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Her Mother's Secret
It’s 1969 and free-spirited artist Elin Morgan has left Wales for a sun-drenched Greek island. As she makes new friends and enjoys the laidback lifestyle, she writes all about it in her diary. But Elin’s carefree summer of love doesn’t last long, and her island experience ultimately leaves her with a shocking secret …
Twenty-two years later, Elin’s daughter Alexandra has inherited the diary and is reeling from its revelations. The discovery compels Alexandra to make her own journey to the same island, following in her mother’s footsteps. Once there, she sets about uncovering what really happened to Elin in that summer of ’69.
Twenty-two years later, Elin’s daughter Alexandra has inherited the diary and is reeling from its revelations. The discovery compels Alexandra to make her own journey to the same island, following in her mother’s footsteps. Once there, she sets about uncovering what really happened to Elin in that summer of ’69.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 3, 2020
This books is delightful. It brought a tear to my eye towards the end and the Greek Islands have shot up quite high in my post-lockdown to-do list after reading how beautiful Jan makes everything sound.
We have a story of 2 parts. When Elin dies, her daughter takes possession of her art journal and diary and sets off to to follow in her mothers footsteps and find out what happened in 1969 and why her mum stopped painting forever. She does find those answers but to say more would be to give away the secrets mentioned in the books' title. Everyone is so vividly characterised. I loved them all and quite like the idea of my own Stelios (apologies to fellow CL author Angela Britnell and her hunky cowboys who this honour normally goes to).
The book draws you in straight away and never lets up. In these troubled times it was an excellent few hours in another time and place and gives the reader a little bit of everything; drama, intrigue, mystery and romance. I loved it from start to finish
We have a story of 2 parts. When Elin dies, her daughter takes possession of her art journal and diary and sets off to to follow in her mothers footsteps and find out what happened in 1969 and why her mum stopped painting forever. She does find those answers but to say more would be to give away the secrets mentioned in the books' title. Everyone is so vividly characterised. I loved them all and quite like the idea of my own Stelios (apologies to fellow CL author Angela Britnell and her hunky cowboys who this honour normally goes to).
The book draws you in straight away and never lets up. In these troubled times it was an excellent few hours in another time and place and gives the reader a little bit of everything; drama, intrigue, mystery and romance. I loved it from start to finish
April 30, 2020
What a wonderful debut!! I can guarantee from reading this emotional, heart-wrenching and feel-good book, that Jan Baynham will have a long career in writing and I cannot wait to see what other beauties Jan is going to gift to us all.
The story is split in two different era’s and two different but connected women; the story opens in 1991 with Alexandra who after losing her beloved mother; Elin she is trying to come to terms with her life without the woman who meant so much to her, she feels like a cuckoo in the nest at home. She is trying to keep peace and to grieve for her mother, there is nothing but arguments between her and her father so she moves to her grandmothers, which is when she found old diary of her mothers.
She soon learns some surprising and shocking truths as she starts to get to know the mother she thought she knew, who turned out have many secrets; such as Alexandra, being an artist herself never knew her mother had gone to art college and spent time in Greece, it is while discovering who her mother was – and as in the process who she is too – Alexandra decides to go to Greece to learn more. Elin’s story is told via the diary, we are transported to 1969 Greece as her story is told and this is where her secrets and all the emotion that will be wrapped up in what is about to be revealed really hits the reader.
I love the descriptions of Greece, it’s clear and vivid, the writing instantly transport s the reader from their armchair to that beautiful island. The small details really make each scene stand out, the way landscapes look an in certain light, the clearness of the sea, the food, the people, the houses. Everything is there to whisk you away, and I thoroughly loved experience 1969 Greece from the comfort of my home.
This story really captured me, I can’t put my finger on why I was so drawn to it, maybe because it was so far away from what I usually read? Who knows, but from reading the back blurb I was hooked. I wanted to learn Elin’s secret and I wanted to know how whatever happened to her effects her daughter; Alexandra twenty-two years later. You just know that whatever occurred in Greece and to Elin isn’t going to be happy and there is going to further sadness, but I loved the way the real connection between mother and daughter, they both have a real passion for art and for life, it is as clear as a bell that they had a strong relationship.
I really liked how this is written, I do love a split timeline, and this is done really well it keeps the reader engaged with each of the characters in the two time zones and there is no confusion over who is who and where they fit into each of these two moment’s lives as all is revealed slowly throughout the book.
I have to mention the opening; my oh my that is a real doozy! It was a real surprise to start a book with such a tasty morsel of intrigue, as a reader, I was like a fish on a line eager to know what is going on and how that prologue relates to the story – well I am not going to tell you but all is revealed and it is so wonderfully done!
Overall, a perfect escapist book, it’s warm, charming, poignant and engaging, a thoroughly enjoyable read.
