I’ve been enjoying reading a lot recently. Perhaps it’s the cooler weather, or just that I’ve found some great books, but it feels like I’m reading a lot. Actually I’ve read 8 out of my 24 target for the Goodreads 2026 Reading Challenge, which I’m pretty pleased with. I’m not sure how I discovered Dinah Jefferies, but I usually enjoy her historical novels a lot. Her latest novel is The Lost Château and is published next month.

The Lost Château by Dinah Jefferies

A secret lies behind every door…

The Dordogne, 1936

Amid tangled gardens and crumbling walls, Chateau Rousseau guards its secrets well.

Pushing open its faded door, Thirza Caruthers arrives to care for her great-aunt. She’s made a promise – unaware of what awaits.

As the skies darken above Europe, the chateau begins to reveal its secrets: stories of forbidden love, devastating betrayal, and a child who vanished years ago.

But in uncovering the truth, Thirza may lose herself forever.

 

I think this may well be my favourite Dinah Jefferies novel so far. Although I wasn’t a huge fan of The Greek House (see my review here), The Lost Château successfully carries on with the story of Thirza and Emilio. This time round, the plot is so much stronger and really drives the narrative. It’s a fantastic page turner, set against a wonderfully picturesque backdrop that spans the Spanish Civil War and the lead up to the Second World War in Europe.

The Lost Château by Dinah Jefferies published the 4th June 2026 by HarperCollins UK. Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC.

You may be interested in my other reviews of books by Dinah Jefferies:

The Greek House by Dinah Jefferies

Night Train to Marrakech by Dinah Jefferies

The Hidden Palace by Dinah Jefferies

Daughters of War by Dinah Jefferies

The Tuscan Contessa by Dinah Jefferies

The Missing Sister by Dinah Jefferies

The Sapphire Widow by Dinah Jefferies

Before The Rains by Dinah Jefferies

The Tea Planter’s Wife by Dinah Jefferies

The Silk Merchant’s Daughter by Dinah Jefferies