What do you think?
Rate this book
Dingusi sesuo
Šeimą sukrėtęs pagrobimas. Dukra, bet kokia kaina siekianti sužinoti tiesą.
Belė Haton visą gyvenimą augo manydama esanti vienturtė dukra. Tačiau tėvui mirus, tvarkydama jo milžinišką biblioteką, vienoje iš dulkėtų knygų Belė randa senų dienraščio iškarpų, kuriose pasakojama iki šiol negirdėta jos tėvų istorija: tolimojoje Birmoje, tiesiai iš aukštuomenės poros pono ir ponios Hatonų sodo, pagrobta vos trijų savaičių sulaukusi naujagimė Elvira. Vyresnioji Belės sesuo.
Negalėdama nuvyti kankinančių dvejonių ir minčių apie paslaptingus praeities įvykius, Belė leidžiasi į prarastos sesers paieškas aukso blizgesiu užlietoje egzotiškoje Birmoje. Gal dar ne viskas prarasta, gal dar pavyks surasti Elvirą? Tačiau kelionėje užsibrėžto tikslo link Belės Haton laukia daugybė išbandymų: galvą apsukanti meilė, apkalbos, paieškas sustabdyti mėginantys nepažįstamųjų grasinimai ir skaudžios išdavystės tų, kuriais pasitikėti ji norėtų labiausiai. Bet Belė stipri, o jos ryžtas surasti dingusią seserį nepalaužiamas.
Belė Haton visą gyvenimą augo manydama esanti vienturtė dukra. Tačiau tėvui mirus, tvarkydama jo milžinišką biblioteką, vienoje iš dulkėtų knygų Belė randa senų dienraščio iškarpų, kuriose pasakojama iki šiol negirdėta jos tėvų istorija: tolimojoje Birmoje, tiesiai iš aukštuomenės poros pono ir ponios Hatonų sodo, pagrobta vos trijų savaičių sulaukusi naujagimė Elvira. Vyresnioji Belės sesuo.
Negalėdama nuvyti kankinančių dvejonių ir minčių apie paslaptingus praeities įvykius, Belė leidžiasi į prarastos sesers paieškas aukso blizgesiu užlietoje egzotiškoje Birmoje. Gal dar ne viskas prarasta, gal dar pavyks surasti Elvirą? Tačiau kelionėje užsibrėžto tikslo link Belės Haton laukia daugybė išbandymų: galvą apsukanti meilė, apkalbos, paieškas sustabdyti mėginantys nepažįstamųjų grasinimai ir skaudžios išdavystės tų, kuriais pasitikėti ji norėtų labiausiai. Bet Belė stipri, o jos ryžtas surasti dingusią seserį nepalaužiamas.
335 pages, Hardcover
First published February 28, 2019
658 people are currently reading
2037 people want to read
About the author
Dinah Jefferies
23 books1,286 followers*Breaking News* Richard & Judy pick THE TEA PLANTERS WIFE for their autumn bookclub 2015. Here's what Santa Montefiore said: ‘My ideal read; mystery, love, heart-break and joy – I couldn’t put it down.’
Here's what Richard Madeley said. "The Tea Planter’s Wife is so much more than a conventional love story, with all its twists and turns and guilt and betrayal...deeply impressive. The fetid, steamy atmosphere of the tropics rises from these pages like a humid mist. We are on a tea plantation in 1920s Ceylon and 19 year old Gwendolyn Hooper is the new bride of the owner, a wealthy and charming widower. But her romantic dreams of marriage are overshadowed by echoes from the past – an old trunk of musty dresses; an overgrown and neglected gravestone in the grounds. Her new husband refuses to talk about them. Gwen’s perfect man is becoming a perfect stranger…"
Quote from the great author Kate Furnivall about my first book THE SEPARATION:
'A powerful story of love and loss that is utterly captivating. I was drawn deep into the world of Malaya and England in the 1950s in this intense exploration of what it means to love. Beautifully written and wonderfully atmospheric, Dinah Jefferies skilfully captures this fragile moment of history in a complex and thrilling tale. THE SEPARATION is a gripping and intelligent read.'
In 1985, the sudden death of Dinah Jefferies’ fourteen year old son brought her life to a standstill. She drew on that experience, and on her own childhood spent in Malaya during the 1950s to write her debut novel, The Separation. The guns piled high on the hall table when the rubber planters came into town for a party, the colour and noise of Chinatown, the houses on stilts, and the lizards that left their tails behind.
Now living in Gloucestershire, Dinah once lived in Tuscany working as an au pair for an Italian countess; she has also lived in a ‘hippy’ rock’n roll commune based in an Elizabethan manor house, but started writing when she was living in a small 16th Century village in Spain.
