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The Secret Keeper
When journalist Rosa Fernley’s ailing gran, Jocelyn, passes on a long-held secret of her past in her dying days, Rosa embarks on a quest to Cornwall to find answers and resolution to free her grandmother from guilt and pain as she leaves this earth.
But in the wild, beautiful landscape of Tintagel, Rosa encounters something she could never imagine as the past comes to life and walks the beaches once more. Unravelling the truth of what happened to the man her grandmother once loved and left leads Rosa on an unexpected journey, one which unlocks not only her gran’s secrets, but the secrets of who – and what – Rosa truly is…
This book was previously published as Summer in Tintagel.
But in the wild, beautiful landscape of Tintagel, Rosa encounters something she could never imagine as the past comes to life and walks the beaches once more. Unravelling the truth of what happened to the man her grandmother once loved and left leads Rosa on an unexpected journey, one which unlocks not only her gran’s secrets, but the secrets of who – and what – Rosa truly is…
This book was previously published as Summer in Tintagel.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2023
88 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
About the author
Amanda James
24 books217 followersAmanda James (aka Mandy) was born in Sheffield and now lives in Cornwall with her husband and a cat. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, singing, and spending lots of time with her grandchildren. She also admits to spending far too much time chatting on Twitter and Facebook! Amanda feels most at home walking on the beach and making plots up in her head. A fair amount of these have made it onto paper, and been turned into books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 23, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
when journalist Rosa Fernley's ailing gran, Jocelyn, passes on a long-held secret of her past in her dying days, Rosa embarks on a quest to Cornwall to find answers and resolution to free her grandmother from guilt and pain as she leaves this earth. But in the wild beautiful landscape of Tintagel, Rosa encounters something she could never imagine as the past comes to life and walks the beaches once more. Unravelling the truth of what happened to the man her grandmother had once loved and left, leads Rosa on an unexpected journey.
This book was previously published as Summer In Tintagel. This is a bit of a slow burner. Rosa Fernley has been asked to fulfil her grandmother's dying wish. I do like a book that's set in Cornwall. There's a psychic element to this story. The characters are well rounded and believable. This is a well written an atmospheric read. A story of past regrets and trying to make them right. Not a book I would normally read, but I'm glad I did.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HaroerCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #AmandaJames for my ARC of #TheSecretKeeper in exchange for an honest review.
when journalist Rosa Fernley's ailing gran, Jocelyn, passes on a long-held secret of her past in her dying days, Rosa embarks on a quest to Cornwall to find answers and resolution to free her grandmother from guilt and pain as she leaves this earth. But in the wild beautiful landscape of Tintagel, Rosa encounters something she could never imagine as the past comes to life and walks the beaches once more. Unravelling the truth of what happened to the man her grandmother had once loved and left, leads Rosa on an unexpected journey.
This book was previously published as Summer In Tintagel. This is a bit of a slow burner. Rosa Fernley has been asked to fulfil her grandmother's dying wish. I do like a book that's set in Cornwall. There's a psychic element to this story. The characters are well rounded and believable. This is a well written an atmospheric read. A story of past regrets and trying to make them right. Not a book I would normally read, but I'm glad I did.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HaroerCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #AmandaJames for my ARC of #TheSecretKeeper in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2022
Rosa is looking after her grandmother who is ill. Her grandmother tells her a story about a lost love and asks Rosa to travel to Tintagel to find out what happened to the man she left behind.
I enjoyed the beginning of this story but I think it lost its way half way through and I began to lose interest near the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review
I enjoyed the beginning of this story but I think it lost its way half way through and I began to lose interest near the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review
December 27, 2022
I was drawn to the cover of this book. Initially, I was expecting a cosy mystery, or historical fiction. What I read was different from both of these, but I really liked it.
My favourite thing about this book was the escapism of it. The Cornish setting was something that was captured and brought to life. I felt really drawn into it. I liked the characters and felt connected to them, and there were some moments that warmed my heart. I haven't read any books by this author previously, but after finishing this one, I think I would be interested in reading more.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
My favourite thing about this book was the escapism of it. The Cornish setting was something that was captured and brought to life. I felt really drawn into it. I liked the characters and felt connected to them, and there were some moments that warmed my heart. I haven't read any books by this author previously, but after finishing this one, I think I would be interested in reading more.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
February 17, 2023
Well that didn't take me long, love Amanda James books, not read a bad one yet
December 11, 2022
I enjoyed Amanda James' book the Forgotten Beach, and The Secret Keeper is written in the same beautiful way.
