What do you think?
Rate this book
The Cottage at Rosella Cove
Nicole is starting again. She’s left her old life far behind, and has just arrived in the sleepy town of Rosella Cove, renting the old cottage by the water. At first Nicole is determined to avoid making personal ties, but when she discovers a hidden box of letters she soon realises that she’s not the first person to have lived in the cottage who has been hiding secrets . . .
As Nicole gradually begins to let her guard down, she starts to find real connections with the close-knit community at the Cove – especially with handsome Danny, the local handyman who has been helping her restore the cottage to its former glory.
But Nicole still struggles with her own dark past, which seems determined to catch up with her. How long can she keep running? And what will happen if she stops?
As Nicole gradually begins to let her guard down, she starts to find real connections with the close-knit community at the Cove – especially with handsome Danny, the local handyman who has been helping her restore the cottage to its former glory.
But Nicole still struggles with her own dark past, which seems determined to catch up with her. How long can she keep running? And what will happen if she stops?
336 pages, Paperback
Published January 8, 2019
36 people are currently reading
687 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)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
February 7, 2019
A lovely, feel good book, I couldn't put this one down and raced through it in a day. We meet Nicole, devastated by a breakup from a relationship in Sydney, so she heads to the small town of Rosella Cove to find herself. She takes up the offer of free rent in an oceanside cottage, with the proviso that she does some renovations on the cottage. She soon meets the towns quirky characters, who all pitch in to help her with the renovations. Then there's gruff old hermit Charlie, who lives in a boathouse near her. He obviously has secrets, but doesn't trust anyone, yet Nicole and he soon find an understanding. Then one day while restoring the old fireplace Nicole finds a wooden box containing letters written by the cottages previous owner. In the following months Nicole gets to know this lady, Ivy, through her letters to her husband, which slowly reveal her story, and that of Charlie's and Nicole soon becomes invested.
Sandie Decker has written a wonderful book about love, hope and friendship. Even when we think there is nothing left for us, something will come along to lend us faith. In Nicole's case she finds the townspeople become her family, and she starts to learn to love again. A first rate read, I recommend this book to all lovers of contemporary fiction.
Sandie Decker has written a wonderful book about love, hope and friendship. Even when we think there is nothing left for us, something will come along to lend us faith. In Nicole's case she finds the townspeople become her family, and she starts to learn to love again. A first rate read, I recommend this book to all lovers of contemporary fiction.
March 15, 2019
Divine! Phenomenal! Immediately on my favourites list for 2019…
Nicole’s life changed as she moved from being Nicky to Nicole. Her past was something she needed to keep there; the memories she tried to keep locked away. Could this sleepy little town of Rosella Cove help her to shift the focus and regain her equilibrium?
The small cottage she was going to stay in had been uninhabited for a long time. She had been given free rent in exchange for some gentle renovations. But as Nicole viewed the unloved cottage, she was sure the renovations would involve more than originally indicated. Either way, she was up for the challenge. The beautifully carved box she discovered in her first days was the start of unlocking secrets and pain which had also inhabited the cottage, many years prior.
The boatshed below the cottage housed an old hermit, Charlie, whom Nicole gradually came to know. He was a crusty old fellow who frightened many of the town’s children, and some of the adults as well. But Nicole knew he was lonely.
As Nicole gradually brought the cottage to its former glory, she found friendship among the residents. The town’s local football team and their supporters welcomed her in, while she found a friend with Mandy, Danny and others. But mostly she came to know and love Ivy and Thomas.
The Cottage at Rosella Cove by Aussie author Sandie Docker was wonderful! I enjoyed every word, from the beginning to the end and loved the three main characters who felt like dear friends. The cover is stunning, as was the cover of the previous novel, The Kookaburra Creek Cafe. I’m very much looking forward to Sandie’s next novel – her heartfelt, emotional and poignant writing is exceptional. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my autographed copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
Nicole’s life changed as she moved from being Nicky to Nicole. Her past was something she needed to keep there; the memories she tried to keep locked away. Could this sleepy little town of Rosella Cove help her to shift the focus and regain her equilibrium?
The small cottage she was going to stay in had been uninhabited for a long time. She had been given free rent in exchange for some gentle renovations. But as Nicole viewed the unloved cottage, she was sure the renovations would involve more than originally indicated. Either way, she was up for the challenge. The beautifully carved box she discovered in her first days was the start of unlocking secrets and pain which had also inhabited the cottage, many years prior.
The boatshed below the cottage housed an old hermit, Charlie, whom Nicole gradually came to know. He was a crusty old fellow who frightened many of the town’s children, and some of the adults as well. But Nicole knew he was lonely.
As Nicole gradually brought the cottage to its former glory, she found friendship among the residents. The town’s local football team and their supporters welcomed her in, while she found a friend with Mandy, Danny and others. But mostly she came to know and love Ivy and Thomas.
The Cottage at Rosella Cove by Aussie author Sandie Docker was wonderful! I enjoyed every word, from the beginning to the end and loved the three main characters who felt like dear friends. The cover is stunning, as was the cover of the previous novel, The Kookaburra Creek Cafe. I’m very much looking forward to Sandie’s next novel – her heartfelt, emotional and poignant writing is exceptional. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my autographed copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2019
Starting her life over again and leaving her old one behind was never going to be easy for Nicole, but she was determined to make a go of it. Arriving in the small town of Rosella Cove this would be where, Nicole would rent an old cottage by the water. Deciding she would just keep to herself and not become too friendly with anyone, but that changed the day she found a box of hidden letters.
At first, Nicole didn’t want to read the letters as these belonged to someone else and it was the wrong thing to do, but curiosity got the better of her and she thought perhaps reading just one wouldn’t hurt. Of course after reading the first letter she was intrigued and wanted to know more, so gradually she read a few more. You would think being in a small town you could escape most people, but this was not the case in Rosella Cove and quickly, Nicole was getting to know the people in the small community bit by bit.
As Nicole started to get friendly with some of the locals, particularly the good looking, Danny the local handyman she started asking questions about certain people. This was so she could try and piece together about what she had been reading in the hidden letters. Nicole would discover hidden secrets and just as she is trying to work through these her own past, a past she thought she’d escaped was about to haunt her again.
Aussie author Sandie Docker has once again written another superb book in my opinion. I thoroughly loved her debut novel (The Kookaburra Creek Cafe) and I absolutely LOVED this story. Sandie has written about all the things I love and find intriguing to read about such as love, loss, friendships, betrayal, oh and let’s not forget hidden letters I love reading about those and trying to work it all out. As you can see by my review I LOVED this story as well as the beautiful cover and would recommend it to anyone who loves a great read.
At first, Nicole didn’t want to read the letters as these belonged to someone else and it was the wrong thing to do, but curiosity got the better of her and she thought perhaps reading just one wouldn’t hurt. Of course after reading the first letter she was intrigued and wanted to know more, so gradually she read a few more. You would think being in a small town you could escape most people, but this was not the case in Rosella Cove and quickly, Nicole was getting to know the people in the small community bit by bit.
As Nicole started to get friendly with some of the locals, particularly the good looking, Danny the local handyman she started asking questions about certain people. This was so she could try and piece together about what she had been reading in the hidden letters. Nicole would discover hidden secrets and just as she is trying to work through these her own past, a past she thought she’d escaped was about to haunt her again.
Aussie author Sandie Docker has once again written another superb book in my opinion. I thoroughly loved her debut novel (The Kookaburra Creek Cafe) and I absolutely LOVED this story. Sandie has written about all the things I love and find intriguing to read about such as love, loss, friendships, betrayal, oh and let’s not forget hidden letters I love reading about those and trying to work it all out. As you can see by my review I LOVED this story as well as the beautiful cover and would recommend it to anyone who loves a great read.
February 6, 2024
This author's books can be relied on to give the reader a pleasurable, feel-good read. Something with good and bad characters but always the certainty that the good will win. A good beach read and an equally good wet afternoon in an armchair read.
Nicole is eventually pushed out of a particularly toxic relationship (and we breathe a sigh of relief when this happens). She goes to hide away from the world in the cottage at Rosella Cove but luckily the local residents insist on helping her and pushing her back into society. She discovers mysterious letters from a past resident of the cottage and begins to put down roots of her own.
