The Ghost of Seagull Cottage: Inspired by The Ghost and Mrs Muir

by Anne Allen

A haunting tale of love, loss and finding one’s place in the worldWidowed artist Annabel returns to Guernsey seeking a fresh start for herself and her young daughter away from her late husband’s controlling family. Seagull Cottage appears perfect, by the sea and with a low rent. The snag is it comes with a resident ghost, Daniel, a sea captain who died 70 years ago in 1946. He built the cottage and objects to anyone not family living there. He and Annabel have to come to terms with sharing what he still considers to be his home.

After a difficult start they begin to share their pasts and an unlikely friendship blooms, becoming deeper as they spend more time together. Annabel realises she’s falling for him but would she truly prefer a ghost to a real live man?


Blending elements of romance, mystery and the supernatural into a compelling tale about the power of human connection and presenting a modern twist on R.A. Dick's novel The Ghost and Mrs Muir and the classic movie of the same name.

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 14, 2024

About the author

Anne Allen lives in Devon, by her beloved sea. She has three children and her daughter and two grandchildren live nearby. She was born in Rugby, to an English mother and Welsh father. As a result she spent many summers with her Welsh grandparents in Anglesey and learnt to love the sea. Her restless spirit has meant a number of moves which included Spain for a couple of years. The longest stay was in Guernsey for nearly fourteen years after falling in love with the island and the people. She contrived to leave one son behind to ensure a valid reason for frequent returns.
By profession Anne was a psychotherapist but has long had creative ‘itches’, learning to mosaic, paint furniture, interior design and sculpt. At the back of her mind the itch to write was always present but seemed too time-consuming for a single mum with a need to earn a living. Now retired from the 'day job', there’s more time to write and Anne has now published seven books in The Guernsey Novels series as at April 2019.

Reviews

[Brian Trevizo · Rating 5 out of 5]

A soothing, emotionally intelligent book with a unique twist. Anne Allen has a light hand with heavy topics, which makes the reading experience both moving and enjoyable.

I loved the quiet strength in Annabel’s voice and the curiosity that Daniel inspired in both her and me as the reader.

[Deborah J Miles · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ghost of Seagull Cottage is the fourth novel that I have read in this enthralling series which reveals pieces of the island’s history with each story. However, it is the first that I have read which does not involve a duel time-line to impart that history, but rather has its own ghost.

Set in the present day, we see Annabel Easton returning to Guernsey, the place of her birth, with her daughter Emilia, following the recent death of her husband, and with a need to escape his controlling family in Manchester. Annabel is an artist who is making ends meet by selling her work, but hardly able to afford the costly rents on the island. However, there is one cottage which the agent is struggling to rent. It is very affordable and in a good condition, having been recently renovated. Annabel falls in love with it as soon as she steps inside. The problem is that it is haunted by Captain Daniel Gallienne, the original owner, who died some seventy years earlier. He seems to be a surly character who does not take kindly to having strangers in his home.

Annabel quickly wins the Captain round and they agree to share the cottage, with the Captain restricted to certain rooms and under no circumstances to reveal himself to Emilia.

How the friendship blooms and Annabel is able to create the life she wanted for herself and her daughter is elegantly told in this well-written, romantic and captivating story.

Although time-poor these days, I chewed through this novel in three sessions. I was hooked from the moment Annabel encounters the ghost. I quickly became very fond of the two main characters and hoped that Annabel would achieve her dream and be able to buy Seagull Cottage.

I loved Annabel’s close friendship with the ghost and how he becomes very protective of her. I could feel their attraction to each other, and it was with a lump in my throat that I read the penultimate chapter.

The Ghost of Seagull Cottage is the ninth book in Allen's Guernsey Novels series, but as with all the others, it is easily read as a standalone.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in the present day, Annabel has returned to her home island of Guernsey after the death of her husband, looking for a new home and fresh start for herself and her young daughter Emylia. There’s a reason why Seagull Cottage is so affordable – a resident ghost, a former sea captain, who frequently shows his displeasure at having to share his former home. But it’s perfect for their needs – a fully renovated kitchen, a nearby school for Emylia, a light and airy attic perfect for her to use as an art studio – and, after agreeing a few rules of engagement, Annabel and the captain become friends. And that friendship helps her regain her lost confidence – resuming her painting and securing an exhibition, having an unexpected brush with the world of publishing, making new friends in the community, and becoming ready to consider a new relationship.