The story is split in two different era’s and two different but connected women; the story opens in 1991 with Alexandra who after losing her beloved mother; Elin she is trying to come to terms with her life without the woman who meant so much to her, she feels like a cuckoo in the nest at home. She is trying to keep peace and to grieve for her mother, there is nothing but arguments between her and her father so she moves to her grandmothers, which is when she found old diary of her mothers.
She soon learns some surprising and shocking truths as she starts to get to know the mother she thought she knew, who turned out have many secrets; such as Alexandra, being an artist herself never knew her mother had gone to art college and spent time in Greece, it is while discovering who her mother was – and as in the process who she is too – Alexandra decides to go to Greece to learn more. Elin’s story is told via the diary, we are transported to 1969 Greece as her story is told and this is where her secrets and all the emotion that will be wrapped up in what is about to be revealed really hits the reader.
I love the descriptions of Greece, it’s clear and vivid, the writing instantly transport s the reader from their armchair to that beautiful island. The small details really make each scene stand out, the way landscapes look an in certain light, the clearness of the sea, the food, the people, the houses. Everything is there to whisk you away, and I thoroughly loved experience 1969 Greece from the comfort of my home.
This story really captured me, I can’t put my finger on why I was so drawn to it, maybe because it was so far away from what I usually read? Who knows, but from reading the back blurb I was hooked. I wanted to learn Elin’s secret and I wanted to know how whatever happened to her effects her daughter; Alexandra twenty-two years later. You just know that whatever occurred in Greece and to Elin isn’t going to be happy and there is going to further sadness, but I loved the way the real connection between mother and daughter, they both have a real passion for art and for life, it is as clear as a bell that they had a strong relationship.
I really liked how this is written, I do love a split timeline, and this is done really well it keeps the reader engaged with each of the characters in the two time zones and there is no confusion over who is who and where they fit into each of these two moment’s lives as all is revealed slowly throughout the book.
I have to mention the opening; my oh my that is a real doozy! It was a real surprise to start a book with such a tasty morsel of intrigue, as a reader, I was like a fish on a line eager to know what is going on and how that prologue relates to the story – well I am not going to tell you but all is revealed and it is so wonderfully done!
Overall, a perfect escapist book, it’s warm, charming, poignant and engaging, a thoroughly enjoyable read.
May 25, 2020
Very Enjoyable!
Loved this debut.
This fabulous book will take you on quite a journey. I actually feel like I have experienced something with this book. I also had a little cry at the end.
It has a great premise; grieving daughter follows in her late mother's footsteps and uncovers the secrets from her mother's time in Greece in 69, which have remained hidden in a diary for years.
What I loved about this book was the split between the two different eras; 1969 and 1991. This really worked well as you could see how Elin's actions impact her daughter's life years later. I also thought it was a good tool for unravelling secrets and keeping the reader wanting to find out more.
Jan's descriptions of the setting; the Greek island and the painting school are vivid and bring the story to life. You can almost feel the sun beating down on you as you read.
The dramatic start of the novel was not what I expected and I mean this in a nice way. The opening certainly grabbed my attention and I found myself saying, "oh my goodness, Jan Baynham, that would make a cracking start to a BBC Sunday night drama." I loved the gorgeous male characters that Jan has created and she knows how to get your emotions simmering.
I thought the story was well written and it was paced brilliantly.
Once I picked it up I was totally engrossed.
This is one hell of a debut novel and a fabulous book read treat!
Loved this debut.
This fabulous book will take you on quite a journey. I actually feel like I have experienced something with this book. I also had a little cry at the end.
It has a great premise; grieving daughter follows in her late mother's footsteps and uncovers the secrets from her mother's time in Greece in 69, which have remained hidden in a diary for years.
What I loved about this book was the split between the two different eras; 1969 and 1991. This really worked well as you could see how Elin's actions impact her daughter's life years later. I also thought it was a good tool for unravelling secrets and keeping the reader wanting to find out more.
Jan's descriptions of the setting; the Greek island and the painting school are vivid and bring the story to life. You can almost feel the sun beating down on you as you read.
The dramatic start of the novel was not what I expected and I mean this in a nice way. The opening certainly grabbed my attention and I found myself saying, "oh my goodness, Jan Baynham, that would make a cracking start to a BBC Sunday night drama." I loved the gorgeous male characters that Jan has created and she knows how to get your emotions simmering.
I thought the story was well written and it was paced brilliantly.
Once I picked it up I was totally engrossed.
This is one hell of a debut novel and a fabulous book read treat!
June 9, 2020
I looked forward to reading this debut novel by Jan Baynham for quite a while and I wasn’t disappointed. The author has an easy writing style that I really like, I love the story, which has a brilliant dramatic opening and, unusual for me, I read the book in one fairly long session.
Her Mother’s Secret is set against the background of the Greek island of Péfka during completely different eras; 1969 and 2011 .These two time frames are linked by the two main characters, Alexandra and her mother, Elin and are connected through time, by the diary that Alexandra has found after her mother’s death.
I don’t like giving spoilers in my reviews; I try to explain what I like about a book.