It is all too deliciously good to be true but so beguiling. The epitome of escapism and why not? Loved it.
Nicole is eventually pushed out of a particularly toxic relationship (and we breathe a sigh of relief when this happens). She goes to hide away from the world in the cottage at Rosella Cove but luckily the local residents insist on helping her and pushing her back into society. She discovers mysterious letters from a past resident of the cottage and begins to put down roots of her own.
It is all too deliciously good to be true but so beguiling. The epitome of escapism and why not? Loved it.
September 8, 2022
This book had it all! Apart from being a very easy and well written read, I was left feeling good and loving the experience. The narration was top notch, I enjoyed this so much, Kathryn Hartman did very well. Nicole felt like a friend, we wanted her to be safe and happy. She was capable, yet fragile, she was strong, yet vulnerable.
Nicole, a writer, fell into a relationship with a man that was not good for her. He called her Princess and this grated! She took a while to see this, but eventually she did, and she did not stand for it and left. She was not financial and unfortunately part of the distain for him was his manipulation. On the surface he may have been seen to be the provider, this was a typical gaslighting scenario.
Starting again with no financials, no family and nowhere to turn, she ended up in a beautiful small community fixing up a gorgeous home while living rent free.
Lovely characters, lovely friendships and simply just a feel-good story. The writer in Nicole is thrilled to come across some old hidden letters, which are honestly just so well written and lovely, that this letter writing forms a link with one of the characters and we are rooting for her to realise the connection.
Lessons learned and realised, friendships formed, and an old house reconstructed to house a new set of loving occupants. This is a wholesome story of connectedness and feeling at home; feeling a part of.
Not all reading needs to be serious, or hard work, therefore this sweet book ticked all the boxes. A lot of my GR friends loved this and cannot speak more highly of this one. I see why.
Late to the party am I yet again, but never mind, this means I have more of this author to look forward to.
Nicole, a writer, fell into a relationship with a man that was not good for her. He called her Princess and this grated! She took a while to see this, but eventually she did, and she did not stand for it and left. She was not financial and unfortunately part of the distain for him was his manipulation. On the surface he may have been seen to be the provider, this was a typical gaslighting scenario.
Starting again with no financials, no family and nowhere to turn, she ended up in a beautiful small community fixing up a gorgeous home while living rent free.
Lovely characters, lovely friendships and simply just a feel-good story. The writer in Nicole is thrilled to come across some old hidden letters, which are honestly just so well written and lovely, that this letter writing forms a link with one of the characters and we are rooting for her to realise the connection.
Lessons learned and realised, friendships formed, and an old house reconstructed to house a new set of loving occupants. This is a wholesome story of connectedness and feeling at home; feeling a part of.
Not all reading needs to be serious, or hard work, therefore this sweet book ticked all the boxes. A lot of my GR friends loved this and cannot speak more highly of this one. I see why.
Late to the party am I yet again, but never mind, this means I have more of this author to look forward to.
May 6, 2020
Having left Sydney and her fiancé Mark behind, Nicole finds a place to rent for six months in the seaside town of Rosella Cove. In return for free rent, the old cottage was supposed to need some minor renovations. But what she finds is in need of more than just a few minor repairs. Undaunted Nicole sets to work and along the way she gets a bit of help from Mandy, her husband Trevor, the local handyman Danny and others. When Nicole uncovers a box of wartime love letters tucked away behind the fireplace, she is intrigued and curious. She wants to know more about Ivy, the woman who once lived in this cottage and her husband Tom. Nicole learns if Ivy’s love and her deep loss as well as her friendship with a drifter who becomes a friend. That person is Charlie, who lives in the boathouse nearby. Charlie has pain and secrets buried in his past. He is a curmudgeonly loner, yet somehow Nicole finds a way to connect with this elderly man. Can Nicole let go of her past and the pain and make a life here? Can Charlie find the redemption he doesn’t feel he deserves? Can Nicole get back to writing that has eluded her since her first novel Tide was published?
Having read two of this author’s other novels I was keen to get hold of this one. It does not disappoint. I loved getting to know Nicole, Mandy, Danny and all the others of Paradise Cove. The town’s inhabitants are warm hearted and generous in their acceptance of Nicole. Maybe that is a little idealised idea of country town friendliness but I was prepared to go along with it. It is fiction after all. And it works because the characters are so alive and interesting. Nicole even manages to get herself onside with the Rangers, the local footy team. Okay, for this AFL fan it was the wrong code of footy but I was still happy to read about this rugby loving team.
This book took me through a range of emotions, including a few tears, as I lived through it with the characters. It is unashamedly a feel good read and right at this moment I couldn’t think of anything better to read. I started it and just wanted to keep on reading and raced through it. It left me feeling good at the end. So glad I bought this one. It is a delight to read. A book of love, friendship, hope, overcoming hard times and starting over after trouble, I adored it. Another highly recommended read by Sandie Docker is fast becoming a favourite author. And loved the bright cheery cover as well.
Having read two of this author’s other novels I was keen to get hold of this one. It does not disappoint. I loved getting to know Nicole, Mandy, Danny and all the others of Paradise Cove. The town’s inhabitants are warm hearted and generous in their acceptance of Nicole. Maybe that is a little idealised idea of country town friendliness but I was prepared to go along with it. It is fiction after all. And it works because the characters are so alive and interesting. Nicole even manages to get herself onside with the Rangers, the local footy team. Okay, for this AFL fan it was the wrong code of footy but I was still happy to read about this rugby loving team.
This book took me through a range of emotions, including a few tears, as I lived through it with the characters. It is unashamedly a feel good read and right at this moment I couldn’t think of anything better to read. I started it and just wanted to keep on reading and raced through it. It left me feeling good at the end. So glad I bought this one. It is a delight to read. A book of love, friendship, hope, overcoming hard times and starting over after trouble, I adored it. Another highly recommended read by Sandie Docker is fast becoming a favourite author. And loved the bright cheery cover as well.
January 24, 2019
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
A stirring story full of secrets, betrayal, loss, friendship, love, belonging and sanctuary, The Cottage at Rosella Cove is the second novel from Australian author Sandie Docker. With three lost souls, a bridge from the past to the present, and a cottage full of secrets, this is another enthralling tale from an author that I hold in the highest regard. Slipping between the pages of Sandie Docker’s latest novel is a soulful experience. The Cottage at Rosella Cove is one novel that is destined to be on my list of memorable reads for 2019.
The profound words lost, found and forgotten define the brand new novel from Sandie Docker. The Cottage at Rosella Cove begins with Nicole, a woman who has bravely traded her city life for Rosella Cove, where she takes up residence in an empty and run down cottage by the water. While cleaning up the cottage, Nicole stumbles on a box containing a number of letters. These letters allow Nicole to travel back to the past, in wartime Australia, where the original owner of the cottage deals with the impact of war. When Nicole opens the mysterious box of letters stored at her new home, she awakens an age-old mystery. Ivy’s story begins and Nicole learns of the impact that Ivy had on the present day occupants of Rosella Cove. Nicole’s new life in Rosella Cove also puts her in the pathway of Charlie, a recluse living in the boatshed adjoining Nicole’s cottage. Charlie has isolated himself from the world for a reason and he isn’t proud of his past. He decides now, as he nears the end of his life, to take action and make amends for his past wrongs. This involves a promise and some help from Nicole. The Cottage at Rosella Cove is a testament to the will to live, the power of redemption and finding a sense of belonging when you least expect it.
If there is one book that I have been waiting to read this year it is this one. Sandie Docker’s previous book, which was her debut, The Kookaburra Creek Cafe, was a one of my all time favourite books of 2018. It was a true gift to receive The Cottage at Rosella Cove for review. I adored this book and I do hope it collects the same response from readers across the country.
Sanctuary and the need for a place to call home is explored in Sandie Docker’s second novel. Nicole, the primary protagonist of this tale, reaches out to Rosella Cove when her life in the city becomes too unbearable. Taking up residence in an empty rundown cottage gives Nicole the much needed breathing space and comfort away from her problematic life in the city. We learn gradually through her unfolding story that Nicole is a writer. Recently, she lost her money, partner and friend, all in succession. Nicole needs time and healing space. Rosella Cove seems to be exactly what the doctor ordered.
