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The Guernsey Novels #1
Dangerous Waters
Librarian's Note: this is an alternate cover edition - ASIN: B00GCD1KFS
** Awarded Silver in the 2012 WishingShelfAwards **
Tragedy seems to follows Jeanne Le Page around . . .
Can she really go through it again and survive?
Jeanne Le Page is lucky to be alive … 15 years ago she was almost killed in a boating accident which brought heart-breaking family tragedy. Now 31, Jeanne is returning reluctantly to the Island of Guernsey following the death of her beloved Grandmother. Struggling for breath as the ferry nears the Island, Jeanne feels a dark foreboding overwhelm her as hazy memories of that terrible day resurface.
Only back on the Island to sell her inheritance - her Grandmother’s old cottage - she has no intention of sticking around to pick up her old life. But the cottage holds a secret, dating back to World War II, and Jeanne becomes drawn into discovering more. Then ,shortly after her arrival, a chance meeting with an old teenage crush leads her to thoughts of love.
Jeanne is forced to face her demons, reliving the tragedy as her lost memory returns.
The truth is finally revealed, endangering Jeanne’s life for a second time…
Review
The island of Guernsey is so vividly evoked, one feels as if one is walking its byways. An atmospheric and tantalizing read. --Elizabeth Bailey, author of The Gilded Shroud
** Awarded Silver in the 2012 WishingShelfAwards **
Tragedy seems to follows Jeanne Le Page around . . .
Can she really go through it again and survive?
Jeanne Le Page is lucky to be alive … 15 years ago she was almost killed in a boating accident which brought heart-breaking family tragedy. Now 31, Jeanne is returning reluctantly to the Island of Guernsey following the death of her beloved Grandmother. Struggling for breath as the ferry nears the Island, Jeanne feels a dark foreboding overwhelm her as hazy memories of that terrible day resurface.
Only back on the Island to sell her inheritance - her Grandmother’s old cottage - she has no intention of sticking around to pick up her old life. But the cottage holds a secret, dating back to World War II, and Jeanne becomes drawn into discovering more. Then ,shortly after her arrival, a chance meeting with an old teenage crush leads her to thoughts of love.
Jeanne is forced to face her demons, reliving the tragedy as her lost memory returns.
The truth is finally revealed, endangering Jeanne’s life for a second time…
Review
The island of Guernsey is so vividly evoked, one feels as if one is walking its byways. An atmospheric and tantalizing read. --Elizabeth Bailey, author of The Gilded Shroud
319 pages, ebook
First published March 30, 2012
94 people are currently reading
759 people want to read
About the author
Anne Allen
11 books302 followersAnne Allen lives in Devon, by her beloved sea. She has three children and her daughter and two grandchildren live nearby. She was born in Rugby, to an English mother and Welsh father. As a result she spent many summers with her Welsh grandparents in Anglesey and learnt to love the sea. Her restless spirit has meant a number of moves which included Spain for a couple of years. The longest stay was in Guernsey for nearly fourteen years after falling in love with the island and the people. She contrived to leave one son behind to ensure a valid reason for frequent returns.
By profession Anne was a psychotherapist but has long had creative ‘itches’, learning to mosaic, paint furniture, interior design and sculpt. At the back of her mind the itch to write was always present but seemed too time-consuming for a single mum with a need to earn a living. Now retired from the 'day job', there’s more time to write and Anne has now published seven books in The Guernsey Novels series as at April 2019.
By profession Anne was a psychotherapist but has long had creative ‘itches’, learning to mosaic, paint furniture, interior design and sculpt. At the back of her mind the itch to write was always present but seemed too time-consuming for a single mum with a need to earn a living. Now retired from the 'day job', there’s more time to write and Anne has now published seven books in The Guernsey Novels series as at April 2019.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
July 24, 2018
Anne’s book is a lovely suspense/romance about a woman who returns to her home place in Guernsey. I love reading and remembering my visits to the locals about which she writes...as well as learning about the culture and history...hope you read this and enjoy the book as much as I did! Xx
June 12, 2012
In her debut novel ‘Dangerous Waters’ Anne Allen has knocked it out of the ballpark. Part mystery, part romance, this cozy novel has the reader drawn in from the first paragraph until the last page, and they will be wanting more. With her writing style in the leagues of Maeve Binchey, who she incidentally mentions in the book, Anne has classed herself with the best in women’s lit.
Jeanne Le Page is a thirty-something writer who has experienced more than her share of loss in her life. Her ruined relationship with her boyfriend Andy, the loss of a baby, and her grandmother’s death has left Jeanne reeling. Add to that, the death of her parents in a boating accident when she was sixteen and you would wonder why she isn’t in the midst of an all out breakdown. She’s headed back to her childhood home of Guernsey, where she is to meet with a solicitor to finalize the inheritance of her grandmother’s cottage, which she fully intends to sell, and move back to London.
Jeanne hasn’t been on the Island since running to her Aunt Kate’s to escape the trauma of her parent’s death sixteen years ago. And it is with trepidation that she unlocks the door to her past. Looking around the inherited cottage she is surrounded by memories of her childhood. Leaning on long time family friends Molly and Pete Ogier, Jeanne deals with her ghosts and begins the process of putting down roots, following her decision to keep the cottage and stay on in Guernsey.
While on the island Jeanne reconnects with Marcus, an old crush from high school, who introduces her to a group of people that embrace her immediately, all becoming fast friends. The group also provides the man, to whom she is hopelessly drawn Nick Mauger, a shipbuilder. Marcus has his sights on a relationship with Jeanne but she finds him to be the kind of man she doesn’t want in her life, much to his chagrin, and he becomes aggressive in his pursuit of her. Due to a business transaction she meets Marcus’ brother Dan, who is a nefarious character to say the least, with a brusk demeanor and hulking form, which he uses to intimidate Jeanne.
Busy with the testing of recipes and the writing of her cookbook; Recipes for Love, she is also forced to deal with extensive renovations to the cottage. Jeanne starts having frequent flashbacks to the night her parents were killed. Molly; who is a psychotherapist, takes Jeanne through a series of hypnotherapy sessions opening up memories of that night and the realization the accident was actually murder, and she herself may be the next victim.
As love blooms danger also looms. Jeanne has remembered who is responsible for her parent’s murders and she is dead centre in the crosshairs of their target. They must catch the murderers before they can silence her.
Anne Allen is a psychotherapist and has always longed to write. With ‘Dangerous Waters’, her first novel, she draws on her extensive personal knowledge to create the character of Molly Ogier. Jeanne Le Page is a complex protagonist who proves to be likeable and loveable. I found myself cheering her on in the accomplishments she made growing from a closed off woman into a free spirit. The book is well-written and it keeps the reader engaged. I truly enjoyed the read and was well pleased to find Anne had included a few of the recipes Jeanne used in her cookbook. This is a perfect summertime read!
Jeanne Le Page is a thirty-something writer who has experienced more than her share of loss in her life. Her ruined relationship with her boyfriend Andy, the loss of a baby, and her grandmother’s death has left Jeanne reeling. Add to that, the death of her parents in a boating accident when she was sixteen and you would wonder why she isn’t in the midst of an all out breakdown. She’s headed back to her childhood home of Guernsey, where she is to meet with a solicitor to finalize the inheritance of her grandmother’s cottage, which she fully intends to sell, and move back to London.
Jeanne hasn’t been on the Island since running to her Aunt Kate’s to escape the trauma of her parent’s death sixteen years ago. And it is with trepidation that she unlocks the door to her past. Looking around the inherited cottage she is surrounded by memories of her childhood. Leaning on long time family friends Molly and Pete Ogier, Jeanne deals with her ghosts and begins the process of putting down roots, following her decision to keep the cottage and stay on in Guernsey.
While on the island Jeanne reconnects with Marcus, an old crush from high school, who introduces her to a group of people that embrace her immediately, all becoming fast friends. The group also provides the man, to whom she is hopelessly drawn Nick Mauger, a shipbuilder. Marcus has his sights on a relationship with Jeanne but she finds him to be the kind of man she doesn’t want in her life, much to his chagrin, and he becomes aggressive in his pursuit of her. Due to a business transaction she meets Marcus’ brother Dan, who is a nefarious character to say the least, with a brusk demeanor and hulking form, which he uses to intimidate Jeanne.