Both Elin and Alexandra are complex and well-rounded characters, and very much of their time. And, although they are never together in any scenes in the novel, the love they had for each other is threaded throughout Her Mother’s Secret. But there is one big difference in the two; Elin Morgan is following her dreams by becoming an art student at a summer painting school, run by a famous artist, on Péfka. Alexandra, still grieving, is on the island seeking answers to the disclosures in her mother’s diary
And the author has ensured that the reader becomes engrossed in these characters by intertwining their stories with a cast of believable minor characters and the detailed and redolent descriptions of the Greek island, the harbour, the art school The portrayal of all the settings give an evocative sense of place.
The book moves at a good pace with a number of twists and turns that sometimes took me by surprise and sometimes gave me a feeling of ‘Ah-ha!; my suspicions, picked up through the foreshadowing the author has slipped into the story, coming to fruition is always satisfying to a reader.
There are many themes running through Her Mother’s Secret: of love, relationships, mystery, crime, secrets and friendships, all woven to give a good balance of romance with a believable darker side of life.
All in all, Her Mother’s Secret is a novel I would recommend to any reader who enjoys a story that is grounded in the Romance genre but reveals itself to be so much more.
Her Mother’s Secret is set against the background of the Greek island of Péfka during completely different eras; 1969 and 2011 .These two time frames are linked by the two main characters, Alexandra and her mother, Elin and are connected through time, by the diary that Alexandra has found after her mother’s death.
I don’t like giving spoilers in my reviews; I try to explain what I like about a book.
Both Elin and Alexandra are complex and well-rounded characters, and very much of their time. And, although they are never together in any scenes in the novel, the love they had for each other is threaded throughout Her Mother’s Secret. But there is one big difference in the two; Elin Morgan is following her dreams by becoming an art student at a summer painting school, run by a famous artist, on Péfka. Alexandra, still grieving, is on the island seeking answers to the disclosures in her mother’s diary
And the author has ensured that the reader becomes engrossed in these characters by intertwining their stories with a cast of believable minor characters and the detailed and redolent descriptions of the Greek island, the harbour, the art school The portrayal of all the settings give an evocative sense of place.
The book moves at a good pace with a number of twists and turns that sometimes took me by surprise and sometimes gave me a feeling of ‘Ah-ha!; my suspicions, picked up through the foreshadowing the author has slipped into the story, coming to fruition is always satisfying to a reader.
There are many themes running through Her Mother’s Secret: of love, relationships, mystery, crime, secrets and friendships, all woven to give a good balance of romance with a believable darker side of life.
All in all, Her Mother’s Secret is a novel I would recommend to any reader who enjoys a story that is grounded in the Romance genre but reveals itself to be so much more.
July 6, 2020
This is a lovely bittersweet novel, which kept me turning the pages until the early hours of the morning. The story alternates between 1969 and the present, and follows a mother and daughter who both travel to the same place trying to respectively find their way in life and some answers. There are two poignant love stories, with heroines you really empathise with. The secondary characters and really well-drawn too and you feel you get to know them. This is perfect armchair travelling as the setting is mostly a wonderful Greek island which is described so well the reader feels they are truly there. I haven’t been to Greece since I was a teenager but I long to go back now and see the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, the amazing sunsets, the olive trees and the jasmine and bougainvillea. I want to sit outside a little taverna soaking up the atmosphere or having dinner under the stars on a balmy summer’s evening. If you’re longing to get away but can’t, this is exactly what you need!
July 12, 2020
I really enjoyed this dual timeline story of love and self discovery with memorable characters and a stunning Greek backdrop to bring it all to life.
I always prefer the older story in these split narratives, but in this case both sections were equally compelling and the mother/daughter relationship was fully explored to reveal a strong familial bond which explained a lot about the emotional decisions made in both eras.
Jan’s descriptions of the Greek lifestyle and the detail in her portrayal of its colourful and spectacular views, provides the perfect setting for this unforgettable tale.
I always prefer the older story in these split narratives, but in this case both sections were equally compelling and the mother/daughter relationship was fully explored to reveal a strong familial bond which explained a lot about the emotional decisions made in both eras.
Jan’s descriptions of the Greek lifestyle and the detail in her portrayal of its colourful and spectacular views, provides the perfect setting for this unforgettable tale.
April 24, 2020
Told in two time frames – 1969 and 2011 - the story covers mother and daughter’s experiences when they travel to the Greek island of Péfka. Young artist Elin travels to join a summer school hoping to improve her talent. She records her time there in a diary which her daughter Alexandra inherits after her death. After reading the contents, twenty two years later Alexandra travels back to the island hoping to find someone who remembers her mother and can provide the answers to some unanswered questions.
Well written with the kind of descriptions that make you actually feel you’re living alongside the characters in Péfka, it pulls you in from page one. Two love stories, friendships and heartbreak are wrapped around a twenty two year old mystery which definitely keep you turning those pages.