The cottage featured in this novel has such presence. It is almost like it has a mind of its own and a personality to match. I was struck early on in the novel by the sheer presence and prominence of the cottage to this story.
‘Perched atop the peninsula, it sat all alone, a scar upon the green landscape. The corrugated roof was peeling off in sections, and its pale wooden exterior was covered in dirt so thick in places it almost looked like stucco. White – once white – posts separated the wrap-around verandah from the iron roof overhang, looking tired, as if they’d give way at any moment.’
My reading tastes tend to be directed towards multi generational novels and those that hold secrets in the past for present day narrator to solve are just my cup of tea. When Nicole discovers a hidden treasure box of letters in the old cottage she now resides in, I was immediately hooked until the end of this novel.
‘Inside the hole there was a box and she pulled it out, brushing the dust away. It was wooden, intricately carved with shells and very old. The lid had a name etched deep into its surface.’
The box of letters provides an essential link to the past. Wartime Australia, where we meet Ivy, the original owner of the cottage, features in this aspect of the novel. Ivy writes letter upon letter to her love and husband Thomas, a soldier. Docker does such a wonderful job with the epistolary segment of her novel. I came to look forward to each turn of the page to see what letter would arrive in my hands next. Docker captures the mood of the times, the swirling emotions, but also the etiquette of these wartime letters perfectly.
A significant portion of the novel is concentrated on a recluse, Charlie’s story. His life is a bit of a mystery to say the least. His shady background and his links to cottage come to light through Nicole’s determined investigations. Nicole and Charlie strike up a friendship and this made the novel such a special story. Told with a huge heart, Charlie’s sad past is revealed, in timing with Nicole’s equally tragic past.
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is about connections, building new ones and severing old destructive ones. It is a story of personal safety, reliability, protection, honesty and taking a leap of faith. Combined with some hard-hitting themes on alcohol abuse, domestic violence, infertility, betrayal and loss, Docker takes all of these issues in her stride and works to deliver an enduring narrative. What I must remark on with the themes was Docker’s ability to keep up with all the different narratives threads featured in The Cottage at Rosella Cove. With jumps to the past with her wartime tale, travels back to the most recent past with Nicole, plus the present time narrative, Docker is the ultimate narrative seamstress. Her work is of the highest quality!
Docker closes off her second novel with flair. I really loved the closing piece, it resonated so beautifully. For literary lovers and the writers out there, you will appreciate the parting moments of The Cottage at Rosella Cove.
Sandie Docker is a genuine and artful storyteller who possesses the innate ability to draw readers completely into her novels. The Cottage at Rosella Cove is a book that is full of heart, mind, body and soul. The Cottage at Rosella Cove is one prized possession that I definitely won’t let go!
*I wish to thank Penguin Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is book #7 of the 2019 Australian Women Writers Challenge
A stirring story full of secrets, betrayal, loss, friendship, love, belonging and sanctuary, The Cottage at Rosella Cove is the second novel from Australian author Sandie Docker. With three lost souls, a bridge from the past to the present, and a cottage full of secrets, this is another enthralling tale from an author that I hold in the highest regard. Slipping between the pages of Sandie Docker’s latest novel is a soulful experience. The Cottage at Rosella Cove is one novel that is destined to be on my list of memorable reads for 2019.
The profound words lost, found and forgotten define the brand new novel from Sandie Docker. The Cottage at Rosella Cove begins with Nicole, a woman who has bravely traded her city life for Rosella Cove, where she takes up residence in an empty and run down cottage by the water. While cleaning up the cottage, Nicole stumbles on a box containing a number of letters. These letters allow Nicole to travel back to the past, in wartime Australia, where the original owner of the cottage deals with the impact of war. When Nicole opens the mysterious box of letters stored at her new home, she awakens an age-old mystery. Ivy’s story begins and Nicole learns of the impact that Ivy had on the present day occupants of Rosella Cove. Nicole’s new life in Rosella Cove also puts her in the pathway of Charlie, a recluse living in the boatshed adjoining Nicole’s cottage. Charlie has isolated himself from the world for a reason and he isn’t proud of his past. He decides now, as he nears the end of his life, to take action and make amends for his past wrongs. This involves a promise and some help from Nicole. The Cottage at Rosella Cove is a testament to the will to live, the power of redemption and finding a sense of belonging when you least expect it.
If there is one book that I have been waiting to read this year it is this one. Sandie Docker’s previous book, which was her debut, The Kookaburra Creek Cafe, was a one of my all time favourite books of 2018. It was a true gift to receive The Cottage at Rosella Cove for review. I adored this book and I do hope it collects the same response from readers across the country.
Sanctuary and the need for a place to call home is explored in Sandie Docker’s second novel. Nicole, the primary protagonist of this tale, reaches out to Rosella Cove when her life in the city becomes too unbearable. Taking up residence in an empty rundown cottage gives Nicole the much needed breathing space and comfort away from her problematic life in the city. We learn gradually through her unfolding story that Nicole is a writer. Recently, she lost her money, partner and friend, all in succession. Nicole needs time and healing space. Rosella Cove seems to be exactly what the doctor ordered.
The cottage featured in this novel has such presence. It is almost like it has a mind of its own and a personality to match. I was struck early on in the novel by the sheer presence and prominence of the cottage to this story.
‘Perched atop the peninsula, it sat all alone, a scar upon the green landscape. The corrugated roof was peeling off in sections, and its pale wooden exterior was covered in dirt so thick in places it almost looked like stucco. White – once white – posts separated the wrap-around verandah from the iron roof overhang, looking tired, as if they’d give way at any moment.’
My reading tastes tend to be directed towards multi generational novels and those that hold secrets in the past for present day narrator to solve are just my cup of tea. When Nicole discovers a hidden treasure box of letters in the old cottage she now resides in, I was immediately hooked until the end of this novel.
‘Inside the hole there was a box and she pulled it out, brushing the dust away. It was wooden, intricately carved with shells and very old. The lid had a name etched deep into its surface.’
The box of letters provides an essential link to the past. Wartime Australia, where we meet Ivy, the original owner of the cottage, features in this aspect of the novel. Ivy writes letter upon letter to her love and husband Thomas, a soldier. Docker does such a wonderful job with the epistolary segment of her novel. I came to look forward to each turn of the page to see what letter would arrive in my hands next. Docker captures the mood of the times, the swirling emotions, but also the etiquette of these wartime letters perfectly.
A significant portion of the novel is concentrated on a recluse, Charlie’s story. His life is a bit of a mystery to say the least. His shady background and his links to cottage come to light through Nicole’s determined investigations. Nicole and Charlie strike up a friendship and this made the novel such a special story. Told with a huge heart, Charlie’s sad past is revealed, in timing with Nicole’s equally tragic past.
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is about connections, building new ones and severing old destructive ones. It is a story of personal safety, reliability, protection, honesty and taking a leap of faith. Combined with some hard-hitting themes on alcohol abuse, domestic violence, infertility, betrayal and loss, Docker takes all of these issues in her stride and works to deliver an enduring narrative. What I must remark on with the themes was Docker’s ability to keep up with all the different narratives threads featured in The Cottage at Rosella Cove. With jumps to the past with her wartime tale, travels back to the most recent past with Nicole, plus the present time narrative, Docker is the ultimate narrative seamstress. Her work is of the highest quality!
Docker closes off her second novel with flair. I really loved the closing piece, it resonated so beautifully. For literary lovers and the writers out there, you will appreciate the parting moments of The Cottage at Rosella Cove.
Sandie Docker is a genuine and artful storyteller who possesses the innate ability to draw readers completely into her novels. The Cottage at Rosella Cove is a book that is full of heart, mind, body and soul. The Cottage at Rosella Cove is one prized possession that I definitely won’t let go!
*I wish to thank Penguin Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is book #7 of the 2019 Australian Women Writers Challenge
September 28, 2024
I have had this one sitting on my TBR pile for way too long, finally I picked it up and wow what a gorgeous story of love, hope and new beginnings, Sandie Docker has created a story that is so very moving, emotional and a must read, I savoured every word as I got to know Nicole, Ivy, Charlie and the wonderful residents of Rosella cove, come along and meet them all if you have not already read this fabulous book.
