The Handkerchief Tree

by Anne Douglas, Lesley Mackie (Reader)

Edinburgh, 1923. After four years spent in an orphanage, bright, spirited 15-year-old Shona Murray finds her niche in a city florist's, where she excels. She is content there until, suddenly, she must make decisions that will change everything. Fraser Kyle, the owner of the florist's, proposes marriage. Should she accept, or renew her childish love for Mark Lindsay the doctor from the orphanage who first showed Shona the Handkerchief Tree that inspired her? Or will Brett Webster, a Canadian cousin just arrived out of the blue, steal her heart? As world storm clouds gather, Shona must find true courage to know where her happiness lies.

Genres: Historical Fiction

10 pages, Audio Cassette

First published November 1, 2012

About the author

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Reviews

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story starts in Edinburgh, Scotland. Eleven year old Shona Murray is left an orphan and taken to live at Edina Lodge, the orphanage where she will be cared for along with a number of other children. In an attempt to cheer her up Shona is introduced through young Dr Mark Lindsay to the handkerchief tree. She has no idea then of the role that tree will have in her life. When she turns fifteen and is forced to leave school and get a job and leave Edina Lodge, but she does not want to go into service as a maid. With the help of Miss Bryce who runs Edina Lodge she secures a position working and training in a very different field of business. Shona makes a life for herself. But the two different men come into her life. Or is there even a third man to consider?
This is a sweet rather simplistic story which is enjoyable, although sometimes it did seem things worked out too neatly and predictably.
Interested that the novel clearly started the handkerchief tree has bracts that are white petals with a reddish centre. Yet each book cover shows white bracts with a yellow centre. Would help if the illustration matched the description.
It was a quick, light read. Pleasant enough time spent reading it, while never becoming emotionally involved with the characters. Liked it but never loved it.

[Susan R · Rating 2 out of 5]

Have to give it 2 stars as it was a predictable romance written in a predictable way. However, I enjoyed the book and may read another if I am in the mood for a romance book that does not require a lot of thought.

[Rachael · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It is just a nice, simple tale, told well.

[Maree Cox-Baker · Rating 1 out of 5]

Could barely get through this one. Wouldn't read anything else by this author.

[June Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely story, thoroughly enjoyed it