'Beautiful, descriptive and transporting.'
J. Taylor, author of 'A Moment on the Lips.'

'A beautifully written story that shines a light on our human fragilities. I relished and reflected on every page.'
Nic Winters, author of 'A Season to Kill.'

'A wonderful historical novel set against the backdrop of 1960s Barcelona, about three unforgettable women braving the storms of life.''
Eva Alton, Award-winning author

'This author took me on a powerful journey that I can still picture clearly, and I never wanted to emerge from this incredibly written book. Some people are born storytellers; Julia Slack is one of them.'
M.K Wood, author

'Utterly captivating and wonderfully atmospheric. Aperfect read for fans of Victoria Hislop and Kristin Hannah.'
C. Maxwell, Book Reviewer

Barcelona, 1966 - Even the darkest secrets won't stay buried forever

From Barcelona's old town to the gypsy shacks on Somorrostro beach, the intertwined destiny of two generations is unravelling.
Margarita Marquez's best friend has fallen in love with the mysterious Kiko. Uncharacteristically envious, Margarita yearns to meet someone to take her away from her mundane life and is thrilled when she meets a charming English artist.

Caught in the grip of alcohol dependence, Margarita's mother, Carmen, is struggling as her past comes back to haunt her. She must try to heal the rift with her daughter and support her when the unthinkable happens.

Born in Somorrostro, Santi Calaf is determined to follow his dreams of becoming a doctor and is mentored by an ancient gypsy healer. He's shocked when he discovers that she holds the key to the truth, and as her life ebbs away, the ghosts of Somorrostro can finally be laid to rest.

Perfect for fans of Victoria Hislop, Fiona Valpy and Santa Montefiore

Reader Reviews

'Engrossing, beautiful and original. There are shades of Kristin Hannah and Elizabeth Gilbert in Julia Slack’s writing without it seeming like she’s imitating them. It’s emotional drama, deftly switching between light and shade, which is a real skill.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'It’s a beautifully written story of forbidden love and generations-old family secrets, set in 1960’s Barcelona. Fans of Victoria Hislop (like me) will love this book.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Beautiful, captivating book. It’s made me put Barcelona on my bucket list!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'This is a breathtaking debut novel that takes you on a powerful journey into the lives and secrets of Somorrostro. Unbelievable that this is the author's first novel, as it reads like a Kristin Hannah classic. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'I think I felt every emotion whilst reading this book. A really fantastic read.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'I felt the passion, tension and sorrow within every page. Just glorious.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'A wonderful story and so immersive. Absolutely loved it!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'What a brilliantly written novel. Engaging, intriguing and exciting. Julia Slack brings Barcelona into full vibrant colour.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'This tale of family betrayal set in 1960's Barcelona had me captivated from the beginning.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'If you've ever been to Barcelona, you'll connect to all the places mentioned in the story! If not, you'll want to go! Devastated when the book finished! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