Nicole an author, thought life was wonderful living in the city with her fiancé Mark, until it wasn’t she soon realized that she had to get away and soon, finding a place to go was a bit harder soon she had found a place free rent on a small cottage provided she did some renovations while there a lease for six months, desperate to get away even though she had not ever done any renovation she took it.
She was stunned at the condition of the cottage on her arrival but determined to get it done, when she comes across a beautiful hand carved box filled with letters from the past, reading them she uncovers the life of Ivy during World War 2 she instantly feels close to Ivy and learns about her life and the love of her life as well as what life was like in Rosella Cove years before.
Charlie the resident hermit lives in the boatshed which is part of Rosella Cottage, soon Nicole is making friends with this man they play scrabble and Nicole wants to find out more can she get him to open up, for Charlie, is Nicole the person who will finally help him make some amends for the mistakes he made all those years ago?
Nicole settles into this small town like she has never before soon making true friends with Mandy and her family and Danny, is there a chance that soon after all of Nicole’s heartbreak that she could find love and true happiness in this beautiful town?
This is a must read story that had me smiling, shedding tears and cheering them on, I am sorry it took me so long to read it but I have now read all of MS Docker’s books and was not disappointed with any of them, Many thanks for another gorgeous story that I will remember for a long time to come.
Nicole an author, thought life was wonderful living in the city with her fiancé Mark, until it wasn’t she soon realized that she had to get away and soon, finding a place to go was a bit harder soon she had found a place free rent on a small cottage provided she did some renovations while there a lease for six months, desperate to get away even though she had not ever done any renovation she took it.
She was stunned at the condition of the cottage on her arrival but determined to get it done, when she comes across a beautiful hand carved box filled with letters from the past, reading them she uncovers the life of Ivy during World War 2 she instantly feels close to Ivy and learns about her life and the love of her life as well as what life was like in Rosella Cove years before.
Charlie the resident hermit lives in the boatshed which is part of Rosella Cottage, soon Nicole is making friends with this man they play scrabble and Nicole wants to find out more can she get him to open up, for Charlie, is Nicole the person who will finally help him make some amends for the mistakes he made all those years ago?
Nicole settles into this small town like she has never before soon making true friends with Mandy and her family and Danny, is there a chance that soon after all of Nicole’s heartbreak that she could find love and true happiness in this beautiful town?
This is a must read story that had me smiling, shedding tears and cheering them on, I am sorry it took me so long to read it but I have now read all of MS Docker’s books and was not disappointed with any of them, Many thanks for another gorgeous story that I will remember for a long time to come.
February 5, 2021
Delighted to discover another Australian author with this book, I am looking forward to reading more.
In this book, Nicole is apparently running from her past. She moves into a rundown cottage in a small seaside town in NSW. The rent is cheap on the condition that she do some 'light renovations' which turns out to be a serious understatement.
As Nicole sets about restoring the cottage, a thread of the story picks up going over her past few years of falling in love and becoming engaged. Another thread is also picked up when she discovers a hidden box of letters. These have been penned by Ivy a young war widow and apparently a former occupant of the cottage.
Nicole finds respite in the small quiet town and despite her avoidance, some friends who stand by her and help her restore the cottage as well as her self-esteem and spirit.
This is a lovely story, the only thing stopping it being a 5 star read for me (and perhaps this is selfish) is for me the ending was too abrupt! I wanted to know more - I don't want to spoil anything, but there is so much potential for another book to pick up where this left off.
In this book, Nicole is apparently running from her past. She moves into a rundown cottage in a small seaside town in NSW. The rent is cheap on the condition that she do some 'light renovations' which turns out to be a serious understatement.
As Nicole sets about restoring the cottage, a thread of the story picks up going over her past few years of falling in love and becoming engaged. Another thread is also picked up when she discovers a hidden box of letters. These have been penned by Ivy a young war widow and apparently a former occupant of the cottage.
Nicole finds respite in the small quiet town and despite her avoidance, some friends who stand by her and help her restore the cottage as well as her self-esteem and spirit.
This is a lovely story, the only thing stopping it being a 5 star read for me (and perhaps this is selfish) is for me the ending was too abrupt! I wanted to know more - I don't want to spoil anything, but there is so much potential for another book to pick up where this left off.
February 8, 2019
“’If you knew who I really was, you wouldn’t be wasting your energy.’
‘I may not know who you were, but I reckon I know who you are.’”
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is the second novel by Australian author, Sandie Docker. When recently-published author, Nicole Miller comes to Rosella Cove, she’s trying not to think about the last few years of her life. She’s here to escape all that. She has a six-month lease on a coastal cottage, rent-free as long as she does some minor restoration work. But the reality is daunting. It’s been unlived-in (except by a possum) since Ivy Wilson died, forty years ago, and Nicole may have overstated her renovation skills. She has little choice, however, arriving penniless and with a bad case of writer’s block, so she knuckles down.
Soon enough she runs into Charlie, a taciturn old man apparently living in the nearby boatshed, who clearly does not want to socialise (and maybe that suits Nicole too). Other members of the town are at the opposite end of the social interaction scale: at Trevor’s Tradies, Mandy proves to be a chatty busy-body who seems to know everything and everyone and is, before long, barging in without invitation. She does bring with her an entourage of willing helpers whose assistance Nicole finds herself gratefully accepting. It seems the town wants this restoration done, and done well.
There’s a lot of hard work, but Nicole is rewarded by a fascinating find: a carved shell box filled with letters Ivy wrote to her husband over seventy years earlier. Other hints and mentions of Ivy’s life see Nicole succumbing to breaking the seals and reading these private letters, limiting herself, with remarkable restraint, to one each day.
Three basic narratives tell the story: present day events are told from Nicole’s (and occasionally Charlie’s) perspective; the events that drove Nicole from the city are revealed when certain things force her to recall her toxic relationship with lawyer, Mark Avery; and Ivy’s letters chat informally about her life, always including some town gossip. Slowly, in hints and clues and tiny traces, the mystery that surrounds the enigmatic hermit in the boatshed is unveiled.
Docker’s characters (obviously except for the psychopath) are appealing, for all their faults and failings, and it’s satisfying to see them overcome the weaknesses that hold them back. As with The Kookaburra Creek Café, Docker’s small town has a genuine sense of community, of kindness and support that, despite the gossip and the lack of privacy, make it a place to which it would be a joy to belong. Docker’s second novel may well cement her place as the queen of the Aussie feelgood novel. A superb read.
‘I may not know who you were, but I reckon I know who you are.’”
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is the second novel by Australian author, Sandie Docker. When recently-published author, Nicole Miller comes to Rosella Cove, she’s trying not to think about the last few years of her life. She’s here to escape all that. She has a six-month lease on a coastal cottage, rent-free as long as she does some minor restoration work. But the reality is daunting. It’s been unlived-in (except by a possum) since Ivy Wilson died, forty years ago, and Nicole may have overstated her renovation skills. She has little choice, however, arriving penniless and with a bad case of writer’s block, so she knuckles down.
Soon enough she runs into Charlie, a taciturn old man apparently living in the nearby boatshed, who clearly does not want to socialise (and maybe that suits Nicole too). Other members of the town are at the opposite end of the social interaction scale: at Trevor’s Tradies, Mandy proves to be a chatty busy-body who seems to know everything and everyone and is, before long, barging in without invitation. She does bring with her an entourage of willing helpers whose assistance Nicole finds herself gratefully accepting. It seems the town wants this restoration done, and done well.
There’s a lot of hard work, but Nicole is rewarded by a fascinating find: a carved shell box filled with letters Ivy wrote to her husband over seventy years earlier. Other hints and mentions of Ivy’s life see Nicole succumbing to breaking the seals and reading these private letters, limiting herself, with remarkable restraint, to one each day.
Three basic narratives tell the story: present day events are told from Nicole’s (and occasionally Charlie’s) perspective; the events that drove Nicole from the city are revealed when certain things force her to recall her toxic relationship with lawyer, Mark Avery; and Ivy’s letters chat informally about her life, always including some town gossip. Slowly, in hints and clues and tiny traces, the mystery that surrounds the enigmatic hermit in the boatshed is unveiled.
