Cover Image: Secrets in the Snow

Secrets in the Snow

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Member Reviews

I loved this book made me laugh and cry losing someone you love is hard and to have that special someone albeit a hard start at first really gets you through. An easy read but unputdownable

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This was such a wonderful and at times emotional read. I wanted a change from the usual murder type books I usually read. I was thrilled to be approved for this one. I loved the cover of the book which was what drew me to it in the first place. But once I started reading it I was completed engrossed in the story,

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Such a fantastic book!!!!

Such complex characters in this book, it is a very long time since a book has made feel as emotional, I found myself in tears on several occasions, I it is beautifully written and I spent the entire book wanting to know what happens next.

Make a cuppa, put your feet up and enjoy the emotional rollercoaster.

I would recommend this book...an amazing read!!

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I received a copy of the book from Netgalley to review. Thank you for the opportunity.
A sweet, wintery read to curl up to in the cold winter months. It is definitely warming with its close characters and sweet romance at the heart of this story.
A good read.

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Last year I came back to the writing of Emma Heatherington after not having read any of her books for some years. The book of hers that caught my attention was Rewrite the Stars, an absolute brilliant book that left me eager to read more from this fantastic author. Now she has brought us another excellent story Secrets in the Snow and I loved every minute of it and couldn’t bare to leave it down or to finish it. Emma is an amazing writer who has such a way with words.

Time and time again whilst reading this I had to stop and absorb the sentiments echoing from such strong and memorable sentences and in fact entire paragraphs. She just conveys everything so well that it strikes such a chord with you. Secrets in the Snow despite its wintery cover can be read at any time of the year and the story that awaits you is exceptional. I relished every minute of it for its honesty, intensity and emotional fluency and for the compelling and heartfelt plot that right from chapter one transports you to the heart of the story.

Every goodbye holds the promise of a new beginning and for Roisin and her son Ben this couldn’t be truer. They are facing the loss of their neighbour Mabel, she was much more than someone who they waved a hello to every now and again. She was their support system, their best friend, a mother and granny figure when they needed it the most. She had become a member of their family and now they feel as if their world has been frozen in time but their next move must be contemplated. Roisin had already been dealing with the loss of her husband four years ago when she arrived at a cottage in the tiny Irish village of Ballybray. I got the feeling that there was more to Roisin’s loss that first met the eye and that she was even more traumatised for a very serious reason.

Mabel became their saviour in their hour of need when the pair needed protection and a place to heal their troubled souls. Mabel could identify with Roisin as she had lost her husband Peter a year previously. She was the one who helped Roisin come out of her shell. She provided a rock to lean on, a shoulder to cry on and cheered her on and in the right direction. Now that all that has been taken away from her Roisin feels lost, empty and without any sense of direction remaining. ‘I feel deflated, sunk and dead inside if truth be told. I feel like after almost winning a four year long game of snakes and ladders that I’ve landed on the penultimate square and slid right back down to number one, back in time, back to the old shell of a person I was when I first arrived’.

The author sums up perfectly the way that Roisin is coping with this new loss. After building herself up in recent years she feels like she is back at square one and the grief is eating her up inside all over again. It may seem over the top that Roisin is so deeply affected by the void that Mabel has left in her life but it’s not at all as Mabel was a very special person who embraced Roisin into the village and gave her that firm anchor she so desperately needed when she was lost at sea. Now she feels she is back in that place and can see no way out. When Mabel’s nephew Aidan arrives from America to sort the funeral arrangements and put the house up for sale, Roisin feels it's another blow to her and maybe she best leaving the little village she has called home and which has offered her security and friendship.

’I was at my lowest ebb when she came into my life and now she’s gone. I worry I might be sliding down the same slippery slope already. I can feel it in the air. It’s a sense of fear that is so overwhelming, like a tidal wave approaching from which I can’t escape. It’s hopelessness, it’s loneliness, it’s a huge cloud and it’s coming to get me fast’. Such powerful and emotive words used to describe Roisin’s grief and you know it’s for much more than the loss of Mabel, I think it sums up the way grief attacks us and doesn’t let go for some time if indeed ever.

