I got this book two weeks ago when I impulse bought 12 books on Amazon! Clearly I don’t need anymore books but try telling that to my brain when it sees a good book deal!! I am a massive fan of books that tell two stories, one in the present and one in the past, so the synopsis of this on amazon caught my attention and once I realised where it was set I knew I had to read it. I have visited Tyneham many times during holidays in Dorest to see my Grandparents when I was younger.

Synopsis (as taken from Amazon) is as follows:

1943: The world is at war, and the villagers of Tyneham are being asked to make one more sacrifice: to give their homes over to the British army. But on the eve of their departure, a terrible act will cause three of them to disappear forever.

2018: Melissa had hoped a break on the coast of Dorset would rekindle her stagnant relationship, but despite the idyllic scenery, it’s pushing her and Liam to the brink. When Melissa discovers a strange photograph of a woman who once lived in the forgotten local village of Tyneham, she becomes determined to find out more about her story. But Tyneham hides a terrible secret, and Melissa’s search for the truth will change her life in ways she never imagined.

Ability to read – I had no difficulty in reading this book. I love books that explore history like this and those that are styled with two stories running side-by-side. It was easy to get into the story because I wanted to uncover all the secrets and find out the mystery lurking within the pages.

Characterisation – At the beginning, I felt neutral towards Melissa. The opening was set up in a very stereotypical way and I wondered how I would like her character. As the story progressed and her character opened up, I found myself beginning to like her and route for her story. On the opposite end, I had very strong feelings for Veronica and found it easier to get invested in her character. I thought her character to be very strong and resilient. There was a lot of fight in her that I found inspiring and I was overjoyed by her ending.

Visualisation – I have very strong memories of Dorset as I spent many summer holidays there. I have memories of visiting Tyneham with my parents. Visualisation was very easy for me because I knew most of the places discussed and therefore, was able to form a clear picture of all that was happening.

Uniqueness – The split past and present stories are nothing new but I do greatly enjoy them. I enjoyed the slowness in which the stories were told and how the secrets unfolded and were dragged out. I also enjoyed the slowness of Melissa’s love life and how the need to find out what happened to Veronica eclipsed all other aspects of her life.

Star Rating – 5/5