Rosa heads off to Tintagel to fulfil the last wish of her Grandmother as she lies waiting to take her last breaths. She arrives, emotional and sceptical,
But, something in the air gets to her, as she begins to sense and see things she wouldn't usually believe. The addition of the mysterious, but handsome Talen, adds to the mystery.
What a beautiful love story, or rather two; one tragic and one a blossoming one, with plenty of ups and downs.
I really don't want to give much away, but the story involves some folklore, spirits, and a whole lot of belief.
I loved it.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for an ARC
Rosa heads off to Tintagel to fulfil the last wish of her Grandmother as she lies waiting to take her last breaths. She arrives, emotional and sceptical,
But, something in the air gets to her, as she begins to sense and see things she wouldn't usually believe. The addition of the mysterious, but handsome Talen, adds to the mystery.
What a beautiful love story, or rather two; one tragic and one a blossoming one, with plenty of ups and downs.
I really don't want to give much away, but the story involves some folklore, spirits, and a whole lot of belief.
I loved it.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK for an ARC
December 31, 2022
Amanda James writes with warmth and has the talent to transport her readers to the setting of her books. I loved leaving the wind and rain behind and travelling to sunny Cornwall in this her latest novel.
Rosa’s journey to Cornwall is not just a holiday but a request from her grandmother to fulfil her last wish. The bond between Rosa and her grandmother is evident and when Rosa is entrusted with the story of her grandmothers lost love and her desire to find out the truth about the tragedy which occurred after they parted, she has no hesitation in trying to find out the answers to all the unanswered questions.
The plot of this book was well thought out and the setting was beautifully portrayed. Many difficult subjects were intertwined into the storyline , family, destiny, history, loyalty, domestic abuse and love, all tied up in mystery and suspense.
This book was a slow burner for me but once I got familiar with the characters and opened my mind to the storyline I found myself page turning and I really loved it. A book to curl up with and enjoy.
Rosa’s journey to Cornwall is not just a holiday but a request from her grandmother to fulfil her last wish. The bond between Rosa and her grandmother is evident and when Rosa is entrusted with the story of her grandmothers lost love and her desire to find out the truth about the tragedy which occurred after they parted, she has no hesitation in trying to find out the answers to all the unanswered questions.
The plot of this book was well thought out and the setting was beautifully portrayed. Many difficult subjects were intertwined into the storyline , family, destiny, history, loyalty, domestic abuse and love, all tied up in mystery and suspense.
This book was a slow burner for me but once I got familiar with the characters and opened my mind to the storyline I found myself page turning and I really loved it. A book to curl up with and enjoy.
December 28, 2022
I loved this story. As with Amanda James’ other recent titles, this has a touch of otherworldliness, a poignancy and lots of positivity and hope.
Rosa Fernley is keen to fulfil her grandmother, Jocelyn’s dying wish and that is what she sets out to do on her visit to Tintagel in Cornwall, but along the way she not only discovers more about the past, but also a lot about herself.
I had a fascination with Tintagel as a child and enjoyed revisiting the location of so many myths and legends. The story carried me along and was thought provoking and well written.
Rosa Fernley is keen to fulfil her grandmother, Jocelyn’s dying wish and that is what she sets out to do on her visit to Tintagel in Cornwall, but along the way she not only discovers more about the past, but also a lot about herself.
I had a fascination with Tintagel as a child and enjoyed revisiting the location of so many myths and legends. The story carried me along and was thought provoking and well written.
February 17, 2025
4.5 stars
May 25, 2025
beautifully written, magical story
March 14, 2024
Amanda James - The Secret Keeper.
(Previously published as Summer In Tintagel)
Following her grandmother’s requests from her death bed. Rosa heads off to Cornwall on a mission to discover answers to the secrets from her grandma’s past.
As she digs into what has gone before, Rosa finds new directions for her own future.
Amanda James takes us on an spellbinding journey to the rugged and mystical Cornish coast.
Beautifully set, and equally beautifully written.
#TheSecretKeeper is a charming love story. It’s full of Cornish myth and magic.