Busy with the testing of recipes and the writing of her cookbook; Recipes for Love, she is also forced to deal with extensive renovations to the cottage. Jeanne starts having frequent flashbacks to the night her parents were killed. Molly; who is a psychotherapist, takes Jeanne through a series of hypnotherapy sessions opening up memories of that night and the realization the accident was actually murder, and she herself may be the next victim.
As love blooms danger also looms. Jeanne has remembered who is responsible for her parent’s murders and she is dead centre in the crosshairs of their target. They must catch the murderers before they can silence her.
Anne Allen is a psychotherapist and has always longed to write. With ‘Dangerous Waters’, her first novel, she draws on her extensive personal knowledge to create the character of Molly Ogier. Jeanne Le Page is a complex protagonist who proves to be likeable and loveable. I found myself cheering her on in the accomplishments she made growing from a closed off woman into a free spirit. The book is well-written and it keeps the reader engaged. I truly enjoyed the read and was well pleased to find Anne had included a few of the recipes Jeanne used in her cookbook. This is a perfect summertime read!
October 19, 2017
I wasn't sure how I would feel about Anne Allen's Dangerous Waters when I picked it up but I was pleasantly surprised with what I discovered between these pages.
I've never been to Guernsey, but it came alive for me under Allen's pen. A place caught between old traditions and the need to forge ahead, defined by an interesting combination of English and French culture. Allen's descriptions are a testament to her obvious love of the island and its history.
While I greatly enjoyed the various storylines, I can't help feeling that there might not have been enough cohesion between them. Jeanne's personal relationship woes, the renovating of her grandmother's cottage, and the mystery of the letters she discovers in the attic played well together, but I felt they were in competition with the tragedy of her parents' death, the threats on her own life and the intrigue of who is responsible and why. I have nothing against genre crossing, but I am not entirely convinced that combining chick lit and thriller played all the elements of Allen's story to their best advantage.
Despite not being quite as polished as I would have liked, I found Dangerous Waters to be a beautiful story of love, loss, and renewal. A wonderful debut from a promising new writer.
I've never been to Guernsey, but it came alive for me under Allen's pen. A place caught between old traditions and the need to forge ahead, defined by an interesting combination of English and French culture. Allen's descriptions are a testament to her obvious love of the island and its history.
While I greatly enjoyed the various storylines, I can't help feeling that there might not have been enough cohesion between them. Jeanne's personal relationship woes, the renovating of her grandmother's cottage, and the mystery of the letters she discovers in the attic played well together, but I felt they were in competition with the tragedy of her parents' death, the threats on her own life and the intrigue of who is responsible and why. I have nothing against genre crossing, but I am not entirely convinced that combining chick lit and thriller played all the elements of Allen's story to their best advantage.
Despite not being quite as polished as I would have liked, I found Dangerous Waters to be a beautiful story of love, loss, and renewal. A wonderful debut from a promising new writer.
July 6, 2013
Going back to the island of Guernsey, Jeanne knew it would be difficult but facing her demons turned out to be the easy part.
After losing her parents in a boating accident as a 16 year old, Jeanne bears many internal scars. The problem is they are buried so deeply that she eventually decides to try hypnosis in an attempt to finally heal.
What Jeanne uncovers, however, is a lot more than she ever expected. Someone on the island doesn't want her to remember and wants the past to remain buried. Suddenly, Jeanne faces danger of a kind she never expected.
This book really takes a whole to get started but if you stuck with it it's quite enjoyable.
After losing her parents in a boating accident as a 16 year old, Jeanne bears many internal scars. The problem is they are buried so deeply that she eventually decides to try hypnosis in an attempt to finally heal.
What Jeanne uncovers, however, is a lot more than she ever expected. Someone on the island doesn't want her to remember and wants the past to remain buried. Suddenly, Jeanne faces danger of a kind she never expected.
This book really takes a whole to get started but if you stuck with it it's quite enjoyable.
September 24, 2012
Although I needed some time to get "into the book", I must say "Dangerous Waters" by Anne Allen is a must read for chicklit lovers as well as for mystery lovers (and others of course). Even if you don't think it's your taste, you have to continue and give it more than a chance! The writing of Anne Allen gets better and better throughout the book. I thought the book went from "Hmm I like it" to "Oeeeeh I really like it" to "I just loved the story".
The reason I "only" gave 4 stars is that I found some unnecessary pieces in the book (that's just my opinion). Some parts slowed the reading down because they didn't have an additional value to the story. That's just a minor thing I didn't like, so in fact you could say I gave the book 4.5 stars! Good job, Anne! What I appreciated is the way Anne misled her readers sometimes. It's good to give your reader the feeling you're writing a predictive book, but just don't at the same time!
The story Anne tells us is about Jeanne Le Page, a former resident of Guernsey (man, I want to visit this island after reading the book). Jeanne left the island after her parents (and she herself almost) died in a boating accident. The question is: was it really an accident? Jeanne suffered amnesia as the only survivor of the accident and didn't want to recover her memory because it just was too painful. Also the loss of her beloved grandmother, her own unborn child and her lover Andy,... hurried Jeanne to forget her past.
Now Jeanne's gone back after she inherited the cottage of her grandmother. Because of the loss of her child and man, there's nothing that keeps her in London (except for her aunt Kate). With the cottage she inherits lots of old stories and memories. Times become even more difficult for Jeanne, but she's strong and finds lots of old and new friends on the island that are most willing to help her. The sad thing is some of them aren't as friendly as the seem to be...
I recommand the book because it's a love story with some mystery added to it. Those two elements are a great combination I think. Anne did a beatiful job in describing the characters and the island. She makes me eager to visit the island one day. This proves she really made the story vivid and gave me the feeling I knew Jeanne for real. It makes the story alive and smooth reading!
Thanks Anne for sending me this great book :)
The reason I "only" gave 4 stars is that I found some unnecessary pieces in the book (that's just my opinion). Some parts slowed the reading down because they didn't have an additional value to the story. That's just a minor thing I didn't like, so in fact you could say I gave the book 4.5 stars! Good job, Anne! What I appreciated is the way Anne misled her readers sometimes. It's good to give your reader the feeling you're writing a predictive book, but just don't at the same time!
The story Anne tells us is about Jeanne Le Page, a former resident of Guernsey (man, I want to visit this island after reading the book). Jeanne left the island after her parents (and she herself almost) died in a boating accident. The question is: was it really an accident? Jeanne suffered amnesia as the only survivor of the accident and didn't want to recover her memory because it just was too painful. Also the loss of her beloved grandmother, her own unborn child and her lover Andy,... hurried Jeanne to forget her past.
Now Jeanne's gone back after she inherited the cottage of her grandmother. Because of the loss of her child and man, there's nothing that keeps her in London (except for her aunt Kate). With the cottage she inherits lots of old stories and memories. Times become even more difficult for Jeanne, but she's strong and finds lots of old and new friends on the island that are most willing to help her. The sad thing is some of them aren't as friendly as the seem to be...
I recommand the book because it's a love story with some mystery added to it. Those two elements are a great combination I think. Anne did a beatiful job in describing the characters and the island. She makes me eager to visit the island one day. This proves she really made the story vivid and gave me the feeling I knew Jeanne for real. It makes the story alive and smooth reading!
Thanks Anne for sending me this great book :)
June 14, 2012
This book was given to me for an honest review by the author.
Dangerous Waters is a heartwarming novel set on the Channel Island of Guernsey. It is located off the coast of both England and France, but is in fact, closer to France. It is a wonderful novel of tragedy, heartbreak, renewal and love.
Our story starts with the main character Jeanne LePage, traveling back to Guernsey after the death of her grandmother. She was born there, and spent most of her life until the age of sixteen, when tragedy struck. She lost her parents, and very nearly her own life. After several days in the hospital, she was sent to live with her Aunt Kate in the U.K. She has absolutely no memory of that day, just persistent nightmares, that she is not even sure are caused by actual memories. Jeanne has been named sole beneficiary of her grandmother’s estate. She is staying with friends, who are like family to her, until she can get an idea of what is entailed in making the little house livable.