Here's what Richard Madeley said. "The Tea Planter’s Wife is so much more than a conventional love story, with all its twists and turns and guilt and betrayal...deeply impressive. The fetid, steamy atmosphere of the tropics rises from these pages like a humid mist. We are on a tea plantation in 1920s Ceylon and 19 year old Gwendolyn Hooper is the new bride of the owner, a wealthy and charming widower. But her romantic dreams of marriage are overshadowed by echoes from the past – an old trunk of musty dresses; an overgrown and neglected gravestone in the grounds. Her new husband refuses to talk about them. Gwen’s perfect man is becoming a perfect stranger…"
Quote from the great author Kate Furnivall about my first book THE SEPARATION:
'A powerful story of love and loss that is utterly captivating. I was drawn deep into the world of Malaya and England in the 1950s in this intense exploration of what it means to love. Beautifully written and wonderfully atmospheric, Dinah Jefferies skilfully captures this fragile moment of history in a complex and thrilling tale. THE SEPARATION is a gripping and intelligent read.'
In 1985, the sudden death of Dinah Jefferies’ fourteen year old son brought her life to a standstill. She drew on that experience, and on her own childhood spent in Malaya during the 1950s to write her debut novel, The Separation. The guns piled high on the hall table when the rubber planters came into town for a party, the colour and noise of Chinatown, the houses on stilts, and the lizards that left their tails behind.
Now living in Gloucestershire, Dinah once lived in Tuscany working as an au pair for an Italian countess; she has also lived in a ‘hippy’ rock’n roll commune based in an Elizabethan manor house, but started writing when she was living in a small 16th Century village in Spain.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 291 reviews
March 18, 2019
When Belle Hatton arrived in Burma, she felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension. It was the 1930s and her father had recently passed. Among his papers she found an old newspaper clipping which told of a baby’s disappearance from her pram in her parent’s garden in Rangoon. Belle had been rocked to learn she had had a sister – she had thought she was an only child; her mother had died years earlier. Now, her determination to discover what had happened ran through her thoughts continually.
Belle loved her new job – singing was her passion; to become a nightclub singer felt glamorous and held promise that she could advance her career over the years. But Belle’s questions about that long ago kidnapping obviously made some people uncomfortable. Was Belle putting herself in danger? Oliver, an American journalist she had met, used his contacts to help her – but could she trust him? The anonymous notes were beginning to scare her…
The Missing Sister is another excellent historical fiction novel by this extremely talented author. I have loved everything Dinah Jefferies has written, and this one didn’t disappoint. Strong characters, mystery, intrigue and danger all blended with fascinating details of Burma and surrounds. Always well written, I have no hesitation in highly recommending The Missing Sister to fans of historical fiction.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Belle loved her new job – singing was her passion; to become a nightclub singer felt glamorous and held promise that she could advance her career over the years. But Belle’s questions about that long ago kidnapping obviously made some people uncomfortable. Was Belle putting herself in danger? Oliver, an American journalist she had met, used his contacts to help her – but could she trust him? The anonymous notes were beginning to scare her…
The Missing Sister is another excellent historical fiction novel by this extremely talented author. I have loved everything Dinah Jefferies has written, and this one didn’t disappoint. Strong characters, mystery, intrigue and danger all blended with fascinating details of Burma and surrounds. Always well written, I have no hesitation in highly recommending The Missing Sister to fans of historical fiction.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2019
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it won’t be my last. This tale takes place in Burma during the 1930s. When Belle Hatton’s father passes away, she finds an old newspaper clipping which will change her life forever. Belle now wants to find out the truth, but will she find the answers she is looking for?
Belle’s passion was singing so when she begins a new job in a nightclub she is hoping this will lead her to bigger and better things and hopefully in time her singing career will take her on a journey she’s been dreaming of. Belle now has another journey she must embark on and that is to find out if there is any truth on what she read in the newspaper article. When she begins to ask questions she quickly learns all is not as it seems, so what is it that people are not telling her.
I’ve said it before and I’ll keep saying it and that is historical fiction is one of my favourite genres and once you’ve read this book you’ll understand why. A beautifully written story which I highly recommend to anyone who loves this genre or for anyone who wants to read a really enjoyable story.
Belle’s passion was singing so when she begins a new job in a nightclub she is hoping this will lead her to bigger and better things and hopefully in time her singing career will take her on a journey she’s been dreaming of. Belle now has another journey she must embark on and that is to find out if there is any truth on what she read in the newspaper article. When she begins to ask questions she quickly learns all is not as it seems, so what is it that people are not telling her.
I’ve said it before and I’ll keep saying it and that is historical fiction is one of my favourite genres and once you’ve read this book you’ll understand why. A beautifully written story which I highly recommend to anyone who loves this genre or for anyone who wants to read a really enjoyable story.
