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The Secret of Villa Alba
The new novel from Number 1 bestselling author Louise Douglas. 1968, Sicily. Just months after a terrible earthquake has destroyed the mountain town of Gibellina, Enzo and his wife Irene Borgata are making their way back to the family home, Villa Alba, on roads overlooked by the eerie backdrop of the flattened ghost town. When their car breaks down, Enzo leaves his young wife to go and get help, but when he returns there is no trace of Irene. No body, no sign of a struggle, nothing. 2003. TV showman and true crime aficionado Milo Conti is Italy's darling, uncovering and solving historic crimes for his legion of fans. When he turns his attention to the story of the missing Irene Borgata, accusing her husband of her murder, Enzo's daughter Maddi asks her childhood friend, retired detective April Cobain, for help to prove her father's innocence. But the tale April discovers is mafia meetings, infidelity, mistaken identity, grief and unshakable love. As the world slowly closes in on the claustrophobic Villa Alba, and the house begins to reveal its secrets, will the Borgata family wish they'd never asked April to investigate? And what did happen to Enzo's missing wife Irene? Bestselling author Louise Douglas returns with an irresistibly compelling, intriguing and captivating tale of betrayal, love, jealousy and the secrets buried in every family history. Praise for Louise 'I loved The Lost Notebook so much! From the opening lines, I was drawn in to a gripping story, beautifully written and so cleverly orchestrated. I rooted for the main character, I held my breath at the denouement and as for the climax of the book - just wow. Highly recommended.' Judy Leigh 'Louise Douglas achieves the impossible and gets better with every book.' Milly Johnson 'A brilliantly written, gripping, clever, compelling story, that I struggled to put down. The vivid descriptions, the evocative plot and the intrigue that Louise created, which had me constantly asking questions, made it a highly enjoyable, absolute treasure of a read.' Kim Nash on The Scarlet Dress 'Another stunning read from the exceptionally talented Louise Douglas! I love the way in which Louise creates such an atmospheric mystery, building the intrigue and suspense brick by brick. Her writing is always beautiful and multi-layered, her characters warm and relatable and the intriguing nature of the mystery makes this unputdownable.' Nicola Cornick on The Scarlet Dress 'A tender, heart-breaking, page-turning read' Rachel Hore on The House by the Sea 'The perfect combination of page-turning thriller and deeply emotional family story. Superb' Nicola Cornick on The House by the Sea 'Kept me guessing until the last few pages and the explosive ending took my breath away. C.L. Taylor , author of The Accident on Your Beautiful Lies ** 'Beautifully written, chillingly atmospheric and utterly compelling, The Secret by the Lake is Louise Douglas at her brilliant best' Tammy Cohen, author of The Broken 'A master of her craft, Louise Douglas ratchets up the tension in this haunting and exquisitely written tale of buried secrets and past tragedy.' Amanda Jennings, author of Sworn Secret 'A clammy, atmospheric and suspenseful novel, it builds in tension all the way through to the startling final pages.' Sunday Express, S Magazine
362 pages, Hardcover
First published July 3, 2023
1720 people are currently reading
8441 people want to read
About the author
Louise Douglas
24 books826 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 303 reviews
July 3, 2023
Happy Publication Day!
July 3, 2023
In 1968 Sicily, twenty-four-year-old Irene Borgata (nee Weatherbury), the second wife of Enzo Borgata disappeared without a trace. Irene and Enzo had been driving back from town to Villa Alba Trapani, the Borgata family home when their car broke down on a deserted road. Irene had lost a leg from injuries incurred during a devastating earthquake some months ago that destroyed the nearby mountain town of Gibellina. She waits in the car while Enzo walks home to get help but when he returns Irene is nowhere to be seen. Over the decades there have been whispers and conjectures but no one could ever find out what happened to Irene who is presumed deceased.
Fast forward to the present day (thirty-five years after Irene’s disappearance) when a celebrity investigator Milo Conti unearths the mystery from decades back, intent on proving that Enzo murdered Irene and plans to expose him on his popular television program. Enzo’s daughter from his first marriage, Maddalena Borgata, asks estranged friend April Cobain, former DI of the Avon and Somerset Police in England, for help to find out what happened to her step-mother and prove the rumors wrong before Conti broadcasts the episode implicating her father. April, who knew Enzo from when she and Maddi were school friends was fond of him and considered him a father-figure in her life, comes to Sicily to help Maddi despite the fact that they had lost touch after an unpleasant incident year ago. As April delves into the history of the Borgata family and those closely associated with them she uncovers a complex web of lies and deceptions, links with Mafiosi, infidelity, blackmail and cover-ups exposing long-buried secrets harbored by several members of the Borgata family. It is also evident that Enzo’s English wife didn’t have an easy time adjusting to her new life and not everyone was equally welcoming to her. But would anyone cause her harm? But what truly happened to Irene? Was Enzo truly the loving devoted husband everyone thought him to be? What evidence does Conti have to prove his theories?
The Secret of Villa Alba by Louise Douglas is a well-crafted mystery that strikes the perfect balance between suspense and family drama. The narrative is shared across two timelines with the present day told in the third person with excerpts from what can assume are Irene’s journal/letters covering the timeline in the 1960s. The 1968 Belice earthquake is incorporated into the 1960s timeline and is well woven into the events of the story. The dual timelines are seamlessly woven into a consistently paced, well-structured and engaging narrative. Each of the characters (the main and supporting characters) is well defined though the resolution of a few sub-plots did feel a tad abrupt. I could predict part of the final reveal around the halfway mark (plenty of breadcrumbs, so it wasn’t difficult to do so) but there were several twisty surprises along the way. The elegant prose, immersive setting and suspenseful pacing render this an enjoyable read that I would not hesitate to recommend.
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Rating: 3.75⭐
July 16, 2023
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Fast-paced but predictable (not a mystery)
Sicily, 1968
A devastating earthquake has affected the mountain town of Gibellina. Enzo and his wife Irene Borgata are driving back home to their Villa Alba del Ciliegio through the bumpy roads across the ghosted town and its ruins. When the car breaks down, Enzo sets home on foot, promising to bring help. A few hours later, he arrives on the scene to find Irene missing. No one has seen or heard of her ever since.
