Welcome to Anne Allen’s “The Guernsey Novels” B L O G T O U R
I’m really excited to be part of this tour and to have discovered author Anne Allen’s books. Plus, under my review of The Betrayal, Anne’s sixth book, you’ll see a fantastic contest, to win a two-night break in Guernsey! (T&Cs Apply). So without further ado, here’s my review!
My Review
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Betrayal by Anne Allen is set in Guernsey, and weaves two interconnecting stories together. We visit 1940 Guernsey, around the time the Germans are about to invade, where we discover the heartbreaking story of Leo Bichard who sends his wife and child away to England to protect them from the impending German invasion.
We also visit Guernsey in the year 2011 and meet Nigel Torode and his twin Fiona now own an antique shop, and during a refurbishment Nigel discovers some old paintings hidden under the floorboards, one of which looks like it could be an original Renoir. Not long after, Nigel turns up dead. Suicide the police say. But distraught Fiona is not convinced and takes it upon herself to hire a detective to find out what really happened.
Because of their strong sibling bond, Nigel returns in spirit form and pays Fiona a visit, confirming her suspicions. He did not kill himself. He was murdered. Will she ever get justice for her brother’s death?
I really enjoyed my visit to Guernsey, through this exciting book, which was full of mystery and intrigue. I can see why Anne Allen fell in love with this picturesque place, which has so much history within. What’s amazing to think is Renoir really did visit the island to paint the stunning view of Moulin Huet Bay! I loved that added touch, it provided an extra layer to the story. Besides a satisfying mystery, The Betrayal also sheds light on life during the German invasion adding an even deeper, and a rather emotional, layer to the plot. Who betrayed Leo Bichard, and why?
The Betrayal is my first Anne Allen novel and even though this is book six in The Guernsey Novels series, it is a standalone novel which can be read without having read the previous books, as they appear to be individual stories featuring a Guernsey setting.
Anne’s beautiful description of Guernsey, and realistic historical detail provide an atmospheric backdrop for this intriguing historical, cozy mystery blend. Recommended for all lovers of historical mysteries!
Thank you to the author and Globeflower Agency for my paperback copy. This is my honest opinion about this book.
View all my reviews over at Goodreads!
Win a two-night break
courtesy of The Guernsey Novels by Anne Allen
T&Cs apply.
Would you like to visit gorgeous Guernsey? Well, here is your chance to win a two-night trip to this beautiful island, courtesy of Anne Allen, author of the riveting book series, The Guernsey Novels.
The Guernsey Novels
Anne Allen’s fascinating book series, The Guernsey Novels, comprises six standalone novels. All the stories in her novel series, take place predominantly on the island of Guernsey and are linked by characters popping up from one book to another.
They provide an ongoing story of a village spread, so far, over 6 years. Each book is standalone with fresh new lead characters with their own links to the German Occupation during World War 2, having an impact on the present.
The Guernsey Novels are a mix of mystery, family drama, and love story and influenced by the author’s love of the island where she spent many happy years. Guernsey itself is always a main character in the books, offering a gorgeous backdrop to all the sorrows, joys and tragedies she describes.
About the Author Anne Allen
Anne Allen lives in Devon, by her beloved sea. She has three children and her daughter and two grandchildren live nearby. She was born in Rugby, to an English mother and Welsh father. As a result she spent many summers with her Welsh grandparents in Anglesey and learnt to love the sea.
Her restless spirit has meant a number of moves which included Spain for a couple of years. The longest stay was in Guernsey for nearly fourteen years after falling in love with the island and the people. She contrived to leave one son behind to ensure a valid reason for frequent returns.
By profession Anne was a psychotherapist but has long had creative “itches”, learning to mosaic, paint furniture, interior design and sculpt. At the back of her mind the itch to write was always present but seemed too time-consuming for a single mum with a need to earn a living. Now retired from the ‘day job’, there’s more time to write and Anne has now published six books in The Guernsey Novels series. She will be publishing her seventh novel later in the year.
To find out more about Anne visit her website: you can also find her on Twitter and Facebook.
Enter The Guernsey Novels Prize Draw
Read more details about the prize draw, including the Terms and Conditions on Anne Allen’s Website
Blog Tour Organised by The Globeflower Agency Ltd
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What an amazing giveaway! I’ve always heard how beautiful Guernsey is, and Jersey. Must admit I’ve never read any of these novels but I’ll make a note as I think my mother might quite enjoy them too 🙂