Whether you are enjoying the sunshine in your garden with a glass of wine or cosied up indoors with coffee and cake, this is a thoroughly entertaining read. Highly recommended.
Well written with the kind of descriptions that make you actually feel you’re living alongside the characters in Péfka, it pulls you in from page one. Two love stories, friendships and heartbreak are wrapped around a twenty two year old mystery which definitely keep you turning those pages.
Whether you are enjoying the sunshine in your garden with a glass of wine or cosied up indoors with coffee and cake, this is a thoroughly entertaining read. Highly recommended.
May 8, 2020
I've spent hours now on a beautifully described Greece Island, following the heartbreaking and uplifting stories of Alexandra and her mam, Elin. And I was lost in the descriptions of the landscape, of Elins attempts at painting what she sees and how she struggles to manage a difficult choice. The characters are engaging and interesting, and the stories of these two women are elegantly paced. The plot is so good, with so many twists and turns – it was impossible to predict! It was the perfect escape right now.
July 31, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. 1969 was a pivotal time in Greek history and Jan Baynham captures the mood perfectly. I love fiction that allows you to escape to another place and if that place is my beloved Greece then so much the better. It is far more than a travelogue or even a reflection on history as Erin's daughter traces her mother's journey to discover what really happened in 1969. Just as Greece gets under your skin, so does this book. You will want more.
May 15, 2020
Gorgeous summery read, particularly as we're not being allowed out of our homes at the moment. Captain Corelli's Mandolin but without the sobbing at the end.
I was once at a week-long house party in Tuscany and was chatted up with the line: "would you like to join me on my yacht in the Aegean?"
Call me shallow, but it worked. This book brought back all sorts of lovely memories...
I was once at a week-long house party in Tuscany and was chatted up with the line: "would you like to join me on my yacht in the Aegean?"
Call me shallow, but it worked. This book brought back all sorts of lovely memories...
April 20, 2020
Her Mother's Secret is a book I found very intriguing right from the beginning. We meet Alexandra who is grieving the recent loss of her mother and has had a furious row with her father. While staying at her grandmother's she discovers a diary that her mother Elin kept when spending the summer of 1969 at a painting school in Greece. Alexandra had no idea that her mother had been in Greece, let alone that she was an artist. She decides to go to Greece herself to try to uncover what happened all those years ago.
I loved all the descriptions of Greek island life. The author described everything so vividly: the blue sea, the clarity of the light, the beautiful landscape, the boats in the harbour, the colourful, little houses perched on the hillside on the island, the mouth-watering food and the friendly locals. I almost imagined I could feel that warm sunshine on my face. I've never been to Greece but this book certainly makes me want to go there. I feel like I've actually had a bit of a holiday after reading it!
The strong bond between mother and daughter was so clear, even though with book written from Elin's perspective in 1969 and Alexandra's in 1991, there aren't actually any parts when the reader meets them together. They clearly had so much in common. Both were artistic, both suffered an early loss of a parent, both were clearly passionate and spirited and both discovered a love of Greece.
With long hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered, sunshine and a beautiful setting, mysteries to be resolved and handsome Greek leading men, Her Mother's Secret is an enjoyable, escapist read. While you are stuck at home, why not take a trip to Greece with Elin and Alexandra?
I loved all the descriptions of Greek island life. The author described everything so vividly: the blue sea, the clarity of the light, the beautiful landscape, the boats in the harbour, the colourful, little houses perched on the hillside on the island, the mouth-watering food and the friendly locals. I almost imagined I could feel that warm sunshine on my face. I've never been to Greece but this book certainly makes me want to go there. I feel like I've actually had a bit of a holiday after reading it!
The strong bond between mother and daughter was so clear, even though with book written from Elin's perspective in 1969 and Alexandra's in 1991, there aren't actually any parts when the reader meets them together. They clearly had so much in common. Both were artistic, both suffered an early loss of a parent, both were clearly passionate and spirited and both discovered a love of Greece.
With long hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered, sunshine and a beautiful setting, mysteries to be resolved and handsome Greek leading men, Her Mother's Secret is an enjoyable, escapist read. While you are stuck at home, why not take a trip to Greece with Elin and Alexandra?
April 21, 2020
If you are looking for a getaway from the safety and comfort of your own sofa, then look no further! This book transports you to Greece with ease as you follow the story of Elin and Alexandra and I was utterly enthralled by their absorbing story.
Set in 1969, and 1991, this is the story of Alexander who is grieving the loss of her beloved mother Elin. She feels that her father and sister are moving on too fast and she feels out of place. Her grandmother then shows her a different side to her mother and uncovers Elins' diary from the Summer of 1969 when she travelled to Greece for the Summer for her art course. Her grandmother says that something happened that Summer but Elin would never talk about it - through her diary we get to find out about the goings on and it was a fascinating story to tell.
I loved going back in time with Elin and her recollections of spending time in Greece, visiting different place and getting to meet so many people who welcome her into their lives. Whilst over there she gets interest from 2 brothers - both very different personalities and she finds out different sides to people and their families. There's a darker side to the paradise island and the close family groups that shows itself in tragic circumstances.