A thoroughly gorgeous read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
(Previously published as Summer In Tintagel)
Following her grandmother’s requests from her death bed. Rosa heads off to Cornwall on a mission to discover answers to the secrets from her grandma’s past.
As she digs into what has gone before, Rosa finds new directions for her own future.
Amanda James takes us on an spellbinding journey to the rugged and mystical Cornish coast.
Beautifully set, and equally beautifully written.
#TheSecretKeeper is a charming love story. It’s full of Cornish myth and magic.
A thoroughly gorgeous read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 11, 2023
This author is one of my favourites and her latest offering is a mystery that reaches back to an earlier generation. This particular book has a mystery to it and also a supernatural vibe that works so well within the story and also the setting of Tintagel in Cornwall.
Tintagel is a place that is of legendary tales, mysticism and magic. The seat of King Arthur and a welcoming place for all. Although when Rosa first arrives she doesn't make a great impression, a visitor who doesn't understand the essence of what makes a place special and then dismisses it is always going to receive a slightly chilled welcome.
Rosa is on a bit of a mission for her elder Grandmother who had visited Cornwall when she was younger and it had left its impressing in more ways than one. It is her Grandmother that tells Rosa she must visit the area and discover what she needs to know about her Grans story and also make headway into her own story.
This tale starts with a young child, it then skips forward to a present-day setting and leads the reader through the area around Tintagel, the shops, the locals and the sights around. As much as Rosa wants to enjoy her time she is also aware of her Grans wishes an also that her Gran is coming towards the end of her time. Life and death are linked, and the link that the author has sued for her story is one that is full of heartbreak but also of something wonderful.
The story is one that deals with the past and the present and in doing so also leads to potential futures filled with optimism, hope and excitement. Unexpected revelations and meetings prove hard at times but others give the nudge that Rosa needs to continue her quest. I did mention romance is part of this story and this is something that the author has woven in wonderfully. Not straightforward but it gives a great sense of hope to the reader.
This is a gorgeous written story that encapsulated the mysticism of Cornwall and also gives the reader a wonderful glimpse into village life in Cornwall. I adored this story and it was one that I had to read from start to finish in one sitting. It is one for those who like contemporary fiction and romance story that brings secrets of the past to the forefront and it is a book I would definitely recommend.
Tintagel is a place that is of legendary tales, mysticism and magic. The seat of King Arthur and a welcoming place for all. Although when Rosa first arrives she doesn't make a great impression, a visitor who doesn't understand the essence of what makes a place special and then dismisses it is always going to receive a slightly chilled welcome.
Rosa is on a bit of a mission for her elder Grandmother who had visited Cornwall when she was younger and it had left its impressing in more ways than one. It is her Grandmother that tells Rosa she must visit the area and discover what she needs to know about her Grans story and also make headway into her own story.
This tale starts with a young child, it then skips forward to a present-day setting and leads the reader through the area around Tintagel, the shops, the locals and the sights around. As much as Rosa wants to enjoy her time she is also aware of her Grans wishes an also that her Gran is coming towards the end of her time. Life and death are linked, and the link that the author has sued for her story is one that is full of heartbreak but also of something wonderful.
The story is one that deals with the past and the present and in doing so also leads to potential futures filled with optimism, hope and excitement. Unexpected revelations and meetings prove hard at times but others give the nudge that Rosa needs to continue her quest. I did mention romance is part of this story and this is something that the author has woven in wonderfully. Not straightforward but it gives a great sense of hope to the reader.
This is a gorgeous written story that encapsulated the mysticism of Cornwall and also gives the reader a wonderful glimpse into village life in Cornwall. I adored this story and it was one that I had to read from start to finish in one sitting. It is one for those who like contemporary fiction and romance story that brings secrets of the past to the forefront and it is a book I would definitely recommend.
January 6, 2023
This is a pleasant romance set in Cornwall with a touch of the supernatural. Rosa’s grandmother, Jocelyn, has cancer, and she tells Rosa about the tragic love affair of her youth and asks her to visit Tintagel where it took place. Jocelyn talks about a visit from the ghost of her former love which Rosa puts down to the morphine. But during her visit she finds new worlds opening to her which connects her to the spirit of her grandmother's lover, and to a romance with another handsome Cornishman. There are, of course, obstacles in the evolution of their relationship
There are lots of nice touches in this book, like Rosa having been brought up by a very scientific father which initially causes her to dismiss Jocelyn’s vision, but then when she has a similar vision she logically has to believe the proof of her own senses. Little details are very good at connecting the reader to Rosa, like when she has cold hands placing them flat in a sink of hot water which is a technique many of us will have used. She also has a good inner voice with a sense of humour, I particularly liked memory of her childish interpretation of ‘Time waits for no man’ as being connected to her Uncle Norman. Food and landscape are also vividly described and as I am from Cornwall it all seemed familiar. The text could have been proofread a little better, since I was thrown by strange uses of “ring” and “taught”, but the actual phrasing and story was well-crafted.
