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The Singapore Secret
'Wow what a blockbuster of a narrative, I was hooked from the first page and until the end... Full of intrigue and secrets... Be prepared to be swept away' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A secret letter. A wartime promise. A courageous act of love...
Singapore, 1942: The war is drawing ever closer, and Dorothy faces a heart-rending choice to flee the country she has come to call home. With warplanes advancing across the ocean, she is boarding a boat full of evacuees when something is urgently pressed into her arms.
As enemy fire cuts off all escape routes, Dorothy makes a promise that will echo through the years...
England, 2019: When her beloved grandmother, Dotty, passes away aged one hundred, Annabel discovers letters and photographs hidden in her desk that document a secret life as a young woman in Singapore. But Dotty has never travelled further than her small village in Cornwall... What could have made her conceal this past life? And who is the bridegroom standing proudly next to Dotty in a faded wedding photo, who is clearly not Annabel's grandfather?
Determined to uncover the truth, is Annabel prepared for what she will find?
Readers are falling in love with The Singapore Secret:
'Absolutely fantastic read, found myself not being able to put it down, what a compelling, interesting and superb book' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Heartwarming and inspirational story about hope, forgiveness, bravery, promises made and secrets kept, that will stay with you long after you have read the last page' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Gripping and beautifully written read that blends intrigue, culture, and emotion with ease... Draws you in from the very first page, offering vivid insights into Singapore' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A secret letter. A wartime promise. A courageous act of love...
Singapore, 1942: The war is drawing ever closer, and Dorothy faces a heart-rending choice to flee the country she has come to call home. With warplanes advancing across the ocean, she is boarding a boat full of evacuees when something is urgently pressed into her arms.
As enemy fire cuts off all escape routes, Dorothy makes a promise that will echo through the years...
England, 2019: When her beloved grandmother, Dotty, passes away aged one hundred, Annabel discovers letters and photographs hidden in her desk that document a secret life as a young woman in Singapore. But Dotty has never travelled further than her small village in Cornwall... What could have made her conceal this past life? And who is the bridegroom standing proudly next to Dotty in a faded wedding photo, who is clearly not Annabel's grandfather?
Determined to uncover the truth, is Annabel prepared for what she will find?
Readers are falling in love with The Singapore Secret:
'Absolutely fantastic read, found myself not being able to put it down, what a compelling, interesting and superb book' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Heartwarming and inspirational story about hope, forgiveness, bravery, promises made and secrets kept, that will stay with you long after you have read the last page' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Gripping and beautifully written read that blends intrigue, culture, and emotion with ease... Draws you in from the very first page, offering vivid insights into Singapore' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 26, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a perfect blend of past and present while trying to uncover a buried family secret. It’s written so well that it's hard to believe this is a debut novel for Clare.
We start with Annabel, a history professor, who goes back home for her grandmother's birthday. Unfortunately, Dotty dies shortly after, before she can reveal all her secrets to her granddaughter. While trying to settle Dotty's things and clear up the documents in her study, Annabel finds mysterious letters from Singapore. It’s all so surprising because her grandmother never travelled abroad in her life. Or had she?
Throughout the book, we follow both Annabel as she tries to uncover the mystery, and Dotty's life before and during the Second World War. Clare beautifully and with deep respect (as well as great historical detail) presents Singapore on the brink of the Japanese invasion, the lives of the British colonists and their servants, and the reality of the Japanese prison camps. I really appreciated the author's notes at the end, directing readers to further sources if they’d like to deepen their understanding of the subject.
My favourite things about this book are the strong female characters everywhere you look (be it in the present or back in the 1940s) and the belief in second chances. I adore how the women fight for their own happiness and the life they want, even if their initial instinct is to cry (but hey, first regulate your emotions and then work through it, right?). You really do have to make your own happiness, it doesn't just fall from the sky—if it doesn't work out the first time, there's always another option lurking around the corner, you just have to reach for it.
I highly recommend this one if you love historical fiction, especially if you're interested in the Second World War on the Pacific front from a "regular person's" point of view.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
We start with Annabel, a history professor, who goes back home for her grandmother's birthday. Unfortunately, Dotty dies shortly after, before she can reveal all her secrets to her granddaughter. While trying to settle Dotty's things and clear up the documents in her study, Annabel finds mysterious letters from Singapore. It’s all so surprising because her grandmother never travelled abroad in her life. Or had she?
