What a moving, stunning and subtly written book. Not always easy to read, but highly rewarding. A real talent, who I hope will be properly recognised.

"The Watch House" by Bernie McGill is an intriguing novel.

Set on Rathlin island, just off the coast of Ireland, it tells the story of Nuala Byrne and her search for love and family. Her parents emigrate to Newfoundland, leaving her with her grandparents, but with the promise that they will send for her. However, the promise is not fulfilled and Nuala finds herself with the possibility of having no home. She accepts the proposal of the Tailor, a man much older than she is, and moves in with him and his sister, Ginny.

Nuala's dull, loveless life is changed when several men, including Italian Gabriel Donati, arrive on the island at the behest of Marconi. They are there to experiment with wireless communication and Nuala is employed to cook for them. From this time onwards, Nuala's life takes a different course.

I found this novel to be very interesting. The author had obviously researched the subject of Marconi's experiments thoroughly and her love of the landscape of the island is plain to see from her descriptions. However, this isn't a novel that is merely a vehicle for explaining facts. It tells a very moving story of a young woman finding and losing love; of deep friendship and of loyalty. Well worth reading!

I am grateful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this novel.