I had a copy of this book early through Netgalley
There are lots of nice touches in this book, like Rosa having been brought up by a very scientific father which initially causes her to dismiss Jocelyn’s vision, but then when she has a similar vision she logically has to believe the proof of her own senses. Little details are very good at connecting the reader to Rosa, like when she has cold hands placing them flat in a sink of hot water which is a technique many of us will have used. She also has a good inner voice with a sense of humour, I particularly liked memory of her childish interpretation of ‘Time waits for no man’ as being connected to her Uncle Norman. Food and landscape are also vividly described and as I am from Cornwall it all seemed familiar. The text could have been proofread a little better, since I was thrown by strange uses of “ring” and “taught”, but the actual phrasing and story was well-crafted.
I had a copy of this book early through Netgalley
December 20, 2022
The Secret Keeper by Amanda James is a wonderful contemporary romantic mystery which I loved.
Set mainly in Tintagel, the scenery comes alive with Amanda James vivid descriptions. The reader 'walks' through the action, fully involved rather than a passive participant.
Cornwall is a place 'of mystery and magic." The reader 'experiences' this air of mystery as they become immersed in the novel.
Skipton is another setting. As I am familiar with 'the gateway to the dales,' it was wonderful to 'see' the town.
The novel has the difficult topic of domestic abuse. This is sensitively and accurately portrayed, right down to the stiff upper lip attitude of 1968.
Two time periods occur in the novel as a mystery from the past needs to be unravelled.
Major themes are the need to be yourself and a search for identity. Forced to deny who you are, only works for so long. We all need to be who we were created to be.
Family is important. Family bonds are beautifully portrayed and the reader can 'feel' the bond between grandmother and granddaughter which is wonderful to witness.
There was a bedroom scene in the novel which I was uncomfortable with, so I skipped over it. This did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.
A cleverly constructed story which I really enjoyed.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Set mainly in Tintagel, the scenery comes alive with Amanda James vivid descriptions. The reader 'walks' through the action, fully involved rather than a passive participant.
Cornwall is a place 'of mystery and magic." The reader 'experiences' this air of mystery as they become immersed in the novel.
Skipton is another setting. As I am familiar with 'the gateway to the dales,' it was wonderful to 'see' the town.
The novel has the difficult topic of domestic abuse. This is sensitively and accurately portrayed, right down to the stiff upper lip attitude of 1968.
Two time periods occur in the novel as a mystery from the past needs to be unravelled.
Major themes are the need to be yourself and a search for identity. Forced to deny who you are, only works for so long. We all need to be who we were created to be.
Family is important. Family bonds are beautifully portrayed and the reader can 'feel' the bond between grandmother and granddaughter which is wonderful to witness.
There was a bedroom scene in the novel which I was uncomfortable with, so I skipped over it. This did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the book.
A cleverly constructed story which I really enjoyed.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
March 8, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishing house and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
This was a lovely read, it had lovely scenery and made me very much want to travel to Cornwalll and visit the Tintagel ruins. Rosa's grandmother, Jocelyn, is dying but wants to confess a secret to Rosa and only her. She is very cryptic about the secret but tells Rosa of her true love, Jory and the sacrifices she made in spite of their love. Jocelyn asks Rosa to go to Cornwall to the Tintagel ruins and try to solve the mystery and bring peace to Jory. Rosa is hesitant, but does as her grandmother asks. Upon arriving in the small village, she makes her way to the ruins and feels a sense of calm she has never felt before and through the rain she thinks she sees a ghost. she waves away the notion as she has been brought up not to belive in pyschic abilities. As the days go by Rosa is drawn into village life more and more and find herself falling for a tall handomse man, Talan who has eyes like the sea. Rosa finds more than she bargained on her adventure and not only brings peace to Jory and her grandmother, but also finds a piece of herself she had been missing.
