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The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir
Sisters Eleanor and Maggie have been running the Lyrebird Lake Ladies’ Choir for years. The choir means so much to the women who have found their home in the stately federation house by the lake. Eleanor decides to enter the choir in the All Voices Championship, not just for the prize money or the chance to prove how special the choir is, but also as a chance to make up for lost dreams.
When single mum Hannah moves to the Lyrebird Lake’s caravan park, homeless after being widowed, she and her son have the opportunity to start over. With her angelic voice, Hannah may be just what the choir needs to give them a winning edge. But when Eleanor hears her singing a long-forgotten lullaby, Eleanor is thrust back into a past full of pain and regret.
In 1973, Eleanor and her sister Maggie are banished from their Irish village to Australia, after Maggie becomes pregnant, unwed. Starting a new life thousands of miles away is never easy, but when Eleanor is forced to make impossible decisions that alter the course of both their lives, it leaves her with memories she’s not sure she can trust.
Will Hannah's arrival in Lyrebird Lake mend old wounds, or will the secret from the past she unknowingly carries tear the sisters apart?
When single mum Hannah moves to the Lyrebird Lake’s caravan park, homeless after being widowed, she and her son have the opportunity to start over. With her angelic voice, Hannah may be just what the choir needs to give them a winning edge. But when Eleanor hears her singing a long-forgotten lullaby, Eleanor is thrust back into a past full of pain and regret.
In 1973, Eleanor and her sister Maggie are banished from their Irish village to Australia, after Maggie becomes pregnant, unwed. Starting a new life thousands of miles away is never easy, but when Eleanor is forced to make impossible decisions that alter the course of both their lives, it leaves her with memories she’s not sure she can trust.
Will Hannah's arrival in Lyrebird Lake mend old wounds, or will the secret from the past she unknowingly carries tear the sisters apart?
332 pages, Paperback
Published June 18, 2024
32 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Sandie Docker
6 books249 followersAustralian author, Sandie Docker grew up in Coffs Harbour, and first fell in love with reading when her father introduced her to fantasy books as a teenager. Her love of Women’s Fiction began when she first read Jane Austen for the HSC, but it wasn’t until she was taking a translation course at university that her Mandarin lecturer suggested she might have a knack for writing – a seed of an idea that sat quietly in the back of her mind while she lived overseas and travelled the world.
Now back in Sydney, Sandie writes about love, loss, family and small country towns. Sandie is also the founder and director of The Northern Beaches Readers Festival.
(head shot photo credit @ainsliecophotography)
Now back in Sydney, Sandie writes about love, loss, family and small country towns. Sandie is also the founder and director of The Northern Beaches Readers Festival.
(head shot photo credit @ainsliecophotography)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
August 9, 2024
What a sweet read this was, in keeping with what the author is known for. Female friendship, familial relationships with a little mystery thrown in.
Lyrebird Lake is a lovely place, Hannah is looking for a fresh start for her and her son. Deemed homeless after the death of her husband, a family keep sake leads her there.
Hopeful for work and accommodation, they've been sleeping rough. Their arrival to this town leads to lovely people with histories of their own.
This story blends two generations and timelines, shown from each woman's perspectives. Serious themes prevalent of the times were central to this story.
One character was most unlikable, unable to show love to her family, I was left wondering at the end what was to become of her.
This is an easy read highlighting the complexity of times gone by and rigid beliefs these times were synonymous for. Thanks to @henrymarlene for my gifted copy, what a joy it is to share books.
Lyrebird Lake is a lovely place, Hannah is looking for a fresh start for her and her son. Deemed homeless after the death of her husband, a family keep sake leads her there.
Hopeful for work and accommodation, they've been sleeping rough. Their arrival to this town leads to lovely people with histories of their own.
This story blends two generations and timelines, shown from each woman's perspectives. Serious themes prevalent of the times were central to this story.
One character was most unlikable, unable to show love to her family, I was left wondering at the end what was to become of her.
This is an easy read highlighting the complexity of times gone by and rigid beliefs these times were synonymous for. Thanks to @henrymarlene for my gifted copy, what a joy it is to share books.
June 13, 2024
The village of Ballycorlann in Ireland in 1973 was a strict place for Maggie and Eleanor O'Sullivan with their parents determined they would marry well and not cause the family name any grief. But when Maggie fell in love with a farmer, then became pregnant, Mary and Colm were mortified at the disgrace. So, to avoid Maggie being sent away, she and Eleanor emigrated to Australia to their mother's sister, Aunt Bernadette, where they would stay for the forseeable future. The small cottage not far from Sydney and close to the lake was a blessing for the sisters. When Eleanor obtained a job in the manor house nearby, she could save for their future. But would it be that simple?
Hannah was still grieving the loss of her husband Noah, as was her eight year old son Leo. They missed Noah terribly, and with all that had happened since he died, Hannah and Leo were now homeless. Hannah had had her sights on a singing career but that was put to one side and her sole focus was on Leo. Leaving Sydney and the harsh memories, Hannah and Leo arrived in Lyrebird Lake where she hoped their future would lie.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is another exceptional read by Aussie author Sandie Docker which I loved! With mystery and intrigue, the story is a captivating one, following Hannah, Eleanor and Maggie through the years. I've loved every book Ms Docker has written and this one is no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House AU for my beautifully wrapped ARC plus the bookmark - all matching the gorgeous cover - to read in exchange for an honest review.
