Guest Review: The Secret Beach by Veronica Henry

Nikki finally owns the little coastguard cottage of her dreams - and it's a few steps away from the hidden beach that means so much to her.

But when a handwritten note lands on her doorstep, she realises it's only a matter of time before the heartbreaking truth of her past is uncovered.

Twenty years ago, her whole world was turned upside-down when a terrible storm rolled into the small seaside town of Speedwell.

Ever since that night, Nikki has been keeping a secret. One she knows has the potential to destroy the lives of those she loves most.

Because as sure as the tide turns, there are no secrets in a small town...

Review: I have been eagerly awaiting the release of this new book from Veronica Henry, one of my favourite authors. The title suggests that once again I will be treated to a story set by the sea and I am already anticipating imagining the sound of the waves as I read. This book is set in the small Cornish seaside town of Speedwell, where 20 years previously the lives of the inhabitants had been turned upside down by a tragic summer storm, an event which is commemorated annually in the town.

The story centres on Nikki, who has finally had the opportunity to buy the coastguard cottage she has had her eye on for many years. Although in need of a large dose of TLC, the cosy cottage is in a marvellous position set high above a small cove that is hidden from view and accessed only by a precarious set of steps. The lovely beach below is associated with memories of an earlier time in Nikki’s life and a guilty secret she has kept for over twenty years. Her happiness at moving into her dream home and meeting up with her handsome new neighbour is marred by the arrival of an anonymous note. Someone apparently knows her secret, but who, and moreover what will happen if the truth comes out?

I can highly recommend this latest book from Veronica Henry. Its pages are populated with a cast of strong characters and filled with details of their lives, past and present. The story flits between present day and what happened to Nikki and her family twenty years ago. This is not my favourite form of narrative, but it was used to good effect here. Alongside the drama, there is also plenty of romance. I liked Nikki’s next door neighbour very much. He was very supportive and non-judgemental as well as easy on the eye. Nikki’s secret emerges slowly as the story progresses and the potential consequences of its being revealed become clear. I liked the way in which the reader is kept guessing as to the identity of the writer of the anonymous note; I certainly didn’t work it out. Although the book has an idyllic setting by the sea, there are copious reminders of its dangers.

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