We then follow her trip down the road of discovering so many things about her grandmother, the house, and even quite a bit about herself. She resumes friendships, interrupted by her time away. The mystery of the house, her Grandmother, and the terrible day she so wants to remember to bring the person responsible to justice, unfolds in front of us.
I totally enjoyed this novel, it kept me reading long into the night. I wish Ms. Allen would write a sequel, so we could see where Jeanne and all the characters are today! I can give this novel nothing but high praise, and am very grateful for the privilege of reading it. I have recommended it to several friends, and our book club!
July 22, 2012
“Dangerous Waters”
Jeanne Le Page’s life changes dramatically when she returns to the island of Guernsey to claim her grandmother’s inheritance—a cottage in need of major repairs. The island was her former home before a mysterious accident took her parents’ lives fifteen years earlier. Although Jeanne witnessed the traumatic incident, she can’t recall it.
The thirty-something Jeanne is a protagonist for whom we develop an instant liking. We watch as she remains in Guernsey and oversees cottage renovations, expands her circle of friends, and becomes romantically involved. We cheer her along as she tries to regain her memory of the night her parents died. We hold our collective breaths as she stumbles upon secrets—one of which threatens her very life!
Author Anne Allen lived on the island of Guernsey for twelve years. Her first-hand knowledge of the picturesque area and its historic background had me rushing to add it to my list of places to visit. An interesting final touch was the addition of traditional recipes at the back of the book.
The easy flow and pace of Dangerous Waters make it a perfect summer read for fans of light mystery and romance. Looking forward to the next book!
Jeanne Le Page’s life changes dramatically when she returns to the island of Guernsey to claim her grandmother’s inheritance—a cottage in need of major repairs. The island was her former home before a mysterious accident took her parents’ lives fifteen years earlier. Although Jeanne witnessed the traumatic incident, she can’t recall it.
The thirty-something Jeanne is a protagonist for whom we develop an instant liking. We watch as she remains in Guernsey and oversees cottage renovations, expands her circle of friends, and becomes romantically involved. We cheer her along as she tries to regain her memory of the night her parents died. We hold our collective breaths as she stumbles upon secrets—one of which threatens her very life!
Author Anne Allen lived on the island of Guernsey for twelve years. Her first-hand knowledge of the picturesque area and its historic background had me rushing to add it to my list of places to visit. An interesting final touch was the addition of traditional recipes at the back of the book.
The easy flow and pace of Dangerous Waters make it a perfect summer read for fans of light mystery and romance. Looking forward to the next book!
April 28, 2019
I really wanted to like this book. I saw it many times in shops while on holiday in Guernsey recently. I like to read books set where I am on my travels as it can be a good way to enjoy your holiday more and to get more out a particular book. But in this instance, I struggled to gain much enthusiasm for the book. I found the way the book was written to be rather basic, at points like I might I expect a teenager to write and I thought the dialogue was very stilted and not at all like people actually speak to each other. Some of the language was also very old fashioned. Who describes trousers as "slacks" any more?
The plot had potential, but could have been much tighter and there was far too much extraneous detail included - for example, about work surfaces in a kitchen that is being refurbished. Also, although the book was set in Guernsey and mentioned places on the island, it did not have a good sense of place. In reality it could have been set on any island, there was nothing that gave me a strong sense of the Channel Islands and truly described it to me as a place.
I perservered to the end with this book, but I would struggle to recommend it to others.
The plot had potential, but could have been much tighter and there was far too much extraneous detail included - for example, about work surfaces in a kitchen that is being refurbished. Also, although the book was set in Guernsey and mentioned places on the island, it did not have a good sense of place. In reality it could have been set on any island, there was nothing that gave me a strong sense of the Channel Islands and truly described it to me as a place.
I perservered to the end with this book, but I would struggle to recommend it to others.
October 29, 2012
Authentic, suspenseful, endearing!
Dangerous Waters is the story of a young woman, Jeanne, who has returned to the island of Guernsey to settle the estate of her grandmother, whose cottage she has inherited. Coming at a fortuitous time in her life--she has just suffered the demise of a relationship--Jeanne sets about renovating the old home.
During the renovation, Jeanne finds a series of love letters written during World War II from a German soldier to her grandmother. These letters, and her grandmother's recipes, inspire her to begin writing a book.
In addition, there are mysteries surrounding the death of Jeanne's parents, and a room steeped in a cold chill that only Jeanne can feel.
Author Anne Allen's writing is fluid, well-paced, and evocative. Set on the charming island of Guernsey, Dangerous Waters is a delightful blend of suspense, mystery, and romance. Highly recommended.
Dangerous Waters is the story of a young woman, Jeanne, who has returned to the island of Guernsey to settle the estate of her grandmother, whose cottage she has inherited. Coming at a fortuitous time in her life--she has just suffered the demise of a relationship--Jeanne sets about renovating the old home.
During the renovation, Jeanne finds a series of love letters written during World War II from a German soldier to her grandmother. These letters, and her grandmother's recipes, inspire her to begin writing a book.
In addition, there are mysteries surrounding the death of Jeanne's parents, and a room steeped in a cold chill that only Jeanne can feel.
Author Anne Allen's writing is fluid, well-paced, and evocative. Set on the charming island of Guernsey, Dangerous Waters is a delightful blend of suspense, mystery, and romance. Highly recommended.
June 10, 2018
Can you imagine the trepidation that Jeanne Le Page must feel on returning to the island of her birth which was also the scene of such personal tragedy? *shrugs* Nope, me either. Conflicted doesn’t even begin to cover it!
My kindle was literally stuck to me after I started reading this story. I took it everywhere with me, *whispers* E-V-E-R-Y-W-H-E-R-E *smirks* Whaaa? This is me we’re talking about here. I was dying to know what happened. Okay, okay - I get it. Dramatic much *snorts*
The author’s writing was such that I felt as if I could see Guernsey through Jeanne’s eyes. All the sights and smells coming alive right before me. It’s definitely a place I hope to visit in the future. I’d love to visit some of the places mentioned in the book, and experience the history for myself.
This story is more than a romantic suspense. It’s got a bit of everything; romance, suspense, history, family saga, thriller, crime, mystery. I especially loved the historical element. My mum is a bit of a history buff, and I’ve grown up watching and reading everything to do with World War II, so this added an extra zing for me to the story.
As it’s me, you know there were tears *smirks* What can I say? A certain storyline just touched a nerve. But, yup, you’ve guessed it. This is one of those books where you’re scared to say too much to someone who has yet to read it for fear of giving anything away. You know how I hate to spoil a reader’s experience.
Suffice it to say, I was rooting for Jeanne to find all the answers, past and present, she was looking for. Because, if anyone deserved some happy and a place to belong it’s Jeanne.
Want to know the best thing? There are currently six books in the series - each standalones. I don’t have to say goodbye just yet *fist pumps* Sorry my nerd is showing.
Laura out!
My kindle was literally stuck to me after I started reading this story. I took it everywhere with me, *whispers* E-V-E-R-Y-W-H-E-R-E *smirks* Whaaa? This is me we’re talking about here. I was dying to know what happened. Okay, okay - I get it. Dramatic much *snorts*
The author’s writing was such that I felt as if I could see Guernsey through Jeanne’s eyes. All the sights and smells coming alive right before me. It’s definitely a place I hope to visit in the future. I’d love to visit some of the places mentioned in the book, and experience the history for myself.
This story is more than a romantic suspense. It’s got a bit of everything; romance, suspense, history, family saga, thriller, crime, mystery. I especially loved the historical element. My mum is a bit of a history buff, and I’ve grown up watching and reading everything to do with World War II, so this added an extra zing for me to the story.
As it’s me, you know there were tears *smirks* What can I say? A certain storyline just touched a nerve. But, yup, you’ve guessed it. This is one of those books where you’re scared to say too much to someone who has yet to read it for fear of giving anything away. You know how I hate to spoil a reader’s experience.
Suffice it to say, I was rooting for Jeanne to find all the answers, past and present, she was looking for. Because, if anyone deserved some happy and a place to belong it’s Jeanne.