Despite never meeting Mabel as such in the story, she had such a strong, formidable (in a good way) supportive and practical presence throughout. She was a wise woman and knew that when she was gone Roisin would suffer with her mental health as all the fear, insecurities, self doubt and apprehension would creep back in again. Mabel knew that Roisin needed to feel more positive and stronger and in a way too she knew that Aidan needed to be steered in the right direction. Her plan to leave messages and tasks for the pair to do as the seasons changed over the year was so clever and brilliant on her part. She thought of every little thing and she was well aware of the bigger picture. These tasks form the crux of the story as Aidan and Roisin navigate a difficult and stressful journey but in doing so perhaps the separate problems, they both face will create a new bond of friendship and unity and perhaps something more as secrets and much more are revealed and confronted. Throughout reading I couldn’t quite fathom how Mabel had everything so carefully planned out and that messages and things would arrive at a certain time. When this was revealed I thought it was the sweetest thing ever and such a lovely touch, Mabel’s ultimate purpose was to spread kindness and joy. She did that in spades when alive and even with her passing she was trying to work her magic for those who needed it the most.

Aidan initially, and perhaps for a good majority of the book, came across as being rich, arrogant, cold and nonchalant. Yes he was very good looking, and there was something about him that will intrigue readers, but I thought at first he wasn’t that nice to Roisin and didn’t get the bond that she had shared with Mabel. It was almost like he wanted to get in and out as soon as possible and get back to his work in America but when the first message from Mabel arrives he has no choice but to slow down and listen to what she has to say. It was almost as if she knew that Aidan had something going on with him too in a similar way to Roisin.

Aidan needed to slow down and step back from his pressurised job and family situation and being in Ireland away from that would give him the chance to do so. I bet he didn’t bargain on meeting Roisin and for Mabel to leave such an important message for them. Roisin is told to leave her walls down and to let love in again. Aidan is reminded that he is raw, hurt, angry and broken but he needs to make changes, to slow down and put his foot on the brakes. But why is Mabel telling him this? What has happened in his own life that she felt so strongly in her message?

The story moves forward over the year with new messages arriving when least expected but most needed. Aidan begins to warm a little but as Roisin so raw and vulnerable because of past experiences, she just doesn’t want to let Aidan get too close or ingrained into her family life. I’m not quite sure that he wished to develop such a close friendship/relationship with her but he owed so much to Mabel and maybe spending some time in Ballybray would help him sort his heart and mind out and if Mabel’s advice and the new friendship with Roisin helped than that would be all the better. I loved this quote which summed up both Aidan and Roisin perfectly. Each on their own unique and difficult journey but taking the steps together reluctantly at times but they knew they owed it to Mabel to do what she wanted. ‘We are two wounded soldiers, wading in waters so troubled for all our lives that it’s become all we are used to, each of us searching for a love we’ve not yet found’.

Secrets in the Snow is a story that proves Emma Heatherington can spin magic out of words and have me enthralled from page one. The characters are all brilliantly drawn and you are so deeply invested in their journeys and the eventual outcome for two people that are hurt, complex and flawed but never dull. The only issue I had was surrounding a discovery of Aidan’s towards the end, it just seemed to come out of left field and then was dealt with way too quickly. I know I love a twist in a book but for me it would have been fine without its inclusion. Secrets in the Snow is a wonderful read and trust me it’s one you’ll want to go back and reread all over again as soon as you finish it.

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Although there was nothing wrong with the writing, story set up or character development I found I struggled to engage with the story. It took me a lot longer to read this book than is normal for me and I was frequently distracted as there never felt like there was much going on.

Technically speaking there isn't much I could fault with the story or the writing. It just wasn't one that kept me engaged.