Hannah was still grieving the loss of her husband Noah, as was her eight year old son Leo. They missed Noah terribly, and with all that had happened since he died, Hannah and Leo were now homeless. Hannah had had her sights on a singing career but that was put to one side and her sole focus was on Leo. Leaving Sydney and the harsh memories, Hannah and Leo arrived in Lyrebird Lake where she hoped their future would lie.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is another exceptional read by Aussie author Sandie Docker which I loved! With mystery and intrigue, the story is a captivating one, following Hannah, Eleanor and Maggie through the years. I've loved every book Ms Docker has written and this one is no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Penguin Random House AU for my beautifully wrapped ARC plus the bookmark - all matching the gorgeous cover - to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2024
This is such a beautiful story, it has everything from such a beautiful setting, to strong independent woman who have overcome so much in their lives, this one starts in Ireland in 1973 when sisters, Eleanor and Maggie are banished because Maggie is pregnant and unwed, come and join them on their journey as they start a new life in Lyrebird Lake, Australia.
Eleanor and Maggie arrive to start a new life with their aunt in the small town of Lyrebird Lake things are going well, Eleanor is working, Maggie is studying for her HSC when everything changes, caught in a situation that is not good they end up in Sydney at St Agnes home for unwed mothers, life changes again and decisions are made, but life must go on for these two young woman.
Hannah Carter has a young son Leo she is widowed and homeless, living is Sydney is getting harder and harder maybe it is time for a change, a song from her past leads her to Lyrebird Lake where she gets a job, starts Leo in the school and finally has a place to call home even though it is a caravan, she is soon drawn towards the choir and the woman who run it.
Years later Eleanor and Maggie are back living in Lyrebird Lake and running a lodge for woman who need help but they also run the Ladies Choir which is so good for everyone, when Eleanor decides to enter the choir in the All Voices Championship, how will they go, how will it change their lives?
Eleanor, Maggie and Hannah are beautiful singers, was Hannah drawn here for a reason is there a link between the three women, are there secrets that have been kept, is it time now for them to be uncovered and will the med hearts are spilt them apart?
I loved this one from start to finish, Sandie Docker has never disappointed me with one of her beautiful heartfelt stories and this is a must read, smiles, tears, joy all rolled into one gorgeous story, fabulous characters, a touch of romance in a wonderful setting, I do highly recommend this one.
My thanks to the publisher Penguin Random House for my copy to read and review so beautifully wrapped and such a gorgeous bookmark.
Eleanor and Maggie arrive to start a new life with their aunt in the small town of Lyrebird Lake things are going well, Eleanor is working, Maggie is studying for her HSC when everything changes, caught in a situation that is not good they end up in Sydney at St Agnes home for unwed mothers, life changes again and decisions are made, but life must go on for these two young woman.
Hannah Carter has a young son Leo she is widowed and homeless, living is Sydney is getting harder and harder maybe it is time for a change, a song from her past leads her to Lyrebird Lake where she gets a job, starts Leo in the school and finally has a place to call home even though it is a caravan, she is soon drawn towards the choir and the woman who run it.
Years later Eleanor and Maggie are back living in Lyrebird Lake and running a lodge for woman who need help but they also run the Ladies Choir which is so good for everyone, when Eleanor decides to enter the choir in the All Voices Championship, how will they go, how will it change their lives?
Eleanor, Maggie and Hannah are beautiful singers, was Hannah drawn here for a reason is there a link between the three women, are there secrets that have been kept, is it time now for them to be uncovered and will the med hearts are spilt them apart?
I loved this one from start to finish, Sandie Docker has never disappointed me with one of her beautiful heartfelt stories and this is a must read, smiles, tears, joy all rolled into one gorgeous story, fabulous characters, a touch of romance in a wonderful setting, I do highly recommend this one.
My thanks to the publisher Penguin Random House for my copy to read and review so beautifully wrapped and such a gorgeous bookmark.
April 9, 2025
**4.5 stars**
This author has become a 'must immediately add to my to be read pile' for any books she publishes. This one is no disappointment; another fantastic and engaging story. Eleanor and Maggie are Irish sisters living in Australia, running a choir in a small town where they also have a large home they welcome people who need help. Widowed mother Hannah whose life has derailed since her husband's unexpected passing is currently homeless and arrives in town after feeling a connection to the Lyrebird Lake from a childhood lullaby. The novel is beautifully written with the stories of the women being utterly captivating. It's hard to express how great the storyline is with no spoilers, so you'll have to trust me when I say the elements all come together in this emotional read.
Highly recommend!
This author has become a 'must immediately add to my to be read pile' for any books she publishes. This one is no disappointment; another fantastic and engaging story. Eleanor and Maggie are Irish sisters living in Australia, running a choir in a small town where they also have a large home they welcome people who need help. Widowed mother Hannah whose life has derailed since her husband's unexpected passing is currently homeless and arrives in town after feeling a connection to the Lyrebird Lake from a childhood lullaby. The novel is beautifully written with the stories of the women being utterly captivating. It's hard to express how great the storyline is with no spoilers, so you'll have to trust me when I say the elements all come together in this emotional read.