Sicily, Present Day
Milo Conti is a TV showman known for his love for true crime (and drama). He enjoys playing with the audiences’ minds and people’s lives by ‘solving’ cold cases and delivering verdicts on air. When Enzo becomes Milo’s next target, Maddalena, Enzo’s daughter, contacts her childhood friend for help.
Retired detective April Cobain flies to Sicily to help her friend. As she digs deeper into the case, family secrets are revealed, resulting in more confusion and chaos. With the clock ticking away, can April find out what had happened that fateful evening all those years ago?
The story comes from April’s third-person POV and Irene’s first-person POV (addressing another character in the second person).
What I Like:
When the ToC (table of contents) showed 120 chapters, I had a mini heart attack. Fortunately, the chapters are short and crisp. They result in a fast-paced narration that alters between the past and present.
The chapter placement is done very well. As April explores the Villa and learns about the Borgata family members, we see Irene’s life progressing in parallel. Though it causes some repetition, it works in the plot’s favor to help readers connect the past and present.
Irene’s POV is wonderfully done. I wasn’t sure how I’d like the second-person address, but it makes things realistic from her side. She is not a vague entity but a person full of secrets, emotions, fears, doubts, etc. The writing presents her state of mind- frantic, messy, torn, and agitated, allowing readers to see her side of the story. (There’s an awkward bit that reads off but it can’t be helped due to the chosen narrative style.)
The setting comes alive without slowing down the narrative. The summer heat in Sicily, the architecture, food, people, and especially Villa Alba (a symbol of wealth and power but, in reality, a house barely holding together) are easy to visualize.
What Could Have Been Better for Me:
I was happy almost until the last quarter that we don’t see any ‘love track’ than what’s already there. But no! It comes when I didn’t want and least expected it. Thankfully, it’s not detailed and doesn’t distract the reader from the core plot, but it is not necessary.
Though I like paranormal elements, I want them to be more than just ‘feelings’. We have quite a few references to ghosts and stuff, which go nowhere in the plot. This seems more like an attempt to create an atmosphere. It’s not necessary and only causes a distraction (I kept wondering if something will come out of it).
With the focus on the case, there isn’t much space for anything else. I couldn’t connect with April at any point. The book totally belongs to the Borgata family and their secrets. There are a lot of secrets, too (some unnecessary and abruptly rounded off at the end).
The ending is a letdown. I knew what would happen in the climax. Heck, I saw it all around 30% of the book and was prepared for it. The lack of surprise wasn’t much of an issue. But the events afterward were summed up around 5 pages and felt totally rushed. It was almost like the book had no energy left after the reveal and wanted to wrap it up as soon as possible.
To summarize, The Secret of Villa Alba is a fast-paced novel with tried and tested plot seen in multiple books, movies, and shows. What sets it apart is Irene’s POV and the execution (until the last section). Pick it up if you want something familiar and quick.
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheSecretofVillaAlba
***
P.S.: The book is listed as general fiction on NetGalley. This is the right tag, though I’d call it a family drama. Reading this as a mystery (even a cozy mystery) will result in disappointment. There isn’t any police procedural here despite April’s former profession. Once I realized this, I could adjust my expectations.
One Liner: Fast-paced but predictable (not a mystery)
Sicily, 1968
A devastating earthquake has affected the mountain town of Gibellina. Enzo and his wife Irene Borgata are driving back home to their Villa Alba del Ciliegio through the bumpy roads across the ghosted town and its ruins. When the car breaks down, Enzo sets home on foot, promising to bring help. A few hours later, he arrives on the scene to find Irene missing. No one has seen or heard of her ever since.
Sicily, Present Day
Milo Conti is a TV showman known for his love for true crime (and drama). He enjoys playing with the audiences’ minds and people’s lives by ‘solving’ cold cases and delivering verdicts on air. When Enzo becomes Milo’s next target, Maddalena, Enzo’s daughter, contacts her childhood friend for help.
Retired detective April Cobain flies to Sicily to help her friend. As she digs deeper into the case, family secrets are revealed, resulting in more confusion and chaos. With the clock ticking away, can April find out what had happened that fateful evening all those years ago?
The story comes from April’s third-person POV and Irene’s first-person POV (addressing another character in the second person).
What I Like:
When the ToC (table of contents) showed 120 chapters, I had a mini heart attack. Fortunately, the chapters are short and crisp. They result in a fast-paced narration that alters between the past and present.
The chapter placement is done very well. As April explores the Villa and learns about the Borgata family members, we see Irene’s life progressing in parallel. Though it causes some repetition, it works in the plot’s favor to help readers connect the past and present.
Irene’s POV is wonderfully done. I wasn’t sure how I’d like the second-person address, but it makes things realistic from her side. She is not a vague entity but a person full of secrets, emotions, fears, doubts, etc. The writing presents her state of mind- frantic, messy, torn, and agitated, allowing readers to see her side of the story. (There’s an awkward bit that reads off but it can’t be helped due to the chosen narrative style.)
The setting comes alive without slowing down the narrative. The summer heat in Sicily, the architecture, food, people, and especially Villa Alba (a symbol of wealth and power but, in reality, a house barely holding together) are easy to visualize.
What Could Have Been Better for Me:
I was happy almost until the last quarter that we don’t see any ‘love track’ than what’s already there. But no! It comes when I didn’t want and least expected it. Thankfully, it’s not detailed and doesn’t distract the reader from the core plot, but it is not necessary.
Though I like paranormal elements, I want them to be more than just ‘feelings’. We have quite a few references to ghosts and stuff, which go nowhere in the plot. This seems more like an attempt to create an atmosphere. It’s not necessary and only causes a distraction (I kept wondering if something will come out of it).
With the focus on the case, there isn’t much space for anything else. I couldn’t connect with April at any point. The book totally belongs to the Borgata family and their secrets. There are a lot of secrets, too (some unnecessary and abruptly rounded off at the end).
The ending is a letdown. I knew what would happen in the climax. Heck, I saw it all around 30% of the book and was prepared for it. The lack of surprise wasn’t much of an issue. But the events afterward were summed up around 5 pages and felt totally rushed. It was almost like the book had no energy left after the reveal and wanted to wrap it up as soon as possible.
To summarize, The Secret of Villa Alba is a fast-paced novel with tried and tested plot seen in multiple books, movies, and shows. What sets it apart is Irene’s POV and the execution (until the last section). Pick it up if you want something familiar and quick.