When Alexandra decides to visit Greece to see for herself the place her mother fell in love, she discovers her own love of the country she is visiting and sees her journey turns up some very interesting revelations.
This is a book set in idyllic surroundings and full of characters with such interesting stories to tell. I loved the way the landscape comes alive within the pages and there's a little bit of everything from romance, mystery to tragedy! I highly recommend this as the perfect summertime read!!
Set in 1969, and 1991, this is the story of Alexander who is grieving the loss of her beloved mother Elin. She feels that her father and sister are moving on too fast and she feels out of place. Her grandmother then shows her a different side to her mother and uncovers Elins' diary from the Summer of 1969 when she travelled to Greece for the Summer for her art course. Her grandmother says that something happened that Summer but Elin would never talk about it - through her diary we get to find out about the goings on and it was a fascinating story to tell.
I loved going back in time with Elin and her recollections of spending time in Greece, visiting different place and getting to meet so many people who welcome her into their lives. Whilst over there she gets interest from 2 brothers - both very different personalities and she finds out different sides to people and their families. There's a darker side to the paradise island and the close family groups that shows itself in tragic circumstances.
When Alexandra decides to visit Greece to see for herself the place her mother fell in love, she discovers her own love of the country she is visiting and sees her journey turns up some very interesting revelations.
This is a book set in idyllic surroundings and full of characters with such interesting stories to tell. I loved the way the landscape comes alive within the pages and there's a little bit of everything from romance, mystery to tragedy! I highly recommend this as the perfect summertime read!!
April 27, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Since I’m currently living in a world gone a bit crazy where my “normal” is so far removed from that ideal, picking up Her Mother’s Secret was a refreshing journey with a far different worldview point told by a mother and her daughter several years apart through the, now deceased, mother’s diary. While I’d call this story more mystery than anything else, there are several layers to Alexandra’s journey as she follows in her mother’s footsteps by returning to Greece and hoping to discover what really happened during Elin’s summer on the Greek island of Péfka.
Told roughly twenty years apart, we get two different stories through the eyes of mother and daughter. While the reader may actually know a bit more than Alexandra does through the narrative part of Elin’s story, the parallels are rather astounding at times. I was easily swept up in Her Mother’s Secret through the vividly beautiful descriptions of the Greek island, the people we encounter along the way, and the strong emotions scattered throughout this journey.
If you love a story with a touch of mystery, colorful descriptions that allow you to feel as if you’re on the island of Péfka yourself, and an engaging way that a daughter connects to her mother’s memory that may bring tears to your eyes – then pick up Her Mother’s Secret just as soon as possible. I believe you’ll be completely lost in the story and escape from our unusual reality of the moment.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from Ruby Fiction/Choc Lit Publishing. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Since I’m currently living in a world gone a bit crazy where my “normal” is so far removed from that ideal, picking up Her Mother’s Secret was a refreshing journey with a far different worldview point told by a mother and her daughter several years apart through the, now deceased, mother’s diary. While I’d call this story more mystery than anything else, there are several layers to Alexandra’s journey as she follows in her mother’s footsteps by returning to Greece and hoping to discover what really happened during Elin’s summer on the Greek island of Péfka.
Told roughly twenty years apart, we get two different stories through the eyes of mother and daughter. While the reader may actually know a bit more than Alexandra does through the narrative part of Elin’s story, the parallels are rather astounding at times. I was easily swept up in Her Mother’s Secret through the vividly beautiful descriptions of the Greek island, the people we encounter along the way, and the strong emotions scattered throughout this journey.
If you love a story with a touch of mystery, colorful descriptions that allow you to feel as if you’re on the island of Péfka yourself, and an engaging way that a daughter connects to her mother’s memory that may bring tears to your eyes – then pick up Her Mother’s Secret just as soon as possible. I believe you’ll be completely lost in the story and escape from our unusual reality of the moment.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from Ruby Fiction/Choc Lit Publishing. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
April 28, 2020
For a story that, on the face of it, might appear to be a light summer read, Her Mother's Secret is as dramatic as it is entertaining. In her debut novel, Jan Baynham lends an assured confidence to the traditional 'love story'. Yes, it's very much a love story, but there are dark dealings & darker agendas lending the book a crucial edge; a sense of excitement that never lets up.
In 1969, Elin Morgan, an art student, arrives on the Greek island of Péfka to attend a painting school run by a famous artist. The sun beats down on the idyllic setting but in the shadows lurks a grimmer story. In true 60s style it features sex & drugs (drug dealers) & one assumes, rock 'n roll! Twenty-two years later, Elin's daughter, Lexi follows in her mother's footsteps, in search of the secrets hinted at in a diary belonging to Elin.
