I liked this engaging and mysterious novel! The setting of small town Cornwall is what really makes the story, and there is a slow burning family mystery bubbling away in the background. The multiple POVs was a bit confusing and I think the book could have been better edited by titling each chapter with who’s view the reader is now looking at,

That’s my only minor critique, perfect for fans of historical fiction and who like a bit of mystery built in.

I should first say that I lived in Cornwall until a couple of years ago (so while this book was being written), and while not a native I was there for many years, so I understand the characters in this book. Initially I thought that Toby and Minty were a bit of a caricature, while the Cornish were much more convincing. But as time went on the comers in gathered dimensions and character. I suppose as the writer is Cornish it’s a perspective that comes from experience. I enjoyed the development of the story and the characters, especially Ezra, who reminded me of a neighbour of similar age who used to leap out of hedges at me and regale me with lengthy tales of his life. It made me miss Cornwall and everything about it, it will always have a special place in my heart and this book rings true of all I know, and love, and was frustrated about regarding the issues locals had to deal with outsiders coming in and wreaking havoc. But also reminded me of why I needed to leave. There’s more to it than Cornwall though. There are layers and nuance. Though I found the ending rather too neat. But I would recommend it. It’s nothing like the numerous saccharin tales of Cornwall I can’t abide, and offers a deep understanding of the magic of the place and its people.

Thank you to NetGalley and Appolooo for my copy of The Secrets of the Bees by Jane Johnson
Set in West Cornwall the Trengrose Estate has stood still with nothing changing in 100 years until Eliza Rosevear dies and the estate is sold.
Then everything changes especially for Ezra Curnow who has lived in the estate cottage all his life.
Can he stay with the new owners taking charge or do they have bigger plans.
A lovely read that you won’t want to put down.

A house with a secret, a mysterious past and a love story is always hard to put down. This book is exactly that. Set in Cornwall this is a beautiful read. It is well written with great descriptions and attention to detail. I was drawn in from page one, Brilliant!

I loved this . Hard to review but a book you could not put down. Some great twists and a lovely ending. A London family buy a Cornish estate and you follow their journey .They think they own more than do, ace characters and the way the bees are involved in the story is great . I can’t praise this book enough . Read it

Ezra has lived in his home all his life, now Toby wants to buy the cottage to rent to tourists and will probably lie and cheat to get it.

Set in beautful Cornwall, this novel is amazing. it is a story beautifully told and i absolutely loved it.

Secrets taken to the grave and mysteries uncovered make this read intriguing and I loved how the late mistress helps Ezra do what he has to do to save his home

A lovely read .. and one to help you lose yourself for a while.