July 25, 2025
Actually 4.7 rounded up to 5 stars.
Not exactly the passionate romance I expected, but a wonderful story, a cold case mystery mixed up with romance and history in an enchanting setting.
I begin by saying that I chose it because I thought it was a very intense romance, with a touch of mystery and a bit of adventure and history ( always so much appreciated by me ).
Actually, the entire novel revolves around a cold case involving the protagonist, and the love story alas is only a marginal element, that is developed more on an emotional level than through descriptions of kisses or love scenes.
If I initially felt disappointed by the love story being put in the background (and I notice that the male character of the couple appears only after 25% of the book, then disappears halfway through the book and reappears in the last quarter), but later, feeling fully involved in the intrigue of the mystery and the family dynamics that were gradually revealed, I couldn't help but turn one page after another with great excitement and trepidation.
__THE PLOT IN SHORT ___ Burma, 1936
Belle Hatton has embarked upon an exciting new and glamorous job as a nightclub's singer, in the country where her parents used to live before her birth.
However, she is haunted by a family mystery:: a 25-year-old newspaper clipping found in her deceased father's belongings about the disappearance of their baby daughter, Elvira.
Desperate to discover what happened to the sister she never knew, Belle's inquiries lead to unsettling rumors, outright threats, and the attention of a handsome American journalist named Oliver. Can she trust her growing feelings for Oliver? Is her sister really dead? And could there still be a chance Belle might find her?
______ *********** _______
The whole story is told in the first person, in alternating chapters, by Belle, the main character, in the present of the book, i.e., the late 1930s, and by her mother in the past, in the 1910s and then the 1920s.
_____ THE CHARACTERS _____
Both the female main character, Annabelle, who openly expresses her emotions, fragility and aspirations, and the supporting characters, as well as the minor ones, all of whom maintain an aura of mystery and ambiguity until the end, are well delineated by the author through their actions and words, whether they are subtle or sincere (which remains an open question until the end).
What created great tension while reading the story, in fact, was Annabelle's persistent feeling of not knowing exactly who to trust and of continually discovering clues to the truth, which in reality could only be red herrings.
Belle's mother's fragility, which is then reflected in her daughter, is what makes us root for these two women and is what ultimately, after having faced them, will make them stronger.
I wish there was more about Belle and Oliver’s relationship, and definitely more about Oliver’s character, but I liked their couple dynamic overall.
_____SETTING and HISTORY_____
Even though the story revolves around this tangled, unresolved kidnapping, the real star is the setting.
The author gives us vivid descriptions of the landscapes, smells, historical moments, and sensations — creating a magical, almost dreamy oriental atmosphere.
Balancing this sense of surrealism and dreamy feel are the dramatic historical events ( like some dramatic riots and barbaric killings ) skillfully inserted into the plot, without ever becoming burdensome or boring.
I also appreciated the historical notes at the end — about British colonialism in Burma (now Myanmar), the city of Rangoon (now Yangon), and why the author shifted some events around for the story.
___ SOME CONSIDERATIONS INSPIRED BY THE BOOK _____
For me, history in fiction is a bonus, and here it made me reflect not just on the past but on present days too : Oliver’s points and the historical events show how empires have always exploited weaker countries.
Sadly, even if empires are no longer existing, not much has changed, in fact we know how Western companies still profit from countries that can’t fight back politically or economically.
That means history keeps repeating itself because human selfishness stops us from living in true equality.
_____ WRITING STYLE _____
The book's writing is fluid, and despite its dose of both political and personal drama, the story is never distressing, but rather captivatingly entertaining.
Furthermore, all readers longing for a happy ending, just like me, will not be disappointed!
This was my first Dinah Jefferies book, but definitely not my last.
Even though it’s a bit outside my usual genres (I usually go for historical murder mysteries or fun regency romances and not so much oriental or exotic settings), I really enjoyed this read and want to try more in the same style.
Thanks for reading my opinion and as always please, forgive any errors in my English text, since I'm from Italy :-)
Not exactly the passionate romance I expected, but a wonderful story, a cold case mystery mixed up with romance and history in an enchanting setting.
I begin by saying that I chose it because I thought it was a very intense romance, with a touch of mystery and a bit of adventure and history ( always so much appreciated by me ).
Actually, the entire novel revolves around a cold case involving the protagonist, and the love story alas is only a marginal element, that is developed more on an emotional level than through descriptions of kisses or love scenes.
If I initially felt disappointed by the love story being put in the background (and I notice that the male character of the couple appears only after 25% of the book, then disappears halfway through the book and reappears in the last quarter), but later, feeling fully involved in the intrigue of the mystery and the family dynamics that were gradually revealed, I couldn't help but turn one page after another with great excitement and trepidation.
