The Summer of Love and Secrets by Helena Fairfax

 

Whilst this book is not unpredictable, it is so beautifully written that I was completely caught up in the story and couldn't put it down. I devoured the book in a day.

The story is of Kate, who has had a very hard life with a neglectful, horrible mother, and an uncaring father, and comes to rely on her best friend Orla. Kate is discovered by a photographer for a newspaper, Stuart, and the pair fall madly in love. Kate becomes a model, a wife to Stuart, and then a mother to George who she dotes on. Stuart's friends and family question her motives, but she and Stuart are blissfully happy.

Unfortunately Stuart has to take pictures in war zones, and his best friend and editor on the newspaper, Paul, is left to tell her that Stuart has been killed.

Kate closes in on herself, with only George and Orla to keep her going. Paul dutifully visits his godson George once a month and takes him out, but Paul has his own secrets and heartache.

This is a wonderful book, beautifully written, and highly recommended. I have finished the book and now miss all the characters.