I have to admit that I’m not familiar with the classic film – something I should remedy, I think – but that was no obstacle to finding this book an absolute delight. I’m not always comfortable with tales of the supernatural, but the unusual relationship in this book is quite perfectly handled and nothing that would give even the most sensitive reader sleepless nights – they’re both particularly likeable individuals and so well drawn, the warmth between them is palpable, and there are some lovely touches of gentle humour too.

We share Annabel’s journey outside the cottage as she finds new friendships – some with characters who’ll be familiar to readers of the earlier books, but no problem if you’re reading this one as a standalone – and rediscovers the delights of Guernsey, with the loveliest descriptions inspired by the author’s love of her former home. She does make a few wrong turns and unwise choices along her way, but I really enjoyed sharing her new experiences as she slowly found her feet and began to feel at home. There are emotional moments too, even a few tears as the story drew to a close – but the ending couldn’t have been any more perfect.

This really was the loveliest addition to a series I’ve thoroughly enjoyed – but also a delightful read for anyone who might not have already discovered the author’s writing, and highly recommended to all. And, if you enjoy this one as much as I did, I’d highly recommend you try some of the earlier books too – engaging and very different stories, all set in the most beautiful location, and with the finest of writing.

[Bryan Stephens]

The Guernsey setting in The Ghost of Seagull Cottage is absolutely enchanting, a character in itself. Anne Allen paints it in such vivid colors that I felt transported: the sparkling bays, the sea air, the quiet lanes. It’s the perfect backdrop for Annabel’s journey back to herself after years of loss and disappointment.

What I didn’t expect was how charismatic the ghost would be. Captain Daniel Gallienne isn’t your typical shadowy figure as he’s opinionated, proud, and sometimes downright funny. Watching Annabel learn to coexist with him gave the book a delightful unpredictability. Every time Daniel appeared, I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next.

It’s a beautiful mix of comfort and suspense, with just a whisper of romance. I finished the last page with a smile and a sigh, already missing the world Allen had created. Highly recommended for fans of character-driven ghost stories with heart.

[Sandy McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly charming story.

I have read and loved all of the books in this magical series, and this one did not disappoint .
Annabel returns to her home country of Guernsey, along with her daughter Emilia, where she rents a seaside cottage. Unfortunately, the ghost of the original owner is still very present. Can Annabel and her daughter live there happily with this presence?
It was wonderful to meet some of the characters from the previous books as they welcomed Annabel into their community.
An exceptionally compelling and moving story, which I found impossible to put down.
This book and the others in the series are highly recommended.

[K.L. Loveley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Anne Allen has produced another outstanding story set in Guernsey. I find her storytelling just the right pace with interesting well-developed characters who are so believable that I was sad when the book ended. In particular, I grew quite fond of Captain Daniel the ghost. His quirky and humorous character gave a great twist to a ghost story. I was sorry to say goodbye to this dashing character and was delighted to meet his nephew.
Annabel the protagonist of the story who has returned to her birthplace after the death of her husband is ready to pursue her dream of settling in Guernsey with her young daughter. When she rents Seagull cottage with its resident ghost rather than be frightened off, she embraces her newfound ghostly friend.
The story kept me absorbed with the wonderful descriptions of Guernsey and its culinary delights. In addition, I enjoyed reading about the artwork and how her friendships developed.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book. So lovely to meet up with old friends too. I think it's time to start at the beginning again.

[Charles Raymond]

Anne Allen just became an incredible author for me. She paints grief and new beginnings with such precision, layering history, heartache, and hope into one of the most human ghost stories I’ve ever read.

There’s nothing overwrought here—just a mother, a daughter, a cottage by the sea, and the memories (some living, some not) that refuse to fade. Truly beautiful.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The blend of realism and paranormal here was handled with such grace. Daniel never felt silly or forced, he felt like someone I could meet on a walk and talk to for hours.

It’s gentle, nostalgic, and profoundly emotional.