__THE PLOT IN SHORT ___ Burma, 1936
Belle Hatton has embarked upon an exciting new and glamorous job as a nightclub's singer, in the country where her parents used to live before her birth.
However, she is haunted by a family mystery:: a 25-year-old newspaper clipping found in her deceased father's belongings about the disappearance of their baby daughter, Elvira.
Desperate to discover what happened to the sister she never knew, Belle's inquiries lead to unsettling rumors, outright threats, and the attention of a handsome American journalist named Oliver. Can she trust her growing feelings for Oliver? Is her sister really dead? And could there still be a chance Belle might find her?
______ *********** _______
The whole story is told in the first person, in alternating chapters, by Belle, the main character, in the present of the book, i.e., the late 1930s, and by her mother in the past, in the 1910s and then the 1920s.
_____ THE CHARACTERS _____
Both the female main character, Annabelle, who openly expresses her emotions, fragility and aspirations, and the supporting characters, as well as the minor ones, all of whom maintain an aura of mystery and ambiguity until the end, are well delineated by the author through their actions and words, whether they are subtle or sincere (which remains an open question until the end).
What created great tension while reading the story, in fact, was Annabelle's persistent feeling of not knowing exactly who to trust and of continually discovering clues to the truth, which in reality could only be red herrings.
Belle's mother's fragility, which is then reflected in her daughter, is what makes us root for these two women and is what ultimately, after having faced them, will make them stronger.
I wish there was more about Belle and Oliver’s relationship, and definitely more about Oliver’s character, but I liked their couple dynamic overall.
_____SETTING and HISTORY_____
Even though the story revolves around this tangled, unresolved kidnapping, the real star is the setting.
The author gives us vivid descriptions of the landscapes, smells, historical moments, and sensations — creating a magical, almost dreamy oriental atmosphere.
Balancing this sense of surrealism and dreamy feel are the dramatic historical events ( like some dramatic riots and barbaric killings ) skillfully inserted into the plot, without ever becoming burdensome or boring.
I also appreciated the historical notes at the end — about British colonialism in Burma (now Myanmar), the city of Rangoon (now Yangon), and why the author shifted some events around for the story.
___ SOME CONSIDERATIONS INSPIRED BY THE BOOK _____
For me, history in fiction is a bonus, and here it made me reflect not just on the past but on present days too : Oliver’s points and the historical events show how empires have always exploited weaker countries.
Sadly, even if empires are no longer existing, not much has changed, in fact we know how Western companies still profit from countries that can’t fight back politically or economically.
That means history keeps repeating itself because human selfishness stops us from living in true equality.
_____ WRITING STYLE _____
The book's writing is fluid, and despite its dose of both political and personal drama, the story is never distressing, but rather captivatingly entertaining.
Furthermore, all readers longing for a happy ending, just like me, will not be disappointed!
This was my first Dinah Jefferies book, but definitely not my last.
Even though it’s a bit outside my usual genres (I usually go for historical murder mysteries or fun regency romances and not so much oriental or exotic settings), I really enjoyed this read and want to try more in the same style.
Thanks for reading my opinion and as always please, forgive any errors in my English text, since I'm from Italy :-)
January 2, 2019
The Missing Sister by by Dinah Jefferies is the story of Belle who travels to Burma to become a night club singer in the 1930s. She is also looking for her sister who was taken from the family home as a baby when her parents lived in Burma many years ago.
This book is atmospheric and is descriptive of the time, it paints a very colourful picture.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Books UK for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book is atmospheric and is descriptive of the time, it paints a very colourful picture.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Books UK for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2023
Man knyga pasirodė labai moteriška ir jausminga. Kažkuo priminė Lucinda Riley kūrybą. Istorija parašyta dvejais laikotarpiais. Užburianti vieta, egzotiškoji Birma, jos šventyklos auksiniais stogais ir nepaprasti gėlių sodai. Karštis. Paminima ir pogimdyminė depresija, sąmonės blokas. Įvykis sukrėtęs ir išbarstęs visus šeimos narius. Nors apsupa malonūs ir draugiški žmonės, supranti, kad jie akivaizdžiai stabdo ir slepią tiesą.
Rašydama šią knygą autorė keliavo po Birmą, savo patyrimus sudėjo į kūrinį. Aprašomas jos gražus skridimas oro balionu.
Mielai perskaityčiau ir kitas autorės knygas 📚✨️
🖋 ..labai mėgstu pajusti saulę ant veido..
🖋 Kiekvienas žmogus pats atsakingas už savo išgelbėjimą, kad ir kaip būtų pabrėžiama bendruomenės svarba.
🖋 ..nepažvelgę į akis savo vidinei tamsai galime labai stipriai susirgti.
