Forty Paces East

I just loved this book. This was a fun book to read! I really enjoyed the whole story.
The Bileklers are hiding a dark secret and Namik’s family lie at the heart of it. Has she made a mistake becoming involved with Namik, and are their lives in danger?
This was a quick book I finished in about a day. Looking forward to reading more from this author

I read this fine novel on a cold winter's day in England with snow on the ground but soon the golden sun of the Mediterranean which permeates every page warmed me.
Cyprus in 1982, an island still struggling with the aftermath of civil war. A young English woman finds herself a pawn in a deadly feud between two families. Only the love of one man can save her.
Sheila M. Bear man's debut novel is hypnotic, intimate and compulsive. It is a tale of grief, hidden truths and dark obsessions. It is breathtakingly good.

Very readable with lots of tense action and suspended thrills. Highly recommended for a holiday or some pure escapism during the pandemic.

I wondered if the exotic setting might detract from the story when I read the “back cover” of this book. But the author strikes a skilful balance across character development, strong plot line and magnificent portrayal of what was, to me, an unfamiliar context. This book took the idea of star crossed love into the realms of mystery and many, many twists and turns. You can tell the author took care and pride in their research - it’s a polished product.