Throughout the book, we follow both Annabel as she tries to uncover the mystery, and Dotty's life before and during the Second World War. Clare beautifully and with deep respect (as well as great historical detail) presents Singapore on the brink of the Japanese invasion, the lives of the British colonists and their servants, and the reality of the Japanese prison camps. I really appreciated the author's notes at the end, directing readers to further sources if they’d like to deepen their understanding of the subject.
My favourite things about this book are the strong female characters everywhere you look (be it in the present or back in the 1940s) and the belief in second chances. I adore how the women fight for their own happiness and the life they want, even if their initial instinct is to cry (but hey, first regulate your emotions and then work through it, right?). You really do have to make your own happiness, it doesn't just fall from the sky—if it doesn't work out the first time, there's always another option lurking around the corner, you just have to reach for it.
I highly recommend this one if you love historical fiction, especially if you're interested in the Second World War on the Pacific front from a "regular person's" point of view.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Dual time line . Singapore in the 1930 1940s and present time. Dark family secrets and a love story? Yes please. What i liked most about the book, was that it was strong female characters in both timelines. I liked that we gpt to know more.about the conditions in the Asians camps.during ww2.
What i liked less, for me the present timeline took up too much space in the book. And the family secret was a little bit too predictable. But still a Nice read. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinio
What i liked less, for me the present timeline took up too much space in the book. And the family secret was a little bit too predictable. But still a Nice read. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinio
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Singapore Secret is a gripping and beautifully written read that blends intrigue, culture, and emotion with ease. The story draws you in from the very first page, offering vivid insights into Singapore while unfolding a compelling and well-paced plot. The characters feel authentic and engaging, making it easy to connect with their journeys. It’s an enjoyable, thought-provoking book that keeps you curious until the end and leaves a lasting impression.
March 10, 2026
Told from the points of view of Annabell in the present day & that of her grandmother while she lived in Singapore during WW2, “The Singapore Secret” is an enjoyable, interesting & informative read with wonderful characters. It describes Singapore’s beauty & tells about a little-known chapter of WW2 history. It’s a heartwarming & inspirational story about hope, forgiveness, bravery, promises made & secrets kept, that will stay with you long after you have read the last page.
Thank You NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this wonderful & inspirational WW2 story. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thank You NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this wonderful & inspirational WW2 story. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Singapore, 1942: As the war comes ever closer, Dorothy's life in Singapore is forever changed. She chooses to flee the country she has come to call home. As she is boarding a boat full of evacuees, a bundle is pressed into her arms. As the enemy cuts off all escape routes, Dorothy makes a promise that will echo throughout generations.
England, 2019: After the death of her beloved grandmother Dotty at the age of 100 years, Annabel discovers letters and photographs hidden in her desk which reveal the secret life of a young woman in Singapore. Though Dotty had never travelled further than her beloved village in Cornwall, Annabel determines to solve the mystery of the young woman in the photos and the bridegroom standing beside Dotty in a faded wedding photo. He is clearly not the grandfather Annabel had known and loved. Determined to uncover the truth, is Annabel prepared for what she may find?
How I loved this story. It is a story but it is also a journey and one I have felt it a privilege to have taken by reading this book.
In memory of those who suffered and died during the invasion and occupation of Singapore.
Thank you so much Clare Willis for writing this story and reminding readers of the bravery and sacrifices made in the hope of freedom and a better world. Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this novel prior to publication.
England, 2019: After the death of her beloved grandmother Dotty at the age of 100 years, Annabel discovers letters and photographs hidden in her desk which reveal the secret life of a young woman in Singapore. Though Dotty had never travelled further than her beloved village in Cornwall, Annabel determines to solve the mystery of the young woman in the photos and the bridegroom standing beside Dotty in a faded wedding photo. He is clearly not the grandfather Annabel had known and loved. Determined to uncover the truth, is Annabel prepared for what she may find?
How I loved this story. It is a story but it is also a journey and one I have felt it a privilege to have taken by reading this book.
In memory of those who suffered and died during the invasion and occupation of Singapore.
Thank you so much Clare Willis for writing this story and reminding readers of the bravery and sacrifices made in the hope of freedom and a better world. Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this novel prior to publication.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is really enjoyable. It starts like an early Rosamund Pilcher set in glorious Cornwall, with a faithful lab for company. Annabelle’s granny is celebrating her hundredth birthday.