🖋 Dažnai susimąstau, iš kur žinome, kada esame laimingi. Ar laimė yra nerimo ir sielvarto nebuvimas? O gal, kaip kad man, laimė yra rasti nuostabų, švelnų gyvenimo ritmą? Tinkamą pulsą, pagaliau leidžiantį atsipalaiduoti ir mėgautis gyvenimo paprastumu? Bet mūsų visų laimė tokia trapi. Būčiau kvailė, jei to nepripažinčiau.
Rašydama šią knygą autorė keliavo po Birmą, savo patyrimus sudėjo į kūrinį. Aprašomas jos gražus skridimas oro balionu.
Mielai perskaityčiau ir kitas autorės knygas 📚✨️
🖋 ..labai mėgstu pajusti saulę ant veido..
🖋 Kiekvienas žmogus pats atsakingas už savo išgelbėjimą, kad ir kaip būtų pabrėžiama bendruomenės svarba.
🖋 ..nepažvelgę į akis savo vidinei tamsai galime labai stipriai susirgti.
🖋 Dažnai susimąstau, iš kur žinome, kada esame laimingi. Ar laimė yra nerimo ir sielvarto nebuvimas? O gal, kaip kad man, laimė yra rasti nuostabų, švelnų gyvenimo ritmą? Tinkamą pulsą, pagaliau leidžiantį atsipalaiduoti ir mėgautis gyvenimo paprastumu? Bet mūsų visų laimė tokia trapi. Būčiau kvailė, jei to nepripažinčiau.
September 18, 2023
Mi s-a parut cea mai slaba carte a autoarei, povestea fiind plina de clisee si predictibila.
Actiunea se petrece in Birmania,interbelica, unde Belle Hatton, o cântăreața talentata isi cauta sora disparuta in conditii misterioase cu mai bine de 10 ani in urma.
Treptat aceasta descoperă secrete care ii pun viata in pericol si realizeaza faptul ca oamenii din jurul sau nu sunt ceea ce vor sa para.
Actiunea se petrece in Birmania,interbelica, unde Belle Hatton, o cântăreața talentata isi cauta sora disparuta in conditii misterioase cu mai bine de 10 ani in urma.
Treptat aceasta descoperă secrete care ii pun viata in pericol si realizeaza faptul ca oamenii din jurul sau nu sunt ceea ce vor sa para.
September 29, 2021
This was a little bit slow at times but, nevertheless it was a good read. It was set in Burma most of the time but did swing back to England to fill in the back story of the missing daughter. This is my second book by Dinah Jeffries and I have more of hers to read which I’m looking forward to doing.
March 16, 2019
4* Novel set mainly in 1930s BURMA
Travelling out on the boat to Rangoon, Belle Hatton happens to chum up with Gloria de Clemente, a quixotic and charismatic woman around town. Belle has landed a job in the sizzling city of glorious colour and smells as a star performer.and through Gloria she comes to meet her brother Edward, who is a fixer and philanderer (given the chance). Yet he seems to the have the wherewithal to help progress Belle’s stage career.
Belle’s parents were stationed in Rangoon earlier in the century but they suffered a severe loss. Her older sister, Elvira, went missing as a small child, and was never found. The mystery over her disappearance – the suspicion, the gossip and general ill-feeling – prompted her parents to return home to England without their daughter. Now Belle finds herself picking up the pieces of the mystery and finds support and encouragement in the form of Oliver, a journalist mooted to be always on the look out for a good scoop. Who can she trust? Little notes are posted under her door by a stranger, warning her off and unsettling her determination to discover the fate of her sister. She is a plucky young woman and is not easily thrown off the scent as she battles riots, intruders and bomb attacks. A trip up the Irrawaddy River starts to help her get clarity.
Dovetailing with Belle’s story is the story of her mother Diana in 1920s Cheltenham and then Minster Lovell. She has been blamed all these years for the disappearance of her daughter, a heavy burden to carry around and consequently her mental health has suffered dreadfully. Her long standing friend Simone takes her under her wing and after some Freudian therapy, her vitality and mental health are restored. The connection between Diana and Belle has long been severed. Is there a chance that they will find each other again?
This is a fairly loosely woven story with some scenes that are a little hard to credit but which nevertheless takes you into the heart of what I imagine Burma could well have been like. The author is always terrific at creating a colourful, exotic and vibrant setting for her stories. She describes her personal visit to the country at the end of the book and what she saw – now recorded here in the written word – really brings the book to life.
This is the era of faltering British Rule where unrest and uprisings were rife and Belle has to steer her way through this dramatic period of history, single-mindedly pursuing news of her sister.