[Judith Swift · Rating 5 out of 5]

stunning book

Absolutely loved this book. Enjoyed the ghost and Mrs muir but this book was even better. Loved the ending and would recommend it to everyone who loves a good romance

[Billy Buttons · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
17th May 2024
TITLE: The Ghost of Seagull Cottage, The Guernsey Novels – Book 9

AUTHOR: Anne Allen

Star Rating: 5

‘A smartly plotted, cosy romance - with a ghostly twist. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf

REVIEW
I must say, for the romance genre, this is a rather original novel! It's the story of Annabel and her daughter who move to Guernsey to live in a small cottage. The cottage is perfect (and surprisingly inexpensive too) – until Annabel discovers why. It seems they will be sharing the house with a rather difficult man – who passed away 70 years ago in 1946. Hmm, blossoming love between a woman and a ghost, that could be problematic! What follows is a Pride and Prejudice style story as the chemistry between the two grows until, suddenly, Annabel finds herself in love with a spirit with no physical body. As I say, it’s original!
There were a number of elements to this well-crafted novel I particularly enjoyed, First, of course, the setting. It’s on Guernsey; I know the island well, my children attend music school there every summer – so I enjoyed revisiting the island through Annabel’s eyes. I suspect most readers who get to enjoy this book (or any of Anne Allen’s Guernsey Novels) will be inspired to visit the island and explore. Secondly, I liked how the author developed the chemistry between the two central characters. She seemed to be in no hurry, allowing the reader to get to know the characters and to enjoy the initial tension between them. Thirdly, I loved how Daniel (that’s the ghost) expressed himself and how the author kept him in character (a sea captain) throughout the book. I suspect that wasn’t easy to do.
So, if you ever wondered if a ghost and a, well, not-a-ghost could fall in love, the answer is hidden in The Ghost of Seagull Cottage. I think most readers will enjoy the setting, the chemistry and the drama of another of Anne Allen’s excellent Guernsey novels.

‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk

[Jaffareadstoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s always such a treat to return to these Guernsey novels and this ninth book in the series follows the story of Annabel and her little daughter, Emylia, as they seek to make a new start in the beautifully named Seagull Cottage. That they also share the house with the ghost of a long dead sea captain adds a light supernatural element and with this author’s customary warmth and understanding Annabel and her sea captain soon form a close bond of friendship.

I’m old enough to remember watching the old black and white movie adaption of R A Dick’s novel The Ghost and Mrs Muir and whilst the story has been brought up to date for the 21st century, it also captures something of the original and the special bond between Annabel and her sea captain is done really well. I raced through the story in a couple of afternoons, enjoying the wonderful imagery and being immersed in Guernsey life, smiling at the tender interaction between the ghost and Annabel and watching as Annabel started to blossom with other relationships, making friends with the women of the island and putting down roots.

As always the island of Guernsey comes alive and I very much enjoyed exploring the island with Annabel as she seeks to become reacquainted with the place and its people. Learning to adapt to life on the island whilst at the same time trying to support herself and her daughter makes for interesting reading and I very much hoped that everything worked out for them. The Ghost of Seagull Cottage is a really lovely addition to this long running series, and whilst there is a connection between the stories, it is perfectly possible to read each one as a standalone story. If you haven’t discovered this lovely author’s writing then do start at the beginning and enjoy getting to know Guernsey through these rather special stories.

[Steven Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a feel-good read with substance, look no further than The Ghost of Seagull Cottage. Anne Allen has a way of blending genres—mystery, romance, historical fiction, and ghost story—into a beautiful narrative that feels both comforting and fresh.

From the first chapter, I was drawn into Annabel’s world. She’s at a crossroads, grieving and exhausted, yet full of quiet determination. Moving to a haunted seaside cottage would be enough to break some people, but for Annabel, it’s the beginning of something transformative. Watching her find strength in unexpected places was empowering.

Captain Daniel Gallienne is an unforgettable character. He’s proud, brooding, and deeply lonely—trapped in the walls of the home he built. Allen gives him a voice full of wit, charm, and regret. His interactions with Annabel are the emotional core of the book. There’s friction, yes, but also the stirrings of a unique companionship neither expected.

There’s a surprising amount of humor in this novel. Daniel’s confusion about the modern world leads to some hilarious moments, and Annabel’s dry wit is endlessly entertaining. Their banter gave me several laugh-out-loud moments, especially during scenes involving Emilia’s innocent observations or Daniel’s disdain for the internet.

Allen also infuses the novel with a strong sense of community. From kind-hearted neighbor Colette to the gentle reawakening of Annabel’s artistic self, there’s a warmth that permeates every page. It reminded me that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it takes people, place, and even a ghost or two.

The Ghost of Seagull Cottage is a story to savor. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy heartwarming fiction with a dash of the supernatural and characters you wish you could invite to tea. Highly recommended.

[Tripfiction · Rating 4 out of 5]

Novel set on GUERNSEY

🇬🇬



The Guernsey Novels No. 9. This novel can be read as a standalone.