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I always enjoy a book by Emma Heatherington and I loved this trip to Ballybray where we met the wonderful Mabel.

A story rich in love and loss, that explores both the past and future during the course of the story. I could feel the highs and lows as I read and was keen to keep reading to see if Mabel could help find a happy ending for those she had left behind.

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This is one of those books which you don't want to put down although at times, it is a touching and emotional read. I admire the way Emma manages to weave dark themes into her stories and yet at the same time, keep the overall tone one of hope and moving forward. Roisin's difficult childhood has never left her and her marriage turned out to be far from the happy ever after she hoped for. When you first meet her, she seems at rock bottom but you soon discover that she has hidden depths and a determination to keep going.

Of course, the character you never meet, Mabel, probably makes the strongest impression and you can totally understand the effect she has on Roisin, Ben and Aidan. It takes time to get the measure of Aidan and I was never quite sure what was going to happen where he was concerned. This is a slow burn romance. The story takes place over a year which gives the storyline some credibility. Both Roisin and Aidan have issues which are never going to be swept aside quickly. The setting for the book adds to the feeling of friendship and community. It seems to be a haven of safety, a place to heal. This is a touching story which looks at whether you can choose your family.

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book

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This book was everything I had hoped for and more. The story wasn't just your typical romance, with a unique storyline and complex characters who all have their own troubled pasts to overcome.
Mabel's character really dug her way into my heart, the love she showed for others, even in her dying days, was simply beautiful.
Roisin's bond with her son Ben was without a doubt one of my favourite parts of this book. They have managed to start a new life after a very difficult past, and that inevitably made their bond so much stronger.
And then there was Aidan. I loved how his character grew throughout the story. The relationship between Roisin and Aidan isn't so straightforward, with them both having to make some major changes to their lives and come to terms with their demons, it makes it a remarkable love story.
And the ending....wow! .
I loved this book from beginning to end.

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What a beautiful book! I love a winter romance, and this ticked all of the boxes for me. It's a really moving and heartwarming story, and while it starts with some sadness, it ultimately becomes a really heartwarming and uplifting story inspiring you to live life to the full.

Now, I will admit, this is pretty predictable at times. But who cares!? It's a lovely story with a beautiful message at its heart, and it's one of the most charming books I've read in a long time. Plus, it gave me serious P.S. I Love You vibes, which made me love it even more! Definitely one I'd recommend to anyone who wants a sweet and uplifting book to get them in the festive spirit.

Disclaimer - I was fortunate enough to be provided with an advance reading copy of this book by NetGalley. This has not affected my review in any way, and all opinions are my own.

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Another excellent book by this author, it's poignant and heartwarming. It made me smile and moved.
I loved the plot, the characters and the setting.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

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A touching, wonderful story.

This is a lovely winter romance set in an Irish village that follows the life of Roisin O’Connor and her young son, Ben. Their beloved neighbour Mabel Murphy has passed away and as they are saying goodbye to her, Aidan Murphy, Mabel's nephew is making life awkward for Roisin. Aidan is in Ballybray to pay his respects but has brought with him plenty of baggage in the form of secrets and Roisin, too, is hiding some of her own. But is Aidan the cold fish he seems?

Secrets in the Snow was all about the importance of family, friendship and being open to the possibility of love. I found it a really charming read and Emma Heatherington continued to impress me with her phenomenal writing. It was engaging and mesmerising with some wonderful, deep characters, especially the ebullient Mabel. In this seasonal story, there was so much to enthuse over including a trip to New York, snowball fights and sledging. Secrets in the Snow was also a tale packed with emotion, with angst, fear, and realisation. This is the second book I've read by Emma Heatherington and I look forward to reading many more.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from HarperCollins via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.

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A wonderful, heartwarming tale of love and loss. I really enjoyed this book and it was great to read cosied up by the fire and just get lost in it. Highly recommend.