Not long after a medical report sends her secure life spinning on it's axis.
To unravel a long buried secret she goes to Singapore and spends part of her trip enjoying the scenery like a regular tourist. This would make an enjoyable, stand-alone book. It's how her investigations uncover very dark times that make it un put-downable.
The granny and granddaughter are both likeable, believable characters and as she unearthed new facts you become desperate to learn the outcome.
With a dashing hero with film star looks to an orphan to a particularly brutal part of World War II it is really gripping.
This is a debut novel that old hands would envy. I can't recommend it highly enough.
Not long after a medical report sends her secure life spinning on it's axis.
To unravel a long buried secret she goes to Singapore and spends part of her trip enjoying the scenery like a regular tourist. This would make an enjoyable, stand-alone book. It's how her investigations uncover very dark times that make it un put-downable.
The granny and granddaughter are both likeable, believable characters and as she unearthed new facts you become desperate to learn the outcome.
With a dashing hero with film star looks to an orphan to a particularly brutal part of World War II it is really gripping.
This is a debut novel that old hands would envy. I can't recommend it highly enough.
April 26, 2026
Read in a day!
What a beautiful story of bravery, courage and resilience. I loved it, I didn’t want it to end.
The flow between modern day and the war was flawless.
Dotty’s story could be anybody’s story that lived through these extraordinarily traumatic times.
I was swept along with the romance and the harshness of this world.
I read with the “listen and read” function, it was perfect. The story was beautifully.
Thank you so much!
What a beautiful story of bravery, courage and resilience. I loved it, I didn’t want it to end.
The flow between modern day and the war was flawless.
Dotty’s story could be anybody’s story that lived through these extraordinarily traumatic times.
I was swept along with the romance and the harshness of this world.
I read with the “listen and read” function, it was perfect. The story was beautifully.
Thank you so much!
April 23, 2026
Good, easy read
I'd never heard of this author so thought i would try! Very much enjoyed. Easy to read, flows well. Enough to keep you wanting to read the next chapter. Will certainly read another of hers
I'd never heard of this author so thought i would try! Very much enjoyed. Easy to read, flows well. Enough to keep you wanting to read the next chapter. Will certainly read another of hers
April 7, 2026
a great love story
A novel that in fact told a lot of history. The love story side of it was entertaining and uplifting.
A very worthwhile read
A novel that in fact told a lot of history. The love story side of it was entertaining and uplifting.
A very worthwhile read
March 18, 2026
Couldn't put this book down - it was brilliant.
Loved how it went from now back to Dottys time in Singapore and reading how the story unfolded.
Having visited Singapore I related to how it is now and familiar landmarks cropped up. I also found the historical references interesting.
I didn't want the book to end - it was a sad read in parts but the characters were well thought out and interesting. I particularly loved Ah Ling - a true friend to Dotty.
I will be checking out the Authors other books.
Loved how it went from now back to Dottys time in Singapore and reading how the story unfolded.
Having visited Singapore I related to how it is now and familiar landmarks cropped up. I also found the historical references interesting.
I didn't want the book to end - it was a sad read in parts but the characters were well thought out and interesting. I particularly loved Ah Ling - a true friend to Dotty.
I will be checking out the Authors other books.
April 5, 2026
The Singapore Secret is a beautifully written debut novel by Clare Willis. I was especially drawn to the setting of Singapore under Japanese occupation, as I feel it is a rarely explored perspective of women held as POWs. There are few books that focus on women in Japanese prison camps, I found myself wanting to learn even more about their experiences. The author delivers a heartfelt, engaging story filled with family secrets, loss, love, determination and sacrifice. It is an emotional, compelling and unputdownable read, that I found stays with you long after the final page. 4 ½ stars
I would like to thank the author, Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley for my copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
#TheSingaporeSecret #NetGalley.
I would like to thank the author, Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley for my copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
#TheSingaporeSecret #NetGalley.
April 30, 2026
I read this in 2 sittings. A great debut novel set in 2 countries with a dual timeline. Having lived in Singapore as a child I love books set there and it was good to reminisce whenever a place was mentioned.
Looking forward to her next book
Looking forward to her next book
April 21, 2026
Loved it! Caught me from the start and kept me enthralled throughout. Living in Singapore at the moment and loved the connections and history.
March 22, 2026
I read this book, as it was recommend to me by my husband. I'll admit I'm not a lover of Wartime history so its not book I'd choose freely.