Highly recommend!
June 13, 2024
Thank you Penguin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Superstar Sandie has done it again with a sensational storytelling success.
An embracing tale of secrets, friendship, grief, love and coming home.
A very delightful, engaging and stunning reading experience.
Maggie and Eleanor are sisters with history that’s hard to forget.
They have been running the local choir for many years and helping lost and troubled women in a home near the lake.
Single mother Hannah and her young son Leo are homeless.
When a long forgotten lullaby lures them to Lyrebird Lake, she is hoping things will turn around for them.
Then Eleanor hears Hannah sing, she convinces her to join the choir group, thinking they have a chance of winning a local competition but it also triggers memories from the past.
Can they all mend from old pain and survive from the reveal of secrets……
Sandie is known for her well written, thoughtful and delectable stories and this latest release is another to add to her growing catalogue.
A contemporary narrative with hints of a bygone era woven throughout.
I really loved the stand out sheet music symbols representing for the reader that I was returning to the account of events from the past.
Memorable characters with real life problems, believable situations and touching moments.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir has heart, soul, spirit, vitality and strength.
A genuine, giving and natural storyteller.
Superstar Sandie has done it again with a sensational storytelling success.
An embracing tale of secrets, friendship, grief, love and coming home.
A very delightful, engaging and stunning reading experience.
Maggie and Eleanor are sisters with history that’s hard to forget.
They have been running the local choir for many years and helping lost and troubled women in a home near the lake.
Single mother Hannah and her young son Leo are homeless.
When a long forgotten lullaby lures them to Lyrebird Lake, she is hoping things will turn around for them.
Then Eleanor hears Hannah sing, she convinces her to join the choir group, thinking they have a chance of winning a local competition but it also triggers memories from the past.
Can they all mend from old pain and survive from the reveal of secrets……
Sandie is known for her well written, thoughtful and delectable stories and this latest release is another to add to her growing catalogue.
A contemporary narrative with hints of a bygone era woven throughout.
I really loved the stand out sheet music symbols representing for the reader that I was returning to the account of events from the past.
Memorable characters with real life problems, believable situations and touching moments.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir has heart, soul, spirit, vitality and strength.
A genuine, giving and natural storyteller.
November 26, 2024
Aussie author Sandie Docker has once again written another enjoyable and highly entertaining book. I loved everything about this book including the characters, setting and storyline. When you read any books by this author, you are immediately drawn into the story and you don’t want to put them down, but before you know you are turning the last page.
This is a beautifully written story by a talented author and I can’t wait to see what her next book will be. Highly recommended.
This is a beautifully written story by a talented author and I can’t wait to see what her next book will be. Highly recommended.
June 16, 2024
This is my most favourite Sandie Docker novel ever! I loved every page. It is a beautifully written novel, I could see smell, hear and feel Lyrebird Lake. I felt like I was amongst the most welcoming community, I love when you just know you are in amongst good people. I loved all of the strong female characters, single mother Hannah might be my new role model, but then again I loved sisters Elenor and Maggie so much as well..for such a joy to read novel goodness it tackles some big issues, but no spoilers here!
Just perfect, all the stars from me
Just perfect, all the stars from me
June 20, 2024
Having just turned the final page, I can say without hesitation that this is Sandie’s best book yet! A rollercoaster of emotions that left me feeling joyful and uplifted.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir, run by sisters Eleanor and Maggie is about more than just the music, its about community, belonging and acceptance. These are central themes to this beautiful story which Sandie has written with so much heart and love.
Hannah finds herself homeless after the death of her husband. Struggling to improve things for both herself and young son Leo, she finds herself in Lyrebird Lake, where she soon meets the sisters. With a background in singing, it’s only natural that Hannah should be drawn into the musical fold.
The story moves back and forth between the 1970s when the two sisters first came to Australia and 2019 when they meet Hannah. Through this we slowly uncover secrets thought long buried that will test relationships and sisterly bonds.
I’ve been very vocal about the fact that I adore stories featuring sisters and this book has one of my favourite sisterly pairings. The loyalty and love between Maggie and Eleanor is evident on every page and the way they share this care and generosity with other women who need help is so admirable and heartwarming.
The town of Lyrebird Lake is a beautiful setting for the story and its community is so accepting and kind, it’s a place anyone would be glad to live.
Sandie Docker has outdone herself with this wonderfully heartwarming, emotional and tender novel which I cannot recommend highly enough.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir, run by sisters Eleanor and Maggie is about more than just the music, its about community, belonging and acceptance. These are central themes to this beautiful story which Sandie has written with so much heart and love.
Hannah finds herself homeless after the death of her husband. Struggling to improve things for both herself and young son Leo, she finds herself in Lyrebird Lake, where she soon meets the sisters. With a background in singing, it’s only natural that Hannah should be drawn into the musical fold.
The story moves back and forth between the 1970s when the two sisters first came to Australia and 2019 when they meet Hannah. Through this we slowly uncover secrets thought long buried that will test relationships and sisterly bonds.
I’ve been very vocal about the fact that I adore stories featuring sisters and this book has one of my favourite sisterly pairings. The loyalty and love between Maggie and Eleanor is evident on every page and the way they share this care and generosity with other women who need help is so admirable and heartwarming.