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheSecretofVillaAlba
***
P.S.: The book is listed as general fiction on NetGalley. This is the right tag, though I’d call it a family drama. Reading this as a mystery (even a cozy mystery) will result in disappointment. There isn’t any police procedural here despite April’s former profession. Once I realized this, I could adjust my expectations.
May 25, 2023
Maddalena Borgato’s stepmother Irene disappears in May 1968 and no trace of her is ever found. Her father, Enzo, is suspected of foul play but because of lack of evidence and no body the case is abandoned. In 2003 Maddalena writes to her friend, April Cobain seeking her help as Milo Conti of TV programme “Cold Case“ is investigating and it seems she fears he will frame Enzo for the murder of his wife. April is an ex-detective inspector from the Avon and Somerset police force so is an excellent choice to conduct an investigation. April overcomes her initial reluctance and travels to Sicily and makes her way to the Villa Alba. Can she uncover the truth of Irene’s fate? The story is told our Irene in the 1960s and April in 2003, with a countdown to Conti’s programme. This works extremely well with the storyline flowing seamlessly.
I really enjoy Louise Douglas’ novels as they always ooze atmosphere and this one is no exception. There are some excellent descriptions of beautiful Sicily, the climate, the landscape, the Villa and the impact of the devastating earthquake of 1968, which the author weaves very effectively into the storytelling. The premise is really intriguing and the dual narrative and timescale adds to the building mystery.
This is a very perplexing case as has there even been a crime? Is it possible Irene met with an accident and her body not as yet discovered? As more events of the day that she disappears are uncovered, the bigger the puzzle grows and you feel the families desperation to exonerate Enzo before Conti can stick a knife in.
To describe the arrival of life of lively English woman Irene at the Villa in the 1960s as causing something of a stir is an understatement. The atmosphere in the villa is chock full of tension and toxicity positively bounces off its old walls. Poor Irene! She’s a fish out of water, totally displaced though lovely Enzo does his best to ease her path. All the characterisation is good, many of them are likeable, a few not so much. As the novel progresses, strange behaviour in the earlier timeline adds to the mystery, there are unsettling, creepy and disturbing vibes. One odious character makes certain lives extremely difficult and the plot starts to reach a crescendo. This is where the author cleverly uses earthquake and its impact is doubly felt. Although there are several dramatic scenes throughout the book here there is danger, bravery but also poignancy.
Whilst I can honestly say I really do enjoy this, it’s a four star rating after all, I do have some reservations about the ending which feels a bit convenient but it’s not by any means left field. Overall, though, it’s a really immersive novel.
With thanks to NetGalley, and especially to Boldwood Books for the appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
I really enjoy Louise Douglas’ novels as they always ooze atmosphere and this one is no exception. There are some excellent descriptions of beautiful Sicily, the climate, the landscape, the Villa and the impact of the devastating earthquake of 1968, which the author weaves very effectively into the storytelling. The premise is really intriguing and the dual narrative and timescale adds to the building mystery.
This is a very perplexing case as has there even been a crime? Is it possible Irene met with an accident and her body not as yet discovered? As more events of the day that she disappears are uncovered, the bigger the puzzle grows and you feel the families desperation to exonerate Enzo before Conti can stick a knife in.
To describe the arrival of life of lively English woman Irene at the Villa in the 1960s as causing something of a stir is an understatement. The atmosphere in the villa is chock full of tension and toxicity positively bounces off its old walls. Poor Irene! She’s a fish out of water, totally displaced though lovely Enzo does his best to ease her path. All the characterisation is good, many of them are likeable, a few not so much. As the novel progresses, strange behaviour in the earlier timeline adds to the mystery, there are unsettling, creepy and disturbing vibes. One odious character makes certain lives extremely difficult and the plot starts to reach a crescendo. This is where the author cleverly uses earthquake and its impact is doubly felt. Although there are several dramatic scenes throughout the book here there is danger, bravery but also poignancy.
Whilst I can honestly say I really do enjoy this, it’s a four star rating after all, I do have some reservations about the ending which feels a bit convenient but it’s not by any means left field. Overall, though, it’s a really immersive novel.
With thanks to NetGalley, and especially to Boldwood Books for the appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 17, 2023
I loved ‘The Room in the Attic’ by the author which I read nearly two years back. Going into this, I expected a cozy mystery, and while it can be regarded as that, it was too typical for me to be able to appreciate it.
Irene Weatherbury, married to Enzo Borgata, disappeared 35 years back. In the present time, Milo Conti, a television reporter is pursuing the story, seeking to nail Enzo as the person who is guilty of murdering his wife. The story is told in two timelines – the present and the voice of Irene from the past.
Enzo met Irene on a trip to England and they get married and move to Italy to their Villa Alba home. It was not an easy marriage for Irene requiring cultural adjustment as well as moving on from a past relationship. Added to that, Enzo’s mother seems to disapprove of the marriage. There are also unfriendly vibes from Maddalena, Enzo’s daughter from his first marriage (Enzo’s first wife passed away shortly after Maddalena’s birth) who was only 5 years old at the time. There are also Enzo’s brother Sam, sister Daria & help Giuseppa at Villa Alba with whom Irene has to get along. She finds some purpose in tending to the horses, as a result of which she gets along well with Enzo’s dad. The earthquake brings about damage as well as injury to Irene’s leg. While out on a drive one evening, their car breaks down. In the absence of any other alternative, Enzo walks to Villa Alba to return in a different car. When he is back to the car, Irene is nowhere to be seen.
In the present time, Milo Conti is digging into the family dynamics and promises a full revelation in a few days. Maddalena Borgata writes to April Cobain, who she was acquainted with during her stay in England. April has been an investigator, but is still trying to get over the sorrow of her husband’s demise. Also, the last meeting between Maddalena and April in Bangkok ended badly and they have not been on speaking terms since. After some initial hesitation, April agrees and travel to Italy to investigate what happened to Irene, with help from local law enforcement.
In the case of cozy crime mysteries, I have been ok to not critically evaluate the procedures and even the plot tie-up. However, this is a stale story repeated over hundreds of novels & movies. There is some reasonable character development for Irene, Maddalena and April, but most of the other characters are flat. I could guess how the mystery would be tied up early on, and yet the last sections were far more poorly written than I expected. The prospective future outlook offered for the central characters (especially April) was very silly and abrupt.
