Intrinsically readable and alarmingly unputdownable, this book draws the reader into the Tide family from the start. With waves of their history juxtaposed throughout as the story evolves, the full picture gradually emerges along with the tragic ramifications of that fateful day. It is a day that results in the family being torn apart by loss, blame and recriminations not to mention the long term mental anguish that accompanies each member of the family as they struggle to come to terms with their part in the tragedy.

Set mostly in the beautiful countryside of the Dorset coast with the family home of ‘Clifftops’ as a dominant presence throughout, each character is allowed to present their point of view in their own voice giving a full picture of the circumstances that leads to a child’s disappearance.

For a first book the author has done a remarkable job in drawing characters that we care about, particularly Dora, who as the youngest sister, feels the weight of responsibility for the loss of her baby brother 11 years previously. As she and her boyfriend embark on parenthood themselves, the wounds of the past are reopened and she revisits the other members of her family to seek closure on past events.

This atmospheric and heart wrenching book is one that you will recommend to your friends – although I would suggest that you should also include a pack of Kleenex to your recommendation!