Review of 'The Lost Girl of Seahaven' by Phillipa Nefri Clark

Review of 'The Lost Girl of Seahaven' by Phillipa Nefri Clark

Release date: July 28th, 2025

Publisher: Storm Publishing

REVIEW

Another heart-shaking, tender and moving story from Phillipa Nefri Clark filled with family secrets, mystery and drama. The Lost Girl of Seahaven took me on a reading journey I won’t forget! This mesmerising mystery is haunting due to the nature of the plot. A lost child is everyone’s worst nightmare and this story shows the effects of such an event on family and friends. But it also demonstrates the unyielding love between grandparent and child and between siblings—especially those who have been torn apart by dire circumstances. Romantic love is in the mix, too, and it is a delightful coming together of two deserving souls who find each other on the road to uncovering a family truth.

This is a story of courage, too. Angie Fairlie had a tough marriage and has experienced a difficult divorce. She heads home to her coastal hometown for a fresh start. While spending time with her grandfather, she stumbles across a box that holds a book and newspaper clippings that belonged to her grandmother. The Loneliest Girl by The Sea contains a tragedy that tugs on Angie’s heart. Little does she know of what’s ahead once she embarks on this journey of discovery. She eventually learns that fiction is closer to real life than imagined. There are incredible parallels in the book to a girl that went missing in 1952. And as Angie delves deeper into the mysterious case that her late grandmother started with her own exploration, she comes to some shocking conclusions.

Jack is a likeable character, who moved next door to Emmett’s place a year earlier. He’s the next door neighbour you’d like to have: kind, helpful and mannerly. He gets along well with Angie’s grandfather who has plans for these two. Jack appreciates the fact Emmett made him feel welcome when he moved in and helps out wherever he can. Jack has his own story to tell that involves an injury he received in the line of duty. Angie cannot make up her mind at first what she thinks of him but in time she sees the man he is and his desire to help her solve the lost child mystery, puts him in her good books. It is the exact opportunity they need to get to know each other and, yes, there is an attraction that blossoms, once Angie gets over her fear of relationships. Jack is important to the plot and adds another layer of emotional charm to the story as we follow the clues to solve the lost child mystery. I really enjoyed his part and dealings with Angie and her Gramps. And he is a worthy partner for Angie.

Book 5 is another winner of the Temple River series! And once you read one, you want to read them all! The Lost Girl of Seahaven is a well composed, intriguing mystery with lots to keep you interested. And the setting descriptions are breathtakingly beautiful. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for a review copy.