On the (only) positive side, this is a book which you can finish pretty quickly.
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books & the author for a free electronic review copy.
Irene Weatherbury, married to Enzo Borgata, disappeared 35 years back. In the present time, Milo Conti, a television reporter is pursuing the story, seeking to nail Enzo as the person who is guilty of murdering his wife. The story is told in two timelines – the present and the voice of Irene from the past.
Enzo met Irene on a trip to England and they get married and move to Italy to their Villa Alba home. It was not an easy marriage for Irene requiring cultural adjustment as well as moving on from a past relationship. Added to that, Enzo’s mother seems to disapprove of the marriage. There are also unfriendly vibes from Maddalena, Enzo’s daughter from his first marriage (Enzo’s first wife passed away shortly after Maddalena’s birth) who was only 5 years old at the time. There are also Enzo’s brother Sam, sister Daria & help Giuseppa at Villa Alba with whom Irene has to get along. She finds some purpose in tending to the horses, as a result of which she gets along well with Enzo’s dad. The earthquake brings about damage as well as injury to Irene’s leg. While out on a drive one evening, their car breaks down. In the absence of any other alternative, Enzo walks to Villa Alba to return in a different car. When he is back to the car, Irene is nowhere to be seen.
In the present time, Milo Conti is digging into the family dynamics and promises a full revelation in a few days. Maddalena Borgata writes to April Cobain, who she was acquainted with during her stay in England. April has been an investigator, but is still trying to get over the sorrow of her husband’s demise. Also, the last meeting between Maddalena and April in Bangkok ended badly and they have not been on speaking terms since. After some initial hesitation, April agrees and travel to Italy to investigate what happened to Irene, with help from local law enforcement.
In the case of cozy crime mysteries, I have been ok to not critically evaluate the procedures and even the plot tie-up. However, this is a stale story repeated over hundreds of novels & movies. There is some reasonable character development for Irene, Maddalena and April, but most of the other characters are flat. I could guess how the mystery would be tied up early on, and yet the last sections were far more poorly written than I expected. The prospective future outlook offered for the central characters (especially April) was very silly and abrupt.
On the (only) positive side, this is a book which you can finish pretty quickly.
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books & the author for a free electronic review copy.
June 28, 2023
1968, Sicily. Just months after a terrible earthquake has destroyed the mountain town of Gibellina, Enzo and his wife Irene Borgata are making their way back to the family home, Villa Alba del Giliegio, on the roads overlooked by the eerie backdrop of the flattened ghost town. when their car breaks down, Enzo leaves his young wife to go and get help, but when he returns, there is no trace of Itene. No body, no sign of a struggle, nothing.
Present day, TV showman and true crime aficionado Milo Conti is Italy's darling, uncovering and solving historic crimes for his legion of fans. When he turns his attention to the story of the missing Irene Borgata, accusing her husband of murder, Enzo's daughter Maddi asks her childhood friend, retired Detective April Cobain, for help to prove her father's innocence. But the tale April discovers is murky: mafia meetings, infidelity, mistaken identity, grief and unshakable love.
With a dual timeline = 1968 and the present day, we are looking into the disappearance of Irene Borgata. The story is told from Irene in the past and April Cobain in the present day. The story is descriptively written. The characters are well rounded and believable. The story is seamlessly written over the two timelines. I liked the authors writing style. Although this book is over 400 pages long, it's still a quick and easy book to read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LouiseDougals for my ARC of #TheSecretAboutVillaAlba in exchange for an honest review.
Present day, TV showman and true crime aficionado Milo Conti is Italy's darling, uncovering and solving historic crimes for his legion of fans. When he turns his attention to the story of the missing Irene Borgata, accusing her husband of murder, Enzo's daughter Maddi asks her childhood friend, retired Detective April Cobain, for help to prove her father's innocence. But the tale April discovers is murky: mafia meetings, infidelity, mistaken identity, grief and unshakable love.
With a dual timeline = 1968 and the present day, we are looking into the disappearance of Irene Borgata. The story is told from Irene in the past and April Cobain in the present day. The story is descriptively written. The characters are well rounded and believable. The story is seamlessly written over the two timelines. I liked the authors writing style. Although this book is over 400 pages long, it's still a quick and easy book to read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #LouiseDougals for my ARC of #TheSecretAboutVillaAlba in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2023
“I thought I was marrying into a dream. It’s turning into a nightmare.”
This one swept me away immediately and I lost all concept of time!
The characterization and taut plotting were the stars, made possible by the author’s wonderful writing style. I think what I loved the most was (1) I could place myself in the action and (2) I couldn’t predict what was going to happen next. It was unique and fully believable.
If you love allowing your inner sleuth to follow along with a great mystery and love an Italian setting, this one’s for you. Douglas explores betrayal, jealousy and love like you’ve never seen before. It’s worthy of ALL THE STARS! Captivating. Intriguing.
This will sit on my forever shelf and I’ll sing its praises to anyone who will listen.
I was gifted this copy by Boldwood Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This one swept me away immediately and I lost all concept of time!
The characterization and taut plotting were the stars, made possible by the author’s wonderful writing style. I think what I loved the most was (1) I could place myself in the action and (2) I couldn’t predict what was going to happen next. It was unique and fully believable.
If you love allowing your inner sleuth to follow along with a great mystery and love an Italian setting, this one’s for you. Douglas explores betrayal, jealousy and love like you’ve never seen before. It’s worthy of ALL THE STARS! Captivating. Intriguing.
This will sit on my forever shelf and I’ll sing its praises to anyone who will listen.
I was gifted this copy by Boldwood Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 28, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It had dual time-line which i always enjoy. Set in the present day and 1968. The mystery surrounding Villa Alba was well written. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
June 9, 2023
Secrets!
April Cobain is recovering from the loss of her love and soulmate when a letter comes from a friend who’d pushed her away decades ago. She’d left to go her own way after a dreadful, jealous scene.
Maddalena Borgata pleads for April to come to Sicily to help prove her father Enzo’s innocence in his wife’s disappearance 35 years ago. The case has been reopened by a dogged, sensational seeking popular tv host who stops at nothing to take his targets down.