However was pleasantly surprised I really enjoyed this with its present day representation and was written as if the story was unfolding before your eyes.
The twist and turns kept me guessing and was a great read. I've never been a fan of stories that flick back and forward in time which this book does but it was easy to follow.
However was pleasantly surprised I really enjoyed this with its present day representation and was written as if the story was unfolding before your eyes.
The twist and turns kept me guessing and was a great read. I've never been a fan of stories that flick back and forward in time which this book does but it was easy to follow.
April 5, 2026
I absolutely LOVED this book. So well written and extremely captivating right from the beginning. More please!
January 24, 2026
The Singapore Secret by Clare Willis is an emotionally rich WWII historical novel told through a dual timeline, set in Singapore during World War II and England in 2019.
Dorothy (Dotty) moves from England to Singapore with her parents after her father receives a promotion in the rubber industry, just prior to the outbreak of war. Dotty enjoys a privileged colonial life — dinners at Raffles, afternoons spent on the verandah sipping cocktails — and like many living in Singapore at the time, the arrival of war comes as a shock.
In 2019, following Dotty’s death, her granddaughter Annabel uncovers hidden letters and photographs that reveal a surprising past about her grandmother that no one in the family knew. The narrative moves between Annabel’s research into her grandmother’s life and Dotty’s experiences in wartime Singapore, gradually uncovering long-buried truths.
Family secrets, trust, love, and sacrifice are key themes throughout the novel. Having lived in Singapore as a child and visited many times since, I have a particular fondness for historical stories set there, and this book truly resonated with me.
I found The Singapore Secret to be a compelling and engaging weekend read. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction.
Dorothy (Dotty) moves from England to Singapore with her parents after her father receives a promotion in the rubber industry, just prior to the outbreak of war. Dotty enjoys a privileged colonial life — dinners at Raffles, afternoons spent on the verandah sipping cocktails — and like many living in Singapore at the time, the arrival of war comes as a shock.
In 2019, following Dotty’s death, her granddaughter Annabel uncovers hidden letters and photographs that reveal a surprising past about her grandmother that no one in the family knew. The narrative moves between Annabel’s research into her grandmother’s life and Dotty’s experiences in wartime Singapore, gradually uncovering long-buried truths.
Family secrets, trust, love, and sacrifice are key themes throughout the novel. Having lived in Singapore as a child and visited many times since, I have a particular fondness for historical stories set there, and this book truly resonated with me.
I found The Singapore Secret to be a compelling and engaging weekend read. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction.
March 21, 2026
Absolutely brilliant! Historically accurate and so moving. I really warmed to both Annabel (Annie) and Dorothy (Dotty), the way the author flipped between past and present was seamless.
When Annie finds a letter in her grandmas desk it initiates a trip to Singapore where secrets are revealed and heartbreak is inevitable.
Well written, fantastically researched and just heartbreaking,
When Annie finds a letter in her grandmas desk it initiates a trip to Singapore where secrets are revealed and heartbreak is inevitable.
Well written, fantastically researched and just heartbreaking,
March 6, 2026
Beautiful
What a lovely story, one that's really touched my heart. A lot of people pass on with their secrets, I shall be no different when it's my time. I could really connect with "Dotty". You must read this book but have some tissues ready...........happy reading.
What a lovely story, one that's really touched my heart. A lot of people pass on with their secrets, I shall be no different when it's my time. I could really connect with "Dotty". You must read this book but have some tissues ready...........happy reading.
March 3, 2026
I really enjoyed The Singapore Secret and couldn't quite believe that it was Clare Willis's first book!
Fans of Lucinda Riley and Kate Morton will definitely love this dual narrative/dual timeline book told from the perspective of modern day Annabel and her grandmother Dotty. Based between Cornwall and the hot and heady days of pre-WW2 Singapore.
When Annabel's long term boyfriend becomes distant and uninterested, she decides it's time for a bit of space between them and heads to her happy place - her grandmother in Cornwall, Dotty. While there her grandmother becomes poorly and uncovers part of a family secret. When Dotty dies a few days later, Annabel knows she has to do everything in her power to find out the truth,
I thought both timelines were equally strong and the locations were described beautifully. I wanted to go and visit both of them immediately!