The town of Lyrebird Lake is a beautiful setting for the story and its community is so accepting and kind, it’s a place anyone would be glad to live.
Sandie Docker has outdone herself with this wonderfully heartwarming, emotional and tender novel which I cannot recommend highly enough.
June 30, 2024
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is a thought-provoking look at the growing epidemic of homelessness in Australia alongside a dive into a dark part of Australia's social welfare history, the forced adoptions that were in place from around the mid 1950s to the early 1980s. The heavier parts of the narrative are balanced with the cheeriness of the choir and its members. I really enjoyed this one and found it tugging on my heartstrings in unexpected ways. Highly recommended, very well suited to book clubs. Thanks to Penguin Australia for this one.
June 28, 2025
4.5 Stars ✨ Joyous
October 6, 2024
Well, this was a heart warmer, and with it highlighted bigger themes of homelessness and other tragic circumstances. Amazing how life came full circle in this delightful story. Romantic elements.
November 29, 2024
This read is set in two time zones, 1973 Ballycorllan, Ireland and 2019 in Australia which provides a framework for understanding how women across time have fought to define themselves outside of the roles they were born into. The read subtly ties these themes of personal identity and the transformative power of reclaiming one���s name and narrative. Set against all the odds, three women take hold of life and grow in strength and determination.
1973 and two sisters whose appearances are poles apart to each other, Maggie, every bit the Irish beauty adored by her parents while Eleanor, red wild hair and different in every manner takes second place to her sister. There is no jealousy on Eleanor’s part; rather, she does everything to support her sister. The parents are strict Roman Catholic, with the local priest sitting down to a family meal every week. Appearances are most important amongst the town’s residents and the girls’ parents play it to the hilt. They are kept on a tight leash and are ever aware of the need to be home at the right time for the evening meal. On one occasion Eleanor spies Maggie with a local young man, declaring her love for him, Eleanor reminds her that he would be totally unacceptable to their parents, his father is only a farm hand, any relationship would not be possible. However, with the eventual difficult news of Maggie's pregnancy and with her parents’ decision to send her away to a home run by the nuns, (well documented history of babies taken from their mothers by force with their babies being adopted) the girls decide to flee, Maggie is determined to keep her baby. A distant aunt has migrated to Australia and it's from here that the help comes. Their aunt rents a small farm cottage on a large property that has a magical lake and they settle in. Eleanor is a wonderful support for her sister who, while bringing this all on herself remains at times bitter. With their musical talent a small choir from the towns folk takes shape, Eleanor starts work at the big house and is able to start some savings. When their aunt is killed in an accident, Eleanor is given an ultimatum by the landowner's son who is obsessed with her for which she rejects and the girls are faced with eviction. Finding themselves once again in desperate need for money and assistance, aid again, comes from their father and they return to the city and to accommodation for single mothers. However, in 1973 and for some years after, forced adoptions were imposed in Australia, those who sought help from institutions. The girls are lied to but Eleanor in observing actions by the staff becomes the bearer of a terrible secret which she holds all her adult life. That is until a young single parent, Hannah, homeless decides to change her life and that of Leo's, her son, the magical name of the town being the attraction to start a new life, joining the ladies’ choir the truth is finally revealed with a family reunited.
1973 and two sisters whose appearances are poles apart to each other, Maggie, every bit the Irish beauty adored by her parents while Eleanor, red wild hair and different in every manner takes second place to her sister. There is no jealousy on Eleanor’s part; rather, she does everything to support her sister. The parents are strict Roman Catholic, with the local priest sitting down to a family meal every week. Appearances are most important amongst the town’s residents and the girls’ parents play it to the hilt. They are kept on a tight leash and are ever aware of the need to be home at the right time for the evening meal. On one occasion Eleanor spies Maggie with a local young man, declaring her love for him, Eleanor reminds her that he would be totally unacceptable to their parents, his father is only a farm hand, any relationship would not be possible. However, with the eventual difficult news of Maggie's pregnancy and with her parents’ decision to send her away to a home run by the nuns, (well documented history of babies taken from their mothers by force with their babies being adopted) the girls decide to flee, Maggie is determined to keep her baby. A distant aunt has migrated to Australia and it's from here that the help comes. Their aunt rents a small farm cottage on a large property that has a magical lake and they settle in. Eleanor is a wonderful support for her sister who, while bringing this all on herself remains at times bitter. With their musical talent a small choir from the towns folk takes shape, Eleanor starts work at the big house and is able to start some savings. When their aunt is killed in an accident, Eleanor is given an ultimatum by the landowner's son who is obsessed with her for which she rejects and the girls are faced with eviction. Finding themselves once again in desperate need for money and assistance, aid again, comes from their father and they return to the city and to accommodation for single mothers. However, in 1973 and for some years after, forced adoptions were imposed in Australia, those who sought help from institutions. The girls are lied to but Eleanor in observing actions by the staff becomes the bearer of a terrible secret which she holds all her adult life. That is until a young single parent, Hannah, homeless decides to change her life and that of Leo's, her son, the magical name of the town being the attraction to start a new life, joining the ladies’ choir the truth is finally revealed with a family reunited.
June 21, 2024
Sandie Docker has truly outdone herself with her latest book, The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir. As a huge fan of her previous books, I always finish her books feeling uplifted and grateful, but this one has surpassed all expectations, becoming my new favourite from this talented Australian author.
