Member Reviews

This was an intense book at times. Full of some family drama, lost love and a bit of a mystery.
I thought I had the ending all figured out but boy was I surprised. It’s a page turner!
It’s a good series by this author

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Phillipa Nefri Clark's "The House at Angels Beach" is a poignant exploration of family secrets, personal redemption, and the enduring power of love. The narrative centers on Ivy Ross, who, after a decade-long self-imposed exile from her hometown of Rivers End, returns to her family’s ancestral home, Fairview House, at the behest of her sister Jody. This return is not merely a journey back to a physical location but a deep dive into Ivy's painful past, filled with betrayal, shattered trust, and lingering questions.

The novel’s emotional resonance lies in its multifaceted portrayal of Ivy's struggle to reconcile with her past. Ivy's father, once a pillar of her life, is now a source of pain and confusion, his imprisonment for an undisclosed crime casting a long shadow over her. The discovery of a cache of anonymous love letters in her father's library serves as a catalyst for Ivy to revisit the night that irreparably changed her family. These letters, revealing a love story fraught with its own heartbreak, gradually unravel the truths Ivy believed to be set in stone. As Ivy pieces together the reality of her father's actions and motivations, readers are taken on an emotional journey that challenges preconceived notions and emphasizes the complexity of human relationships.

A standout feature of Clark's novel is its ability to blend a gripping mystery with profound emotional depth. The anonymous letters serve as a narrative device that not only propels the plot forward but also enriches it with historical and emotional context. This layering of the past and present creates a rich tapestry that keeps readers engaged and invested in Ivy’s quest for truth.

The character of Leo, whose life was also marred by Ivy's father’s crime, adds another layer of intrigue and emotional complexity. Leo's presence in the story forces Ivy to confront the wider repercussions of her father's actions, making her journey towards understanding and forgiveness even more compelling. Their interactions are charged with a mixture of tension and mutual longing, further drawing readers into their shared history and potential future.

Fans of women's fiction will find much to love in "The House at Angels Beach." The novel delves into themes of forgiveness, self-discovery, and the enduring impact of family legacies, all hallmarks of the genre. Clark’s writing is both evocative and empathetic, allowing readers to deeply connect with Ivy's emotional turmoil and her gradual path to healing. The majestic setting of Fairview House, with its hidden secrets and historical significance, serves as a perfect backdrop for this emotionally charged narrative, adding to the novel’s appeal.

Moreover, Clark’s ability to create complex, relatable characters ensures that "The House at Angels Beach" resonates on a personal level. Ivy’s journey from a place of pain and confusion to one of clarity and acceptance is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, offering readers a story that is as satisfying as it is thought-provoking.

"The House at Angels Beach" by Phillipa Nefri Clark is a masterfully crafted novel that combines mystery, romance, and emotional depth. Its exploration of love, loss, and the intricate web of family secrets will captivate readers, particularly those who appreciate the nuanced storytelling found in women’s fiction. Ivy Ross’s journey is one of rediscovery and redemption, making this book a profoundly moving read that lingers long after the final page is turned.

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Another great mystery by Phillipa Nefri Clark. The house at Angel’s Beach is a story of love and mystery. A rekindling of love and reuniting of family. Whenever I start reading a book by Phillipa I know I won’t put it down until it’s finished and this one didn’t disappoint. Ivy came back to Rivers End with the intention of selling Fairview House and returning to England. Her and sister Jody had not been close since Ivy took her mums side and didn’t go to Jody’s wedding. Coming back to Fairview House has bought back many memories including the accident which her dad confessed to two years after it happened and was jailed. Ivy never wanted to have any more to do with her father. The longer she stayed the more memories returned of that night. I highly recommend reading this book.

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Her grief and broken trust still linger, but her sister Jody's pleas to complete her legacy - the great Fairview Villa - compel her to return.
The novel tells a captivating story of family secrets and hidden memories. As Ivy explores the rooms of Fairview House, she discovers heartfelt letters hidden in her father's library. The letters challenge her understanding of the past and force her to reevaluate her family's history.
The storytelling is impressive and seamlessly connects the past and present. It truly depicts Ivy's emotional journey from reluctance to curiosity. Jodi is also hiding a secret, and their sisterly bond adds depth to the story. Fairview House will be more than just a setting; it's a character whose memories echo.
Although Angel Beach House is part of a series, it stands on its own, leaving readers satisfied. Within these pages, an honest look at love, loss, and redemption awaits you.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing.

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So enjoyed the 3rd book in the Temple River series, a little bit of romance with a little bit of mystery thrown in. The story of Ivy,Jody and their father.
Read as stand alone or catch up on the whole series.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and publisher Storm for the early read.

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This was another winner in the Temple River series, it had that feel that I was hoping for and glad the overall feel worked in this setting. I enjoyed the concept and characters in this world. Phillipa Nefri Clark has a great writing style and hope to read more.

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Families are complicated. There were mysteries, misunderstandings, hurt feelings and finally — healing. It was a heartbreaking and beautiful story. I couldn’t put it down!