Many thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Fans of Lucinda Riley and Kate Morton will definitely love this dual narrative/dual timeline book told from the perspective of modern day Annabel and her grandmother Dotty. Based between Cornwall and the hot and heady days of pre-WW2 Singapore.
When Annabel's long term boyfriend becomes distant and uninterested, she decides it's time for a bit of space between them and heads to her happy place - her grandmother in Cornwall, Dotty. While there her grandmother becomes poorly and uncovers part of a family secret. When Dotty dies a few days later, Annabel knows she has to do everything in her power to find out the truth,
I thought both timelines were equally strong and the locations were described beautifully. I wanted to go and visit both of them immediately!
Many thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2026
A dynamic read that really transports you to the early years of Singapore.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received a copy of The Singapore Secret by Clare Willis from Hodder & Stoughton and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Why I picked this up?
I was drawn to this book because I love stories set in different historical periods, especially those centered around strong, resilient women. The dual timeline and the Singapore setting during World War II immediately caught my attention, and I was curious to see how history, family secrets, and generational stories would intertwine.
A brief summary:
Dorothy Templeton moves to Singapore in 1938 with her parents when her father takes a job with a rubber company. Life feels like an adventure in paradise—days spent socializing with other English families, shopping, dining at Raffles Hotel, and enjoying a seemingly safe and comfortable life. Despite assurances that Singapore is heavily fortified, the threat of war becomes real, leading to panic, evacuation, and a promise Dorothy makes. In 2019, her granddaughter Annabel uncovers hidden photographs after Dorothy’s death, revealing a past no one in the family knew about. Determined to uncover the truth, Annabel travels to Singapore to solve an eighty-year-old mystery.
What I liked:
• The dual timeline (1938–1945 and 2019) was easy to follow and very engaging
• Strong, empowering female characters across generations
• Seeing World War II through a perspective and location that isn’t often explored
Overall thoughts:
As someone who has read many war stories, it was hard to be completely surprised. Personally, war stories are difficult to rate very highly unless they deeply shock me. As a Russian who grew up in Russia, World War II was a major part of my education, but almost always from a Russian families point of view. Reading about how the war affected people in Singapore and the British community there felt refreshing and eye-opening. The writing is smooth and immersive, and I often found myself unable to go a day without reading at least a few pages—it was always hard to put down and return to my adult responsibilities. I loved how the story intertwined generations and showed how important it is to know and understand our family history.
Would I recommend it?
Yes — because it’s a great choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction, family secrets, and strong female characters, and for those who may be sensitive to graphic wartime detail but still want a powerful story.
Why I picked this up?
I was drawn to this book because I love stories set in different historical periods, especially those centered around strong, resilient women. The dual timeline and the Singapore setting during World War II immediately caught my attention, and I was curious to see how history, family secrets, and generational stories would intertwine.
A brief summary:
Dorothy Templeton moves to Singapore in 1938 with her parents when her father takes a job with a rubber company. Life feels like an adventure in paradise—days spent socializing with other English families, shopping, dining at Raffles Hotel, and enjoying a seemingly safe and comfortable life. Despite assurances that Singapore is heavily fortified, the threat of war becomes real, leading to panic, evacuation, and a promise Dorothy makes. In 2019, her granddaughter Annabel uncovers hidden photographs after Dorothy’s death, revealing a past no one in the family knew about. Determined to uncover the truth, Annabel travels to Singapore to solve an eighty-year-old mystery.
What I liked:
• The dual timeline (1938–1945 and 2019) was easy to follow and very engaging
• Strong, empowering female characters across generations
• Seeing World War II through a perspective and location that isn’t often explored
Overall thoughts:
As someone who has read many war stories, it was hard to be completely surprised. Personally, war stories are difficult to rate very highly unless they deeply shock me. As a Russian who grew up in Russia, World War II was a major part of my education, but almost always from a Russian families point of view. Reading about how the war affected people in Singapore and the British community there felt refreshing and eye-opening. The writing is smooth and immersive, and I often found myself unable to go a day without reading at least a few pages—it was always hard to put down and return to my adult responsibilities. I loved how the story intertwined generations and showed how important it is to know and understand our family history.
Would I recommend it?
Yes — because it’s a great choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction, family secrets, and strong female characters, and for those who may be sensitive to graphic wartime detail but still want a powerful story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a story! This book hooked me from the start and never let go.