The author's love for & knowledge of Greek society & customs shines through, giving the book an air of authenticity. And Her Mother's Secret is redolent with vivid descriptions. The Greek family dynamics are beautifully observed; a sense of quiet menace ripples beneath the surface as Elin becomes embroiled in chaos, love, family drama & murder. And two decades later, Lexi discovers that some love stories never end. This a well observed story; contemporary & light but with a depth that suggests a fresh, new talent. Recommended.
In 1969, Elin Morgan, an art student, arrives on the Greek island of Péfka to attend a painting school run by a famous artist. The sun beats down on the idyllic setting but in the shadows lurks a grimmer story. In true 60s style it features sex & drugs (drug dealers) & one assumes, rock 'n roll! Twenty-two years later, Elin's daughter, Lexi follows in her mother's footsteps, in search of the secrets hinted at in a diary belonging to Elin.
The author's love for & knowledge of Greek society & customs shines through, giving the book an air of authenticity. And Her Mother's Secret is redolent with vivid descriptions. The Greek family dynamics are beautifully observed; a sense of quiet menace ripples beneath the surface as Elin becomes embroiled in chaos, love, family drama & murder. And two decades later, Lexi discovers that some love stories never end. This a well observed story; contemporary & light but with a depth that suggests a fresh, new talent. Recommended.
April 6, 2020
With this novel, readers are invited to visit a beautiful Greek island in two different years - 1969 with Elin, then 1991 with her daughter Alexandra. Both parts kept my attention easily and I really enjoyed them even if the first few chapters introducing Alexandra before we're transported to 1969 while she reads her mother's old diary made it clear that Elin's story wouldn't end well. I found it interesting that readers are given more information than Alexandra in that part (instead of reading the diary too, we get to follow Elin in regular 3rd person narration and end up knowing everything she didn't write in detail). As a result, it might seem there's not much left for us to learn alongside Alexandra when she starts her own journey, but her part of the book is actually just as enjoyable as Elin's - and of course it ends more positively.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2020
Be transported to a summer on a Greek island
In 1969 Elin spends the summer on a small Greek island where she has enrolled in a class to study art tutored by a famous artist.
Two decades later and shortly after Elin's death, her daughter Alexandra unexpectedly acquires her mother's diary. As Alexandra reads the diary she realises it contains an account of the time her mother spent in Greece. The journal ends abruptly when Elin suddenly returns to England, leading Alexandra to suspect there was a mystery involved in Elin's early return.
On an impulse Alexandra travels to the same Greek island wondering if she can discover what really happened all those years ago.
The secrets of her mother's summer are slowly revealed as Alexandra becomes immersed into Greek life.
Alexandra eventually uncovers a 20-year old mystery that is more than she and her new friends ever expected.
Delightful and full of colourful Greek atmosphere.
In 1969 Elin spends the summer on a small Greek island where she has enrolled in a class to study art tutored by a famous artist.
Two decades later and shortly after Elin's death, her daughter Alexandra unexpectedly acquires her mother's diary. As Alexandra reads the diary she realises it contains an account of the time her mother spent in Greece. The journal ends abruptly when Elin suddenly returns to England, leading Alexandra to suspect there was a mystery involved in Elin's early return.
On an impulse Alexandra travels to the same Greek island wondering if she can discover what really happened all those years ago.
The secrets of her mother's summer are slowly revealed as Alexandra becomes immersed into Greek life.
Alexandra eventually uncovers a 20-year old mystery that is more than she and her new friends ever expected.
Delightful and full of colourful Greek atmosphere.
February 9, 2021
I was interested in this book for a few reasons: firstly, as the owner of a classic VW camper van I was drawn to the camper van on the cover. Secondly, the author lives not far from me in South Wales, and the main characters in the novel were Welsh. Thirdly, my grandfather was Greek and so I was curious to read a story that was partly set in Greece.
I certainly wasn’t disappointed by this story. It intrigued me from the start and although o guessed at one major aspect of the story, it took several unexpected twists and turns, and really maintained my interest. My favourite aspect was the way the author conveyed the Greek setting. I could picture the people, the colours, the warmth, the villages and the flowers so clearly. What more could anyone want while locked down in a cold British winter?
My first encounter with this writer’s work, but I’ll be adding her other book to my wish list.
I certainly wasn’t disappointed by this story. It intrigued me from the start and although o guessed at one major aspect of the story, it took several unexpected twists and turns, and really maintained my interest. My favourite aspect was the way the author conveyed the Greek setting. I could picture the people, the colours, the warmth, the villages and the flowers so clearly. What more could anyone want while locked down in a cold British winter?
My first encounter with this writer’s work, but I’ll be adding her other book to my wish list.
April 30, 2020
When Alexandra's mother Elin dies she is devastated and feeling like an outsider in her own home where she feels her father is already moving on with another woman and obliterating all memories of her mother. Feeling for Alexandra her Nan gives her a diary that Elin kept in the summer of 1969 when she went on an art course on a Greek island. Feeling that she never really knew her mother she decides to follow her footsteps and go to the island and see if she can uncover her mother's secrets.