Travelling out on the boat to Rangoon, Belle Hatton happens to chum up with Gloria de Clemente, a quixotic and charismatic woman around town. Belle has landed a job in the sizzling city of glorious colour and smells as a star performer.and through Gloria she comes to meet her brother Edward, who is a fixer and philanderer (given the chance). Yet he seems to the have the wherewithal to help progress Belle’s stage career.
Belle’s parents were stationed in Rangoon earlier in the century but they suffered a severe loss. Her older sister, Elvira, went missing as a small child, and was never found. The mystery over her disappearance – the suspicion, the gossip and general ill-feeling – prompted her parents to return home to England without their daughter. Now Belle finds herself picking up the pieces of the mystery and finds support and encouragement in the form of Oliver, a journalist mooted to be always on the look out for a good scoop. Who can she trust? Little notes are posted under her door by a stranger, warning her off and unsettling her determination to discover the fate of her sister. She is a plucky young woman and is not easily thrown off the scent as she battles riots, intruders and bomb attacks. A trip up the Irrawaddy River starts to help her get clarity.
Dovetailing with Belle’s story is the story of her mother Diana in 1920s Cheltenham and then Minster Lovell. She has been blamed all these years for the disappearance of her daughter, a heavy burden to carry around and consequently her mental health has suffered dreadfully. Her long standing friend Simone takes her under her wing and after some Freudian therapy, her vitality and mental health are restored. The connection between Diana and Belle has long been severed. Is there a chance that they will find each other again?
This is a fairly loosely woven story with some scenes that are a little hard to credit but which nevertheless takes you into the heart of what I imagine Burma could well have been like. The author is always terrific at creating a colourful, exotic and vibrant setting for her stories. She describes her personal visit to the country at the end of the book and what she saw – now recorded here in the written word – really brings the book to life.
This is the era of faltering British Rule where unrest and uprisings were rife and Belle has to steer her way through this dramatic period of history, single-mindedly pursuing news of her sister.
July 15, 2021
Well-written, with beautiful descriptions of Rangoon and Mandalay in Burma under British occupation during the 1930s, this story was quite enchanting. The main character of Belle Hatton made me want to scream sometimes, but I suppose she was quite typical of many women of the times, brought up to think of themselves as the frail and easily frightened sex, whilst men were portrayed as brave, all powerful deciders who were never wrong (some things, at least, don't change with the years, huh?!!).
The story is quite convincing in most parts, and made me reflect on the subtle emotional violence of which many women are susceptible, even today: feeling guilty when anything goes wrong is a heavy burden to carry, ingrained from birth.
The ending is very satisfying and I can recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind a bit of romance in a historical novel.
The story is quite convincing in most parts, and made me reflect on the subtle emotional violence of which many women are susceptible, even today: feeling guilty when anything goes wrong is a heavy burden to carry, ingrained from birth.
The ending is very satisfying and I can recommend it to anyone who doesn't mind a bit of romance in a historical novel.
May 29, 2020
Talented storyteller Dinah Jefferies delivers a juicy story full of excitement, passion, suspense and family drama in this picturesque action-packed mystery. The characters are intriguing, the exotic locales are mesmerizing and the multi-faceted story holds the reader's attention from beginning to end. Another winner from Jefferies who has become one of my top go-to authors.
August 19, 2021
Šios autorės knygos yra skirtos atsipalaidavimui. Siužetas visuomet panašus: dažniausiai jauna mergina atsiduria kur nors ne laiku ir ne vietoje, ką nors įsimyli, vėliau supranta, kad ten visokių paslapčių daug, atsiduria pavojuje ir galiausiai viskas išsisprendžia ir visi gyvena ilgai ir laimingai. Nors va, šios autorės knyga „Prieš liūtis“ man patiko labai. Ten giliau buvo pakapstyta.
Šiuo atveju mergina yra Belė, kuri atvyksta į Birmą aiškintis apie savo dingusią seserį, apie kurią netyčia sužinojo netrukus po tėvo mirties. Pradėjus paieškas kažkas jai pradeda kaišioti pagalius į ratus, o kur dar visi morčiaujantys vyrai aplink. Tik blaško dėmesį.
Būtent tokioje egzotiškoje šalyje ko gero ir man būtų sunku susikaupti ir aš norėčiau eiti laukais... Autorė tikrai sužadina norą ten apsilankyti, paragauti, pasivaikščioti. Skaičiau ir svajojau...
Išties, kai esi pavargęs ir nesinori sukti galvos, tokios knygos yra kaip balzamas. Pasiimi, ir... dingsti Birmos šventyklų fone. Ir tos paslaptys visai veža, nes nori kuo greičiau išsiaiškinti kas ten grasina, kodėl grasina. Giliai širdyje net jaudiniesi dėl veikėjos, nors sveikas protas ir sako, garantuoja, kad viskas kai bus gerai!