Annabel Easton is recently widowed and the novel opens as she is viewing Seagull Cottage, back in Guernsey. She grew up on the island. She is looking for somewhere to live with her young daughter, Emilia, and she has hardly set foot in the house when she experiences a strange whooshing sensation. The estate agent reluctantly suggests the building might be haunted by the original owner, Captain Daniel Gallienne; he surmises correctly, and soon Annabel and Daniel are in conversation, she is not in the least fazed by his ghostly presence.

He turns out to be a straight-talking mariner, anticipating an “Arr, me hearties” at any moment. He saw out WW2 but, in my mind, early on, I could only visualise him as a swashbuckling and essentially altruistic Captain Hook character. That image of course pales as the story of his life comes to the fore

She is an artist and asks him to sit for her, he in turn is keen she should write his memoir. And they settle into a co-existence as Annabella (as Daniel calls her) rebuilds her life, with some emotional ups and downs, in and around her new home. Familiar characters from previous novels pop up to add continuity.

There is a nice sense of place, with visits to St Peter Port, Castle Cornet and over to Herm, the sense of the sea pervasive at every turn – which of course is underlined by the resident ghost.

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 9th book in the authors The Guernsey Novels series and read well as a stand-alone - I hadn’t read any of the other books in the series. I was initially attracted to it as I loved the 1947 Film The Ghost and Mrs Muir, the subsequent television series in the late 1960’s both based on the book by RA Dick, and Anne Allen has used this as inspiration for this book. Set on the Island of Guernsey this is part supernatural, part mystery and part romance and I found it a very easy read.

Briefly, after she is widowed Annabel Easton rent Seagull Cottage for herself and her daughter Emilia. The rent is low because the property is haunted by the man who built the cottage 70 years ago. Captain Daniel Gallienne is not the easiest of men but and originally uneasy friendship turns into something else as Annabel finds herself falling in love with Daniel…

This was a really lovely easy read. The growing friendship was beautifully crafted and I might have had a tear in my eye as the book moved to its conclusion. A romance with a difference and I loved Daniel as a character, although I must admit, I kept seeing Rex Harrison in my head as I was reading the book! A very enjoyable and entertaining novel.

[The Book Elf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotive, beautiful and restorative are the three words I would choose to describe this lovely story that is the ninth in The Guernsey Novels that Anne has written. Even though I have not read any of the previous stories in the series that does not matter as they are all standalones set in this beautiful channel island that many of us love visiting. The story is inspired by the classic film The Ghost and Mrs Muir starring Rex Harrison and Gene Tierney.

The story is a classic romance that will move you emotionally as their friendship for each other grows and becomes a relationship they both need in order to move on in life ( and death). I love Anne’s writing style and the ease at which she portrays the different characters in such as way to make you feel that you are part of Annabel’s ever increasing circle of supportive friends. Yes at times, it may seem a bit too easy for Annabel and she pursues her art and , more recently, her writing, but at the end of the day this is a feel good story that actually restores your faith in humanity and allows you to escape into this world for a few hours.

I will be looking out for more of Anne’s books to read in the very near future as well as rewatching The Ghost and Mrs Muir.

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Annabel returns to Guernsey with her 10 year old daughter Emilie. Her husband has recently died and Annabel is trying to escape from her late husband's overbearing mother and sister. Annabel grew up in Guernsey but her parents relocated to England when their business faltered. She rents a cottage at a lower price because it is haunted.

She meets Daniel the resident ghost who passed away in 1946 after the ship he was sailing was torpedoed in the war. Subsequent injuries resulted in his losing his job but after a fall down the stairs in his cottage, he perished. Still, he remains at the cottage doing his best to discourage anyone from renting it.

Annabel is not scared of Daniel and they fall into an easy friendship. Annabel is lonely and although she cares for Daniel, a ghost won't make a suitable partner. As Emilie and Annabel fall in love with Guernsey and the cottage, they are both aware the lease is only for one year. Can Annabel make enough money as an artist to buy the cottage before the year is up or not?

[Lynne McVernon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am lucky enough to have read a preview copy of The Ghost of Seagull Cottage; what a treat this book is. I was wary, at first, that it might be an unsatisfactory ‘sequel’ to the film The Ghost and Mrs Muir (based on the novel by R A Dick), which is a favourite of mine. My initial misgiving, however, was blown away by the writing, which grips the reader from page one and speeds them through to the conclusion. No spoilers, but the narrative updates to the twenty first century very well, the main protagonist, Annabel, inspires empathy, and the ghost is very appealing. Guernsey is an attractive presence itself and, while this is a standalone novel, fans of Anne Allen’s writing will welcome a few characters from her other Guernsey novels. Like all good stories, I didn’t want it to stop, nor to leave the characters behind. Queuing up for Guernsey flights, now! The book is already available on Amazon as a paperback and will be released as an ebook on 14 May 2024.