A lovely story working well in the two timeframes of the present and 1969, the setting is beautiful and anyone who has been to the Greek islands will be able to picture it perfectly...... and wish that they were there! Definitely a book that you don't want to put down and I will be looking for future books by this author
A lovely story working well in the two timeframes of the present and 1969, the setting is beautiful and anyone who has been to the Greek islands will be able to picture it perfectly...... and wish that they were there! Definitely a book that you don't want to put down and I will be looking for future books by this author
April 21, 2020
Wonderful read. Escape from everything to a sunny Greek island where you can share the adventures, love and traumas of Elin and her daughter Alexandra. I was worried it might be a copy of Mama Mia or Shirley Valentine but it definitely was not - a very original story with twists and turns. Elin and Alexandra are both totally believable women who experience unusual circumstances far from home. I loved my journey with them as they learnt about themselves, their dreams and reality. Couldn’t put the book down! The book is so well written and You really feel like you are there and getting to know every character with Elin and Alexandra. Loved this book and highly recommend it!
April 21, 2020
This is a great book. There are sad bits, mystery bits, travel bits, romantic bits, happy bits, artistic bits and more besides, something for everyone! I particularly liked the way the story was told, going between the diary entries and the full, realistic events. The book made you feel the sun of the island and see the views. I could really feel for all of the characters, it was like reading the story of things I had been part of, people who I'd known. The ending was well crafted, and again, so believable. Think that by these words you get the feeling I loved the book! Yes, you are right. Buy, read and lose yourself in it.
May 11, 2020
With the dual timelines of 1969 and the present day, this story transports you to the beautiful island of Pefka in Greece. The descriptions of the sumptuous settings are as vivid as the pictures painted in the little art school. The people and community are mostly warm and welcoming, but there is a hint of threat and danger rippling as an undercurrent, building intrigue into the story. With secrets to be revealed and love lost and found, the story holds you to the end. I read it over a weekend as I didn’t want to put it down and then I was sad it had ended – both testaments to a good book – a great debut novel.
April 21, 2020
This is a time slip novel, we visit Greece in 1969 with Elin. Jan Baynham manages to create a great read. Who wouldn’t love the setting, the people Elin meets, including the gorgeous Stelios and enjoy the wonderful location that is beautifully described. It came across as so real, I felt like I was there with the art students. We then revisit the same area 22 years later with Elin’s daughter Alexandra who having found her mother's diary goes looking to experience some of her mother’s 1969 experience. The whole novel oozes warmth and evokes that summer holiday feeling. Relax and enjoy - I did.
September 29, 2020
This is a hugely enjoyable book. Who doesn't enjoy a secret? There's a lot of joy in Her Mother's Secret, plenty of action, beautiful Greek island backdrop... and so much more besides. A compelling, poignant read from an accomplished debut author.
October 29, 2020
I was looking forward to reading Her Mother’s Secret as my mother had one too. The cover and blurb were equally tempting and some of my friends had mentioned in a writing group what a beautiful story this is by Jan Baynham.
The author’s writing style was another draw, easy to follow, and dual timelines clearly explained. The wonderful descriptive scenes gave me a sense of being there on the beautiful Greek island of Pefka, painted affectively in my mind’s eye especially the art school. I was intrigued to see the story develop when Alexandrea takes her mother’s diary from her concerned nan and decides to follow in her late mother’s footsteps to the Greek island with hope of unravelling what had happened and discover her mother’s secret.
I found the book quite emotional in places, well done to the author for bringing out the character’s emotions leaving me with much empathy, even the background characters played a good part, believable in their own way.
Writing a review is a great way to tell my own experience and thoughts on a story. I haven’t read anything from this author before, so I was excited to go on a whole new venture which took me through romance, relationships, love, secrets and mystery. Hey that’s great writing for a debut novel.
Without giving too much of the plot away and If you want to follow this heart-warming story, I would say go get a copy. You won’t be disappointed.
It must be five stars from me, for this talented author which has brought everything together in this emotional, engrossing journey.
The author’s writing style was another draw, easy to follow, and dual timelines clearly explained. The wonderful descriptive scenes gave me a sense of being there on the beautiful Greek island of Pefka, painted affectively in my mind’s eye especially the art school. I was intrigued to see the story develop when Alexandrea takes her mother’s diary from her concerned nan and decides to follow in her late mother’s footsteps to the Greek island with hope of unravelling what had happened and discover her mother’s secret.
I found the book quite emotional in places, well done to the author for bringing out the character’s emotions leaving me with much empathy, even the background characters played a good part, believable in their own way.
Writing a review is a great way to tell my own experience and thoughts on a story. I haven’t read anything from this author before, so I was excited to go on a whole new venture which took me through romance, relationships, love, secrets and mystery. Hey that’s great writing for a debut novel.
Without giving too much of the plot away and If you want to follow this heart-warming story, I would say go get a copy. You won’t be disappointed.
It must be five stars from me, for this talented author which has brought everything together in this emotional, engrossing journey.