Want to know the best thing? There are currently six books in the series - each standalones. I don’t have to say goodbye just yet *fist pumps* Sorry my nerd is showing.
Laura out!
April 25, 2024
This is book 1 of The Guernsey Novels and I have to say I will be reading Book 2 very soon. A great easy to read novel with a bit of romance, mystery and suspense, about a young women who returns to her home on the island of Guernsey after her grandmother dies. Jeanne has been left her Grandmother's cottage and must decided to sell and update the place update and stay. She leans on her long time family friends Molly and Pete Ogier to help her through this trying time. You see, when she was just sixteen she lost both of her parents in what was believed to have been a boating accident and could not remember what had happen. She left the island and escaped to her Aunt Kate's in England to try and deal with the trauma of losing her parents. You will need to read to find out what happens to Jeanne as I don't do spoilers.
I really enjoyed this book and found myself reading into the night. Can't wait to find out what is in store for Jeanne and her friends in the next book. Guernsey sounds like a great place to visit. 4*
I really enjoyed this book and found myself reading into the night. Can't wait to find out what is in store for Jeanne and her friends in the next book. Guernsey sounds like a great place to visit. 4*
March 28, 2020
New series for me, and author too. Love the characters, the locale, the story, and the well-timed suspense.
Enjoyable, easy read.
Enjoyable, easy read.
June 4, 2023
Cheesy and predictable but I enjoyed it mainly as I live in guernsey so I liked the fact it was places I know well.
January 27, 2022
I really enjoyed this story of a woman who returns to Guernsey after leaving 15 years prior when her parents died. She returns due to the death of her grandmother, whose home she has inherited. Mysteries from the distant past when the Germans occupied Guernsey in WWII as well as questions about her parents' death begin to invade her life. It all came together for a good read.
February 18, 2013
‘Was it a real memory or was her mind playing tricks on her?’
We meet writer Jeanne Le Page as she is on the ferry returning to her home on the island of Guernsey for the first time in many years. After the mysterious death of her parents, a riddle that has still never been solved, she is revisiting the place to sort out affairs after the death of her Grandmother who has left her old cottage to Jeanne. Having experienced a difficult, unhappy time in her life recently, Jeanne might be glad of the escape from England. However there are so many ghosts and traumatic memories for her on Guernsey that it is certain to be a difficult return; ‘the ghosts of the past were not going to lie down quietly.’
Jeanne initially intends to simply sell her inheritance and leave, however she makes a discover in the cottage relating back to the time of the German Occupation, and that makes her want to find out more and then she has to determine whether there is any future for her on Guernsey, whether she can come to terms with the events of her past there, and find some peace and a new life:
‘Would Guernsey be able to offer her the healing she so badly needed? She had loved it once. Perhaps the spark was still there.’
We follow Jeanne as she sets about the updating and renovation of the home left to her by her Gran, meeting up with old friends who are a great support to her, in particular Molly and Peter, and rekindling old acquaintances from school days. As she begins to establish herself on the island, the intriguing discovery she made will set in course a new and exciting writing project for her, and Jeanne wonders if she can finally lay the past to rest. But there is one thing that remains unsolved, namely the mystery surrounding her parents’ death, and the disturbing flashbacks that Jeanne experiences from time to time. And whilst this is unanswered, there seems to be an element of danger for Jeanne herself, too, in knowing who to trust. Molly offers to use her experience with hypnotism to help Jeanne revisit her memories and try and unearth the truth.
This is an enjoyable and intriguing read by Anne Allen, full of romance and mystery, and the setting of Guernsey is well evoked. Jeanne is a likeable main character; she is talented, brave and resourceful but also apprehensive and unsettled by recent and past events, and seeks to create some stability and normality in her life. She has suffered much pain and at times it overwhelms her.
I liked the author’s inclusion of historical aspects alongside and within the modern day story, which added to the intrigue and revealed more about Jeanne’s family heritage, as well as adding colour to the island’s past during the German Occupation. I also liked the mystery of the room in Jeanne’s Gran’s cottage which always held a chill for Jeanne whenever she entered. I wondered what it was that she sensed there. I was drawn into Jeanne’s life and her friendships on the island, and I found the story regarding her Gran interesting and moving. I enjoyed reading this atmospheric novel with its combination of love story and mystery.
We meet writer Jeanne Le Page as she is on the ferry returning to her home on the island of Guernsey for the first time in many years. After the mysterious death of her parents, a riddle that has still never been solved, she is revisiting the place to sort out affairs after the death of her Grandmother who has left her old cottage to Jeanne. Having experienced a difficult, unhappy time in her life recently, Jeanne might be glad of the escape from England. However there are so many ghosts and traumatic memories for her on Guernsey that it is certain to be a difficult return; ‘the ghosts of the past were not going to lie down quietly.’
Jeanne initially intends to simply sell her inheritance and leave, however she makes a discover in the cottage relating back to the time of the German Occupation, and that makes her want to find out more and then she has to determine whether there is any future for her on Guernsey, whether she can come to terms with the events of her past there, and find some peace and a new life:
‘Would Guernsey be able to offer her the healing she so badly needed? She had loved it once. Perhaps the spark was still there.’
We follow Jeanne as she sets about the updating and renovation of the home left to her by her Gran, meeting up with old friends who are a great support to her, in particular Molly and Peter, and rekindling old acquaintances from school days. As she begins to establish herself on the island, the intriguing discovery she made will set in course a new and exciting writing project for her, and Jeanne wonders if she can finally lay the past to rest. But there is one thing that remains unsolved, namely the mystery surrounding her parents’ death, and the disturbing flashbacks that Jeanne experiences from time to time. And whilst this is unanswered, there seems to be an element of danger for Jeanne herself, too, in knowing who to trust. Molly offers to use her experience with hypnotism to help Jeanne revisit her memories and try and unearth the truth.
This is an enjoyable and intriguing read by Anne Allen, full of romance and mystery, and the setting of Guernsey is well evoked. Jeanne is a likeable main character; she is talented, brave and resourceful but also apprehensive and unsettled by recent and past events, and seeks to create some stability and normality in her life. She has suffered much pain and at times it overwhelms her.
I liked the author’s inclusion of historical aspects alongside and within the modern day story, which added to the intrigue and revealed more about Jeanne’s family heritage, as well as adding colour to the island’s past during the German Occupation. I also liked the mystery of the room in Jeanne’s Gran’s cottage which always held a chill for Jeanne whenever she entered. I wondered what it was that she sensed there. I was drawn into Jeanne’s life and her friendships on the island, and I found the story regarding her Gran interesting and moving. I enjoyed reading this atmospheric novel with its combination of love story and mystery.
February 17, 2013
A thoroughly enjoyable book that I couldn't put down.
Jeanne Le Page, arrives in Guernsey on a ferry and has a panic attack. She hasn't been back for fifteen years, since she was the only survivor of a boating accident which involved her parents. Her grandmother has also now died and she has returned to the island because she has inherited her cottage.
Jeanne has to make a decision as to whether she should sell the cottage, do it up and sell it, or do it up and live in it herself. It is the latter that she decides and as she has just come out of a relationship along with its associated memories, she makes new friends and meets up with old friends in her efforts to build a new life in the place that she grew up in.
She does however, get an 'odd' feeling in a certain part of the cottage and while looking for some old recipes of her Grandmother's, she finally uncovers a very old secret which goes back to the time of the German Occupation. She becomes drawn into solving not one but two old mysteries, and while also trying to overcome her fears of the water, and get back the memories that she has lost, she finds that she is the star witness in one of them and for the second time in her life, she finds that her life is in danger.
I loved reading this book. It took me back to years ago when I visited Guernsey and thought it was one of the most beautiful places ever! Anne's writing made it so easy to conjure up pictures of a very green and beautifully sunny island, with some very cosmopolitan places to visit and enjoy.
Part of the book talks about her Grandmother's recipes and they try to recreate them using modern measures and ovens. I was literally salivating at some of the descriptions and a lot of the book is also based around eating out, and I found myself constantly craving all of this gorgeous food that was being described and wanting to visit all of the restaurants. Anne has done a fabulous job on behalf of the Guernsey Tourist Board as after reading this book, it has really piqued my interest in going there again as soon as possible.