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A well written story, surrounding varying forms of long lasting love. Lies, death, trauma associated with an accident. How one fathers lies tore his family apart, to eventually be put back to rights. How one woman's so called love, couldn't rise above her religious beliefs, tearing apart her relationships, and effecting her two children. A fathers sacrifice going to jail, so his daughters and his love for one woman be arrested. The family home along with its occupants, being put to use a gain, to benefit others. A great story, as you read it, the mysteries start to come to light. Loved it

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What a wonderful story. It had me in tears it was so beautiful. I didn't want to finish this book as I enjoyed it so much. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

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This story was so intriguing and thought provoking. You never know what people will do for love.

I definitely got swept up in this book. The characters were so well written that I felt I really knew them. That said, they were complicated and emotional in the best way.

I got a little lost with all the discoveries and trying to piece it all together. I figured some stuff out easily and other stuff is still a mystery to me.

This book was well written with lots of twists and turns.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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Secrets, lost loves, sacrifices, and misconceptions. Remembering the past and finding the truth. So many twists in the plot, and so much forgiveness needed. A few shed tears. A story you cannot put down and characters you feel are your family and friends.

The House at Angel's Beach by Phillipa Nefri Clark releases May 31st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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Secrets, so many secrets! I've read a few of Phillipa's books and I've always enjoyed them. This one was no exception. Ivy and Jody are back at their father's house, Fairview, to decide what to do with it. He's currently in prison following a fatal car accident in which he confessed to driving the car that caused the accident. However, from the opening chapter describing the accident, there are things that just don't fit the scenario. As Ivy and Jody go through the house they discover things that hint at secrets and a past they were unaware of. A wonderful mystery with a great ending.
Thanks to Netgalley, Storm Publishing and Phillipa Nefri Clark for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Absolutely loved this book. Clark spins a tale that grabs you from beginning and doesn't let you go. While you may think you've solved the puzzle, there are pieces that don't quite fit. A tale of many different kinds of loves. Looking forward to reading more from this new found author.

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Facing the past & uncovering secrets: captivating dual-time plot🌊

4.5🌟stars
This is a story of a romance and a family broken apart, with the two adult daughters Ivy and Jodie coming back together to make decisions about the unoccupied family property, and I loved the mystery connected with father Gabriel's life. The mystery intruder and the store of hidden letters that Ivy discovers gave a fascinating glimpse into Gabe's secret life both long before and after his marriage to their mother. And Ivy's occasional space-outs create questions about what actually occurred on the fateful night that put Gabe in prison and drove Ivy overseas and away from Leo, the young man she loved.

I am a real fan of Phillipa Nefri Clark's writing style and the way she lays out her plot. I also loved the beachside small-town setting on the south coast of Australia. River's End is a common location for this series and some characters overlap, but this story is complete in itself and knowledge of the earlier novels and their principal characters is not in any way necessary; The House at Angel's Beach is excellent as a standalone story of family, mistakes and second chances.

Thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

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A very tightly interwoven story of misguided love, trauma, family, loss, and gain. Ms Clark tells a spellbinding tale, and the latest installment of the Temple River series proves it in spades. Mystery, tragedy, laughter, growth - it's all wrapped up in a sweet (imaginary) Australian town that makes one want to visit. I lost myself in the story and managed to read it in a day (didn't get much else accomplished...). Lovely story!

I received an ARC; this is my honest review.

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For fans of Kate Morton, this book is for you. Set In Australia, two sisters are reunited to settle the affairs of their father's house. Years before, a tragic car accident had sent their father to jail. While sorting thru the house and their father's papers, they discover long lost secrets that could shed light on that tragic night . A great read, I Iook forward to reading other books in this series.

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Set in Australia, this book is full of intrigue and secrets. Ivy swore she’d never go back, but when she finds she now owns a third share of Fairviee, she knows she must go back and face everything but also to try to make up with Jody, her sister. If she should come across Leo, the love she left behind, she has it all in her mind what she’d say, until she doesn’t.

An atmospheric read, you can almost feel the cold sea water, the sand under your feet and see the ocean views. There’s a really nicely paced story here, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader interested, good characters that you want to know more about, and romance in abundance. I liked the way Ivy kept getting flashbacks to the night when everything changed. The letters to her father were nicely packed with bits of the story and details of the writer. Recommended

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.

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This story is so much more than I expected. Fairview House is situated on the beach in a glorious part of Australia. I can picture the house in my mind, feel the sun on my face and the sand between my toes, bliss. Ivy left years before to go back to her mum in England, leaving her father, sister Jody and Leo, the love of her life behind and swore she'd never return after an incident one night that changed everything. Reluctantly she had to return to Fairview and meet her sister to finalise some family business. This is when the story really begins. Secrets and lies, twists and turns, it has it all. Outstanding book.

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Loved this book. Kept me guessing until the very end. So many suspects but the outcome was great. Can’t wait to read the next one.

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Get comfortable, and grab the Kleenex. This book gets you right in the feels. Phillipa Nefri Clark has done a beautiful job with The House at Angel's Beach.

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