It is a brilliant story of two young women, both navigating affairs of the heart, one riddled with guilt over a terrible secret, the other searching for answers to questions arising from a long-hidden wedding photo. It is a story of the unbreakable bonds of familial love and how the definition of family is not always based on DNA.
Set on an idyllic farm on the coast of Cornwall with playful lambs and sparkling water, as well as in the lush tropics of Singapore, this dual timeline includes plenty of mystery, twists and turns, and a little romance to keep the pages turning late into the night.The dual timeline flowed easily back and forth. Character development was spot on.
Yes, this is another WWII historical fiction book, but it is unlike the many others I have read. One of the time periods was during the years of the war, but the war itself was mostly in the background. Additionally, the setting was Singapore - no nightly bombings in London or resistance work in occupied Europe.
Thinking back on the storyline, I believe book clubs will devour this book and have much to discuss. (Why were certain decisions made as they were? How did the norms of the time affect those decisions? Would a young woman today make those same decisions? How did those actions affect future generations? If decisions/actions had been different, what might have been different in later years for this family?) I am looking forward to discussions with my friends, family and book club after the book is released and they have read it.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the advance ebook. All opinions are my own.
It is a brilliant story of two young women, both navigating affairs of the heart, one riddled with guilt over a terrible secret, the other searching for answers to questions arising from a long-hidden wedding photo. It is a story of the unbreakable bonds of familial love and how the definition of family is not always based on DNA.
Set on an idyllic farm on the coast of Cornwall with playful lambs and sparkling water, as well as in the lush tropics of Singapore, this dual timeline includes plenty of mystery, twists and turns, and a little romance to keep the pages turning late into the night.The dual timeline flowed easily back and forth. Character development was spot on.
Yes, this is another WWII historical fiction book, but it is unlike the many others I have read. One of the time periods was during the years of the war, but the war itself was mostly in the background. Additionally, the setting was Singapore - no nightly bombings in London or resistance work in occupied Europe.
Thinking back on the storyline, I believe book clubs will devour this book and have much to discuss. (Why were certain decisions made as they were? How did the norms of the time affect those decisions? Would a young woman today make those same decisions? How did those actions affect future generations? If decisions/actions had been different, what might have been different in later years for this family?) I am looking forward to discussions with my friends, family and book club after the book is released and they have read it.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the advance ebook. All opinions are my own.
April 20, 2026
Many of us are intrigued by the lives lead by our recently deceased relations during World War Two but often their courage has been concealed. Annabel has always had a close relationship with her grandmother, but when she discovers that Dotty once lived in Singapore, she decides to travel there to see what she can discover. Staying with her best friend’s cousin, Annabel is surprised to find that her hostess, Emma, is friends with James, who had been Annabel’s fellow student at Trinity College, Oxford. Although rather unfriendly at first, he begins to help her with her research into Dotty’s past.
As they research, we read Dotty’s story through her own words. At the age of 19, she is taken to pre-war Singapore where she enjoys the sophisticated social life and luxury living of the British families. Soon captivated by a handsome colleague of her father she gives up her ambitions to have a career.
The letters which Annabel had discovered were from Ah Ling, a Chinese friend of Dotty, and James helps Annabel to meet Ah Ling’s granddaughter. Soon we learn of Dotty’s terrible experiences when the Japanese invaded the island and the reason why she kept her past secret.
The story recounts unpleasant relationships in both eras but also how it is possible to start again. The realism of wartime experiences, realistically described by the author, is countered by love and kindness. I especially enjoyed reading this book because I lived in Singapore in the 1960s & returned several times this century so I recognised the island’s features clearly in the text. I recommend it to anyone who knows present day Singapore and shares my fascination for its history.
As they research, we read Dotty’s story through her own words. At the age of 19, she is taken to pre-war Singapore where she enjoys the sophisticated social life and luxury living of the British families. Soon captivated by a handsome colleague of her father she gives up her ambitions to have a career.
The letters which Annabel had discovered were from Ah Ling, a Chinese friend of Dotty, and James helps Annabel to meet Ah Ling’s granddaughter. Soon we learn of Dotty’s terrible experiences when the Japanese invaded the island and the reason why she kept her past secret.