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Roisin meets Aiden when he inherits the house next door after the death of his Aunty Mabel. When Mabel starts sending them messages and tasks, they are forced to spend time together, but will that be enough to keep them together.

A great read, and emotional at times.

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Firstly a huge thank you to Harper Collins for my copy to review and having me on the tour.

I left it to last minute to read but there was no worry as i sped through it. I loved her previous book so was very excited to read this.

This is a tale about life, love and loss. And all the messy and beautiful bits in between.

I felt like i was reading my diary as i related to Roisin so much i felt emotional. She has shut her heart down to possibility of love after a troubled childhood and a abusive marriage .

A heartwarming ,uplifting and emotive book as we join the charactsrs on their journey after losing someone.

Can they find happiness and love?

I loved this book and it definitely was thought provoking and spoke to my heart.

Published 15th October and do check out the other blogs taking part in the tour.

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Such a heartwarming feel good story that I couldn’t put down. A book you can lose yourself in & just enjoy. It is so well written & it really tugs at those heartstrings. Set in Ireland this story follows the life of Roison a widow & her son Ben. She is running from a past life with really bad memories that leaves her broken & grief stricken. After sticking a pin in a map to decide where to go next she moves to a run down cottage in a small village. There she meets her new neighbour Mabel who will become a big part of there lives. The story line with Mabel is quite original & I fell in love with her myself. In to the mix comes Mabel’s nephew Aiden who has is own life changing problems to sort out . The story takes place over a year & it will take you through each season due to what is happening within the story. Not going to say any more on that as I don’t want to give too much of the story away. There are lots of highs & lows with sad tender moments to catch at those heart strings. So curl up in a chair & just enjoy this beautiful story.

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As with Emma’s previous books, this is set in Ireland – and the main rural setting is described beautifully. It also pops to Belfast and New York – 2 cities I love – which is exciting!

I have to say the storyline is reasonably predictable – lonely single Mum dislikes new stranger – clearly they’re going to fall in love! However, there are enough twists and turns to keep you interested. And sometimes all you want to read is a nice easy romance.

I loved the relationship between Roisin and her son Ben – he was clearly her world. And the relationship they’d both had with Mabel was lovely (and I think highlights the fact it’s nice to have friends of different ages to yourself).

I kept expecting more of Roisin’s relationship with her abusive ex husband, Ben’s Dad, who had passed away to be uncovered – I even suspected she’d bumped him off – but seemingly not!

This is not a taxing read, it’s not a complicated read – but it’s a lovely, escapist, easy read – and sometimes in these difficult times, that is exactly what is needed!

Thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for my ARC.

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This is a cute book and a definite re-read!

I love that it's such an easy read, I had no diffculty ploughing through this wonderful book, it was touching, heartwarming and a sweet, feel good book! It ticked all the boxes especially as the weather is getting cooler, candles and curling up with this, so cosy!

Emma Heatherington certainly has some excellent writing skills and it's so easy to breeze through her work! The characters were so well developed, there was structure, there was a plot line! Everything a reader could ask for, and I loved that completely, there was feel good, there was happiness and there was sadness, and even some tickling and maybe even pulling of the heart strings but the author did such a good job on this book! I'm so pleased to have been given the opportunity to read this and whole heartedly recommend this as winter read!

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Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review - all opinions are my own!

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What a sweet book. Read it with a mug of hot chocolate and marshmallows, beside a roaring fire. You won’t be able to put it down! This was a heart warning story and very well told as usual by the brilliant Emma Heatherington. I loved it!

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What a beautiful well written novel that tugs at the heartstrings. From abuse to grief to happiness and sorrow. Life can be like that and this lovely story has all the emotions,. I just wanted this book to go on and on and I couldn't put it down as I needed to know what was happening next. 5 stars and I recommend it to all..

Thanks Netgalley and publisher for this ARC in return for an honest review.

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