Smagi knygutė smegenims pravėdinti. Gal buvo kiek per daug aprašymų ir detalių, kurios pasirodė nereikalingos ir vietomis jau erzino, bet Jefferies savo darbą atliko ir aš pailsėjau nuo pasaulio, darbo, minčių.
Susitikime instagrame:
www.instagram.com/gretabrigita.lt
Visas apžvalgas rasite čia:
www.gretabrigita.lt
Leidyklos dovana.
Šiuo atveju mergina yra Belė, kuri atvyksta į Birmą aiškintis apie savo dingusią seserį, apie kurią netyčia sužinojo netrukus po tėvo mirties. Pradėjus paieškas kažkas jai pradeda kaišioti pagalius į ratus, o kur dar visi morčiaujantys vyrai aplink. Tik blaško dėmesį.
Būtent tokioje egzotiškoje šalyje ko gero ir man būtų sunku susikaupti ir aš norėčiau eiti laukais... Autorė tikrai sužadina norą ten apsilankyti, paragauti, pasivaikščioti. Skaičiau ir svajojau...
Išties, kai esi pavargęs ir nesinori sukti galvos, tokios knygos yra kaip balzamas. Pasiimi, ir... dingsti Birmos šventyklų fone. Ir tos paslaptys visai veža, nes nori kuo greičiau išsiaiškinti kas ten grasina, kodėl grasina. Giliai širdyje net jaudiniesi dėl veikėjos, nors sveikas protas ir sako, garantuoja, kad viskas kai bus gerai!
Smagi knygutė smegenims pravėdinti. Gal buvo kiek per daug aprašymų ir detalių, kurios pasirodė nereikalingos ir vietomis jau erzino, bet Jefferies savo darbą atliko ir aš pailsėjau nuo pasaulio, darbo, minčių.
Susitikime instagrame:
www.instagram.com/gretabrigita.lt
Visas apžvalgas rasite čia:
www.gretabrigita.lt
Leidyklos dovana.
December 19, 2019
This was my fourth Dinah Jeffries book. I think I can write one now. (Just kidding, I cannot, and I respect and appreciate the hard, hard work and tons of effort it takes to write). What I’m trying to say is, it’s pretty formulaic. Quite like Dan Brown, but less annoying. See, there’s a beautiful young woman instead of Langdon, an Asian city instead of a European one, a good-looking, helpful man for a companion instead of a good-looking helpful woman for a companion, they stroll about the city taking in its culture and landmarks, instead of running about.. you get the gist.
The Missing Sister was quite nice. Vanilla. It wasn’t a hair-raising adventure, it wasn’t a boring sluggish read. I liked the characters pretty well, and the intersecting timelines were not tedious the way they sometimes are. I don’t know what else to say. Three solid stars.
The Missing Sister was quite nice. Vanilla. It wasn’t a hair-raising adventure, it wasn’t a boring sluggish read. I liked the characters pretty well, and the intersecting timelines were not tedious the way they sometimes are. I don’t know what else to say. Three solid stars.
May 19, 2019
What I love about Dinah Jefferies books are how vividly told they are; how they truly transport the reader to an exotic destination and how the storyline keeps the momentum going from start to finish. I thoroughly enjoyed this latest release, having waited rather impatiently for it!
Like her other books, this is set in east Asia but also mildly touch’s on English settings. I was pleasantly surprised to see that a very local village, Minster Lovell, was included within the story.
As ever, the characters of this story were well developed and intriguing, complexities are explored and the author is forever developing new threads to her story. The ending felt a tad rushed for me, but otherwise this was a great read and highly recommended for historical fiction fans.
Like her other books, this is set in east Asia but also mildly touch’s on English settings. I was pleasantly surprised to see that a very local village, Minster Lovell, was included within the story.
As ever, the characters of this story were well developed and intriguing, complexities are explored and the author is forever developing new threads to her story. The ending felt a tad rushed for me, but otherwise this was a great read and highly recommended for historical fiction fans.
September 16, 2019
Emanuela - per RFS
.
Immersi nella magica atmosfera d’oriente, tra tanti profumi e contraddizioni, Dinah Jeffries ci racconta ancora una volta la storia di una donna coraggiosa alla ricerca della verità a ogni costo. In “La sorella perduta” l’autrice, oltre ai classici ingredienti che caratterizzano i suoi lavori, aggiunge anche una buona dose di suspens ottenendo la ricetta perfetta per un libro che è un vero capolavoro.
Ambientato nel 1936 in Birmania (odierno Myanmar), il romanzo racconta la storia di Belle. La giovane giunge a Rangoon per lavorare come cantante in un grande albergo ma ha la segreta speranza di scoprire cosa è capitato alla sorellina scomparsa. Mistero di cui è venuta a conoscenza casualmente, con l’apprendere di un terribile fatto di cronaca che coinvolse entrambi i genitori e in particolare modo la madre, accusata di essere la responsabile della sparizione della figlioletta appena nata.