I found that I couldn't put the book down, it was a mixture of mystery and romance, which was a great combination. She became an integral part of a group of friends, and her relationships that developed within the group were wonderful and she handled one of the group who was getting way too friendly really well. I read the book in two sittings, finishing it last night and I really couldn't wait to get back to it.
Jeanne was a lovely character and I found myself wanting to be her, making a new life for herself in a beautiful country, living by the beach, having lots of time and enough money to be able to do up the cottage exactly as she wanted to before she found out that her life was in danger. It really was written in a delightful way and was a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable read.
Jeanne Le Page, arrives in Guernsey on a ferry and has a panic attack. She hasn't been back for fifteen years, since she was the only survivor of a boating accident which involved her parents. Her grandmother has also now died and she has returned to the island because she has inherited her cottage.
Jeanne has to make a decision as to whether she should sell the cottage, do it up and sell it, or do it up and live in it herself. It is the latter that she decides and as she has just come out of a relationship along with its associated memories, she makes new friends and meets up with old friends in her efforts to build a new life in the place that she grew up in.
She does however, get an 'odd' feeling in a certain part of the cottage and while looking for some old recipes of her Grandmother's, she finally uncovers a very old secret which goes back to the time of the German Occupation. She becomes drawn into solving not one but two old mysteries, and while also trying to overcome her fears of the water, and get back the memories that she has lost, she finds that she is the star witness in one of them and for the second time in her life, she finds that her life is in danger.
I loved reading this book. It took me back to years ago when I visited Guernsey and thought it was one of the most beautiful places ever! Anne's writing made it so easy to conjure up pictures of a very green and beautifully sunny island, with some very cosmopolitan places to visit and enjoy.
Part of the book talks about her Grandmother's recipes and they try to recreate them using modern measures and ovens. I was literally salivating at some of the descriptions and a lot of the book is also based around eating out, and I found myself constantly craving all of this gorgeous food that was being described and wanting to visit all of the restaurants. Anne has done a fabulous job on behalf of the Guernsey Tourist Board as after reading this book, it has really piqued my interest in going there again as soon as possible.
I found that I couldn't put the book down, it was a mixture of mystery and romance, which was a great combination. She became an integral part of a group of friends, and her relationships that developed within the group were wonderful and she handled one of the group who was getting way too friendly really well. I read the book in two sittings, finishing it last night and I really couldn't wait to get back to it.
Jeanne was a lovely character and I found myself wanting to be her, making a new life for herself in a beautiful country, living by the beach, having lots of time and enough money to be able to do up the cottage exactly as she wanted to before she found out that her life was in danger. It really was written in a delightful way and was a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable read.
May 3, 2012
Dangerous Waters by Anne Allen
Reviewer: Maureen (BookishMagpie)
Set on the island of Guernsey, Dangerous Waters by Anne Allen is a captivating story about a young woman reluctantly returning to her birthplace after a family tragedy that occurred fifteen years before. Jeanne Le Page has tried to forget about the terrifying incident when she lost both her parents but now her beloved grandmother has died and left her cottage to Jeanne.
Jeanne's initial plan is to stay just long enough to sell her inheritance, however, when she tells close family friends, Molly and Peter about her plan, they persuade her to get the old cottage renovated and then to decide whether to sell or stay.
Jeanne begins to feel at home again but being back on the island has also increased her nightmares and flashbacks to the tragic incident on her parent's boat. The case has never been closed because there were no other witnesses and Jeanne suffers from traumatic amnesia. So Jeanne decides to try a series of sessions using hypnosis, and unintentionally puts herself in danger as she begins to recall details.
While the cottage is being renovated, Jeanne sorts out her grandmother's collection of old recipes and is intrigued when she finds some mysterious love letters written to her grandmother. In the meantime, a shocking secret is discovered dating back to the time during the German Occupation.
As Jeanne spends more time trying to find out more about her grandmother's mysterious past, Jeanne gets closer to solving the mystery about what happened to her own parents too. And Jeanne begins to think about staying on the island after meeting up with old friends and being introduced to new friends.
As two men vie for her affections, will one of them win her heart? Will Jeanne be able to put the past behind her? Will she decide to stay in Guernsey or go back to England?
The author has cleverly wound the different strands (romance/mystery) of the storyline together until the exciting end when they are resolved.
The vivid island setting is enhanced with fascinating details about life on Guernsey during WWII when the island was occupied by German troops, as well as interesting information about Guernsey in present day. The book also includes a useful glossary at the end as well as a selection of four recipes.
It's worth noting that the author, Anne Allen, lived in Guernsey for twelve years and that she is a psychotherapist (just like one of the characters in the story). Dangerous Waters is her first novel.
Dangerous Waters is an immensely satisfying story that effortlessly combines a sweet romance with two compelling mysteries, and convincing characters. It's a lovely, thoughtful story about facing loss and finding love.
Review by Maureen @BookishMagpie
Reviewer: Maureen (BookishMagpie)
Set on the island of Guernsey, Dangerous Waters by Anne Allen is a captivating story about a young woman reluctantly returning to her birthplace after a family tragedy that occurred fifteen years before. Jeanne Le Page has tried to forget about the terrifying incident when she lost both her parents but now her beloved grandmother has died and left her cottage to Jeanne.
Jeanne's initial plan is to stay just long enough to sell her inheritance, however, when she tells close family friends, Molly and Peter about her plan, they persuade her to get the old cottage renovated and then to decide whether to sell or stay.
Jeanne begins to feel at home again but being back on the island has also increased her nightmares and flashbacks to the tragic incident on her parent's boat. The case has never been closed because there were no other witnesses and Jeanne suffers from traumatic amnesia. So Jeanne decides to try a series of sessions using hypnosis, and unintentionally puts herself in danger as she begins to recall details.
While the cottage is being renovated, Jeanne sorts out her grandmother's collection of old recipes and is intrigued when she finds some mysterious love letters written to her grandmother. In the meantime, a shocking secret is discovered dating back to the time during the German Occupation.
As Jeanne spends more time trying to find out more about her grandmother's mysterious past, Jeanne gets closer to solving the mystery about what happened to her own parents too. And Jeanne begins to think about staying on the island after meeting up with old friends and being introduced to new friends.
As two men vie for her affections, will one of them win her heart? Will Jeanne be able to put the past behind her? Will she decide to stay in Guernsey or go back to England?
The author has cleverly wound the different strands (romance/mystery) of the storyline together until the exciting end when they are resolved.
The vivid island setting is enhanced with fascinating details about life on Guernsey during WWII when the island was occupied by German troops, as well as interesting information about Guernsey in present day. The book also includes a useful glossary at the end as well as a selection of four recipes.
It's worth noting that the author, Anne Allen, lived in Guernsey for twelve years and that she is a psychotherapist (just like one of the characters in the story). Dangerous Waters is her first novel.
Dangerous Waters is an immensely satisfying story that effortlessly combines a sweet romance with two compelling mysteries, and convincing characters. It's a lovely, thoughtful story about facing loss and finding love.
Review by Maureen @BookishMagpie
September 11, 2012
After breaking up with her boyfriend and having a miscarriage, Jeanne is barely hanging on. Then she receives a phone call informing her that her grandmother has died and she is the sole heir to her holdings.
Her return to the Isle of Guernsey was supposed to be brief, say goodbye to her beloved gran, sell the cottage, and get off the island.
She left the island when she was 16 years old, vowing never to return. She was the only survivor of a boating incident that killer both of her parents. She still, 15 years later, can’t recall what happened. The case was never solved and her parents killer was never caught. Nightmares and flashbacks return to haunt Jeanne and she is more determined than ever to regain her memories of that day. Memories that have stayed hidden in her mind. If she can remember, the killer will be revealed.
Jeanne decides to stay on the island and modernize the cottage, renewing old friendships and making new ones.
While cleaning out the cottage and looking for old family recipes, she stumbles across some mysterious letters from a German soldier, written to her gran during the German occupation in WWII. They looked to be love letters.
