Review of 'A Secret at Windmill Cottage' by Kristin Harper

Review of 'A Secret at Windmill Cottage' by Kristin Harper

Release date: Sept 16, 2025

Publisher: Bookouture

REVIEW

A Secret at Windmill Cottage is a welcomed return to Dune Island! Book 8 is a moving and heart-warming addition to this special series by Kristin Harper. It seems each story has captured my heart and this time the windmill setting led me through a maze of mystery that kept me intrigued. I became quite emotionally involved in the characters and their dilemmas. Particularly with Caitlin’s difficult return to the island after her caring Aunt Lydia dies. A terrible event in the past kept Caitlin away for a number of years. But now with the passing of her aunt and news of her inheritance of the cottage with the attached windmill, she must face the demons that drove her away many years before.

Two timelines kept me furiously turning the pages as we get the backstory of what happened when Caitlin was younger and staying with her aunt. Certain guests arrive that prove challenging such as a fifteen year old daughter who becomes quite a handful. She certainly tests Caitlin’s patience and as a reader I was not thrilled by this younger character’s behaviour either. Yet saddened to see her personality lead her through some worrisome plot terrain that does not end well. The conflict between mother and daughter and the strict rules, left me wondering how much of it contributed to the girl’s dark fate.

As for Caitlin, she is a hard-working, honest and responsible teen in the early timeline. But she has her weaknesses, like everyone, and one night when walking on the beach with her boyfriend, things end in despair. Her loving aunt tries to help rebuild her crushed self-worth but Caitlin feels responsible for what happened to the younger teen left in her care.

In the current timeline, we see Caitlin return to the setting that broke her. But she tries to focus on one mission: to fulfil her late aunt’s request of remodelling the windmill. It is her plan to fix it up with the intent to sell and leave the area forever. But, of course, we hope she will change her mind and want to stay. When a friend tells her about Shane and his ability to transform rooms and buildings, she decides to hire him. As she gets to know him, an attraction develops and her heart begins to open to his kindness and charm. But when she comes up against his honest observations of her actions, her feathers are ruffled. Her pride is hurt but is what he says true? Some healthy growth transpires and we come to the end with a changed Caitlin. I am happy to say the Epilogue offers a delightful surprise.

This story focuses on guilt. Feeling responsible for another person’s actions and how seriously it can damage self-perception and confidence. It was easy to see why this happened but was Caitlin really responsible? Her journey back to Dune Island helps her answer these questions and allow healing to happen. By being forced back into the place where the damage was done, where the tragedy occurred, it allows her to break free from the emotional bondage that has held her captive for twenty years.

This is a beautiful story with vivid descriptions that took me away to the magic of Dune Island. It heralds second chances, healing from trauma, unexpected romance, self and heritage restoration and left me feeling uplifted, refreshed and restored by the hope and joy that evolves. Another great romantic mystery with a large serving of heart and soul. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for the review copy.