AN author is using her debut novel to shine a light on the issue of domestic abuse.

Based in Harwich, JV Phaure's Girl On the Beach charts the story of Lucy, a writer who leaves her abusive fiancée to start a new life by the coast.

Tension begin to rise as she receives a series of threatening messages and a number of unexplained events leave her unsettled.

The thriller builds to a nail-biting finale, with plenty of twists and turns along the way to keep readers turning the pages.

JV Phaure, who lives in Colchester, has partnered with domestic abuse charity The Next Chapter on the release of the book.

Beverly Jones, CEO of the charity, said: "This could so easily be the story of any of the domestic abuse survivors we work with on a daily basis, JV Phaure has captured the control, immobilising fear and isolation that living with domestic abuse means for the victim and has given the reader a glimpse into the terrifying reality of domestic abuse.

"A great read which should motivate everyone to challenge and speak out against this all too often hidden and devastating crime."

Although the book is a work of fiction, the author says she was inspired by her knowledge of how control and manipulation can ruin a person's life.

Positive reviews are beginning to flood in for her debut novel, which is released on Wednesday.

Award-winning actress Susan Duerden, of Lost fame, said: "Girl on the Beach is a taut, fast-paced novel of psychological suspense.

"This gripping book is full of twists and turns. JV Phaure keeps you on the edge of your seat with this impossible to put down thriller."

Girl On the beach is available via Amazon in paperback and eBook.