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The Hidden Years

Discover the captivating novel from the million-copy bestseller Rachel Hore

About The Book

Sunday Times bestseller Rachel Hore’s captivating new novel of secrets, loss and betrayal - set on the beautiful Cornish coast during World War Two and the heady days of the 1960s.

When talented musician Gray Robinson persuades Belle to abandon her university studies and follow him to Silverwood, home to an artistic community on the Cornish coast, Belle happily agrees even though they’ve only just met. She knows she is falling in love, and the thought of spending a carefree summer with Gray is all she can think about.

But being with Gray isn’t the only reason Belle agrees to accompany him to Silverwood.

Why does the name Silverwood sound so familiar?
What is its connection to a photo of her as a baby, taken on a nearby beach?
And who is Imogen Lockhart, a wartime nurse who lived at Silverwood many years ago?

As the summer months unfold, Belle begins to learn the truth – about secrets from the past that have been kept hidden, but also about the person she wants to be.

Praise for Rachel Hore's One Moonlit Night

‘Beautifully rich in period detail – an absorbing and touching story’ Erica James, Sunday Times bestselling author of Mothers & Daughters

'Brimming over with everything I love about this author's writing: atmosphere, intrigue, wonderful characters and a beautiful love story. Pure delight to read' Tracy Rees

'A stunning depiction of life during the war, both for the men who faced death on the battlefields and those left behind in England . . . a compelling and evocative read, brimming with hope, courage and buried secrets.' S Magazine

'We’re in the London of World War II, her house is bombed to bits and husband Philip is missing after Dunkirk. With two small daughters in tow, Maddie seeks refuge at Knyghton, Philip’s childhood home . . . In this gripping, detailed, beautifully written drama, Hore brilliantly captures the danger and desperation on both the home and battle fronts.' Daily Mail

About The Author

Charlotte Murphy

Rachel Hore worked in London publishing for many years before moving with her family to Norwich, where she taught publishing and creative writing at the University of East Anglia until deciding to become a full-time writer. The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is her fourteenth novel. She is married to the writer D.J. Taylor and they have three sons. Visit her at RachelHore.co.uk and connect with her on X @RachelHore and instagram @@rachel.hore.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK (November 29, 2023)
  • Length: 496 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781398517950

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Raves and Reviews

'This complex, thoughtful novel features two interlocking stories in different timeframes. Themes of family, self-determination and passionate love make for a dramatic, warm-hearted, wonderfully written read.' DAILY MAIL

'Gorgeous' GOOD HOUSEKEEPING

'A gripping read' HELLO

'The Hidden Years is a gorgeous tale - I raced through the pages. A new book by Rachel Hore is always a treat and this is no exception. An intriguing dual timeline story set in beautiful Cornwall and brimming with sense of place’ TRACY REES

'A powerfully emotional book that gripped me on every page. Superb!’ KATE FURNIVALL

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