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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 BRAND NEW new novel from Number 1 bestselling author Louise Douglas.
Given April’s role in the book, the reveal should have come from her. What’s the use of having a detective working with another local detective if someone else takes over the climax? While April does connect a few dots, her standing on the sidelines during a crucial scene doesn’t give a good impression.
Louise Douglas excels at writing atmospheric stories. The sense of place is always strong when I read a book by her. Her descriptions of Sicily took me right there. Such vivid details of the country and Villa Alba. The earthquake of 1968 is also featured. The author expertly describes the devastation and impact this had on Sicily and the area. 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. You get a sense of so many things not being said. I struggled to pinpoint what exactly happened and who was responsible. Of course, I made guesses based on what I knew but in all honesty? I had no idea what happened to Irene in that bleak landscape at the side of the road. 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. I absolutely loved every bit of this story. Louise Douglas is a master storyteller. Excellent character portrayal and development. Mind-blowing and totally unexpected ending - I LOVED IT!
Definitely recommend the book. Loved the characters, writing style and story. Look forward to reading more books by the author. As well as the mystery, Louise Douglas drew me in to the Sicilian way of life and the landscape. The setting is stunning. Villa Alba in its decline felt authentic with whispers of its past echoing around the rooms.
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