August 7, 2020
This is a gorgeous dual time narrative about a mother’s secrets. The narrative is cleverly structured and kept me hooked until the very end. This mesmerising debut novel is a triumph.
The story has romance, secrets and mystery and the writing has a lovely, unique quality. There are many twists and turns and a couple of surprises. Reading the novel is a voyage of discovery into Elin and Alexandra’s lives and is packed with emotions. As Alexandra discovers her mother’s secrets, she also unlocks her own identity.
The symbolism of the whispering olive tree adds an ethereal quality that charmed me.
‘As if from nowhere, a breeze sprang up and to Elin, the trees were whispering, whispering about her, as if they were trying to tell her something.’
The secrets are woven in skilfully and give this novel a wonderful texture that has many layers like the painting described throughout.
The setting is soothing and becomes another character in the novel. The powerful setting provides a wonderful escape, but I also became very fond of the characters and did not want to leave them.
A thrilling read!
The story has romance, secrets and mystery and the writing has a lovely, unique quality. There are many twists and turns and a couple of surprises. Reading the novel is a voyage of discovery into Elin and Alexandra’s lives and is packed with emotions. As Alexandra discovers her mother’s secrets, she also unlocks her own identity.
The symbolism of the whispering olive tree adds an ethereal quality that charmed me.
‘As if from nowhere, a breeze sprang up and to Elin, the trees were whispering, whispering about her, as if they were trying to tell her something.’
The secrets are woven in skilfully and give this novel a wonderful texture that has many layers like the painting described throughout.
The setting is soothing and becomes another character in the novel. The powerful setting provides a wonderful escape, but I also became very fond of the characters and did not want to leave them.
A thrilling read!
August 16, 2020
This is a dual-time story, which shows what happened to an artist one summer back in the ’60s and then, years later, how her daughter follows in her footsteps to try to uncover the truth of what took place that fateful summer. It is an engrossing, well-paced story, with characters to care about – a love story with dark undercurrents. But for me, there was an additional character – and that was the Greek setting itself. This wonderful book gave me a sense of the Greek landscape that I last experienced years ago when I read My Family and Other Animals. Through her mesmerising descriptions, Jan Baynham transports her readers to the sun-drenched island with its turquoise waters, spectacular views, sparkling sunshine and the breeze shifting through the leaves of the olive trees.
September 18, 2020
I always enjoy dual timeframe books - this one is set in 1969 and present day and is written from the viewpoints of mother and daughter Elin and Alexandra.
I enjoyed reading this book in the garden on a sunny day. I found this a fantastic escape from the lockdown situation.
So well written, I was transported to Greece with such vivid descriptions and great charatcerisation. A story of self discovery, mystery and romance.
I recommend this book - perfect for a sunny afternoon in the garden or a cosy armchair on a wet rainy day. I am looking really forward to the next book by Jan Baynham.
I enjoyed reading this book in the garden on a sunny day. I found this a fantastic escape from the lockdown situation.
So well written, I was transported to Greece with such vivid descriptions and great charatcerisation. A story of self discovery, mystery and romance.
I recommend this book - perfect for a sunny afternoon in the garden or a cosy armchair on a wet rainy day. I am looking really forward to the next book by Jan Baynham.
April 21, 2020
I really enjoyed reading the story of Lexi who is mourning the recent loss of her mother Elin. With the help of her Nan (and the family solicitor) she discovers a hidden side to Elin's life. After reading her mother's diary, Lexi travels to Greece to find out more about that fateful summer. The scenic descriptions make you feel like you are in sunny Greece and, coupled with the gripping storyline, is a blissful distraction from current times.
April 23, 2020
Alexandra’s lost her mother and feels like an outsider in her own family. When she receives her mother’s diary detailing her adventures in Greece, Alexandra can’t help retracing her steps and discovering why her mother never spoke of her time there.
This was a great book. So rich in details – the author does a great job describing the location, you feel like you are right there. I highly recommend this book!
This was a great book. So rich in details – the author does a great job describing the location, you feel like you are right there. I highly recommend this book!
October 27, 2020
Heartwarming and immersive
I love discovering a new writer who can transport me to a destination, and Jan Baynham certainly fulfils this with a delightful story that conjures up all the colour and charm of a Greek island.
The dual narrative in two different eras skilfully weaves in the themes that link the mother Elin with her daughter Alexandra, while pulling you into the lives of a fascinating set of characters they come into contact with on the island.
A heartwarming, immersive read that provides a welcome escape in a time when travel is so limited.
I love discovering a new writer who can transport me to a destination, and Jan Baynham certainly fulfils this with a delightful story that conjures up all the colour and charm of a Greek island.
The dual narrative in two different eras skilfully weaves in the themes that link the mother Elin with her daughter Alexandra, while pulling you into the lives of a fascinating set of characters they come into contact with on the island.
A heartwarming, immersive read that provides a welcome escape in a time when travel is so limited.
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