Docker’s characters (obviously except for the psychopath) are appealing, for all their faults and failings, and it’s satisfying to see them overcome the weaknesses that hold them back. As with The Kookaburra Creek Café, Docker’s small town has a genuine sense of community, of kindness and support that, despite the gossip and the lack of privacy, make it a place to which it would be a joy to belong. Docker’s second novel may well cement her place as the queen of the Aussie feelgood novel. A superb read.
January 29, 2022
Nicole had to get out, now!
Life with her fiancé had become untenable and had reached a point where she knew she could no longer justify staying there with him.
Once she’d made the decision to leave, she also made the shocking discovery that she no longer had the means…so she sat down and worked out a plan, and then focused on making it happen.
Fast forward to a little rundown cottage by the water at Rosella Cove.
Nicole is taken aback when she first sees the actual state of decline that this little cottage is in…this cottage that she has blindly agreed to do some renovations to in exchange for free rent.
With very little in the way of possessions or money, Nicole sets about the onerous task ahead of her, her lease is short so no time can be wasted.
Through all the emotional turmoil that she has had to navigate to bring her here, Nicole’s renovation tasks soon have her settled into a rhythm of stripping off layers of “literal rot” as well as emotional baggage.
And, as often happens when renovating old houses, discoveries can be made…and Nicole soon makes a big discovery.
She tries to maintain some distance as her desire for privacy is challenged by well meaning locals…new people who add an air of mystery to her discoveries.
An already accomplished writer with a published book, Nicole’s head starts to buzz with possible scenarios for another book.
Can she?
Should she?
I loved this story!
From the start I was invested in the lives of the characters who were all very well developed and convincing in their [purposeful] parts.
Sandie Docker has for me become a reliable author, meaning I now know with certainty that I can trust her to deliver a good absorbing read, every time.
I’ve now read all four of her books in random order and cannot distinguish between them as far as writing prowess goes, as each story and its characters are so well developed as to hook you right in from the very start.
If you want a book to just sink into and take you away from everything then Sandi Docker never disappoints.
Great for holiday reads or just relaxing at home, these books are a worthy addition to your fiction collection.
5⭐️s
Life with her fiancé had become untenable and had reached a point where she knew she could no longer justify staying there with him.
Once she’d made the decision to leave, she also made the shocking discovery that she no longer had the means…so she sat down and worked out a plan, and then focused on making it happen.
Fast forward to a little rundown cottage by the water at Rosella Cove.
Nicole is taken aback when she first sees the actual state of decline that this little cottage is in…this cottage that she has blindly agreed to do some renovations to in exchange for free rent.
With very little in the way of possessions or money, Nicole sets about the onerous task ahead of her, her lease is short so no time can be wasted.
Through all the emotional turmoil that she has had to navigate to bring her here, Nicole’s renovation tasks soon have her settled into a rhythm of stripping off layers of “literal rot” as well as emotional baggage.
And, as often happens when renovating old houses, discoveries can be made…and Nicole soon makes a big discovery.
She tries to maintain some distance as her desire for privacy is challenged by well meaning locals…new people who add an air of mystery to her discoveries.
An already accomplished writer with a published book, Nicole’s head starts to buzz with possible scenarios for another book.
Can she?
Should she?
I loved this story!
From the start I was invested in the lives of the characters who were all very well developed and convincing in their [purposeful] parts.
Sandie Docker has for me become a reliable author, meaning I now know with certainty that I can trust her to deliver a good absorbing read, every time.
I’ve now read all four of her books in random order and cannot distinguish between them as far as writing prowess goes, as each story and its characters are so well developed as to hook you right in from the very start.
If you want a book to just sink into and take you away from everything then Sandi Docker never disappoints.
Great for holiday reads or just relaxing at home, these books are a worthy addition to your fiction collection.
5⭐️s
August 31, 2020
“’If you knew who I really was, you wouldn’t be wasting your energy.’
‘I may not know who you were, but I reckon I know who you are.’”
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is the second novel by Australian author, Sandie Docker. The audio version is beautifully read by Kathryn Hartman. When recently-published author, Nicole Miller comes to Rosella Cove, she’s trying not to think about the last few years of her life. She’s here to escape all that. She has a six-month lease on a coastal cottage, rent-free as long as she does some minor restoration work. But the reality is daunting. It’s been unlived-in (except by a possum) since Ivy Wilson died, forty years ago, and Nicole may have overstated her renovation skills. She has little choice, however, arriving penniless and with a bad case of writer’s block, so she knuckles down.
Soon enough she runs into Charlie, a taciturn old man apparently living in the nearby boatshed, who clearly does not want to socialise (and maybe that suits Nicole too). Other members of the town are at the opposite end of the social interaction scale: at Trevor’s Tradies, Mandy proves to be a chatty busy-body who seems to know everything and everyone and is, before long, barging in without invitation. She does bring with her an entourage of willing helpers whose assistance Nicole finds herself gratefully accepting. It seems the town wants this restoration done, and done well.
There’s a lot of hard work, but Nicole is rewarded by a fascinating find: a carved shell box filled with letters Ivy wrote to her husband over seventy years earlier. Other hints and mentions of Ivy’s life see Nicole succumbing to breaking the seals and reading these private letters, limiting herself, with remarkable restraint, to one each day.
Three basic narratives tell the story: present day events are told from Nicole’s (and occasionally Charlie’s) perspective; the events that drove Nicole from the city are revealed when certain things force her to recall her toxic relationship with lawyer, Mark Avery; and Ivy’s letters chat informally about her life, always including some town gossip. Slowly, in hints and clues and tiny traces, the mystery that surrounds the enigmatic hermit in the boatshed is unveiled.
Docker’s characters (obviously except for the psychopath) are appealing, for all their faults and failings, and it’s satisfying to see them overcome the weaknesses that hold them back. As with The Kookaburra Creek Café, Docker’s small town has a genuine sense of community, of kindness and support that, despite the gossip and the lack of privacy, make it a place to which it would be a joy to belong. Docker’s second novel may well cement her place as the queen of the Aussie feelgood novel. A superb read.
‘I may not know who you were, but I reckon I know who you are.’”
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is the second novel by Australian author, Sandie Docker. The audio version is beautifully read by Kathryn Hartman. When recently-published author, Nicole Miller comes to Rosella Cove, she’s trying not to think about the last few years of her life. She’s here to escape all that. She has a six-month lease on a coastal cottage, rent-free as long as she does some minor restoration work. But the reality is daunting. It’s been unlived-in (except by a possum) since Ivy Wilson died, forty years ago, and Nicole may have overstated her renovation skills. She has little choice, however, arriving penniless and with a bad case of writer’s block, so she knuckles down.
Soon enough she runs into Charlie, a taciturn old man apparently living in the nearby boatshed, who clearly does not want to socialise (and maybe that suits Nicole too). Other members of the town are at the opposite end of the social interaction scale: at Trevor’s Tradies, Mandy proves to be a chatty busy-body who seems to know everything and everyone and is, before long, barging in without invitation. She does bring with her an entourage of willing helpers whose assistance Nicole finds herself gratefully accepting. It seems the town wants this restoration done, and done well.
There’s a lot of hard work, but Nicole is rewarded by a fascinating find: a carved shell box filled with letters Ivy wrote to her husband over seventy years earlier. Other hints and mentions of Ivy’s life see Nicole succumbing to breaking the seals and reading these private letters, limiting herself, with remarkable restraint, to one each day.
Three basic narratives tell the story: present day events are told from Nicole’s (and occasionally Charlie’s) perspective; the events that drove Nicole from the city are revealed when certain things force her to recall her toxic relationship with lawyer, Mark Avery; and Ivy’s letters chat informally about her life, always including some town gossip. Slowly, in hints and clues and tiny traces, the mystery that surrounds the enigmatic hermit in the boatshed is unveiled.
Docker’s characters (obviously except for the psychopath) are appealing, for all their faults and failings, and it’s satisfying to see them overcome the weaknesses that hold them back. As with The Kookaburra Creek Café, Docker’s small town has a genuine sense of community, of kindness and support that, despite the gossip and the lack of privacy, make it a place to which it would be a joy to belong. Docker’s second novel may well cement her place as the queen of the Aussie feelgood novel. A superb read.