Enzo’s english wife Irene had been injured in an earthquake a few months previous to her disappearance. Enzo’s and Irene had driven to the hospital in Palermo. On their way home they’d had car trouble. Enzo had walked ten kilometres to the family compound, Villa Albo, seeking help. Irene was left alone in the car as it was impossible to push her wheelchair along the rugged road, little more than a rough track.
When Enzo returned with help, Irene had disappeared, never to be found. Now the paparazzi was baying for blood, accusing Enzo of murdering his wife, and demanding satisfaction, all in the name of ratings. Unfortunately, the townspeople were stirred to action—mob type nasty actions.
April finds a challenging situation. She pursues various leads and fights to save a man who’d been kind to her when she was so much younger and Maddie’s best friend.
An excellent read that challenges all preconceptions of guilt and innocence, with a startling conclusion.
A Boldwood Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
April Cobain is recovering from the loss of her love and soulmate when a letter comes from a friend who’d pushed her away decades ago. She’d left to go her own way after a dreadful, jealous scene.
Maddalena Borgata pleads for April to come to Sicily to help prove her father Enzo’s innocence in his wife’s disappearance 35 years ago. The case has been reopened by a dogged, sensational seeking popular tv host who stops at nothing to take his targets down.
Enzo’s english wife Irene had been injured in an earthquake a few months previous to her disappearance. Enzo’s and Irene had driven to the hospital in Palermo. On their way home they’d had car trouble. Enzo had walked ten kilometres to the family compound, Villa Albo, seeking help. Irene was left alone in the car as it was impossible to push her wheelchair along the rugged road, little more than a rough track.
When Enzo returned with help, Irene had disappeared, never to be found. Now the paparazzi was baying for blood, accusing Enzo of murdering his wife, and demanding satisfaction, all in the name of ratings. Unfortunately, the townspeople were stirred to action—mob type nasty actions.
April finds a challenging situation. She pursues various leads and fights to save a man who’d been kind to her when she was so much younger and Maddie’s best friend.
An excellent read that challenges all preconceptions of guilt and innocence, with a startling conclusion.
A Boldwood Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
November 6, 2023
It was a good book until the last few chapters. I thought that the ending was a bit convenient and lazy. Like after all these years, she’s basically in Somerset while everyone was losing their sh*t back in Sicily. It was a you’ve-got-to-be-kidding-me moment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2023
The Secret of Villa Alba is a dual timeline story, set both in the 1960’s and 2003 in Sicily; with narrative flashbacks to 1968 voiced by Yorkshire bred Irene, the 24 year old wife of widowed Enzo Borgato whose mysterious disappearance is the central focus of the story. Whilst I enjoyed both timelines, it was Irene’s story that really captured my attention, both for its honesty and for the reservations that she had about her new life and family. It was also clear that her heart belonged somewhere else. She was an ‘accidental bride’ and whilst Enzo did his best to make her happy, many in his family were not quite as welcoming.
Enzo’s daughter, Maddalena, enlists the help of an estranged best friend, April Cobain, to help find out what happened to Irene all those years ago and to clear her father’s name. He is being ‘accused’ publicly of Irene’s murder by a true crime TV presenter and the stress is making him ill. April is a retired DI and although she fell out with Maddalena, she was always fond of Enzo. With mention of Mafia connections to the family, April has many avenues to follow.
I did enjoy this one very much. The family relationships, both in the past and present make for an captivating read – there are secrets and deceit which April needs to work through, with the assistance of a local Detective Inspector.
Both Irene and April were engaging characters and Irene had a backstory of her own. As the story progresses there are more revelations which move towards explaining the mystery of Irene’s disappearance. There was a point when I guessed which way the story was going but getting to the resolution, with its twists and surprises still made for interesting reading. Both Villa Alba and the Sicilian location before and after the earthquake were an integral part of the story and almost characters in their own right.
The Secret of Villa Alba is an intriguing story with suspense aplenty and one that I was completely invested in. It’s more of a domestic suspense than a psychological thriller and is hugely enjoyable with underlying themes of love and jealousy and a rather dysfunctional family, hiding its secrets.
Enzo’s daughter, Maddalena, enlists the help of an estranged best friend, April Cobain, to help find out what happened to Irene all those years ago and to clear her father’s name. He is being ‘accused’ publicly of Irene’s murder by a true crime TV presenter and the stress is making him ill. April is a retired DI and although she fell out with Maddalena, she was always fond of Enzo. With mention of Mafia connections to the family, April has many avenues to follow.
I did enjoy this one very much. The family relationships, both in the past and present make for an captivating read – there are secrets and deceit which April needs to work through, with the assistance of a local Detective Inspector.
Both Irene and April were engaging characters and Irene had a backstory of her own. As the story progresses there are more revelations which move towards explaining the mystery of Irene’s disappearance. There was a point when I guessed which way the story was going but getting to the resolution, with its twists and surprises still made for interesting reading. Both Villa Alba and the Sicilian location before and after the earthquake were an integral part of the story and almost characters in their own right.
The Secret of Villa Alba is an intriguing story with suspense aplenty and one that I was completely invested in. It’s more of a domestic suspense than a psychological thriller and is hugely enjoyable with underlying themes of love and jealousy and a rather dysfunctional family, hiding its secrets.
December 15, 2024
This book is split between two timelines, 1963 and 2003. In the first, Irene, a young woman from Yorkshire, has recently married the Sicscilian owner of a tuna canning factory, a widower with a young daughter. In the second, ex-CID detective April comes to Sciscily to investigate the possibility that the businessman, Enzo, murdered Irene when she disappeared five years after their marriage. April was a friend at university with the daughter, Maddi, but fell out with her after Maddi attacked her in a fit of jealous rage over the man April married but who has now died. A sensationalist TV journalist is planning an expose, accusing Enzo and whipping up local feeling against him and his family.
I had a few issues with the book. Firstly, Irene's storyline is in second person viewpoint as if she is narrating her life to someone else. Gradually it becomes clear who that person is and why she has married Enzo on the rebound. However, avoiding spoilers, it later becomes very artificial when it involves telling that person things they already know. Secondly, April's involvement in the story is superficial. She helps to unravel some of the mystery, but mostly in parallel with what is disclosed in Irene's timeline and at least some of the lines of enquiry are started and resolved by Luca, a local detective. The final resolution is provided by an ex-colleague of April's who just uses some commonsense and easily finds out the information. April is just a bystander to this and her role is almost as a love interest for Luca. I also found it hard to believe she would want anything to do with Maddi, given the violence experienced at her hands.