An idea begins to form. She could combine her long ago family recipes along with her ancestors history into a cookbook. Calling it “Recipes for Love.”
Dangerous Waters is a story in a story, in a story. It led me down the garden path.
You will see Jeanne grow and become strong again, regain her sense of self, and just maybe find love.
Follow her as her book idea becomes reality and she begins her journey of research and discovery. I loved reading the whole process of concept-to agent-to publisher and editor.
Discover the buried secret of the “cold” room in the cottage. Why is Jeanne the only one that feels the chill? What happened there?
And last but not least, find out what really happened when her parents were killed. You may think you know who the killer is, but don’t be too hasty.
Dangerous Waters started out like a leisurely walk on the beach. Anne’s writing, with its English flavor, blends the past and present easily and I got more and more drawn into the book.
My rating went from a 3 at the beginning – a bit slow to hook me. To a 4 as the story revealed its many layers. And finally to a 5 – this because of the brilliant writing by Anne Allen.
Her return to the Isle of Guernsey was supposed to be brief, say goodbye to her beloved gran, sell the cottage, and get off the island.
She left the island when she was 16 years old, vowing never to return. She was the only survivor of a boating incident that killer both of her parents. She still, 15 years later, can’t recall what happened. The case was never solved and her parents killer was never caught. Nightmares and flashbacks return to haunt Jeanne and she is more determined than ever to regain her memories of that day. Memories that have stayed hidden in her mind. If she can remember, the killer will be revealed.
Jeanne decides to stay on the island and modernize the cottage, renewing old friendships and making new ones.
While cleaning out the cottage and looking for old family recipes, she stumbles across some mysterious letters from a German soldier, written to her gran during the German occupation in WWII. They looked to be love letters.
An idea begins to form. She could combine her long ago family recipes along with her ancestors history into a cookbook. Calling it “Recipes for Love.”
Dangerous Waters is a story in a story, in a story. It led me down the garden path.
You will see Jeanne grow and become strong again, regain her sense of self, and just maybe find love.
Follow her as her book idea becomes reality and she begins her journey of research and discovery. I loved reading the whole process of concept-to agent-to publisher and editor.
Discover the buried secret of the “cold” room in the cottage. Why is Jeanne the only one that feels the chill? What happened there?
And last but not least, find out what really happened when her parents were killed. You may think you know who the killer is, but don’t be too hasty.
Dangerous Waters started out like a leisurely walk on the beach. Anne’s writing, with its English flavor, blends the past and present easily and I got more and more drawn into the book.
My rating went from a 3 at the beginning – a bit slow to hook me. To a 4 as the story revealed its many layers. And finally to a 5 – this because of the brilliant writing by Anne Allen.
July 20, 2012
Dangerous Waters follows Jeanne as she tries to adjust to life on an island she once loved, one which now holds such horrific memories.
Life has not been great for Jeanne lately and then she gets a call to say that her grandmother has passed away on the island of Guernsey, the island that was once Jeanne's home until she left at the age of 16 after her parents' murders. Jeanne reluctantly has to go back to put her grandmothers affairs in order since she's the last of her family line.
Jeanne starts off as a nervous, heartbroken woman but over the course of the story gains strength and finds love, as well as solving a couple of traumatic mysteries from her past that concern both herself and her grandmother.
The two separate mysteries that Jeanne solved were well thought out and I was intrigued to know what happened in Jeanne's grandmother's situation and what happened to Jeanne's parents. I was left satisfied at the outcome of both and I was right about 'whodunnit'!
I liked Jeanne as she was so normal. She was indecisive in that she wasn't sure whether to stay on Guernsey or leave after selling the house, she thought she could change her partner *don't we all?!* and she worried about things like the rest of us do. She eventually learnt to open up, talk things through and, most importantly, to love again.
I really enjoyed reading Dangerous Waters. I think it was well written with beautiful descriptions of Guernsey, descriptions that could only have come from someone who knows the island as well as Anne does. I also appreciated the historical information that was in the book, it was clear that a lot of research went it to getting this right. The recipes from the book that were included at the end were a very nice touch, too.
Anne is working on another novel called Finding Mother and I look forward to reading this when published.
*My ecopy of Dangerous Waters was provided free of charge by the author in exchange for a review. This has not influenced my review in any way.
Read more of my reviews at Have Book, Will Read
Life has not been great for Jeanne lately and then she gets a call to say that her grandmother has passed away on the island of Guernsey, the island that was once Jeanne's home until she left at the age of 16 after her parents' murders. Jeanne reluctantly has to go back to put her grandmothers affairs in order since she's the last of her family line.
Jeanne starts off as a nervous, heartbroken woman but over the course of the story gains strength and finds love, as well as solving a couple of traumatic mysteries from her past that concern both herself and her grandmother.
The two separate mysteries that Jeanne solved were well thought out and I was intrigued to know what happened in Jeanne's grandmother's situation and what happened to Jeanne's parents. I was left satisfied at the outcome of both and I was right about 'whodunnit'!
I liked Jeanne as she was so normal. She was indecisive in that she wasn't sure whether to stay on Guernsey or leave after selling the house, she thought she could change her partner *don't we all?!* and she worried about things like the rest of us do. She eventually learnt to open up, talk things through and, most importantly, to love again.
I really enjoyed reading Dangerous Waters. I think it was well written with beautiful descriptions of Guernsey, descriptions that could only have come from someone who knows the island as well as Anne does. I also appreciated the historical information that was in the book, it was clear that a lot of research went it to getting this right. The recipes from the book that were included at the end were a very nice touch, too.
Anne is working on another novel called Finding Mother and I look forward to reading this when published.
*My ecopy of Dangerous Waters was provided free of charge by the author in exchange for a review. This has not influenced my review in any way.
Read more of my reviews at Have Book, Will Read
October 10, 2014
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This delightful story reflects the island life it depicts; atmospheric, gently paced and full of mystery and romance. The characters are crafted realistically and easy to visualise. This is not an action packed read but the laid back writing style draws the reader into island society and culture. The cast of secondary characters give the story its depth and variety and bring the island community to life for me.
Contemporary favourites cookery and gardening widen the scope of this novel and prevent it from becoming too self absorbed and dark. The descriptions of the cosmopolitan restaurants, food and the cottage garden are vibrant and knowledgeable; as is the insight into the publishing industry.
Jeanne the vulnerable but talented heroine of 'Dangerous Waters' is a writer who returns to her childhood home many years after a traumatic incident drove her back to the mainland. Her chosen career has a dramatic boost when she discovers her grandmother's hidden secrets and much treasured ancestral recipes. Coupled with reconnecting with friends from her school days and deciding what to do with her legacy, Jeanne's day to day life is an absorbing read. Jeanne's poignant flashbacks reveal her traumatic past. Mystery and dangerous undercurrents threaten Jeanne's emotional recovery until she isn't sure who she can trust.
'Dangerous Waters' is definitely worth reading and I look forward to the rest of the Guernsey Novels.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Anne Allen
June 20, 2012
If you’re thinking of wandering into a virtual bookshop, looking for that perfect summer read, browse no further than Anne Allen’s novel, Dangerous Waters.
Set on the beautiful Channel Island of Guernsey, Anne’s novel has all the elements to keep you enthralled, entertained and eagerly anticipating every morsel – literally.
I’m not a cook, nor a gardener – but I love watching programmes about food and flowers. And so it is with Dangerous Waters.
Jeanne returns to the island to take care of her late grandmother’s estate. The cottage she remembers from childhood is in desperate need of TLC, as is Jeanne.
As she revisits the place she once called home, Jeanne is haunted by flashbacks. What has she been trying to forget? Can she dare to remember? Using the care of the cottage and garden almost as therapy, Jeanne gradually comes to terms with a terrible revelation.
Anne Allen lived on the island and it’s clear she still loves the place – her knowledge is tenderly woven through her words. This is no travelogue, it’s a friend sharing with joy the places and experiences that make Guernsey so special. The history of the island, its culture, climate and cuisine are integral to Anne’s novel.