January 7, 2019
‘As she scraped a small piece off she noticed something underneath. Not the plain old walls she’d uncovered in other parts of the cottage, but something patterned. She scraped another jagged strip off the wall. Yes. Beneath the flocked terror was another layer of wallpaper. Surely this constituted crimes against humanity.’
It seems I’m destined to award all of Sandie Docker’s novels with five stars. Her stories just seem to reach right out of the page to grab me, holding on tight until the very last word. There’s a warmth and humour infused that I’m beginning to recognise as trademark for Sandie, and she skilfully balances this out against the more heart-wrenching moments, of which there are plenty. Sandie seems to know just when to apply the pressure to her characters and when to release; it’s a gentle ebb and flow that takes you on a very special journey.
‘Nowhere. There was nowhere for her to go. No friends to go to. No money to take her anywhere. No choice. But she couldn’t stay there. She walked out into the night.’
Nicole is at the lowest point in her life when she arrives at Rosella Cove. She has been shredded by her relationship with her former fiancé, the insidious details of which unfold as her stay at the cottage progresses. In uncovering a box of letters written by the previous inhabitant, Ivy, Nicole begins to make sense of her own life within the context of Ivy’s story from the past. Charlie, the gruff old man who lives in the boat shed on the cottage property, provides the third point to this life affirming triangle.
‘She was happily having non-conversations with an irate hermit, and her most intimate relationship was with a mysterious woman who’d been dead for four decades. It was not exactly the life she’d imagined for herself, but here she was.’
Through its exploration of domestic violence, alcoholism, and the debilitating effects of loneliness, The Cottage at Rosella Cove is a deeply moving read, a joyful snapshot of human connection and the way people can save each other through kindness and empathy. Sandie has a deep understanding of contemporary social issues and she weaves these into her story with finesse. I highly recommend The Cottage at Rosella Cove.
Thanks is extended to Penguin Random House Australia for providing me with a copy of The Cottage at Rosella Cove for review.
It seems I’m destined to award all of Sandie Docker’s novels with five stars. Her stories just seem to reach right out of the page to grab me, holding on tight until the very last word. There’s a warmth and humour infused that I’m beginning to recognise as trademark for Sandie, and she skilfully balances this out against the more heart-wrenching moments, of which there are plenty. Sandie seems to know just when to apply the pressure to her characters and when to release; it’s a gentle ebb and flow that takes you on a very special journey.
‘Nowhere. There was nowhere for her to go. No friends to go to. No money to take her anywhere. No choice. But she couldn’t stay there. She walked out into the night.’
Nicole is at the lowest point in her life when she arrives at Rosella Cove. She has been shredded by her relationship with her former fiancé, the insidious details of which unfold as her stay at the cottage progresses. In uncovering a box of letters written by the previous inhabitant, Ivy, Nicole begins to make sense of her own life within the context of Ivy’s story from the past. Charlie, the gruff old man who lives in the boat shed on the cottage property, provides the third point to this life affirming triangle.
‘She was happily having non-conversations with an irate hermit, and her most intimate relationship was with a mysterious woman who’d been dead for four decades. It was not exactly the life she’d imagined for herself, but here she was.’
Through its exploration of domestic violence, alcoholism, and the debilitating effects of loneliness, The Cottage at Rosella Cove is a deeply moving read, a joyful snapshot of human connection and the way people can save each other through kindness and empathy. Sandie has a deep understanding of contemporary social issues and she weaves these into her story with finesse. I highly recommend The Cottage at Rosella Cove.
Thanks is extended to Penguin Random House Australia for providing me with a copy of The Cottage at Rosella Cove for review.
June 23, 2019
A great read - loved the narrative device - using old letters - to weave past and present storyline’s.
My View:
Isn’t it great when you discover a new author to add to your “authors you must read” list?
Sandie Docker writes with a subtleness that is poignant and encompasses many contemporary social issues without shouting her message loudly in your face. There are many threads to this narrative – domestic violence - DV does not always include physical violence; it can be a deliberate isolation from friends and family, a slow erosion of self and self-confidence, financial dependence/control…the psychological assault is oh so manipulative and dire…Docker weaves this thread into the narrative with a deceptive charm – blink and you will miss the signs – just as the victim does. But this is more than a narrative of DV, it is a charming story of friendships, new and old, about redemption, rebuilding - I liked the analogy for rebuilding life/rebuilding cottage - by allowing friendship in and opening up your heart to possibilities and hope.
I loved the device – the reading of old letters – to fill in gaps, to tell a personal history and a world history, to add depth to characters, and to provide optimism and resolution.
This is a deceptively simple narrative that encompasses so much life. A great read.
My View:
Isn’t it great when you discover a new author to add to your “authors you must read” list?
Sandie Docker writes with a subtleness that is poignant and encompasses many contemporary social issues without shouting her message loudly in your face. There are many threads to this narrative – domestic violence - DV does not always include physical violence; it can be a deliberate isolation from friends and family, a slow erosion of self and self-confidence, financial dependence/control…the psychological assault is oh so manipulative and dire…Docker weaves this thread into the narrative with a deceptive charm – blink and you will miss the signs – just as the victim does. But this is more than a narrative of DV, it is a charming story of friendships, new and old, about redemption, rebuilding - I liked the analogy for rebuilding life/rebuilding cottage - by allowing friendship in and opening up your heart to possibilities and hope.
I loved the device – the reading of old letters – to fill in gaps, to tell a personal history and a world history, to add depth to characters, and to provide optimism and resolution.
This is a deceptively simple narrative that encompasses so much life. A great read.
October 27, 2019
The Cottage At Rosella Cove is the second contemporary novel from Australian author, Sandie Docker. I adored Docker’s debut novel, The Kookaburra Creek Café, so I was happy to have the opportunity to read her follow up. Docker doesn’t disappoint as she brings her fans wisdom at Rosella Cottage, exploring friendship, second chances, love and the past through three people.
Nicole is a city slicker that is running away from a man and her past. Renting a cottage at Rosella Cove, Nicole craves solitude. Through flashbacks, Docker gradually reveals the reason behind Nicole’s pain and heartache. When she comes across wartime love letters, Nicole realises that she cannot hide forever and forms an unlikely friendship with Charlie.
Charlie and Nicole are two peas in a pod. Both have escaped civilisation, with Charlie living in a boat shed. They are introverted souls in a world that wont stop talking. In each other’s company, they are comfortable with silence. They come to bond over the game of chess together with no expectations. When Nicole realises that Charlie is tied to the letters, she realises she will have to break the silence.
Through the discovery of the letters, readers come to know Ivy. Ivy is the original owner of Nicole’s cottage and the letters are to her husband, Thomas, a soldier fighting in the war. While I don’t always enjoy reading letters in a novel, Docker did such an exceptional job of weaving them into the narrative that I came to look forward to reading them. I felt like I got to know Ivy just as well as I knew both Nicole and Charlie.
Docker has done it again and I’m already looking forward to her third novel!
Nicole is a city slicker that is running away from a man and her past. Renting a cottage at Rosella Cove, Nicole craves solitude. Through flashbacks, Docker gradually reveals the reason behind Nicole’s pain and heartache. When she comes across wartime love letters, Nicole realises that she cannot hide forever and forms an unlikely friendship with Charlie.
Charlie and Nicole are two peas in a pod. Both have escaped civilisation, with Charlie living in a boat shed. They are introverted souls in a world that wont stop talking. In each other’s company, they are comfortable with silence. They come to bond over the game of chess together with no expectations. When Nicole realises that Charlie is tied to the letters, she realises she will have to break the silence.
Through the discovery of the letters, readers come to know Ivy. Ivy is the original owner of Nicole’s cottage and the letters are to her husband, Thomas, a soldier fighting in the war. While I don’t always enjoy reading letters in a novel, Docker did such an exceptional job of weaving them into the narrative that I came to look forward to reading them. I felt like I got to know Ivy just as well as I knew both Nicole and Charlie.
Docker has done it again and I’m already looking forward to her third novel!