The story revolves around Irish sisters Eleanor and Maggie, who have run The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir from their grand home on the lake for 15 years. This haven offers refuge and safety to women from all walks of life facing various hardships. Their own past, being banished from Ireland in the 70s, makes them understand the importance of finding a sense of home.
Single mother Hannah arrives at Lyrebird Lake seeking a fresh start for herself and her son Leo after the sudden death of her husband left them homeless. Drawn to the town by a childhood lullaby, she immediately feels at home in the small town and with her background as a semi-professional singer, Hannah finds herself fitting perfectly into the choir's plans to compete in a big competition. Along the way, she discovers more about herself, the sisters, and the secrets of Lyrebird Lake than she ever imagined.
The narrative cleverly intertwines two timelines: the 1970s, when the sisters leave Ireland for the unknown in Australia, and 2019, when Hannah arrives in town. Each page is infused with emotion, beautifully portraying themes of past trauma, friendship, and belonging. The overarching theme that hard times can fall on anyone, no matter who you are, resonated deeply with me.
I felt every emotion while reading, from heartbreak and anger to hope and joy. I devoured this book, and was genuinely sad when my time in Lyrebird Lake ended. Sandie Docker's The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is an absolute gem, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
The story revolves around Irish sisters Eleanor and Maggie, who have run The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir from their grand home on the lake for 15 years. This haven offers refuge and safety to women from all walks of life facing various hardships. Their own past, being banished from Ireland in the 70s, makes them understand the importance of finding a sense of home.
Single mother Hannah arrives at Lyrebird Lake seeking a fresh start for herself and her son Leo after the sudden death of her husband left them homeless. Drawn to the town by a childhood lullaby, she immediately feels at home in the small town and with her background as a semi-professional singer, Hannah finds herself fitting perfectly into the choir's plans to compete in a big competition. Along the way, she discovers more about herself, the sisters, and the secrets of Lyrebird Lake than she ever imagined.
The narrative cleverly intertwines two timelines: the 1970s, when the sisters leave Ireland for the unknown in Australia, and 2019, when Hannah arrives in town. Each page is infused with emotion, beautifully portraying themes of past trauma, friendship, and belonging. The overarching theme that hard times can fall on anyone, no matter who you are, resonated deeply with me.
I felt every emotion while reading, from heartbreak and anger to hope and joy. I devoured this book, and was genuinely sad when my time in Lyrebird Lake ended. Sandie Docker's The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is an absolute gem, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
July 22, 2024
Sisters Eleanor and Maggie have been running the Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir for fifteen years. Two girls who suffered the early trauma when, as young girls, they were banished from their Irish homeland to the faraway land of Australia. In the current day, the sisters run the choir in an old Federation house by the lake. Their home has become a refuge for women over the years: some are permanent residents, others find temporary peace before moving on.
Hannah is a single mum to Leo and homeless after the loss of her husband Noah. Without a job or a home Hannah is aimless and lost and decides to leave Sydney for the country town of Lyrebird Lake. Hannan finds a job and when her life is disrupted once more, Hannah and Leo find their way to the guest house run by Eleanor and Maggie. The sisters enter the choir into the All Voices Championship and it offers Hannah, with her angelic voice, and the other residents the opportunity to realise their dreams.
When Eleanor hears Hannah signing a long-forgotten lullaby, she is transported back to her youth and to a life she has long put behind her.
This is the sixth book I have read, enjoyed and loved by wonderful Australian Author Sandie Docker. I highly recommend this story and all Sandie's stories to other readers. I know I treasure each one. Thank you Sandie Docker.
Hannah is a single mum to Leo and homeless after the loss of her husband Noah. Without a job or a home Hannah is aimless and lost and decides to leave Sydney for the country town of Lyrebird Lake. Hannan finds a job and when her life is disrupted once more, Hannah and Leo find their way to the guest house run by Eleanor and Maggie. The sisters enter the choir into the All Voices Championship and it offers Hannah, with her angelic voice, and the other residents the opportunity to realise their dreams.
When Eleanor hears Hannah signing a long-forgotten lullaby, she is transported back to her youth and to a life she has long put behind her.
This is the sixth book I have read, enjoyed and loved by wonderful Australian Author Sandie Docker. I highly recommend this story and all Sandie's stories to other readers. I know I treasure each one. Thank you Sandie Docker.
August 9, 2024
I want to join a choir now, even though I can't sing at all!
January 13, 2025
You can almost hear the choir singing…..
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is a story of hope, love and acceptance that had me turning through the pages eager to see what was happening next. Three points of view, three timelines, and a multitude of amazing characters bringing it all together for one very special tale.
Eleanor and Maggie are the heart and soul of this story as well as Lyrebird Lake and it’s unique choir. They have been through so much together and continue to be there for each other.
As the story progresses, I found myself completely captivated by their determination and willingness to help those in need. Their selflessness in opening their home and their hearts makes you hope that there are exactly these types of people out there in the big wide world.
Hannah and her son Leo are the newcomers to Lyrebird Lake and in desperate need of a new start. My heart broke at the start of the book as you witness the struggle of homelessness and a mother trying to give her son what was not within her grasp, but the hope they still retained made it or the more special when they arrive at Lyrebird Lake. Leo is quite a special little boy, with a huge heart and a maturity beyond his years.