[Phyllis Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guernsey is painted so vividly in this novel, it's as much a character as the humans and the ghost. Annabel's decision to uproot her life and return to her childhood island is brave, and Allen doesn’t shy away from showing the emotional turmoil such decisions involve. The addition of Emilia, a curious and resilient child, adds warmth and innocence to the narrative.

Daniel, the ghostly captain, is initially a mystery, but Allen slowly peels back layers to show us a man lost in time, clinging to his home and legacy. His interactions with Annabel are laced with wit, misunderstanding, and gradually, mutual respect. The way Allen blends historical elements with modern emotion is seamless.

I particularly appreciated how Annabel is never portrayed as weak or reliant on Daniel. She’s grounded and focused, even while navigating her spectral housemate’s moods. This is not just a ghost story, it’s a character study wrapped in the charm of coastal life and the echoes of the past.

[Mathias Wexler · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ghost of Seagull Cottage is a masterclass in atmosphere. From the salty air of the Guernsey coast to the creaky floorboards of a haunted cottage, Anne Allen sets a scene like no other. The book opens with a gentle, hopeful tone that slowly darkens as the ghostly presence becomes more assertive, then softens again into mutual understanding.

What sets this apart is its grounded portrayal of grief. Annabel’s widowhood and her daughter’s subtle trauma are never melodramatic. Instead, Allen allows these emotions to simmer beneath the surface, enriching the characters and making their interactions with Daniel more poignant.

And Daniel! He’s not a malevolent spirit, but one with history, regrets, and a longing for connection. Watching him and Annabel navigate their odd relationship is like watching two ships circling the same lighthouse, occasionally colliding, often communicating across eras.

[Maria pauling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anne Allen writes with such warmth and wisdom that even the presence of a ghost feels like a comfort. When Annabel and her daughter Emilia move into Seagull Cottage, the last thing they expect is a dead sea captain giving them tenancy conditions. But what unfolds is an unexpectedly beautiful connection between the living and the dead.

Allen is exceptional at character work. Emilia is portrayed with gentle realism, she’s curious, funny, and quietly scarred by her father’s death. Annabel, meanwhile, is resilient and open, slowly reclaiming her life. And Daniel, the ghost, adds an unusual layer of depth: he’s not a mere plot device, but a man with unfinished business and a surprisingly big heart.

This book made me laugh out loud, brought tears to my eyes, and left me reflecting on the nature of love, legacy, and letting go. If you’re looking for a novel that soothes your soul while engaging your curiosity, this is it. 

[Joseph Kelvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anne Allen delivers yet another gem with The Ghost of Seagull Cottage. Annabel’s return to Guernsey is full of emotion, the hope of a new beginning, the weight of past grief, and the unexpected challenge of sharing her home with a resident ghost. From the moment she steps into Seagull Cottage, there’s an undercurrent of mystery that pulls you in.

Daniel Gallienne, the spectral sea captain, is not the sort of ghost you forget. He’s witty, occasionally exasperating, and brimming with an old-world charm that contrasts beautifully with Annabel’s modern sensibilities. Their interactions spark with humor and genuine feeling, making the supernatural element feel deeply personal rather than purely spooky.

The pacing is gentle but never dull, allowing you to savor the island setting while slowly uncovering the truth behind Daniel’s haunting. By the end, I felt as though I’d been on a journey with friends, not just characters on a page.

[Linda M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something magical about Anne Allen’s writing, and The Ghost of Seagull Cottage only proves that further. It’s a book filled with longing—longing for home, for peace, and for connection and Allen captures it so beautifully.

Annabel and her daughter Emilia make an instantly likable duo. Their bond feels real and hard-earned after their shared loss. Watching Annabel tentatively begin a new chapter of life, all while sharing a home with a resident ghost, is surprisingly uplifting.

Daniel’s presence could have felt gimmicky, but he’s a well-developed character in his own right. He’s infuriating, funny, and unexpectedly vulnerable. Their “roommate” arrangement felt natural in a way I didn’t expect.

This book isn’t about big plot twists or fast-paced thrills, it’s about healing, second chances, and the power of place. A heartwarming and slightly haunting read that stays with you long after you finish.

