Portobello Book Blog

We might not be able to physically go on holiday to the seaside just now but we can live vicariously and take a trip to beautiful Wynmouth with Tess Tyler, in Heidi Swain’s newest book which is published today.

Tess works in the family firm and after a particularly pressured time plus an upsetting discovery, she decides to take a break in the little Norfolk town of Wynmouth where she spent many a happy holiday as a child. As she begins to rest and recover, she soon finds herself becoming involved in the life of the town and putting her planning skills to good use. But there is always a sense that there is some sort of secret just waiting to come to the fore…

I love the settings that Heidi Swain creates. Despite the typical British ‘summer’ weather Tess experiences for much of her stay, Wynmouth sounds like an idyllic place, not just for a holiday, but to live. I could easily picture Crow’s Nest cottage next to the pub, and Sophie’s cafe, the beach huts and so on. There is quite a sense of community too and with Tess’s help and encouragement, I felt this grew stronger throughout the book. I enjoyed watching Tess start to blossom again through helping others and discovering the things that really mattered to her. With two men vying for her attention at times (not that Tess seems to notice this!) it’s a gorgeously romantic read too.

And the food, oh the food! This is definitely not a book to read if you are remotely hungry as the descriptions of Sophie’s creations will have your stomach rumbling, your mouth watering and you running off to find the recipes.

The Secret Seaside Escape is perfect reading for just now (or any time) offering the reader a real escape from the worry and stress of everyday life. A great book to curl up with and imagine those holidays that we will one day be able to enjoy again. With lots of secrets waiting to be uncovered, new friendships, community spirit, a gorgeous setting, some surprises and a beautiful love story or two, this is a joyously uplifting, feel-good book.

My thanks to the publishers, Simon & Schuster, for my review copy of the book from Netgalley. The Secret Seaside Escape is published today in ebook, paperback and audiobook formats. In these difficult times, please support your nearest independent bookshop if you can. Or you will find buying links for various retailers on the publisher’s website here: The Secret Seaside Escape

From the back of the book

Tess Tyler needs a break. Weighed down by her high-pressure job and her demanding father, she’s left little time to take care of herself. But after a shocking discovery sends her spiralling, she flees to Wynmouth, the seaside town she fell in love with as a child, to escape it all.

With its sandy beaches, stunning rock pools and welcoming community, Tess feels like she can finally breathe again. And as she grows ever closer to local barman Sam, she dares to dream that she might never return to her real life. But when a familiar face returns to town, Tess realises that there are secrets in Wynmouth too, and that her own past may be about to catch up with her . . .  

About the author

Heidi Swain is the Sunday Times bestselling author of five novels. She lives in Norfolk with her husband, two allegedly grown-up children and a mischievous black cat called Storm. She is passionate about gardening, the countryside and collects vintage paraphernalia. To find out more, follow Heidi on twitter @Heidi_Swain or visit her website: heidiswain.co.uk.