I would defintely read more books by this author.
This was a lovely read, it had lovely scenery and made me very much want to travel to Cornwalll and visit the Tintagel ruins. Rosa's grandmother, Jocelyn, is dying but wants to confess a secret to Rosa and only her. She is very cryptic about the secret but tells Rosa of her true love, Jory and the sacrifices she made in spite of their love. Jocelyn asks Rosa to go to Cornwall to the Tintagel ruins and try to solve the mystery and bring peace to Jory. Rosa is hesitant, but does as her grandmother asks. Upon arriving in the small village, she makes her way to the ruins and feels a sense of calm she has never felt before and through the rain she thinks she sees a ghost. she waves away the notion as she has been brought up not to belive in pyschic abilities. As the days go by Rosa is drawn into village life more and more and find herself falling for a tall handomse man, Talan who has eyes like the sea. Rosa finds more than she bargained on her adventure and not only brings peace to Jory and her grandmother, but also finds a piece of herself she had been missing.
I would defintely read more books by this author.
January 28, 2023
Reading books set in the UK, is always magical, so it was fun to visit Cornwall in this story. Rosa’s gran is dying and she imparts a secret to her favorite granddaughter about a lost love. She weaves a bit of a tale about ghosts and magic found in Tintagel and wants Rosa to go there to find out what happened to her lost love. Not knowing what to expect, but loving her gran, Rosa sets out on this adventure to give her grandma piece of mind. Although Rosa believes more in science that in folklore and magic, Rosa discovers she has a gift of seeing spirits. While in Tintagel, she encounters a man with eyes so blue, just like her gran stated about her lost love, and love blooms. But then she also meets the ghost of her lost love and a white witch who becomes Rosa’s main support and helps her in her task. Some conflict and misunderstandings as it progresses, but lots of warm fuzzy moments. The descriptions of the area make me want to grab my passport because who doesn’t love everything with castles, ghosts, lost loves, and mysteries. Although predictable at the end, it still was enjoyable to read.
Many thanks to #netgalley, #thesecretkeeper #amandajames for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Many thanks to #netgalley, #thesecretkeeper #amandajames for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 6, 2023
Rosa travels to Tintagel to fulfil a dying wish for her grandmother. There she find that she has abilities at odds with her upbringing that emphasised a strict fact-based approach to life.
Any book set in Cornwall automatically gets my attention and I have read and enjoyed books by this author before, so I jumped at the opportunity of reading an advance copy of this one. With the fantastic Cornish setting, a touch of romance and some unrequited love there is a spiritual touch to add to the mix. There are some spicy scenes if these are not your thing though, although they do fit in with the story rather than my pet hate, just being add to spice up an otherwise dull story. I did end up feeling sorry for Ross's flatmate Willa though.
Overall a book that I really enjoyed and will be definitely be adding other books by the author to my library.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influenced my review of the book and I have already pre-ordered it on release.
Any book set in Cornwall automatically gets my attention and I have read and enjoyed books by this author before, so I jumped at the opportunity of reading an advance copy of this one. With the fantastic Cornish setting, a touch of romance and some unrequited love there is a spiritual touch to add to the mix. There are some spicy scenes if these are not your thing though, although they do fit in with the story rather than my pet hate, just being add to spice up an otherwise dull story. I did end up feeling sorry for Ross's flatmate Willa though.
Overall a book that I really enjoyed and will be definitely be adding other books by the author to my library.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influenced my review of the book and I have already pre-ordered it on release.
January 8, 2023
Having enjoyed and reviewed another book by Amanda James a few months ago, I was offered the chance to read an early copy of this book by the rep from the publishers.
Once again the author whisked me off to the beautiful, atmospheric depths of Cornwall, this time to soak up the magic, myths and mystery of Tintagel. Amanda James truly does bring Cornwall to life in the pages of her books. We join Rosa on her quest to fulfil her dying grandmother’s last request, following the revelation of a long kept secret in her grandmother’s past. As Rosa finds herself surrounded by the magic brimming from every corner of Tintagel, she also discovers secrets of her own past.
A story full of beautiful descriptions, plenty of magic and mystery, several twists and turns, and of course love, both romantic and family love, it’s the perfect feel good read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for a review.