What appeared throughout to be a miserable story of lost love, poor choices, and bullying - mainly at the hands of Irene's unpleasant mother-in-law - turns a stunning 360 degrees in a resolution that I found incredible. Up to now, I've thoroughly enjoyed this author's work but found this one a dud and can only award it a 'I did not like it ' one star.
I had a few issues with the book. Firstly, Irene's storyline is in second person viewpoint as if she is narrating her life to someone else. Gradually it becomes clear who that person is and why she has married Enzo on the rebound. However, avoiding spoilers, it later becomes very artificial when it involves telling that person things they already know. Secondly, April's involvement in the story is superficial. She helps to unravel some of the mystery, but mostly in parallel with what is disclosed in Irene's timeline and at least some of the lines of enquiry are started and resolved by Luca, a local detective. The final resolution is provided by an ex-colleague of April's who just uses some commonsense and easily finds out the information. April is just a bystander to this and her role is almost as a love interest for Luca. I also found it hard to believe she would want anything to do with Maddi, given the violence experienced at her hands.
What appeared throughout to be a miserable story of lost love, poor choices, and bullying - mainly at the hands of Irene's unpleasant mother-in-law - turns a stunning 360 degrees in a resolution that I found incredible. Up to now, I've thoroughly enjoyed this author's work but found this one a dud and can only award it a 'I did not like it ' one star.
July 13, 2023
A good read for a cozy crime mystery. Loved the Sicily setting and I felt a bit transported.
The characters were not my favorite and neither was the ending. But all in all it was a pretty quick read and an ok mystery.
I will be looking forward to her next book.
The characters were not my favorite and neither was the ending. But all in all it was a pretty quick read and an ok mystery.
I will be looking forward to her next book.
October 15, 2024
I had high hopes for this and it seemed to start off pretty good but it devolved into a great big no… the characters were unnatural and unappealing and the storyline was slow and had some historical inaccuracies in it that bothered me. Also the twist at the end was rushed and absolutely terrible.
June 7, 2024
Thankfully this was a free prime book.
This book was like reading a bad Trixie Belden mystery. It read very immature to me.
1) Irene is a nasty person. Her behavior is completely inappropriate and it is impossible to feel for her
2) the “mystery” unravels, not through April’s sleuthing, but through the side chapters of Irene’s .. memories? These chapters tell you what happened but were written in a way no one would write (or converse in their head). You know that annoying co-worker who had to recount stories of your own family back to you? That’s what these chapters were like. One chapter is Irene relaying to Jack what Jack told her had happened.
3) April- was she really necessary? Ridiculous that Maddi is her bestie again and was the dead husband bit necessary?
This book was like reading a bad Trixie Belden mystery. It read very immature to me.
1) Irene is a nasty person. Her behavior is completely inappropriate and it is impossible to feel for her
2) the “mystery” unravels, not through April’s sleuthing, but through the side chapters of Irene’s .. memories? These chapters tell you what happened but were written in a way no one would write (or converse in their head). You know that annoying co-worker who had to recount stories of your own family back to you? That’s what these chapters were like. One chapter is Irene relaying to Jack what Jack told her had happened.
3) April- was she really necessary? Ridiculous that Maddi is her bestie again and was the dead husband bit necessary?
January 2, 2024
Very predictable plot. I figured out in first pages that the woman wasn’t dead but had somehow figured out how to run away with her lover, even missing a leg. The rest of the book labors on until this fact is revealed at the very end as a lame try for deus ex machina. The ruse of having an estranged old friend come to help with the mystery doesn’t really work either in terms of believability. The only character that sort of comes to life is the woman who is supposedly dead. The setting is also not fully realized, and mainly is “hot.” The criticism of paparazzi , while valid, is also not well crafted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2025
“ Тайната на вила Алба” ни пренася на остров Сицилия през 1968 г.след опустошително земетресение.Млада жена е изчезнала….
Тридесет и пет години по- късно доведената й дъщеря Мади с помощта на приятелка / бивш детектив/ провежда собствено разследване , за да оневини баща си.
В началото книгата ми вървеше скучно заради многото природни описания и мрачната картина на щетите от земетресението.Но от средата се оказа приятна мистерия свързана с множество тайни и забранена любов !!
Тридесет и пет години по- късно доведената й дъщеря Мади с помощта на приятелка / бивш детектив/ провежда собствено разследване , за да оневини баща си.
В началото книгата ми вървеше скучно заради многото природни описания и мрачната картина на щетите от земетресението.Но от средата се оказа приятна мистерия свързана с множество тайни и забранена любов !!
July 25, 2023
Well written but unbelievable story
May 14, 2024
literally nothing happened until like halfway through the book. but after that it was 🤌🏼*chefs kiss*
June 25, 2023
The Secret of Villa Alba, by Louise Douglas
Stunning! Set in Sicily, with evocative descriptions, believable characters and a host of intrigue and emotion, Louise Douglas tells the story of Maddalena’s determination to find out what happened to her stepmother, Irene, who was last seen 35 years ago.
In a race against time, due to the planned TV exposé by sensationalist Milo Conti, Maddie reaches out to her old friend, April, for help in solving the mystery before her ailing father is blamed.
The story is seamlessly told over dual time periods, by Irene in the 1960s and by April in the present day.
I guessed the truth around 50% in, but that in no way dulled my enjoyment of this fabulous book, which deserves ALL the stars!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Stunning! Set in Sicily, with evocative descriptions, believable characters and a host of intrigue and emotion, Louise Douglas tells the story of Maddalena’s determination to find out what happened to her stepmother, Irene, who was last seen 35 years ago.
In a race against time, due to the planned TV exposé by sensationalist Milo Conti, Maddie reaches out to her old friend, April, for help in solving the mystery before her ailing father is blamed.
The story is seamlessly told over dual time periods, by Irene in the 1960s and by April in the present day.
I guessed the truth around 50% in, but that in no way dulled my enjoyment of this fabulous book, which deserves ALL the stars!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
May 20, 2024
I quite like Louise Douglas' style and her stories are gripping and interesting. Even if I liked the book, I guessed how it would end by the middle of it, spoiling a bit the whole reading experience. Anyhow, I would review it as a good read. I recommend it.
