The Art of Hiding by Amanda Prowse

The Art of Hiding by Amanda Prowse is the story of how one family dealt with the devastating double whammy of losing a loved one and financial security in one fail swoop; therefore, a reverse rages to riches tale. The story is intended to remind us that family is the most important thing in our lives and we can live, rich fulfilling lives, without the “stuff” that so many individuals focus their attention and hard earned money on acquiring.

Nina McCarrick has the perfect life. Two wonderful boys, a loving husband, big house, fancy car and all the trappings that go with the wealth that her husband’s successful business allows. Yet, behind the beautiful manured lawn lies secrets that will destroy all of this and reduce it to ash as sure as any conflagration.

The house of cards all comes tumbling down when Finn, Nina’s husband, is killed in a car accident. Nina is now a single mother of two boys, alone and bereft, with a mountain of debt, and she has no idea how to move forward. When none of her “friends” will help, she makes a desperate call to Tiggy, her estranged sister. Tiggy suggests she move back to her home town of Southampton.

Out of options, with no job and very little money, Nina does just that and moves into a small run down flat where her Aunt once lived. It is especially hard on her two boys who have never know anything but a life of privilege. Fortunately, with the help of Tiggy and some new friends Nina slowly starts to reassemble her life and in the process she rediscovers herself.

While I did not feel a strong connection with Nina, mainly because my life experiences have been so different and I have always been independent, I still could empathize with her because the author did such a wonderful job with her character. In addition, the plot was believable; therefore, it was easy to see how someone could end up in Nina’s situation.

There are a lot of good things, plot, characters, etc., to like about this book, but for me, it was the message. The best things in life really are free and we just lose sight of that in all the bustle of everyday life. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story and one that delivers a heartfelt message.

I received a free copy from the publisher, via Net Galley, in exchange for my honest review.