Once again the author whisked me off to the beautiful, atmospheric depths of Cornwall, this time to soak up the magic, myths and mystery of Tintagel. Amanda James truly does bring Cornwall to life in the pages of her books. We join Rosa on her quest to fulfil her dying grandmother’s last request, following the revelation of a long kept secret in her grandmother’s past. As Rosa finds herself surrounded by the magic brimming from every corner of Tintagel, she also discovers secrets of her own past.
A story full of beautiful descriptions, plenty of magic and mystery, several twists and turns, and of course love, both romantic and family love, it’s the perfect feel good read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for a review.
January 21, 2023
The Secret Keeper is a lovely, mystical story by Cornish author Amanda James. In this story travel writer Rosa Fernley is spending time with her dear grandmother Jocelyn while her mother is away. Gran was recently diagnosed with a terminal illness and time is of the essence, so when Gran makes an unusual request of Rosa to travel to Tintagel on the Cornish coast and shares secrets with her, Rosa immediately makes plans to do so.
In carrying out her grandmother’s wishes, Rosa travels to Tintagel and embarks on the adventure of a lifetime, discovering things about herself hidden and long forgotten, and discovering things about her future, venturing into an otherworldly encounter with her grandmother’s long ago lover, Jory!
This is a beautiful story with paranormal influences. I very much enjoyed this book, as I have each book by Ms. James I have read. I definitely recommend this book!
In carrying out her grandmother’s wishes, Rosa travels to Tintagel and embarks on the adventure of a lifetime, discovering things about herself hidden and long forgotten, and discovering things about her future, venturing into an otherworldly encounter with her grandmother’s long ago lover, Jory!
This is a beautiful story with paranormal influences. I very much enjoyed this book, as I have each book by Ms. James I have read. I definitely recommend this book!
December 22, 2023
Amanda James weaves a mesmerizing tale in 'The Secret Keeper,' where journalist Rosa Fernley's quest for answers becomes a poignant exploration of family secrets and self-discovery.
Set against the captivating backdrop of Cornwall's Tintagel, the novel unfolds with a perfect blend of mystery and emotion. Rosa's journey to unravel her grandmother Jocelyn's past takes unexpected turns, revealing a world where the past breathes life into the present.
James skillfully crafts a narrative that not only delves into the intricate details of a love story lost in time but also explores the profound impact of secrets on identity. 'The Secret Keeper' is a beautifully written, emotionally resonant novel that keeps you captivated from start to finish.
Amanda James invites readers into a world of secrets, love, and self-realization with a skillful touch. A must-read for those who appreciate a perfect blend of mystery, romance, and family drama."
Set against the captivating backdrop of Cornwall's Tintagel, the novel unfolds with a perfect blend of mystery and emotion. Rosa's journey to unravel her grandmother Jocelyn's past takes unexpected turns, revealing a world where the past breathes life into the present.
James skillfully crafts a narrative that not only delves into the intricate details of a love story lost in time but also explores the profound impact of secrets on identity. 'The Secret Keeper' is a beautifully written, emotionally resonant novel that keeps you captivated from start to finish.
Amanda James invites readers into a world of secrets, love, and self-realization with a skillful touch. A must-read for those who appreciate a perfect blend of mystery, romance, and family drama."
January 15, 2023
As I am fortunate to live in Cornwall, I am always drawn to books based there and The Secret Keeper was no exception.
What I expected to be a simple romance (having not read the blurb!), is also a paranormal tale set in the village of Tintagel, well known for its magic and mystery.
While the atmospheric scenery is beautiful described and characters are interesting, the plot itself is a slow-burner and I found myself skimming through some parts of the book, but that could be because the storyline was not what I had expected. 3.5*
What I expected to be a simple romance (having not read the blurb!), is also a paranormal tale set in the village of Tintagel, well known for its magic and mystery.
While the atmospheric scenery is beautiful described and characters are interesting, the plot itself is a slow-burner and I found myself skimming through some parts of the book, but that could be because the storyline was not what I had expected. 3.5*
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February 2, 2023This is a wonderfully woven blend of contemporary romance and mystery genres. Rosas gran shares with her a long hidden secret in her dying days and she takes it upon herself to resolve said mystery so her gran can rest in peace. Its a bit slow early on, but is worth the time to find a resolution. The writing is quite lovely and descriptive so much so that you feel as if you’ve visited many of the places Rosa visits along her journey of discovery.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. My thanks to Netgalley.com, the author and publisher.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. My thanks to Netgalley.com, the author and publisher.
