Some dreams shouldn’t come true …
Maddie Browne thought she’d grown out of the recurring nightmare that plagued her as a child, but after a shocking family secret is revealed, it comes back to haunt her – the same swing in the same garden, the kind red-haired giant and the swarthy arms which grab her from behind and try to take her away …
In an attempt to forget her troubles, Maddie travels to Devon to spend time with her friends, Kayla and Wes. However, it becomes clear that relaxation will not be on the agenda after a disturbing encounter with a gypsy fortune teller. Not to mention the presence of Wes’s dangerously handsome brother, Alex. And then there’s the fact that Maddie’s dream seems to be coming true …
The Soft Whisper of Dreams is the follow-on to Christina Courtenay’s novel The Secret Kiss of Darkness.
This lovely book has been on my Kindle – sadly unread – since February of last year, when it was first published for kindle. I’m delighted to say that everyone can now read it, as it was released in paperback by Choc Lit on 7th March. Those lovely people at Choc Lit have again offered to send a copy – paperback or for kindle – to one lucky UK-based follower of Being Anne… more details below.
Christina Courtenay is a wonderful story teller. One of the very first books I mentioned on my blog was her The Silent Touch of Shadows, and I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing The Secret Kiss of Darkness last year – here’s a link to my review. I’m delighted to welcome Christina as a guest on Being Anne today, talking about switching genres.
The Soft Whisper of Dreams was one of those books I hadn’t meant to write – it just happened. That might sound weird, but when I finished writing The Secret Kiss of Darkness I just kind of continued with this one. It was almost like a postscript which turned into a whole story and at the time it was written more for myself, with no intention of sharing it with the world.
My review
Although described as a “follow-on”, there’s absolutely no need to have read the earlier book – but for those of us who have, it’s a lovely opportunity to meet Kayla and Wes again. Maddie is a strong and spirited heroine, and Alex an initially unlikely but ultimately perfect romantic lead. The story tracks the twists and turns of their relationship, but also follows Maddie’s quest to find out more about her family – a quest that puts her in serious danger, with some edge-of-your-seat moments and many real surprises. The characters are well drawn, the Cornish setting equally well described: the story is by turn exciting, mysterious and unashamedly romantic, a perfect novel into which to escape for a few hours. I loved it – and, particularly for anyone who read The Secret Kiss of Darkness, the ending is absolutely perfect. And did I mind that it wasn’t a “timeslip” book? Not one bit…
Giveaway (now closed)
With thanks to Choc Lit, I drew a winner at 6pm on Friday 27th March. Congratulations to Jan Brigden – kindle copy on its way very soon!
Christina Courtenay writes historical romantic fiction and romantic time slip stories, as well as contemporary young adult romance. For more information on Christina and her books, please see her excellent website.You’ll also find her on Twitter and Facebook.
It's really interesting to read about the writing of The Soft Whisper of Dreams. It sounds like a fantastic story; I love romance mixed with suspense. (Though I really enjoy time slip too!)
It's a great postscript, Christina!
I read the first book – loved it. I am so impressed that Christina can write in different genres and do them all so well.
I have this waiting for me on my Kindle, and, having read this interview, I can't wait any longer to read it! I love books set in Cornwall, I love Christina's writing… double whammy.
I'm a great fan of romantic suspense and this sounds a wonderful story – you can never beat anything set in Cornwall either! Angela Britnell
I'm trying to do a different genre at the minute from time slip. It's difficult so I admire you for succeeding!
I, too, enjoy writing in different genres, Christina. An interesting interview. Thank you for it, Christina and Anne.
Great interview. I love Christina's writing. Anne, your review has made me want to read this novel even more than I did before!
I love Christina's writing – effortless prose. I'm a huge fan of timeslip too, but also love pure historicals.
I'm currently reading this and loved it from the first page. I've wanted more about Alex since meeting him in the prequel.
Liv x
What a fascinating interview – it's on my kindle, too! X
I'm writing in different genres too. It's a challenge but does concentrate the mind. I'm loving this review, Anne. 'Unashamedly romantic' … perfect! Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Thank you Clare – time travel will always be my favourite but I enjoy other things too 🙂 xx
Many thanks Margaret! Xxx
Aww, thank you! 🙂 xxx
There is something very special about the West Country isn't there!? Thanks Jane! Xxx
I don't often read romantic suspense but think I should!
It can be very liberating to try something new can't it! 🙂
Thank YOU Liz 🙂 xx
Many thanks Jan, that's great! 🙂 xx
Yes they're both great sub-genres I agree! Thank you 🙂 xx
That's brilliant – thank you! Xx
Excellent – thank you! 🙂 xxx
Thanks Sheryl, yes fab review! Thank you again to Anne for having me as a guest 🙂 xxx
What a lovely array of comments, and so many of them from authors I know and admire – thank you everyone (and for following my blog or liking the Being Anne FB page), and thank you Christina for responding to everyone personally. I have absolutely no idea how many of you would like to be in the draw to win a copy of Christina's lovely book, but I'll work that one out on Friday! xx
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