A Mesmerising Tale of Secrets and Suspense – 5 Stars!

The Greek House by Dinah Jefferies is a beautifully atmospheric novel that captured my heart from the very first page. Set on the idyllic island of Corfu in 1930, it draws you into its vivid landscapes, complex characters, and a compelling story full of mystery and family secrets.

Thirza Caruthers, the protagonist, returns to Corfu after many years, bringing with her the weight of past memories and unresolved grief over her brother Billy’s tragic disappearance. The island, with its jasmine-scented air and the sight of the family home, stirs up emotions and a longing to confront the past. Thirza’s inner turmoil is so skillfully portrayed that I felt as though I was right there with her, grappling with the memories of a time when life was simpler, yet far more complicated.

What I particularly loved about this novel is the way Jefferies weaves together the stunning setting of Corfu with the tangled emotions of its characters. Thirza’s journey of rediscovery through painting and a passionate affair with a local man is not just about love and escape; it’s also about coming to terms with the truth and the long-buried secrets of her family. The Greek house itself becomes a symbol of the past — one filled with hidden stories, jealousy, and betrayal. The tension between Thirza’s desire for peace and the haunting memory of her brother’s disappearance kept me utterly captivated throughout.

Jefferies’ writing is exquisite, rich in detail and evocative imagery, making Corfu feel like a character in its own right. The lush landscapes, the shimmering waters, and the dramatic cliffs all come to life in such a way that I could almost feel the warmth of the sun and hear the rustling of the leaves in the breeze. This setting provides the perfect backdrop for a story of family secrets, love, and the quest for truth.

As the novel progresses, the tension mounts, and I was kept on the edge of my seat as Thirza delves deeper into the mystery surrounding her brother’s disappearance. The emotional depth of the characters, particularly Thirza, made the twists and turns of the plot all the more gripping. The story is full of heartache and betrayal, but also of hope and the possibility of redemption.

The Greek House is a truly remarkable read, full of intrigue and breathtakingly beautiful prose. It’s a story about family, loss, and the secrets that bind us — one that will stay with me for a long time. Dinah Jefferies has delivered an utterly captivating novel that I cannot recommend highly enough. If you love historical fiction with a rich sense of place, complex characters, and an unforgettable mystery, this is the book for you. Five stars without question!

I adore Jefferies' books and was thrilled to begin this new offering. I always know I am in for a sweeping, emotional yet beautiful story full of gorgeous characters and locations and this was no exception.
'The Greek House' is set in Corfu and although there are descriptions of the island, I did not think it was evoked as well as some other locations Jefferies has written about. However, the house where the majority of this is set, Merchants House, is captured in all its glory and I felt myself transported to this beautiful house as the characters work to restore it to its glory days.
As always, the characters are gorgeous, I really took them to heart and enjoyed immersing myself in their stories and lives. They are such great characters and I was overjoyed to read some of them will be returning in Jefferies next book.
'The Greek House' has one of the most emotionally painful plots I have read. Every page seemed to have new trauma and heartbreak. For this reason, it was a difficult, highly emotional read, however it was still full of hope and love and I still found myself enamoured with the plot.
This is simply a gorgeous read.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for an advance copy.

I think I have read all of Dinah Jefferies books. I love her style of writing, it seems so effortless and the books flow along drawing you into the beautifully written story. Full of interesting characters. I did not expect the ending and it caught me out in a good way!

Thanks to Dinah and NetGalley for allowing me to read The Greek House prior to the publication date.
Having read and enjoyed the author’s trilogy of historical books, I was keen to read this book.

The story begins in 1923 when Italian forces invade Corfu, killing civilians, looting property and declaring martial law.
In the crowded centre of the town, 9 year old Billy becomes separated from his family and despite lengthy searches, is never found.
His mother Dulcie, never recovers from the loss of her adored son, blaming everyone else for not keeping Billy safe.

7 years later, Dulcie’s daughter, Thirza, returns to Corfu only to find that she is struggling to deal with the memories of Billy in their home.

When Emilio, a handsome Italian man moves into the property next door, Thirza and Emilio begin an affair.
However, Dulcie continues to rule Thirza’s life, often treating her like an employee.
Bit by bit, secrets are uncovered, but will the truth finally be revealed?
This is a tale of secrets and lies, family relationships and flawed human beings, envy and vindictiveness.

I enjoy Dinah’s style of writing as she dips into what I can only describe as a word palette to paint vivid pictures of each scene, drawing the reader in. She also uses personification and alliteration to great effect.

A very compelling story of love, intrigue and betrayal. Beautifully written, set on the island of corfu.
I dropped a few stars as I found the sex scenes a bit too graphic and I don’t like authors using bad language.

This could be the book for Summer reading.

Excellent writing and with a plot that flows very well. Family drama, heartbreak and love that never is forgotten. Based on the Island of Corfu it takes you through some turbulent years and the will to survive, but done in the warmest of ways.

Dinah Jefferies writes another stunning book.

Thank you Netgalley for letting me read this book.

Romance and sadness come together in this beautifully told story set in the 30’s on the Greek island of Corfu. Thirza returns to her family home to escape and paint but she cannot get her missing brow her Billy off her mind. The answers she’s looking for will play out in this gentle read.
Throughly enjoyed the story and loved the character of Thirza she was a well grounded person looking for peace. The setting was idyllic and made me want to escape to the sun would have been a perfect by the pool book!
Definitely a must read and thanks NetGalley for the opportunity to dive into this story.

I always adore Dianh Jefferies novels.

This book set in Corfu in the 1930s is filled with romance, sadness and intrigue. I felt as if I was swept away to the mediterranean shores and sitting with Thirza as she paints. Her brother Billy always on her mind.

There are secrets to be unveiled and a passionate affair but Thirza tries to discover herself and what happened to Billy.

As always these stories are beautifully told. It is a real pleasure to read such works by a brilliant storyteller .. I loved it