September 2, 2025
When Rose Fernley’s Grandmother shares a secret from her past, she heads to Tintagel to figure out what really happened. Once there, she is consumed by a past memory, one her family wanted to keep hidden.The reader moves back in forth in time discovering past events that have a direct impact on her future. Special abilities, seeing spirits, past regrets and misunderstandings with a love interest thrown in. Beautiful descriptions of the Cornwall area.
Fun read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Fun read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
December 27, 2022
What a wonderful book! This was not at all the story I was expecting from the blurb but so much more. The descriptive writing was so lovely and I travelled to Cornwall with all the characters, I could smell the sea and feel the spring breeze. Rosa was a wonderful character and goes on a mission to right a wrong for her grandmother Jocelyn where she meets Talan and the story takes another turn. Definitely one to read and would make a perfect beach read
January 8, 2023
A emotional contemporary romance story with the lovely setting of Cornwall.
There is tender romance along with spicy romance.
The mystical element was fun and interesting.
There are actually two romance stories in The Secret Keeper. One in the past and one in present day.
A well written and intriguing read.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
There is tender romance along with spicy romance.
The mystical element was fun and interesting.
There are actually two romance stories in The Secret Keeper. One in the past and one in present day.
A well written and intriguing read.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 14, 2023
Rosa's grandmother Jocelyn is dying & she wants Rosa to go to Cornwall to find answers to a guilty secret she has kept for many years. Rosa learns so much & comforts her grandmother with what she has found. Rosa meets people who change her life.
I really enjoyed this book & Rosa was a great character. The story covers such wonderful relationships & friendship.
Amanda James never disappoints with her great books.
I really enjoyed this book & Rosa was a great character. The story covers such wonderful relationships & friendship.
Amanda James never disappoints with her great books.
October 10, 2024
A book that brings the absolute magic and beauty of Cornwall to life. Rosa is a person on a mission to delve into local secrets to find an old love of a grandparent. This book has all the feels. Amanda James brings Cornwall to life as Rosa negotiates the local ways - upsetting some, delighting others. A touch of magic realism, of psychic influences, of parental coercion. A story well crafted, intelligently told.
August 12, 2025
Awkwardly written/insufficiently edited.
Very predictable.
The big reveal was quite small. I don't think it would have had such a profound impact.
The one lesbian character is basically a prop for the plot. That felt icky.
The one sex scene was not very sexy. Really, why bother? Just make it PG if it's not going to be exciting.
Two stars instead of one because I did actually finish it, and I reserve 1-star ratings for DNFs.
Very predictable.
The big reveal was quite small. I don't think it would have had such a profound impact.
The one lesbian character is basically a prop for the plot. That felt icky.
The one sex scene was not very sexy. Really, why bother? Just make it PG if it's not going to be exciting.
Two stars instead of one because I did actually finish it, and I reserve 1-star ratings for DNFs.
December 4, 2022
The Secret Keeper by A. James, published by One More Chapter/ Harper Collins UK, is a full length, stand-alone.
This beautiful slow burn had me right from the start. I loved the mystery part, the history repeats itself part, the beautiful, excellent written story.
Rosa and Talan are part of something truly magnificent.
I recommend the book, 5 stars.
This beautiful slow burn had me right from the start. I loved the mystery part, the history repeats itself part, the beautiful, excellent written story.
Rosa and Talan are part of something truly magnificent.
I recommend the book, 5 stars.
January 14, 2023
A real gem of a story atmospheric and full of wonderful characters. There were sad moments, but these were outweighed by the warm, touching happy moments with lots of love in the air. Rosa is asked by her dying grandmother to go to Tintagel, Cornwall to help her with events that happened years ago. In doing so Rosa uncovers something about herself.
March 24, 2023
Wow!!!
What love stories this lady spins!! And she is so sneaky at it! She introduces you to her characters and before you know it, you're flipping through the pages and racing through the story so wrapped up you can't put it down until you've laughed and cried and hoped and celebrated through each triumph as though they are your own!
What love stories this lady spins!! And she is so sneaky at it! She introduces you to her characters and before you know it, you're flipping through the pages and racing through the story so wrapped up you can't put it down until you've laughed and cried and hoped and celebrated through each triumph as though they are your own!
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