I found the choir was an integral part of the storyline bringing everyone together with their love of music, but by no means did I find it the major factor, because for me it was everyone’s kindness and acceptance that did that.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is a fabulously entertaining read that will tug at the heartstrings but fill you with joy at the same time, and well worth grabbing a copy to join the choir and their eclectic members.
#thelyrebirdlakeladieschoir
#sandiedocker
#hopesanddreams
#penguinbooksaustralia
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is a story of hope, love and acceptance that had me turning through the pages eager to see what was happening next. Three points of view, three timelines, and a multitude of amazing characters bringing it all together for one very special tale.
Eleanor and Maggie are the heart and soul of this story as well as Lyrebird Lake and it’s unique choir. They have been through so much together and continue to be there for each other.
As the story progresses, I found myself completely captivated by their determination and willingness to help those in need. Their selflessness in opening their home and their hearts makes you hope that there are exactly these types of people out there in the big wide world.
Hannah and her son Leo are the newcomers to Lyrebird Lake and in desperate need of a new start. My heart broke at the start of the book as you witness the struggle of homelessness and a mother trying to give her son what was not within her grasp, but the hope they still retained made it or the more special when they arrive at Lyrebird Lake. Leo is quite a special little boy, with a huge heart and a maturity beyond his years.
I found the choir was an integral part of the storyline bringing everyone together with their love of music, but by no means did I find it the major factor, because for me it was everyone’s kindness and acceptance that did that.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is a fabulously entertaining read that will tug at the heartstrings but fill you with joy at the same time, and well worth grabbing a copy to join the choir and their eclectic members.
#thelyrebirdlakeladieschoir
#sandiedocker
#hopesanddreams
#penguinbooksaustralia
July 12, 2024
Absolutely loved it! Heart warming and touching in many ways. You can really feel like you have been to The Lyrebird Lake. I loved how Sandie Docker talked about homelessness and how it can affect anyone at any time. She also touched on forced adoption with a lovely reunion. Couldn't put this book down.
August 26, 2024
I know it’s not the main focus of this book but I found Hannah’s earlier decisions to be irresponsible. I get it if you are in your twenties and you wanna chase your dreams and be an artist. Once you have kids though, I feel like your priorities should change. How about get a life insurance? In general I just don’t think it’s a good idea to be financially dependent on someone. She also could have swallowed her pride and ask for help, instead she had her young son sleeping in the car with her. It’s a wonder no one has called child protection on her.
Also the romances in this book is too K drama….
Also the romances in this book is too K drama….
August 24, 2024
Sisters Eleanor and Maggie have been running the Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir for fifteen years. It has become a haven for the lost and lonely women who have found their home in the stately federation house by the lake. Ex-singer, single mum Hannah arrives in Lyrebird Lake, homeless after being widowed and hoping for a new start with her son. Will Hannah’s arrival mend old wounds, or will the secret she unknowingly carries tear the sisters apart?
This book arrived at a perfect time for me as I was in the mood for a heartwarming one. Plus, I’m always in for a good found-family story!
I loved that we got to see actual song lyrics in the book. I definitely ‘watched’ the choir singing in my mind, Sister Act style. I could imagine Hannah’s angelic voice, and I wish this could be adapted into a mini TV series so I could actually listen to the songs and arrangements. Her relationship with her son was beautiful, and her struggles were heartbreaking.
Eleanor and Maggie’s sister bond was amazing to follow. I loved that Eleanor chose Maggie (rightly) over men and status, and ended up building a home in her own terms. They were strong and assertive female characters, and I connected with them right away from the start. This was my favourite Sandie Docker so far!
(Thanks to Penguin Australia for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my bookstagram review.
This book arrived at a perfect time for me as I was in the mood for a heartwarming one. Plus, I’m always in for a good found-family story!
I loved that we got to see actual song lyrics in the book. I definitely ‘watched’ the choir singing in my mind, Sister Act style. I could imagine Hannah’s angelic voice, and I wish this could be adapted into a mini TV series so I could actually listen to the songs and arrangements. Her relationship with her son was beautiful, and her struggles were heartbreaking.
Eleanor and Maggie’s sister bond was amazing to follow. I loved that Eleanor chose Maggie (rightly) over men and status, and ended up building a home in her own terms. They were strong and assertive female characters, and I connected with them right away from the start. This was my favourite Sandie Docker so far!
(Thanks to Penguin Australia for a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review)
See my bookstagram review.
July 1, 2024
Sandie has once again delivered a story of rippling beauty. I was particularly moved, challenged and even changed by the theme of homelessness addressed in the characters of Hannah and her son Leo. None of us are immune, and would I open my heart and home if the opportunity arose? As always, it was satisfying to read the familiar Australian landscape and the rich character development. Thank you Sandie!
October 1, 2024
I loved this book. Whilst dealing with some challenging issues the narrative remained positive and heartwarming. Brilliant
October 23, 2024
What an enjoyable read. Easy read, but with soul. Just what I needed! Now I want to read everything else by this author.
March 24, 2025
Wonderful ending. Good to have some historical facts.
