Publication Date 11.01.22
In this life-affirming tale from bestselling author Amanda Prowse, one woman built a new life to escape her humiliation. Now, can she put the shame behind her and finally find happiness?
Young and desperately in love, Merrin had the whole world ahead of her. But just as her new life was about to start, the ground beneath her feet was cruelly swept away. Devastated by the humiliation, she ran far away from the beloved fishing village she had always called home to lick her wounds and escape her gossiping friends and neighbours.
It hasn’t been easy, but six years later Merrin has forged a new life for herself far from the sea, burying the impulsive girl she once was. But when tragedy strikes, she has no choice but to return to the village she swore she’d never set foot in again.
Reluctantly back in the arms of her community, Merrin begins to realise what she’s been missing out on all these years. As she begins to remember the person she used to be, she is forced to make choices about her future, and to question the past. What does she want from her life? Who is important to her? Who is to blame for everything that went wrong? And can she forgive them, let old wounds heal and finally be her true self again?
Love Books Tour
As is usually the case with Prowse's novels, this book is gorgeously written and focused on the fragility and beauty of human relationships. She writes characters that are so realistic that they could be your friends or next door neighbours. It is this relatability that draws many of us to her tales. We can emphasise and feel for the people she portrays and become immersed in their worlds and problems.
To love and be loved is no different. Merrin is such a likable character and everyone who has loved and lost will relate to her dilemma and heartbreak. I so felt her pain and perceived humiliation. At times, I even cried alongside her. But I so wanted her to come out of hiding.
I also enjoyed the sisterly rivalry and childish antics that follow us into adulthood. She writes these with such insight and understanding. And the vivid descriptions of Cornwell were perfectly executed. They made me want to book a holiday and enjoy all the sights and senses for myself.
A heart-breaking yet uplifting story of family and love. Of the importance of seeking romance in the right places and being true to one self.