April 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and it had me hooked so I sped through it! Love the twists and it kept you guessing until the end (although I did predict the ending but I think that’s just because I’m clever x)
September 1, 2024
Slightly disappointed with the ending but still a good read. Loved the setting in Sicily. Really enjoyed the book.
August 7, 2023
Mostly good - I enjoyed it and kept wanting to get back to it to find out what happened. Two criticisms are:
*spoiler alert*
1) the way the Irene chapters are written as if she's talking to Jack, especially later when she's telling him what she told him! It sounds silly and surely could have been written differently.
2) when Irene finally reappears and there seem to be very few hard feelings for her deception and all the grief she's caused. This is a region that holds grudges for generations, but they just move on and talk about keeping in touch?!? It may have made the ending happier, but it was not credible at all.
*spoiler alert*
1) the way the Irene chapters are written as if she's talking to Jack, especially later when she's telling him what she told him! It sounds silly and surely could have been written differently.
2) when Irene finally reappears and there seem to be very few hard feelings for her deception and all the grief she's caused. This is a region that holds grudges for generations, but they just move on and talk about keeping in touch?!? It may have made the ending happier, but it was not credible at all.
May 20, 2024
This started off pretty well, aside from the fact there was this massive rift detailed between April and Maddelena, which somehow, despite existing for 20 odd years somehow immediately disappeared even though April thinks at the beginning it can’t be fixed.
But I started to get really annoyed with Irene - so much so I skipped her povs because they were annoying me so much. The end was RIDICULOUS (and just added to my intense dislike of Irene. She was not a sympathetic character), and everyone felt very 2d.
When I think of the other books I’ve read this holiday this is definitely down the bottom. Thankfully a free Kindle Unlimited one so at least I didn’t waste 99p or more.
But I started to get really annoyed with Irene - so much so I skipped her povs because they were annoying me so much. The end was RIDICULOUS (and just added to my intense dislike of Irene. She was not a sympathetic character), and everyone felt very 2d.
When I think of the other books I’ve read this holiday this is definitely down the bottom. Thankfully a free Kindle Unlimited one so at least I didn’t waste 99p or more.
October 14, 2023
QUESTION and spoiler. Why did the grandfather tell Jack to switch boots with Quintu? Did he know about the affair. There was no reason for him to cover up Quintu’s death.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2023
In a stunning first person prologue, we’re taken back to 1968 – dusk in the Sicilian mountains near Gibellina, destroyed by the recent earthquake, as the creeping darkness envelops Enzo and his wife Irene, their car having broken down. And when help arrives – Enzo walks to the villa, leaving his disabled wife in the car – she has disappeared without trace.
From the letter his daughter Maddalena writes to former friend April in 2003, we discover that she was never found – and while her husband was initially under suspicion of being involved, the case was abandoned. But there’s now fresh interest – the case is to be featured on Milo Conti’s TV programme “Cold Case”, with possible fresh evidence that Enzo was responsible for Irene’s death. April is an ex-detective inspector, reluctant to become involved – she’s struggling with the recent loss of her husband, and her friendship with Maddalena fell apart rather dramatically some years before. But she has fond memories of Enzo, and decides to travels to Sicily, staying with the family at the Villa Alba, undertaking her own investigation – with a little help from the local police inspector – hoping to clear his name before the planned revelations.
It’s a dual time story, and quite wonderfully done – while April seeks to uncover her fresh evidence and gets a feel for the fractured family at the Villa Alba, we also have Irene’s interspersed first person account of her marriage and time in Sicily, addressed to someone whose identity becomes clearer as the story slowly unfolds. Enzo’s delight in his new marriage doesn’t make her reception by his traditional family any easier – from humble Yorkshire beginnings, she met him when he was a guest at the London hotel where she was working – and she’s entirely overwhelmed by the faded opulence of her surroundings and the open hostility of some of the family. She finds happiness through spending time at the stables with the horses – encouraged by Enzo’s father Patrick who recognises that she shares his passion, although there are others (and one particularly sinister character) who resent her involvement. Amid an atmosphere filled with tension and toxicity – the characterisation of the wider family and their household is quite superb, the claustrophobic atmosphere palpable – she slowly develops a relationship with Enzo’s young daughter, and the story steadily builds with unexpected twists and turns and an increasing sense of threat and danger, leading up to the drama of the earthquake and its devastating impact.
The family April encounters on her arrival aren’t any more welcoming – there are undercurrents to every relationship, a touch of the same hostility, discrepancies in their stories, secrets deeply hidden. Enzo’s in hospital with a heart attack caused by the pressure of the fresh accusations, the community whipped into a frenzy by the build-up to Milo Conti’s revelations, there are hints of possible mafia involvement in Irene’s disappearance – and then there are the small clues that allow her to steadily uncover the full story, with the reader sometimes a few steps ahead but sometimes several behind. And the ending? Well, I certainly didn’t see it coming – but it really was everything I wanted it to be.
There’s a quite wonderful sense of place, the villa itself – past and present – is vividly drawn, oozing with atmosphere, almost another character in the narrative. And you get a real sense of its isolation in the surrounding countryside, equally wonderfully described. The storytelling is simply perfect – beautifully constructed, it moves seamlessly between past and present, slowly unfolding with parallels and connections so very cleverly done. And the story itself, with its intrigue and moments of drama, totally immersive, the pages turning ever faster – but with immense emotional impact too, with characters you really take to your heart.
Yes, I know every book the author writes becomes my new favourite – but I really must say that I think she’s never written better. Very highly recommended – I absolutely loved it.
From the letter his daughter Maddalena writes to former friend April in 2003, we discover that she was never found – and while her husband was initially under suspicion of being involved, the case was abandoned. But there’s now fresh interest – the case is to be featured on Milo Conti’s TV programme “Cold Case”, with possible fresh evidence that Enzo was responsible for Irene’s death. April is an ex-detective inspector, reluctant to become involved – she’s struggling with the recent loss of her husband, and her friendship with Maddalena fell apart rather dramatically some years before. But she has fond memories of Enzo, and decides to travels to Sicily, staying with the family at the Villa Alba, undertaking her own investigation – with a little help from the local police inspector – hoping to clear his name before the planned revelations.