July 28, 2024
A lyrebird is either of two species of ground-dwelling Australian birds that compose the genus Menura, and the family Menuridae.They are most notable for their impressive ability to mimic natural and artificial sounds from their environment.Lyrebirds have unique plumes of neutral-coloured tailfeathers and are among Australia's best-known native birds.A lyrebird's song is one of the more distinctive aspects of its behavioural biology. Lyrebirds sing throughout the year, but the peak of the breeding season, from June to August, is when they sing with the most intensity. During this peak, males may sing for 4 hours of the day, almost half the hours of daylight. The song of the lyrebird is a mixture of elements of its own song and mimicry of species and animals.
Choirs and choruses serve as social-service functions, including for mental health treatment or as therapy for homeless and disadvantaged people, like the Choir of Hard Knocks or for special groups such as Military Wives.Singing in a choir can improve one's mind, body and soul. Being part of a choir can make you feel more connected to others and give you a sense of belonging, ultimately leading to increased self-esteem and mood.Singing in a choir is a powerful learning opportunity that is difficult to replicate on your own. In a group setting, you are surrounded by like-minded individuals committed to improving their singing abilities, making it an environment of constant learning where questions can be asked and knowledge shared. Moreover, group singing provides the opportunity to learn by imitation, observe and learn from other singers’ techniques, tone, pitch, rhythm and phrasing. This process of learning by imitation can help beginners to develop their unique style while also blending in with the rest of the choir.
Australia practiced forced adoptions on unmarried mothers against their will,due to the stigma of out of wedlock pregnancies.Doctors,nurses,social workers,religious figures,adoption agencies and other authorities were involved.The babies were given to married couples.Clean break theory was applied and the closed adoption framework were the two key features.
Choirs and choruses serve as social-service functions, including for mental health treatment or as therapy for homeless and disadvantaged people, like the Choir of Hard Knocks or for special groups such as Military Wives.Singing in a choir can improve one's mind, body and soul. Being part of a choir can make you feel more connected to others and give you a sense of belonging, ultimately leading to increased self-esteem and mood.Singing in a choir is a powerful learning opportunity that is difficult to replicate on your own. In a group setting, you are surrounded by like-minded individuals committed to improving their singing abilities, making it an environment of constant learning where questions can be asked and knowledge shared. Moreover, group singing provides the opportunity to learn by imitation, observe and learn from other singers’ techniques, tone, pitch, rhythm and phrasing. This process of learning by imitation can help beginners to develop their unique style while also blending in with the rest of the choir.
Australia practiced forced adoptions on unmarried mothers against their will,due to the stigma of out of wedlock pregnancies.Doctors,nurses,social workers,religious figures,adoption agencies and other authorities were involved.The babies were given to married couples.Clean break theory was applied and the closed adoption framework were the two key features.
June 21, 2024
Such as sweet story from Sandie Docker: Maggie and Eleanor O’Sullivan run a lodge for women who need a place to stay and are in need of help, as well as a local choir that unites the local community. Their history was not smooth sailing, emigrating from Ireland in the mid 1790s to live with their aunt when maggie fell pregnant and was ostracised by her family. Parallel to this is Hannah's story. She spends many days and nights looking for a place to stay with her young son Leo after losing her husband several years ago and we said house and stability. In order to escape the past and also escape her mother’s ongoing disapproval of her she ends up at Lyrebird Lake seeing refuge, a job and a new place to call home.
The choir was a metaphor for life: the women were singing in harmony, and able to put their troubles aside to work together to create a melody that united them all. It was the choir that also gave strength: then women muted their anxieties while singing, they took ownership of their voices as one part of the choir, and found solace and comfort in the words they sung.
The small town becomes a saviour for Hannah and Leo, and her voice becomes the salvation for Maggie and Eleanor’s choir. It is a particular lullaby that Hannah sings that drives up memories of the past which they all start to explore. The weaving on the past memories of the 1970s to the characters in the present were tight. The speed starts to ramp up as the secrets and memories unfold in front of Maggie, Eleanor and Hannah. Writing about the experiences of single pregnant women in the 1970s was undertaken sensitively, and was quite sad to read about, and follow through in the afterword from the author. This was a touching story that was full of hope, strength and charity. There was no judgement in these characters (apart from Hannah’s mother who seemed to be so closed off to love), and a genuineness of compassion in the actions of the Lyrebird Lake townsfolk.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is one that will melt the heartstrings.
The choir was a metaphor for life: the women were singing in harmony, and able to put their troubles aside to work together to create a melody that united them all. It was the choir that also gave strength: then women muted their anxieties while singing, they took ownership of their voices as one part of the choir, and found solace and comfort in the words they sung.
The small town becomes a saviour for Hannah and Leo, and her voice becomes the salvation for Maggie and Eleanor’s choir. It is a particular lullaby that Hannah sings that drives up memories of the past which they all start to explore. The weaving on the past memories of the 1970s to the characters in the present were tight. The speed starts to ramp up as the secrets and memories unfold in front of Maggie, Eleanor and Hannah. Writing about the experiences of single pregnant women in the 1970s was undertaken sensitively, and was quite sad to read about, and follow through in the afterword from the author. This was a touching story that was full of hope, strength and charity. There was no judgement in these characters (apart from Hannah’s mother who seemed to be so closed off to love), and a genuineness of compassion in the actions of the Lyrebird Lake townsfolk.
