An amazing feat of weaving history, mystery and romance into an utterly compelling narrative. Heartbroken by the death of her fiancé in a hit-and-run accident, soon after the demise of Nadia the beloved great aunt who had brought her up after the death of her parents, Sophie travels to Cairo, to see the house left to her by Nadia. The only clue to its importance – it saved Nadia’s life and was where she had met the love of her life, Tom.
As Sophie discovers the secrets and endeavours to work out the clues and codes left by her aunt, her own life is under threat by unknown enemies. Her fate is inextricably linked to what happened to her aunt during the war and Ben’s death. As various people offer help and support, including Josh whose own family has ties to Nadia, whom can she trust? Whom did Nadia trust?
Lees’ characters are brilliantly drawn, and the dual time-line is pitch perfect. Edge of your seat scenes and dramatic incidents in 1942 and the present day combine to keep the reader totally gripped.
Amanda Lees evokes the sights, sounds and smells of Cairo during WW11 with masterful brushstrokes. Her research must have been meticulous and I have nothing but admiration for her diligence and creativity in this brilliant book.
Published by Bookouture, September 2015 and available from bookshops and Amazon.