The story recounts unpleasant relationships in both eras but also how it is possible to start again. The realism of wartime experiences, realistically described by the author, is countered by love and kindness. I especially enjoyed reading this book because I lived in Singapore in the 1960s & returned several times this century so I recognised the island’s features clearly in the text. I recommend it to anyone who knows present day Singapore and shares my fascination for its history.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When things start to go sour between Annabel Penrose and her long-term boyfriend, she decides to spend the Easter holiday with her beloved grandmother, Dotty, in Cornwall. When she arrives, she finds Dotty has suffered a fall and she is quickly taken to the hospital. When scans reveal Dotty likely couldn’t have children, Annabel is thrown for a loop. Is her father, Noel, not really her grandparents’ son? Dotty passes away before Annabel can inquire about it and while searching Dotty’s desk for funeral plans, she finds mysterious letters that indicate Dotty had a life no one knew about. There are pictures of Dotty, who claimed never to have left the UK, in Singapore as a young woman. With nothing to lose, Annabel decides to travel to Singapore to uncover this lost chapter in Dotty’s history.
So begins a dual-timeline narrative following Annabel’s research and Dotty’s life in WW2 Singapore. As I find I usually do, I enjoyed the historical timeline more than the present-day timeline. It took almost 20% of the book to get to the historical timeline which made for a slow start. Dotty’s story is very interesting and sheds some light on what happened in Singapore during WW2, which I knew nothing about. I could have done without Annabel’s romance, considering she was just days past a breakup- not every story needs to end with someone finding a man.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and thought it was an original story among the vast collection of WW2 narratives.
So begins a dual-timeline narrative following Annabel’s research and Dotty’s life in WW2 Singapore. As I find I usually do, I enjoyed the historical timeline more than the present-day timeline. It took almost 20% of the book to get to the historical timeline which made for a slow start. Dotty’s story is very interesting and sheds some light on what happened in Singapore during WW2, which I knew nothing about. I could have done without Annabel’s romance, considering she was just days past a breakup- not every story needs to end with someone finding a man.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and thought it was an original story among the vast collection of WW2 narratives.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book follows quite a popular theme - the idea that an object or person reveals a secret from the past and someone investigates to find the truth. This two-hander revolves around Singapore at the start of the Second World War and Cornwall in the present day. Dotty is nearly 100 and about to celebrate her birthday with her family - son, Noel and grandchildren Annabel and William. However, when she has a fall and hospitalised, Annie discovers her grandmother apparently lived in Singapore, and the details of her time during the war and the birth of her son don't seem to tally.
Dotty dies, and Annie embarks on a visit to Singapore to find the truth. The story itself is interesting - Dotty goes from being a cherished daughter to a prisoner of the Japanese, but before this she marries, with disastrous consequences.
I enjoyed the back and forth as Dotty's story was revealed. Annie's story, with a cheating boyfriend, was less interesting and the love story at the end I could have done without. But overall its an interesting read that sheds light on how the elite ex-pats of Singapore lived and survived.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Dotty dies, and Annie embarks on a visit to Singapore to find the truth. The story itself is interesting - Dotty goes from being a cherished daughter to a prisoner of the Japanese, but before this she marries, with disastrous consequences.
I enjoyed the back and forth as Dotty's story was revealed. Annie's story, with a cheating boyfriend, was less interesting and the love story at the end I could have done without. But overall its an interesting read that sheds light on how the elite ex-pats of Singapore lived and survived.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book. 5 Stars. I loved it! There is a dual timeline between 2019 and the 1940s. In Singapore in the 1940s Dorothy and her parents join the ex-pat community as her father moves them there for work. They establish friendships and Dorothy falls in love. In 1942 war is drawing near but there is tragedy in Dorothy’s life as she loses all she holds dear in a matter of weeks and has to make the decision whether to flee Singapore. Further tragedy as she is on the boat with evacuees that is bombed. In 2019 Annabel’s dear Grandmother Dotty passes away shortly after her hundredth birthday. In clearing out the Cornish farmhouse Annabel discovers a secret drawer in Dotty’s desk containing letters and documents of Dotty’s secret life in Singapore. But as far as the family are aware Dotty has never left England. Annabel is keen to uncover the truth and makes her own journey to Singapore to see what she can find out. The characters and descriptions are lovely. I visited Singapore a few years ago and could certainly picture the 2019 life and even the 1940s scenes. Such an inspirational and heartwarming book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This dual time line novel by Clare Willis was enjoyable. Annabel who in 2019 is struggling with her current relationship and the loss of her grandmother Dotty, discovers her grandmother actually spent time in pre-WW2 Singapore. It was always Annabel and her families understanding Dotty never traveled or left England. Hoping to find answers, Annabel travels to Singapore in hope of finding out more about her grandmothers past. The book alternates back and forth between Annabelle in 2019 and Dorothy (Dotty) in 1938 and WW2. I found myself enjoying both time lines equally and both female leads were well developed. Annabel’s outcome was predictable but I found Dorothy’s went in a different direction. I did find it odd in Annabel’s story her parents were often referred to by their first names and Dorothy was sometimes called old lady. I did like the amount of detail the author provided when discussing certain aspects of Dorothy’s journey during the war. I want to thank the author and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a really enjoyable dual timeline story, set mainly in Cornwall and Singapore.