The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir is one that will melt the heartstrings.
December 31, 2024
Such a beautifully told story with themes including teen pregnancy, homelessness, family connections, love and loss.
Irish teen sisters Eleanor and Maggie are shunned when Maggie falls pregnant and wants to keep the baby. They then get shipped off to Lyrebird Lake Australia to live with an Aunty. Years later they return to Lyrebird Lake and start a community choir while also running a home for disadvantaged young women.
Hannah, a struggling widower with a beautiful voice and a seven year old boy Leo, has been living out of their car along the Sydney beaches. When opportunities to dig themselves out of the hole keep disappearing, Hannah decides on a change of scenery and drives to Lyrebird Lake, which calls to her by a lullaby sung to her by her late father and she now sings to her son.
Through these ladies we see old wounds healing and new relationships beginning.
Told from duel POV and past to present day.
Irish teen sisters Eleanor and Maggie are shunned when Maggie falls pregnant and wants to keep the baby. They then get shipped off to Lyrebird Lake Australia to live with an Aunty. Years later they return to Lyrebird Lake and start a community choir while also running a home for disadvantaged young women.
Hannah, a struggling widower with a beautiful voice and a seven year old boy Leo, has been living out of their car along the Sydney beaches. When opportunities to dig themselves out of the hole keep disappearing, Hannah decides on a change of scenery and drives to Lyrebird Lake, which calls to her by a lullaby sung to her by her late father and she now sings to her son.
Through these ladies we see old wounds healing and new relationships beginning.
Told from duel POV and past to present day.
January 25, 2025
Reading this book was like being enveloped in a thick cosy blanket, curled up on a couch with a cup of tea and a muffin. It's an embrace.
Although you may be able to discern some of the plot points, the way Sandie Docker writes this book will pull you into the world of Lyrebird Lake. I love her style of writing.
We follow Irish sisters, Eleanor and Maggie who run the Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir and as we get to understand their motivations, we also learn about their journey from Ireland. Then there's Hannah and her son Leo. Hannah's husband, Noah, was killed and she finds herself bereft in a new life that does not suit her nor her son. Hannah takes a gamble and drives to Lyrebird Lake on a whim and the idea takes place for her to stay there and try to start a new life.
But all is not as it seems, and the women will soon make discoveries that will drastically change their lives.
A wonderful story beautifully written.
Although you may be able to discern some of the plot points, the way Sandie Docker writes this book will pull you into the world of Lyrebird Lake. I love her style of writing.
We follow Irish sisters, Eleanor and Maggie who run the Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir and as we get to understand their motivations, we also learn about their journey from Ireland. Then there's Hannah and her son Leo. Hannah's husband, Noah, was killed and she finds herself bereft in a new life that does not suit her nor her son. Hannah takes a gamble and drives to Lyrebird Lake on a whim and the idea takes place for her to stay there and try to start a new life.
But all is not as it seems, and the women will soon make discoveries that will drastically change their lives.
A wonderful story beautifully written.
August 4, 2024
Hello Everyone again ........this book is The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir by Sandie Docker this story is heartbreaking and heartwarming and I suggest you have the time to just sit and read and have tissues handy ..........the story is so beautifully written about Maggie and Eleanor who are sisters who live in Ireland with strict parents ........something happens and they have a very big decision to make which will change their lives .........Hannah is grieving the loss of her husband Noah as is Leo her eight year old son with everything that has happened since Noah died Hannah and Leo find themselves homeless the story is very captivating and following the lives of these three wonderful women loved this book very hard to put down .......so you know what to do ............enjoy😀.
July 2, 2024
Irish sisters, Eleanor and Maggie, own a large federation style house and have run the Choir for fifteen years. Their home is open to any woman who needs a helping hand and a place to stay after traumatic events. Hannah is still grieving the loss of her husband, Noah, and with her young son, Leo, is homeless. They make their way to Lyrebird Lake from Sydney, hoping for a new life and security. Past traumatic events begin to intrude on the present day and secrets from all their pasts are revealed. Courage, homelessness, abandonment, unmarried mothers and their horrendous treatment, implacable faith, class divide, new beginnings but above all music and its healing effects feature strongly in this heartwarming and well-written novel.
September 26, 2024
After Hannah’s husband Noah dies in an accident, she finds herself homeless and struggling to provide for her young son Leo. On a whim she moves to the small town of Lyrebird Lake where she finds a job and friends.
Hannah had been an aspiring singer and she is soon drawn to the Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir where she meets sisters Eleanor and Maggie, the driving force behind the choir. Originally from Ireland, the two sisters have an interesting back story and the novel is presented as a mix of two stories covering the period from the 1970s to 2019. Why did the sisters come from Ireland and settle in Lyrebird Lake and what is the connection between them and Hannah? A beautiful story from Sandy Docker.
Hannah had been an aspiring singer and she is soon drawn to the Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir where she meets sisters Eleanor and Maggie, the driving force behind the choir. Originally from Ireland, the two sisters have an interesting back story and the novel is presented as a mix of two stories covering the period from the 1970s to 2019. Why did the sisters come from Ireland and settle in Lyrebird Lake and what is the connection between them and Hannah? A beautiful story from Sandy Docker.
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