[Michael Stewart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this novel. Anne Allen has crafted a cozy ghost story with just the right amount of emotional depth. The tone is gentle, the characters are believable, and the setting is dreamlike.

What stood out most to me was how the ghost, Daniel, wasn’t just there for spooks or tension—he was an integral part of the story. His presence challenged Annabel to grow and accept change, which gave their odd relationship real meaning.

The way Guernsey is described makes me want to book a trip immediately. Allen clearly knows the island intimately and writes about it with so much love and nostalgia that it becomes its own character.

This was my first book in the Guernsey series, and now I want to go back and read the rest. You don’t need to read them in order, this one stands perfectly on its own.

[Kelvin John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anne Allen delivers an unforgettable tale filled with heart, history, and hauntings. What begins as a hopeful move to the island becomes something else entirely for Annabel and Emilia. The way Allen captures that emotional shift is masterful.

The descriptions are so vivid that Guernsey itself becomes a kind of character. I could see the sunlight glinting off the waves and feel the tension build as ghostly whispers drifted through the air. It was cinematic in scope and impact.

The real power of this novel lies in its emotional honesty. The supernatural elements never overshadow the human ones. Instead, they highlight them, offering a ghost story that’s ultimately about love, forgiveness, and freedom.

[Johnny Bale · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I loved most about The Ghost of Seagull Cottage was the way it balanced coziness with intrigue. The cottage itself feels alive, its walls steeped in history, and Allen’s descriptions make you want to move right in ghosts and all. Annabel’s desire to rebuild her life with her daughter is relatable and touching.

Daniel is the wild card. He bursts into Annabel’s life with bluster and stubbornness, yet slowly reveals a softer side. The mutual respect that grows between them feels earned, and it gives the story an emotional anchor that keeps you turning pages.

This isn’t a horror story it’s a warm, atmospheric tale with just enough spectral mischief to keep things lively. Fans of gentle mysteries and heartfelt women’s fiction will be enchanted.

[Andrea Sanders · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anne Allen strikes a lovely balance in The Ghost of Seagull Cottage. It’s a story about grief, healing, and history with a healthy splash of ghostly interference to keep things lively.

Annabel and her daughter Emilia are both wonderful characters. Their journey back to Guernsey felt symbolic of returning to roots, and the cottage itself provided the perfect atmospheric setting for what was to come.

Daniel is equal parts charming and maddening. I liked how his presence forced Annabel to confront her past and start letting go of fear. There’s also an underlying sadness in Daniel that adds real emotional weight.

This book was sweet, meaningful, and often very funny. A great blend of cozy and clever.

[Sandra Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A charming, heart-tugging novel that effortlessly blends the ordinary with the supernatural. The Ghost of Seagull Cottage is the kind of book you curl up with on a rainy day and finish with a warm smile. Annabel’s story is incredibly relatable, especially for anyone who’s faced a major life change or had to start over. Her struggles and her slow rediscovery of joy are written with real tenderness.

I loved the ghostly twist. Daniel isn’t your typical haunted-house specter. He’s a full character with a history, flaws, and surprising emotional insight. Their conversations often made me laugh and think at the same time.

If you enjoy stories about strong women, found families, and seaside escapes—with a ghostly companion thrown in, this one is definitely for you.

[Karen's World · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anne Allen is a favourite author of mine, so I am always pleased to read her books when she sends them to me. I also love hearing about Guernsey, where I will one day go and see for myself. I holidayed in Jersey as a child so enjoy the islands.

This story will be a favourite of mine, I love a good ghost! But still a nice cosy read to enjoy, with the descriptions of the island which make it easy to keep turning the pages. I loved the way it ended as the landlord looking like the ghost was a perfect way to end things, I didn’t see that coming either. It’s nice to read a happy story as it makes you feel all warm and cosy.

[Nicole Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

The strength of The Ghost of Seagull Cottage lies in its quiet confidence. This isn’t a book that shouts, it sings. Annabel’s voice is one of calm resilience, and watching her slowly reclaim her joy is like watching the tide gently wash away the old.

Daniel is one of the most memorable ghosts I’ve ever read. He’s stubborn, proud, and unexpectedly charming. His arc is as compelling as any living character’s, and Allen gives him a sense of dignity rarely afforded to the supernatural.

If you enjoy books that make you feel as though you’re living inside a memory, half-sweet, half-sorrowful, this one will capture your heart.