March 27, 2019
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is the second novel by Australian author, Sandie Docker.
Themes explored through the novel Include friendship, love, loss, grief, betrayal and hope. The story involves three timelines, which Docker handles remarkably well.
In the present, Nicole Miller arrives at Rosella Cove. In exchange for renovating a cottage on the bluff, she has a rent free six month lease during which she hopes to heal her wounds, and reimagine a new future. Despite planning on spending her time in the Cove alone, Nicole is quickly befriended by the community, particularly local family Mandy, Trevor, Jack, and family friend, Danny Temple, who cheerfully offer to help with the renovations. Nicole also strikes up a friendship of sorts with Charlie, widely considered to be a curmudgeonly old hermit, who has his own story to tell.
The near past timeline explains why Nicole felt compelled to flee to Rosella Cove. Docker explores Nicoles experiences thoughtfully, slowly revealing the reason for Nicole’s fragile emotional state.
The distant past, is revealed through a series of letters Nicole discovers hidden behind the fireplace. The letters are all written by the former owner of the cottage, Ivy Wilson, to her husband beginning in 1941, and continue until her death in 1976. These letters reveal the joys and heartbreak of Ivy’s life, and in part, help Nicole come to terms with the direction her own life has taken.
Docker’s Rosella Cove is a small coastal community, not dissimilar from those a stones throw from me. I can easily visualise the cottage, boathouse, and the towns general environs based on the authors descriptions. The inhabitants of the Cove, both in the past and present, are fairly typical of the genre.
I enjoyed The Cottage at Rosella Cove, the story was both sweet and poignant, and has a warm, genuine feel.
Themes explored through the novel Include friendship, love, loss, grief, betrayal and hope. The story involves three timelines, which Docker handles remarkably well.
In the present, Nicole Miller arrives at Rosella Cove. In exchange for renovating a cottage on the bluff, she has a rent free six month lease during which she hopes to heal her wounds, and reimagine a new future. Despite planning on spending her time in the Cove alone, Nicole is quickly befriended by the community, particularly local family Mandy, Trevor, Jack, and family friend, Danny Temple, who cheerfully offer to help with the renovations. Nicole also strikes up a friendship of sorts with Charlie, widely considered to be a curmudgeonly old hermit, who has his own story to tell.
The near past timeline explains why Nicole felt compelled to flee to Rosella Cove. Docker explores Nicoles experiences thoughtfully, slowly revealing the reason for Nicole’s fragile emotional state.
The distant past, is revealed through a series of letters Nicole discovers hidden behind the fireplace. The letters are all written by the former owner of the cottage, Ivy Wilson, to her husband beginning in 1941, and continue until her death in 1976. These letters reveal the joys and heartbreak of Ivy’s life, and in part, help Nicole come to terms with the direction her own life has taken.
Docker’s Rosella Cove is a small coastal community, not dissimilar from those a stones throw from me. I can easily visualise the cottage, boathouse, and the towns general environs based on the authors descriptions. The inhabitants of the Cove, both in the past and present, are fairly typical of the genre.
I enjoyed The Cottage at Rosella Cove, the story was both sweet and poignant, and has a warm, genuine feel.
March 8, 2021
Was reading this light Aussie romance for the February Aussie Readers read along, but found I had to delay finishing it with other library book's due dates getting in the way.
It was pleasant and not too challenging. The main character's story was perhaps dragged out a little longer than my limited patience with her was allowing. I wanted to feel more empathy for her but she was just a bit too wet for me and it was a struggle. Made me feel old and almost as cranky as the old bloke living in the boat shed that she jollies along, didn't quite drive me to drink though, which was the poor old sods problem..... maybe a wine or two added to my reading was what was missing. Anyway, another read along done and dusted.
It was pleasant and not too challenging. The main character's story was perhaps dragged out a little longer than my limited patience with her was allowing. I wanted to feel more empathy for her but she was just a bit too wet for me and it was a struggle. Made me feel old and almost as cranky as the old bloke living in the boat shed that she jollies along, didn't quite drive me to drink though, which was the poor old sods problem..... maybe a wine or two added to my reading was what was missing. Anyway, another read along done and dusted.
April 29, 2020
Can’t believe I missed recording this one into goodreads. I loved it so much. This is the book that made me such a Sandie Docker fan. It’s everything. It’s big themes like alcoholism, gaslighting, infertility, redemption and loneliness to consider, it’s characters you just want to hug, it’s locations you can see so clearly because of the storytelling masterpiece that is this book. Absolutely perfect, loved it
April 19, 2019
The Cottage at Rosella Cove is an engaging contemporary fiction novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.
The story follows Nicole, an author, who attempts to leave her past behind and move into an old cottage in Rosella Cove. The deal is that she will renovate the property whilst staying there. For an inexperienced renovator, she tries her best to give it a go. The townspeople soon offer their assistance and within no time there is a working bee happening in the garden and the home. The townspeople are helpful beyond belief.
Nicole starts to realise how important her new friendships are and her life becomes intertwined with those around her; past and present. Sandie Docker structures the novel so that the past and present meet in such a beautiful way. Within the narrative are letters from Ivy, the prior owner of the cottage, giving insight into her personal story, the history of the people and town. Nicole finds these letters in the cottage and soon realises their significance. She learns from Ivy's life lessons. Ivy had struggled with loss, as has Nicole.
The way the author develops the characters is interesting, as each individual learns from one another. They learn to live a more peaceful and loving life. The townspeople are superstitious, friendly and extremely welcoming. Nicole also learns to let others in, gaining friendships as she enjoys her newfound home. I fell in love with the townspeople, including Charlie, an old recluse with a tainted history and a big heart, Danny, a gentleman who has experienced his own heartache, offering his friendship to make Nicole feel a part of the town and Mandy, a loving and caring lady who knows what it is the be a true friend. I was, however, left wondering and wanting to know more about the development of certain relationships, including that of her friend Jane. Hopefully there is a sequel.
The setting was lovely. Via the author's descriptions I was able to clearly picture the cottage by the water and as a result of this and the wonderful characterisation, I feel like Rosella Cove is definitely somewhere that I would want to live.
If you love Nicholas Sparks' novels you will also enjoy this. It is a beautiful novel inside and out, that I would recommend. A perfect holiday read.
The story follows Nicole, an author, who attempts to leave her past behind and move into an old cottage in Rosella Cove. The deal is that she will renovate the property whilst staying there. For an inexperienced renovator, she tries her best to give it a go. The townspeople soon offer their assistance and within no time there is a working bee happening in the garden and the home. The townspeople are helpful beyond belief.
Nicole starts to realise how important her new friendships are and her life becomes intertwined with those around her; past and present. Sandie Docker structures the novel so that the past and present meet in such a beautiful way. Within the narrative are letters from Ivy, the prior owner of the cottage, giving insight into her personal story, the history of the people and town. Nicole finds these letters in the cottage and soon realises their significance. She learns from Ivy's life lessons. Ivy had struggled with loss, as has Nicole.
The way the author develops the characters is interesting, as each individual learns from one another. They learn to live a more peaceful and loving life. The townspeople are superstitious, friendly and extremely welcoming. Nicole also learns to let others in, gaining friendships as she enjoys her newfound home. I fell in love with the townspeople, including Charlie, an old recluse with a tainted history and a big heart, Danny, a gentleman who has experienced his own heartache, offering his friendship to make Nicole feel a part of the town and Mandy, a loving and caring lady who knows what it is the be a true friend. I was, however, left wondering and wanting to know more about the development of certain relationships, including that of her friend Jane. Hopefully there is a sequel.
The setting was lovely. Via the author's descriptions I was able to clearly picture the cottage by the water and as a result of this and the wonderful characterisation, I feel like Rosella Cove is definitely somewhere that I would want to live.
If you love Nicholas Sparks' novels you will also enjoy this. It is a beautiful novel inside and out, that I would recommend. A perfect holiday read.
March 16, 2019
Beautifully written & easy to read.
February 3, 2019
This book was sent to me by the publisher for my honest review.
Heart-warming, heart-breaking. This book is sure to give you all the feels. Sandie does a brilliant job yet again! This book weaves through time bringing the reader an inspirational story of love, loss and forgiveness. Loved it!
