on hold after the sudden and tragic death of her sister Sophie and travels to France to take care of her fourteen year old niece Ani. It is only for the interim, until Ani is sent to boarding school the following year and then Mila can return to her life and to police boyfriend Luke.
But almost a year on and now Mila's plans to return to England in September is thwarted by the mysterious death a traveller woman Gosia and Mila is felt compelled to investigate. But the police do not believe there is anything suspicious with Gosia's death and according to the doctor, she was an old woman living on borrowed time. And her time had come. But Gosia had a huge notebook in which she was writing that she called "her life's work" and it was nowhere to be seen in her little horsebox van. Neither were there any photos or even Gosia's phone. Mila found these discrepancies suspicious. But again, the police did not.
When it is discovered that Gosia is linked to the Professor who is heading up the archaeological dig nearby, who also has suddenly gone missing, Mila is even more suspicious. Added to the mix are the stories going around town about the Professor which will surely discredit him and ruin his reputation.
Meanwhile, Mila is also juggling her rather inept attempts at parenting the young Ani who has essentially lost both her parents and has only Mila and her grandmamie Ceci. Then enter Mila's soon-to-be replacement at the agency in which she works with Ceci - Carter Jackson - who Mila knows from the past and who was swept away by a young and more beautiful Sophie. What brings him back to Brittany now? And can she trust him?
During her investigations, Mila notices some strange goings on and senses she is being followed. She sees the shadow of someone outside the gates of their isolated home in the dead of night and returns from day trips to find the door to the house ajar. Did she leave it open? Surely not!
There are many subplots going on in the background which are eventually entwined as each of their tendrils run into the other. The ending is kind of up in the air but for me there is the promise of something that remains unfinished which, as the reader, you will know what I mean.
I did enjoy THE LOST NOTEBOOK but not as much as "The Room in the Attic" which was phenomenal. The mystery is interesting but goes off tangent with Mila continually having conversations with her dead sister throughout. I must say, I didn't much like Sophie and she was dead!
Overall, an interesting read that only just held my interest. The book felt somewhat longer than it actually was. Not one of the author's best but still readable.
I would like to thank #LouiseDouglas, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheLostNotebook in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Having simply adored "The Room in the Attic" I was excited to read this latest offering by Louise Douglas but I have to say as intriguing as it was, it lacked the same compelling storytelling that the former ultimately had. It is something of a slow burn and despite this I was immediately drawn into the tale that had begun to unfold...but then the further it went, the more drawn out it became that it just kind of dwindled off. I did enjoy it though...to a point.
The story takes place in France on the idyllic Brittany coast. Mila has put her life in Bristol on hold after the sudden and tragic death of her sister Sophie and travels to France to take care of her fourteen year old niece Ani. It is only for the interim, until Ani is sent to boarding school the following year and then Mila can return to her life and to police boyfriend Luke.
But almost a year on and now Mila's plans to return to England in September is thwarted by the mysterious death a traveller woman Gosia and Mila is felt compelled to investigate. But the police do not believe there is anything suspicious with Gosia's death and according to the doctor, she was an old woman living on borrowed time. And her time had come. But Gosia had a huge notebook in which she was writing that she called "her life's work" and it was nowhere to be seen in her little horsebox van. Neither were there any photos or even Gosia's phone. Mila found these discrepancies suspicious. But again, the police did not.
When it is discovered that Gosia is linked to the Professor who is heading up the archaeological dig nearby, who also has suddenly gone missing, Mila is even more suspicious. Added to the mix are the stories going around town about the Professor which will surely discredit him and ruin his reputation.
Meanwhile, Mila is also juggling her rather inept attempts at parenting the young Ani who has essentially lost both her parents and has only Mila and her grandmamie Ceci. Then enter Mila's soon-to-be replacement at the agency in which she works with Ceci - Carter Jackson - who Mila knows from the past and who was swept away by a young and more beautiful Sophie. What brings him back to Brittany now? And can she trust him?
During her investigations, Mila notices some strange goings on and senses she is being followed. She sees the shadow of someone outside the gates of their isolated home in the dead of night and returns from day trips to find the door to the house ajar. Did she leave it open? Surely not!
There are many subplots going on in the background which are eventually entwined as each of their tendrils run into the other. The ending is kind of up in the air but for me there is the promise of something that remains unfinished which, as the reader, you will know what I mean.
I did enjoy THE LOST NOTEBOOK but not as much as "The Room in the Attic" which was phenomenal. The mystery is interesting but goes off tangent with Mila continually having conversations with her dead sister throughout. I must say, I didn't much like Sophie and she was dead!
Overall, an interesting read that only just held my interest. The book felt somewhat longer than it actually was. Not one of the author's best but still readable.
I would like to thank #LouiseDouglas, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheLostNotebook in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
August 25, 2022
Loved it!!! From the moment I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. Why was Gosia in Morannaz and what was her story? I was convinced it had something to do with the dig and that there was something illegal going on. When everything was finally revealed, I never expected it.
The book definitely kept me guessing. The sea house sounded like a beautiful place to live, with all the flowers and the hidden beach nearby. Mila never allowed herself to enjoy living in Morannaz and it was clear she didn't think she was capable of taking care of Ani. Ani definitely picked up on her aunt's feelings. Mila was the perfect person for Ani. Loved Mila's interactions with Berthaud the cat. She was able to show love to the kitty but found it hard to give Ani comfort or affection. I also love the relationship Mila has with Ceci. Mila has a better relationship with her than her own father. I loved everything about the book, but my favorite part was the mystery/puzzle storyline. There were twists and turns that I never saw coming. Loved the ending, but I still have so many questions. What was the secret that Sophie was going to tell Mila? There's something about Carter and I know he's hiding something. He definitely knew what happened to Sophie. What reason did he have for taking the job? Is he really Ani's father? Who is the mystery man Mila keeps seeing? Is Charlie going to suddenly show up out of the blue? There needs to be a sequel!!!!
Definitely recommend the book. Loved the characters, writing style and story. This was the first book I read by the author and I look forward to reading more. Loved the cover of the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The book definitely kept me guessing. The sea house sounded like a beautiful place to live, with all the flowers and the hidden beach nearby. Mila never allowed herself to enjoy living in Morannaz and it was clear she didn't think she was capable of taking care of Ani. Ani definitely picked up on her aunt's feelings. Mila was the perfect person for Ani. Loved Mila's interactions with Berthaud the cat. She was able to show love to the kitty but found it hard to give Ani comfort or affection. I also love the relationship Mila has with Ceci. Mila has a better relationship with her than her own father. I loved everything about the book, but my favorite part was the mystery/puzzle storyline. There were twists and turns that I never saw coming. Loved the ending, but I still have so many questions. What was the secret that Sophie was going to tell Mila? There's something about Carter and I know he's hiding something. He definitely knew what happened to Sophie. What reason did he have for taking the job? Is he really Ani's father? Who is the mystery man Mila keeps seeing? Is Charlie going to suddenly show up out of the blue? There needs to be a sequel!!!!
Definitely recommend the book. Loved the characters, writing style and story. This was the first book I read by the author and I look forward to reading more. Loved the cover of the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 31, 2022
My first read by this author and a very enjoyable one. Set in the fictional town (but based on Carnac) of Morranez on the coast of Brittany, France I found this quite a slow burn at the start of the book but it certainly moved a lot faster as the book progressed. The author paints a wonderfully descriptive portrait of the countryside in costal Brittany and I could imagine myself sitting in the café’s watching the world go by. Beautifully written and a good plot with some good characters.
Briefly, following the death of her half sister, Sophie, and her husband, in an accident at sea, Mila Shepherd moved to France to take care of her niece Ani. When Ani falls off her bike an old traveller woman, Gosia, takes care of her until Mila arrives but the next day Gosia is found dead. Although the police believe it’s a natural death Mila isn’t convinced. The old lady had a large ‘notebook’ which disappeared, along with some items on a cork board in her caravan. Who took them? Mila is due to return home to her partner in Bristol shortly when Ani goes to boarding school, but alongside Carter Jackson she starts her own investigation.
Throughout the book Mila ‘speaks’ to Sophie who often acts as a contrarian or sometimes a voice of reason, I’m not sure I’ve seen this before but it works. A number of different threads all come together but there are some things that aren’t resolved to my satisfaction and I wonder if there is a sequel in the offing. I hope so. A good read, full of twists and turns and a great ending I didn’t see coming.
Briefly, following the death of her half sister, Sophie, and her husband, in an accident at sea, Mila Shepherd moved to France to take care of her niece Ani. When Ani falls off her bike an old traveller woman, Gosia, takes care of her until Mila arrives but the next day Gosia is found dead. Although the police believe it’s a natural death Mila isn’t convinced. The old lady had a large ‘notebook’ which disappeared, along with some items on a cork board in her caravan. Who took them? Mila is due to return home to her partner in Bristol shortly when Ani goes to boarding school, but alongside Carter Jackson she starts her own investigation.
Throughout the book Mila ‘speaks’ to Sophie who often acts as a contrarian or sometimes a voice of reason, I’m not sure I’ve seen this before but it works. A number of different threads all come together but there are some things that aren’t resolved to my satisfaction and I wonder if there is a sequel in the offing. I hope so. A good read, full of twists and turns and a great ending I didn’t see coming.
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