It’s a dual time story, and quite wonderfully done – while April seeks to uncover her fresh evidence and gets a feel for the fractured family at the Villa Alba, we also have Irene’s interspersed first person account of her marriage and time in Sicily, addressed to someone whose identity becomes clearer as the story slowly unfolds. Enzo’s delight in his new marriage doesn’t make her reception by his traditional family any easier – from humble Yorkshire beginnings, she met him when he was a guest at the London hotel where she was working – and she’s entirely overwhelmed by the faded opulence of her surroundings and the open hostility of some of the family. She finds happiness through spending time at the stables with the horses – encouraged by Enzo’s father Patrick who recognises that she shares his passion, although there are others (and one particularly sinister character) who resent her involvement. Amid an atmosphere filled with tension and toxicity – the characterisation of the wider family and their household is quite superb, the claustrophobic atmosphere palpable – she slowly develops a relationship with Enzo’s young daughter, and the story steadily builds with unexpected twists and turns and an increasing sense of threat and danger, leading up to the drama of the earthquake and its devastating impact.
The family April encounters on her arrival aren’t any more welcoming – there are undercurrents to every relationship, a touch of the same hostility, discrepancies in their stories, secrets deeply hidden. Enzo’s in hospital with a heart attack caused by the pressure of the fresh accusations, the community whipped into a frenzy by the build-up to Milo Conti’s revelations, there are hints of possible mafia involvement in Irene’s disappearance – and then there are the small clues that allow her to steadily uncover the full story, with the reader sometimes a few steps ahead but sometimes several behind. And the ending? Well, I certainly didn’t see it coming – but it really was everything I wanted it to be.
There’s a quite wonderful sense of place, the villa itself – past and present – is vividly drawn, oozing with atmosphere, almost another character in the narrative. And you get a real sense of its isolation in the surrounding countryside, equally wonderfully described. The storytelling is simply perfect – beautifully constructed, it moves seamlessly between past and present, slowly unfolding with parallels and connections so very cleverly done. And the story itself, with its intrigue and moments of drama, totally immersive, the pages turning ever faster – but with immense emotional impact too, with characters you really take to your heart.
Yes, I know every book the author writes becomes my new favourite – but I really must say that I think she’s never written better. Very highly recommended – I absolutely loved it.
September 18, 2023
The Secret Of Villa Alba was an intriguing, gripping dual timeline mystery which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Firstly I really loved the vivid descriptions of Sicily which really made Italy come to life for me. It seems like a beautiful place and I’d love to visit there one day to see the beautiful sounding beaches or walk in the mountains. This is not a book to read while hungry as there were lots of mouth watering descriptions of food throughout the book which sounded absolutely delicious. I actually had to Google recipes for some of the food mentioned as it sounded so good.
The story is told from the point of view of Irene, newly married into the Borgata family and April a retired Inspector who is trying to solve the mystery of Irene’s disappearance. I really loved both the main characters and enjoyed following them throughout the book. They were both strong women, nursing heartache which made me immediately on their side. I felt especially sorry for Irene who was trying to get used to a new country and deal with other family members expectations about what she should be doing.
Overall I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to read more from this author in the future. The story starts off slowly as the author sets the scene but soon picks up as more about life at the villa is revealed. I quickly found I couldn’t put the book down and often stayed up far too late at night as I was so intrigued by what was happening. I had lots of guesses as to what had happened but I was proven wrong about all of them which I always love. The ending was unexpected and absolutely amazing. My jaw was on the floor as all was slowly revealed as I never would have expected it to end that way.
If you are a fan of gripping, dual timeline books then I highly recommend this book!
Firstly I really loved the vivid descriptions of Sicily which really made Italy come to life for me. It seems like a beautiful place and I’d love to visit there one day to see the beautiful sounding beaches or walk in the mountains. This is not a book to read while hungry as there were lots of mouth watering descriptions of food throughout the book which sounded absolutely delicious. I actually had to Google recipes for some of the food mentioned as it sounded so good.
The story is told from the point of view of Irene, newly married into the Borgata family and April a retired Inspector who is trying to solve the mystery of Irene’s disappearance. I really loved both the main characters and enjoyed following them throughout the book. They were both strong women, nursing heartache which made me immediately on their side. I felt especially sorry for Irene who was trying to get used to a new country and deal with other family members expectations about what she should be doing.
Overall I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to read more from this author in the future. The story starts off slowly as the author sets the scene but soon picks up as more about life at the villa is revealed. I quickly found I couldn’t put the book down and often stayed up far too late at night as I was so intrigued by what was happening. I had lots of guesses as to what had happened but I was proven wrong about all of them which I always love. The ending was unexpected and absolutely amazing. My jaw was on the floor as all was slowly revealed as I never would have expected it to end that way.
If you are a fan of gripping, dual timeline books then I highly recommend this book!
July 8, 2023
It took my breath away..........
Louise Douglas has done it again. With The Secret of Villa Alba, the author has spun an amazing tale of a family. the story not only entertains but haunts you. All the characters have contributed equally in this drama. The book turns out to be a page turner with its witty plot. I have already read previous book by the author and has very high expectations. And, the author has delivered much more than that. The climax is the one to die for. You would not be able to skip a single page.
Definitely, 5 stars for the book. Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and Netgalley for providing me with an opportunity to be a part of the blog tour.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
Louise Douglas has done it again. With The Secret of Villa Alba, the author has spun an amazing tale of a family. the story not only entertains but haunts you. All the characters have contributed equally in this drama. The book turns out to be a page turner with its witty plot. I have already read previous book by the author and has very high expectations. And, the author has delivered much more than that. The climax is the one to die for. You would not be able to skip a single page.
Definitely, 5 stars for the book. Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and Netgalley for providing me with an opportunity to be a part of the blog tour.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
January 29, 2024
4.5 stars- An emotional, gripping and twisty read with a couple of reveals that I did not see coming. It felt a tad rushed at the end and I think it could have been improved by exploring the emotional consequences of all of the reveals rather than a quick touch base. Other than that, highly recommend, amazing writing, characters, pacing and just an all round brilliant read. The final reveal had me on the edge of my seat!!
February 25, 2024
I have read some of the authors other books and haven’t been impressed but I did enjoy this book. Easy reading but an interesting story with many twists and turns right to the end. Lots of different characters but not confusingly so.
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