The Lighthouse Bookshop by Sharon Gosling

 

At the heart of a tiny community in a remote village just inland from the Aberdeenshire coast stands an unexpected lighthouse. Built two centuries ago by an eccentric landowner, it has become home to the only bookshop for miles around.
 
Rachel is an incomer to the village. She arrived five years ago and found a place she could call home. So when the owner of the Lighthouse Bookshop dies suddenly, she steps in to take care of the place, trying to help it survive the next stage of its life.
 
But when she discovers a secret in the lighthouse, long kept hidden, she realises there is more to the history of the place than she could ever imagine. Can she uncover the truth about the lighthouse’s first owner? And can she protect the secret history of the place?

The Lighthouse Bookshop is the first book I have read by Sharon Gosling but with a title like this it sounded like a book written for me. We meet a collection of characters who form a strong supportive network in the hub of the Lighthouse bookshop and each of them have their own little back story to weave into this storyline.

Rachel has found a not just a home but a place where she feels safe and where she belongs working at the bookshop after Cullen offers her a job and a home in his beloved lighthouse. But when dear Cullen passes way unexpectedly everything looks like it is set to change leaving Rachel to start all over again. When she unearths a hidden secret that has been concealed for many years she immerses herself along with newcomer Toby to try and peace together all the information they have to find out the true story behind her discovery. The story that is revealed is very touching and the author delivers this beautifully. I was intrigued by what they found but I also found I was more drawn to the other characters stories especially finding out about Rachels back story as well as seeing life change for Gilly.

The book had a gentle pace to it and yet there was always something going on and before long you feel as though you are being drawn into the social circle and you long for all of them to find their happy ever afters. This book is not one that will leave a lasting impression on me however I did enjoy it and it is perfect for those who love to unearth secrets and be wrapped up in community spirit, romance and new beginnings.