
In E. Lockhart's latest, Matilda is invited to spend the summer with her estranged artist father, Kingsley Cello, at his secluded estate, Hidden Beach. Expecting to find a missing piece of herself, Matilda instead encounters a long-lost brother, a troubled former child star, and a mysterious, unwelcoming local. As Kingsley remains absent, Matilda must navigate a labyrinth of lies and family intrigue to uncover the dark truths hidden within the seemingly idyllic setting. This young adult novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of family, wrapped in a suspenseful, gothic atmosphere with a touch of romance. It's perfect for readers who enjoy a compelling mystery with emotional depth.
The invitation arrives out of the blue. In it, Matilda discovers a father she’s never met. Kingsley Cello is a visionary, a reclusive artist. And when he asks her to spend the summer at his seaside home, Hidden Beach, Matilda expects to find a part of herself she’s never fully understood. Instead, she finds Meer, her long-lost, openhearted brother; Brock, a former child star battling demons; and brooding, wild Tatum, who just wants her to leave their crumbling sanctuary. With Kingsley nowhere to be seen, Matilda must delve into the twisted heart of Hidden Beach to uncover the answers she’s desperately craving. But secrets run thicker than blood, and blood runs like seawater. And everyone here is lying.