All good summer reads demand a sprinkling of romance and like the delicious recipes that Jeanne uncovers, Anne has finely seasoned her novel. As I read towards the exciting and satisfying conclusion I was faced with my own dilemma. Should I save the final chapters for another day, or should I wrap myself in the duvet and treat myself to a very, very late night? The novel won, a late night was a small price to pay and I drifted off to sleep very happy and very content.
Set on the beautiful Channel Island of Guernsey, Anne’s novel has all the elements to keep you enthralled, entertained and eagerly anticipating every morsel – literally.
I’m not a cook, nor a gardener – but I love watching programmes about food and flowers. And so it is with Dangerous Waters.
Jeanne returns to the island to take care of her late grandmother’s estate. The cottage she remembers from childhood is in desperate need of TLC, as is Jeanne.
As she revisits the place she once called home, Jeanne is haunted by flashbacks. What has she been trying to forget? Can she dare to remember? Using the care of the cottage and garden almost as therapy, Jeanne gradually comes to terms with a terrible revelation.
Anne Allen lived on the island and it’s clear she still loves the place – her knowledge is tenderly woven through her words. This is no travelogue, it’s a friend sharing with joy the places and experiences that make Guernsey so special. The history of the island, its culture, climate and cuisine are integral to Anne’s novel.
All good summer reads demand a sprinkling of romance and like the delicious recipes that Jeanne uncovers, Anne has finely seasoned her novel. As I read towards the exciting and satisfying conclusion I was faced with my own dilemma. Should I save the final chapters for another day, or should I wrap myself in the duvet and treat myself to a very, very late night? The novel won, a late night was a small price to pay and I drifted off to sleep very happy and very content.
September 18, 2013
Jeanne le Page has returned to the island of Guernsey to manage her inheritance, which is a cottage left to her by her grandmother, and which evokes memories of Jeanne’s childhood, and the time before she lost her parents in a tragic accident at sea. Jeanne’s life is in transition, with a disastrous personal relationship behind her, she realises that she has some important life decisions to make, and Guernsey seems like the ideal place for her to take stock of her life. During an examination of her grandmother’s personal effects, Jeanne comes across a series of letters, which plunges the story into the heart of the German occupation of the island during the Second World War. The evidence suggests that the cottage and its previous inhabitants have been harbouring long buried secrets.
What then follows is a cleverly constructed mystery which intertwines both past and present, and as Jeanne uncovers the truth about the past, she also realises that exposing this mystery will also place her in extreme danger. Jeanne is a likeable and strong-minded heroine, and yet she has hidden vulnerabilities which are conveyed in a realistic way. It is obvious from the beautiful descriptions of Guernsey that the author knows and loves the island; the imagery evoked is really quite stunning, and with the glorious descriptions, Guernsey really springs into life.
Overall, this is a good read; the mystery draws you in from the beginning and the intertwining of the past and present is nicely done. There is some poignancy to the story which is sensitively explored, and the addition of a lovely romance adds a good contrast. I enjoyed it, and will certainly look out for more books by this talented author.
What then follows is a cleverly constructed mystery which intertwines both past and present, and as Jeanne uncovers the truth about the past, she also realises that exposing this mystery will also place her in extreme danger. Jeanne is a likeable and strong-minded heroine, and yet she has hidden vulnerabilities which are conveyed in a realistic way. It is obvious from the beautiful descriptions of Guernsey that the author knows and loves the island; the imagery evoked is really quite stunning, and with the glorious descriptions, Guernsey really springs into life.
Overall, this is a good read; the mystery draws you in from the beginning and the intertwining of the past and present is nicely done. There is some poignancy to the story which is sensitively explored, and the addition of a lovely romance adds a good contrast. I enjoyed it, and will certainly look out for more books by this talented author.
October 11, 2012
Some of my favorite stories have to do with people starting a new life in a new city or country. In the case of Dangerous Waters Jeanne Le Page starts her new life by coming back to her hometown of Guernsey.
Jeanne left the island at age 16 after her parents died in a boating accident which she survived and can't remember. The death of her Grandmother and a painful break-up brought her back to Guernsey where she began to reconnect with childhood friends. Her initial intention was to settle her Grandmother's estate, sell a property she inherited and get back to London.
Jeanne is in deep need for healing, and the process began as she approached Guernsey and had a panic attack. Once she was back at her Grandma's cottage, Le Petit Chêne, she began to re-introduce herself in Guernsey's way of life and made the decision to stay, renovate the cottage and confront the biggest mystery in her life: the amnesia regarding the accident.
During the renovation Jeanne discovers documents that will change her life. Some of them are old traditional French recipes and something she never expected: love letters between her Grandma and someone other than her Grandfather. This part of the story touches on a romantic and sad love story that happened in the time when Guernsey was under German occupation during WWII. It is fascinating to join Jeanne as she slowly uncovers the truth.
This is a great story of love, loss and self-renewal. Enjoyed this story very much and look forward to the next book by Anne Allen.
Jeanne left the island at age 16 after her parents died in a boating accident which she survived and can't remember. The death of her Grandmother and a painful break-up brought her back to Guernsey where she began to reconnect with childhood friends. Her initial intention was to settle her Grandmother's estate, sell a property she inherited and get back to London.
Jeanne is in deep need for healing, and the process began as she approached Guernsey and had a panic attack. Once she was back at her Grandma's cottage, Le Petit Chêne, she began to re-introduce herself in Guernsey's way of life and made the decision to stay, renovate the cottage and confront the biggest mystery in her life: the amnesia regarding the accident.
During the renovation Jeanne discovers documents that will change her life. Some of them are old traditional French recipes and something she never expected: love letters between her Grandma and someone other than her Grandfather. This part of the story touches on a romantic and sad love story that happened in the time when Guernsey was under German occupation during WWII. It is fascinating to join Jeanne as she slowly uncovers the truth.
This is a great story of love, loss and self-renewal. Enjoyed this story very much and look forward to the next book by Anne Allen.
July 22, 2013
This book was awarded the Silver medal in The Wishing Shelf Independent Book Awards (adult fiction) and is highly recommended by our readers.
Dangerous Waters – FEEDBACK
Cover – All of the Readers thought the cover was OK and professional-looking. They particularly liked the colours and fonts. They did suggest a stronger (clearer) image for the front and suggested removing the last paragraph of the blurb as, basically, it ‘gives the game away’ i.e. at the end, everything will work out fine.
Inners (layout) – All 20 of the readers thought the layout was excellent; very clean and easy to read. No problems.
Style/Plot – All 20 of the Readers enjoyed the book (particularly the female readers). They felt the setting of Guernsey was a little unusual and they appreciated the chance to discover a little of the island in your story. 7 of the 20 readers felt it was enjoyable to read a book with a ‘romantic’ theme which was also well-written and the back-story well thought out. 12 of the Readers felt there was a good balance between description and speech and all of the Readers thought the recipes at the back was a wonderful idea. 4 of the Readers (all men – perhaps not your market – Ed) felt it was a little slow going in parts.
STATS –
Of 20 Readers:
20 felt it was an enjoyable read.
14 would like to read another book with Jeanne as the central character.
18 of the readers would like to read another book by you.
‘A wonderfully crafted story with a perfect balance of intrigue and romance.’ The Wishing Shelf Awards
Dangerous Waters – FEEDBACK
Cover – All of the Readers thought the cover was OK and professional-looking. They particularly liked the colours and fonts. They did suggest a stronger (clearer) image for the front and suggested removing the last paragraph of the blurb as, basically, it ‘gives the game away’ i.e. at the end, everything will work out fine.
Inners (layout) – All 20 of the readers thought the layout was excellent; very clean and easy to read. No problems.
Style/Plot – All 20 of the Readers enjoyed the book (particularly the female readers). They felt the setting of Guernsey was a little unusual and they appreciated the chance to discover a little of the island in your story. 7 of the 20 readers felt it was enjoyable to read a book with a ‘romantic’ theme which was also well-written and the back-story well thought out. 12 of the Readers felt there was a good balance between description and speech and all of the Readers thought the recipes at the back was a wonderful idea. 4 of the Readers (all men – perhaps not your market – Ed) felt it was a little slow going in parts.