Heart-warming, heart-breaking. This book is sure to give you all the feels. Sandie does a brilliant job yet again! This book weaves through time bringing the reader an inspirational story of love, loss and forgiveness. Loved it!
March 19, 2019
Loved it!
September 13, 2019
What a great read! I found this author with her first release Kookaburra Creek Cafe and this book has not disappointed. I really immersed myself in the characters and there was so many twists and turns. Once again a very well written book by this new talented author. I look forward to reading future ones
February 20, 2019
What a Beautiful story!
March 2, 2019
This was a lovely feel good story although the relationship with Mark was confusing.
January 27, 2019
Do you remember that book called "Smart women, dumb choices"? Let me introduce you to the heroine of this romance, Nicole. She's got herself in a pickle of a relationship with Mark, the slick lawyer who calls her "Princess" and generally makes my skin crawl every time he opens his mouth. Thankfully the lights eventually go on for Nicole when she checks her bank balance and discovers that it's next to nothing, zada, zilch. Mark is, as they say, "a piece of work". Nicole makes her escape to a seaside town and begins to heal herself...and the local community with her.
Romance isn't really my cup of tea (I'm such a sad old cynic) but I did want to see how everything ended up. And I do like reading about houses being made new again, even if I don't have the energy to do it myself. This is a nice comforting, not too demanding read where most of the ends are tied up nicely. However, there's enough left unresolved for the reader to imagine what might happen next. Do I smell a sequel?
Romance isn't really my cup of tea (I'm such a sad old cynic) but I did want to see how everything ended up. And I do like reading about houses being made new again, even if I don't have the energy to do it myself. This is a nice comforting, not too demanding read where most of the ends are tied up nicely. However, there's enough left unresolved for the reader to imagine what might happen next. Do I smell a sequel?
June 6, 2019
A mystery but not crime fiction.
After I had so enjoyed THE KOOKABURRA CREEK CAFE I determined to read Sandie Docker's second book and it did not disappoint.
Three stories come together and the reader finds the connections between them and the events that have brought their lives together.
A very enjoyable read.
After I had so enjoyed THE KOOKABURRA CREEK CAFE I determined to read Sandie Docker's second book and it did not disappoint.
Three stories come together and the reader finds the connections between them and the events that have brought their lives together.
A very enjoyable read.
October 19, 2022
The Cottage at rosella cove | S Docker
Another masterpiece by the woman herself! (Cue- if you haven’t had the pleasure, do yourself a solid and please read one!) I just love a Sandie Docker book! There is just a whole other feeling you get when reading them.. like a heartwarming cuppa with a loved one.. they just hit different ☺️
This one follows Nicole’s journey. Nicole who is a writer and working on her second novel. Nicole who is planning her wedding with the love of her life. Nicole who has everything going for her.. until she doesn’t. It’s now Nicole who feels lost and helpless. Nicole who is planning her own escape. Nicole who wants to start over. Nicole.. who has decided to run.
Early on in the first chapter, it’s pretty evident there is something big going on for the main character. She has arrived at the cottage with everything she owns and a new means of contacts, erasing as much of her past self as she can. The story reads in present and past time, drip feeding the reader clues as to why Nicole is really in this small town. It hints at the fiancé being the reason.. but doesn’t actually spell it out in so many words. (You will have to read to find out!!) I loved the mystery this created. It made you want to keep reading and kept you intrigued and curious.
Nicole has agreed to a cost free rental contract in exchange for some light renovations which she plans to keep her distracted. Little does she know though, that the little cottage is actually a town icon and her arrival has spiked quite the small town interest!
As we dive deeper into the book, we see the bonds start to form between Nicole and new friend Mandy and also old mate Charlie from the boat shed. The two couldn’t be more different.. Mandy who is up in everyone’s business, including Nicole’s; and Charlie, who keeps to himself and just wants to be left alone. Yet they soon transition from stranger to friend in Nicole’s eyes and she finds herself enjoying their company.
As the renovations continue, a set of letters is discovered and Nicole quickly learns she isn’t the only one harbouring a set of secrets and a world of pain. The more she reads, the more she uncovers about Ivy the cottage owner and how everyone is connected. Will she piece it all together before it’s too late?!
The biggest take away for me here is the ability to rebuild and to start over. Pair this with the power of acceptance and you can do anything. This concept is not only relevant for multiple characters within the story but also inspires the reader to take charge and not give up in life. I really liked this.
I just wanna touch on the ‘small town love’ aspect too. Rosella Cove welcomes all and has a real sense of community, creating a family feel. This term is lacked by for more than one character so is something they have latched onto and gives this story a warm and comforting element.
I have a love hate relationship with the ending. I love that it hints at new beginnings with that startings of a new book based on events that occurred over the years.. an ode to Ivy of sorts.. and I didn’t necessarily hate the other parts of the ending.. I just can’t help but feel it was rushed and lacked the detail the rest of the story had. For so much drama between the pages.. it felt too simple to finish the way it did.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this. It had strong storylines and characters, and touched on many topics that are so relatable to everyday life. It projects love and hope despite loss and pain and will designate with many a reader. Highly recommend!
Another masterpiece by the woman herself! (Cue- if you haven’t had the pleasure, do yourself a solid and please read one!) I just love a Sandie Docker book! There is just a whole other feeling you get when reading them.. like a heartwarming cuppa with a loved one.. they just hit different ☺️
This one follows Nicole’s journey. Nicole who is a writer and working on her second novel. Nicole who is planning her wedding with the love of her life. Nicole who has everything going for her.. until she doesn’t. It’s now Nicole who feels lost and helpless. Nicole who is planning her own escape. Nicole who wants to start over. Nicole.. who has decided to run.
Early on in the first chapter, it’s pretty evident there is something big going on for the main character. She has arrived at the cottage with everything she owns and a new means of contacts, erasing as much of her past self as she can. The story reads in present and past time, drip feeding the reader clues as to why Nicole is really in this small town. It hints at the fiancé being the reason.. but doesn’t actually spell it out in so many words. (You will have to read to find out!!) I loved the mystery this created. It made you want to keep reading and kept you intrigued and curious.
Nicole has agreed to a cost free rental contract in exchange for some light renovations which she plans to keep her distracted. Little does she know though, that the little cottage is actually a town icon and her arrival has spiked quite the small town interest!
As we dive deeper into the book, we see the bonds start to form between Nicole and new friend Mandy and also old mate Charlie from the boat shed. The two couldn’t be more different.. Mandy who is up in everyone’s business, including Nicole’s; and Charlie, who keeps to himself and just wants to be left alone. Yet they soon transition from stranger to friend in Nicole’s eyes and she finds herself enjoying their company.
As the renovations continue, a set of letters is discovered and Nicole quickly learns she isn’t the only one harbouring a set of secrets and a world of pain. The more she reads, the more she uncovers about Ivy the cottage owner and how everyone is connected. Will she piece it all together before it’s too late?!
The biggest take away for me here is the ability to rebuild and to start over. Pair this with the power of acceptance and you can do anything. This concept is not only relevant for multiple characters within the story but also inspires the reader to take charge and not give up in life. I really liked this.
I just wanna touch on the ‘small town love’ aspect too. Rosella Cove welcomes all and has a real sense of community, creating a family feel. This term is lacked by for more than one character so is something they have latched onto and gives this story a warm and comforting element.
I have a love hate relationship with the ending. I love that it hints at new beginnings with that startings of a new book based on events that occurred over the years.. an ode to Ivy of sorts.. and I didn’t necessarily hate the other parts of the ending.. I just can’t help but feel it was rushed and lacked the detail the rest of the story had. For so much drama between the pages.. it felt too simple to finish the way it did.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this. It had strong storylines and characters, and touched on many topics that are so relatable to everyday life. It projects love and hope despite loss and pain and will designate with many a reader. Highly recommend!
April 19, 2019
Loved this book good story line easy to follow great characters will now read Sandie Dockers other book in the future and keep an eye on future books she writes
March 12, 2020
Easy and enjoyable. A story of healing. Plenty of emotion, love, friendship, assistance, relationships. Finding yourself after loss and pain, community spirit, forgiveness and good deeds. Lots of loveliness.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews