This is for two paperback novels by Mark Nickson:

1. THE VENETIAN HOUSE; published by Arrow Books in 2008 [pp. 456]. Has previous owner's name on top right hand corner of flyleaf otherwise in very good unmarked condition.

For Victoria, orphaned at six, her grandmother Evanthi's beautiful home in Corfu - known locally as The Venetian House - has always meant safety, freedom and a near-magical kind of contentment. Brought up by her cousin Guy's parents in England, she - together with Guy and his childhood friend Richard Cunningham - always longed for the idylllic summer holidays where they forged a friendship that would last a lifetime. Victoria was mesmerized by brilliant, selfish, enigmatic Guy, but it was safe, affectionate, reliable Richard whom she married.

Now, twenty years later, Richard is dead. Victoria discovers her marriage was a sham and, desperate to escape, she takes Jake out to The Venetian House, feeling that only these beloved surroundings can she face her demons.

1. SECRETS AND SHADOWS; published by Arrow Books in 2006 [pp. 536]. Slight yellowing to flyleaf otherwise in very good unmarked condition.

Determined to start a new life, Louisa Forrester has come to Scotland in search of adventure, new relationships and a second chance. She has enrolled on a creative writing course at the renowned Glendrochatt Arts Centre. It is here that she meets Marnie Donovan, a young American woman who has travelled to Scotland in search of the childhood home of her eccentric benefactress, hoping for answers to questions that have haunted her all her life. Isobel Grant, who runs the centre with her husband Giles, is facing the greatest challenge of her life but must put on a brave face for everyone's sake.

Told with warmth and insight, Secrets and Shadows is a beautifully written story of three women and how they learn to embrace the future, however uncertain ...