STATS –
Of 20 Readers:
20 felt it was an enjoyable read.
14 would like to read another book with Jeanne as the central character.
18 of the readers would like to read another book by you.
‘A wonderfully crafted story with a perfect balance of intrigue and romance.’ The Wishing Shelf Awards
June 5, 2013
eanne LePage is a writer and a reader and in the novel shows herself to be fan of Maeve Binchy and Katie Fforde. I have never read Katie Fforde (though readers of this blog will know her distant cousin Jasper to be my favorite author) but I have read Binchy and the tone of Dangerous Waters – Mystery, loss and love on the island of Guernsey has the sound and feel of that authors work. Not in the sense of a copy but in the spirit of the characters and narrative.Jeanne is a damaged young woman. She was on the boat with her parents when they were killed and more recently she lost a child in a fall down stairs. The relationship with the father had already crumbled before the loss. Returning to Guernsey seems like a lovely fresh start for Jeanne. Her high school crush asks her out and invites him into his circle of friends (pun intended). Jeanne isn’t ready for a relationship and Marcus is moving fast but she doesn’t jump into bed with him, which is a credit to the author because sex is a very easy thing to throw a character into these days but for this character it would not have seemed logical.
Within the story, Jeanne is writing a cookbook using her grandmother’s recipes. Allen includes a few recipes at the end of the novel that look wonderful. I am not a person who cooks for fun but if I was, I’d try them out – especially the rabbit pie.
This is a great read. If you like Maeve Binchy, you’ll like Dangerous Waters – Mystery, loss and love on the island of Guernsey.
Within the story, Jeanne is writing a cookbook using her grandmother’s recipes. Allen includes a few recipes at the end of the novel that look wonderful. I am not a person who cooks for fun but if I was, I’d try them out – especially the rabbit pie.
This is a great read. If you like Maeve Binchy, you’ll like Dangerous Waters – Mystery, loss and love on the island of Guernsey.
January 11, 2023
I ordered this book because it's set in Guernsey in the Channel Islands, and my husband's family came from there. The story is a sweet one, if predictable -- a little like a Hallmark movie. Jeanne's grandmother has died and left her the family cottage on Guernsey. She has been living in the Midlands (England) since the death of her parents and is reluctant to return to the island because of the bad memories surrounding their deaths (and her own lost memories of the night they died). Since she has just broken up with her longtime boyfriend, she really has no reason not to go home to Guernsey. While there she reconnects with old friends, meets a new (handsome!) one, and finds clues to secrets long hidden and new clues to the deaths of her parents.
I did really like this book. It gives readers a clear look into island history, life, and culture. Jeanne is a complex characters trying to find her place after all that has happened. She makes some mistakes, but ultimately follows her heart and finds Guernsey to be her home again. As I said, there are no big surprises here, although there are a few suspenseful and slightly surprising moments. Who cares? It's a good way to spend some relaxing time on a beautiful island, learn something about the history and culture, AND there are some great recipes at the end. (Food plays a BIG role in this book.) Not great literature, probably not destined to be a classic, but still a good read.
I did really like this book. It gives readers a clear look into island history, life, and culture. Jeanne is a complex characters trying to find her place after all that has happened. She makes some mistakes, but ultimately follows her heart and finds Guernsey to be her home again. As I said, there are no big surprises here, although there are a few suspenseful and slightly surprising moments. Who cares? It's a good way to spend some relaxing time on a beautiful island, learn something about the history and culture, AND there are some great recipes at the end. (Food plays a BIG role in this book.) Not great literature, probably not destined to be a classic, but still a good read.
September 20, 2012
Dangerous Waters is combination of mystery, intrigue and romance. Jeanne; our main character, returns to her childhood home of Guernsey after the death of her grandmother. It’s difficult for her to revisit the place because her parents had died there in an ‘accident’ fifteen years ago, and this is the first time she has been back. It soon becomes clear that their death may have been murder and that now she has returned Jeanne’s life could also be in danger.
The descriptions coupled with the historical information of Guernsey gives me the impression that the author either, knows the area personally, or has spent a lot of time researching for this book. I sometimes found the ‘info dump’ was a little too excessive and slowed the pace in parts; especially in the beginning, but over all the story moved along steadily.
There is a glossary included to explain a few local words which was helpful and some interesting looking recipes that ‘if’ I enjoyed cooking, I would be sure to try out!… It was a nice touch considering our protagonist was writing a cook book!
Anne Allen has a relaxed writing style, and paid a lot of attention to detail both in description and plot depth. The story wasn’t totally predictable so the twists and turns, plus the back story were enough to keep the reader turning the pages to the very end.
Copy supplied for review
January 2, 2013
I received a copy of this book to provide an honest review. This is a mixture of mystery and romance. Jeanne the main female character grew up in Guernsey, however after the trauma experienced as a result of her parents death she had moved to London at the age of sixteen. She had no memory of the tragedy. She was forced to return to the island due the death of her Grandmother. She was edgy about returning but she was willing to face her fears and deal with the issues at hand.
On her return she unearthed mysteries about her grandmother, the house she inherited and about herself. She mad quite a few friends in the process and she mystery surrounding who was responsible for her parents death was revealed. We see Jeanne experience falling in love which never expected after her experience with her ex-boyfriend.
The story started out slow and it took awhile for me to get into it and I an glad that persisted as I ended up really liking this story. The story flowed beautifully and as a result was easy to follow. The author provided excellent descriptions as it relates to the setting of the story. I never traveled to any those paces but after reading this book it makes me want to visit.
The story ended beautifully it left no unanswered questions. I enjoyed reading this book and I would definitely recommend this book.
On her return she unearthed mysteries about her grandmother, the house she inherited and about herself. She mad quite a few friends in the process and she mystery surrounding who was responsible for her parents death was revealed. We see Jeanne experience falling in love which never expected after her experience with her ex-boyfriend.
The story started out slow and it took awhile for me to get into it and I an glad that persisted as I ended up really liking this story. The story flowed beautifully and as a result was easy to follow. The author provided excellent descriptions as it relates to the setting of the story. I never traveled to any those paces but after reading this book it makes me want to visit.
The story ended beautifully it left no unanswered questions. I enjoyed reading this book and I would definitely recommend this book.
October 13, 2014
REVIEW
The setting is on the Channel Island of Guernsey. Closer to France but located off the coasts of England and France. This book is so heartwarming. It has tragedy, love, and heartbreak. You can't help but love the main character, Jeanne LePage who travels to Guernsey after her grandmother dies. Guernsey was Jeanne's birthplace and until sixteen, she had lived her life there. Then Tragedy struck. She lost her parents and nearly herself. She went to live in the U.K. with her Aunt Kate. Constant night terrors even though she can't remember anything of that day.
Jeanne was named the sole beneficiary of the estate of her grandmother. She is trying to figure out how to make the house liveable. The author lets us follow Jeanne through her terrible night terrors, her Grandmother, the little house with a mystery behind it and the person she so wants to bring to justice. I would love to read more on the characters and how their lives have expanded. This was a wonderful book that will warm your heart with a few tears here and there.
I was given a complimentary copy of Dangerous Waters from the author, Anne Allen and The Books Machine for my view of the book. No other compensation took place.
The setting is on the Channel Island of Guernsey. Closer to France but located off the coasts of England and France. This book is so heartwarming. It has tragedy, love, and heartbreak. You can't help but love the main character, Jeanne LePage who travels to Guernsey after her grandmother dies. Guernsey was Jeanne's birthplace and until sixteen, she had lived her life there. Then Tragedy struck. She lost her parents and nearly herself. She went to live in the U.K. with her Aunt Kate. Constant night terrors even though she can't remember anything of that day.
Jeanne was named the sole beneficiary of the estate of her grandmother. She is trying to figure out how to make the house liveable. The author lets us follow Jeanne through her terrible night terrors, her Grandmother, the little house with a mystery behind it and the person she so wants to bring to justice. I would love to read more on the characters and how their lives have expanded. This was a wonderful book that will warm your heart with a few tears here and there.
I was given a complimentary copy of Dangerous Waters from the author, Anne Allen and The Books Machine for my view of the book. No other compensation took place.
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