The main characters are Annabel, and her grandmother Dotty. As far as Annabel knows Dotty has never left her beloved Cornwall and it was only when she dies that she finds out her grandmother had secrets she'd never shared with her family.
Dotty moved to colonial Singapore in 1938 with her parents when the rubber business was in demand and her father got a new job out there. Their lives changed completely with servants and a wonderful lifestyle, for a few years anyway until the war started and then everyone had to flee if they could, or got caught up in Japanese camps if they didn't escape. Dotty ended up in a prisoner of war camp.
The story flips between Annabel visiting Singapore to find out more about her grandmother's hidden life, and Dotty's life and how she ended up married with a son in Cornwall.
Really fascinating story of a time we don't hear about that often.
The main characters are Annabel, and her grandmother Dotty. As far as Annabel knows Dotty has never left her beloved Cornwall and it was only when she dies that she finds out her grandmother had secrets she'd never shared with her family.
Dotty moved to colonial Singapore in 1938 with her parents when the rubber business was in demand and her father got a new job out there. Their lives changed completely with servants and a wonderful lifestyle, for a few years anyway until the war started and then everyone had to flee if they could, or got caught up in Japanese camps if they didn't escape. Dotty ended up in a prisoner of war camp.
The story flips between Annabel visiting Singapore to find out more about her grandmother's hidden life, and Dotty's life and how she ended up married with a son in Cornwall.
Really fascinating story of a time we don't hear about that often.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really loved this book. With stories that alternate between multiple narrators, I usually find myself more invested in one voice over the other. That wasn’t the case here. I was equally drawn to both Annabel’s and Dotty’s stories and found myself completely absorbed, eager to return to each perspective.
I also learned so much about Singapore and a piece of its history that I knew almost nothing about going in. The setting is beautifully rendered, with rich details that bring the place and time to life and add real depth to the story without ever feeling heavy.
The only thing that pulled me out of the narrative at times was some repeated wording and phrases (like “smart” or references to someone’s “laid-back side”). That aside, this was a compelling and thoughtfully written debut, and I’m excited to see what Clare Willis writes next.
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book)
I also learned so much about Singapore and a piece of its history that I knew almost nothing about going in. The setting is beautifully rendered, with rich details that bring the place and time to life and add real depth to the story without ever feeling heavy.
The only thing that pulled me out of the narrative at times was some repeated wording and phrases (like “smart” or references to someone’s “laid-back side”). That aside, this was a compelling and thoughtfully written debut, and I’m excited to see what Clare Willis writes next.
(Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was asked by NetGalley to review this really intriguing story with a dual timeline set in the 1930/40s and in the present.
This was such an intriguinly beautifully written story.
Set in the days of Colonial Singapore where Dorothy is with her parents - father working for a rubber company. life is good and privilaged - with socialising and the lavish Raffles hotel. Everyone thinks Singapore will be safe as the war continues at home - Singapore will not fall. Evacuations take place will the family be safe?
Annabel - her grandmother passes away - she has no idea she had been in Singapore.
Then a trip to Singapore to uncover the truth and why her Grandmother never spoke of this or that she had ever been anywhere apart from England.
Well researched and due for publication February 26th 2026.
This was such an intriguinly beautifully written story.
Set in the days of Colonial Singapore where Dorothy is with her parents - father working for a rubber company. life is good and privilaged - with socialising and the lavish Raffles hotel. Everyone thinks Singapore will be safe as the war continues at home - Singapore will not fall. Evacuations take place will the family be safe?
Annabel - her grandmother passes away - she has no idea she had been in Singapore.
Then a trip to Singapore to uncover the truth and why her Grandmother never spoke of this or that she had ever been anywhere apart from England.
Well researched and due for publication February 26th 2026.
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