Review Card & Book Review – The Girl She Left Behind By Jo Bartlett

A family in turmoil…

Phoebe Spencer left home a long time ago, desperate to get away from her mother’s emotional manipulation. She knows her life is better away from her family, but she can’t help feeling she’s simply running away from her problems…

Then Phoebe hears that her younger sister Lucy has disappeared, leaving behind her four-year old daughter, Darcy. Phoebe’s certain Lucy will be back soon – she’d never leave Darcy alone – and then Phoebe can get on with her life again.

But as the days pass there’s still no sign of Lucy, and everyone begins to fear the worst. Phoebe has to consider the terrible truth that Lucy might never come home. And as their mother makes it clear she wants to take control of Darcy’s life, Phoebe must do all she can to protect the girl her sister left behind – no matter the cost to her.

About The Author

My Review

The book is a powerful story with darker themes than expected, delving into the legacy of a difficult childhood and emotional impact rather than fast-paced action. Phoebe returns home to care for her niece Darcy after her sister Lucy disappears, escaping their manipulative mother’s influence. Secrets unravel about the sisters’ traumatic past, bringing tears to the reader. Phoebe’s bond with Darcy and budding romance with Jamie provide hope amidst the turmoil. The characters are deeply realistic, and the writing is emotionally captivating, making it an unforgettable read with a strong recommendation.

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Happy Publication Day – 7 August 2024

An Island Promise By Kate Frost

Three friends, one Balearic promise and a summer that could change their lives forever…

For twenty-one-year-old Belle Madden her first holiday to Ibiza with best friends Gem and Laurie was memorable for all the right reasons: partying the night away, planning a future filled with big dreams and making a promise to return in ten years to celebrate living their best lives – hopefully…

Fast forward a decade and Belle is desperate for a change. Eager to escape her relationship troubles, she jumps at a job opportunity that takes her back to the White Isle.

Despite loving island life and her new job, Belle realises something is missing. With their busy lives the three friends have drifted apart, their friendship fractured. Remembering their promise to return, Belle seizes the opportunity to organise a reunion holiday.

After the initial excitement of being back together in Ibiza, cracks start to appear. A lot can change in ten years. Dreams can be shattered, love lost and hope destroyed. And when secrets are revealed, long suppressed emotions begin to unravel…

Will Belle repeat her past mistakes or can a second chance summer be the beginning of a happy-ever-after for friendship as well as love?