Belle è cresciuta solo con il padre e una governante. Della madre sa solo che li ha abbandonati e poi è morta senza mai tornare indietro. La ragazza cova dentro di sé un misto di rabbia e di curiosità nei confronti della donna che l’ha generata e la notizia di avere una sorellina, appresa alla morte del padre, scatena in lei un vivissimo interesse.
In un Paese pieno di contraddizioni, esotici templi e mercati variopinti, dove il dominio degli inglesi è messo a dura prova da continui scontri tra birmani e indiani, Belle condurrà una doppia vita. La sera affascinerà il pubblico con la sua voce conturbante e il giorno condurrà delle indagini per scoprire la verità, aiutata da Edward, Gloria e Oliver un’affascinante giornalista americano.
Sin da subito qualcuno cercherà di ostacolare le sue ricerche seminando il dubbio e Belle avrà bisogno di tempo per capire chi è amico e chi no, ma nulla riuscirà a fermarla, neppure un attentato da cui però riuscirà a sfuggire.
Più andrà avanti con le sue ricerche più si renderà conto che a molti interessa non far emergere cosa realmente accadde alla sua sorellina e questo naturalmente non farà che accrescere il desiderio di risolvere il mistero.
Narrato su due piani paralleli con le vicende di Belle narrate in terza persona e i flash back di 20 anni prima raccontati dalla voce della madre, questo è un romanzo che lega il lettore a doppio nodo: non si può lasciare il libro sino al finale mozzafiato.
Molto bello.
.
Immersi nella magica atmosfera d’oriente, tra tanti profumi e contraddizioni, Dinah Jeffries ci racconta ancora una volta la storia di una donna coraggiosa alla ricerca della verità a ogni costo. In “La sorella perduta” l’autrice, oltre ai classici ingredienti che caratterizzano i suoi lavori, aggiunge anche una buona dose di suspens ottenendo la ricetta perfetta per un libro che è un vero capolavoro.
Ambientato nel 1936 in Birmania (odierno Myanmar), il romanzo racconta la storia di Belle. La giovane giunge a Rangoon per lavorare come cantante in un grande albergo ma ha la segreta speranza di scoprire cosa è capitato alla sorellina scomparsa. Mistero di cui è venuta a conoscenza casualmente, con l’apprendere di un terribile fatto di cronaca che coinvolse entrambi i genitori e in particolare modo la madre, accusata di essere la responsabile della sparizione della figlioletta appena nata.
Belle è cresciuta solo con il padre e una governante. Della madre sa solo che li ha abbandonati e poi è morta senza mai tornare indietro. La ragazza cova dentro di sé un misto di rabbia e di curiosità nei confronti della donna che l’ha generata e la notizia di avere una sorellina, appresa alla morte del padre, scatena in lei un vivissimo interesse.
In un Paese pieno di contraddizioni, esotici templi e mercati variopinti, dove il dominio degli inglesi è messo a dura prova da continui scontri tra birmani e indiani, Belle condurrà una doppia vita. La sera affascinerà il pubblico con la sua voce conturbante e il giorno condurrà delle indagini per scoprire la verità, aiutata da Edward, Gloria e Oliver un’affascinante giornalista americano.
Sin da subito qualcuno cercherà di ostacolare le sue ricerche seminando il dubbio e Belle avrà bisogno di tempo per capire chi è amico e chi no, ma nulla riuscirà a fermarla, neppure un attentato da cui però riuscirà a sfuggire.
Più andrà avanti con le sue ricerche più si renderà conto che a molti interessa non far emergere cosa realmente accadde alla sua sorellina e questo naturalmente non farà che accrescere il desiderio di risolvere il mistero.
Narrato su due piani paralleli con le vicende di Belle narrate in terza persona e i flash back di 20 anni prima raccontati dalla voce della madre, questo è un romanzo che lega il lettore a doppio nodo: non si può lasciare il libro sino al finale mozzafiato.
Molto bello.
June 27, 2023
Another gift from my sister of my heart, Verlie, to bring the review to Goodreads.
Premise: Belle Hatton has come in search of answers to a mystery that has haunted her family for more than 20 years.
She is looking for clues that may explain the disappearance of her parents’ baby daughter, Elvira, from January 1911.
Belle had grown up in England, unaware that her elder sister ever existed.
But now that both of her parents are dead, going through their personal things, she discovered a newspaper clipping describing the day Elvira, only 3 weeks old at the time, vanished from the family garden in Rangoon.
Now Belle wants to know if she is alive.
The mystery element of the novel was slightly predictable. The setting was beautiful. The storyline about Belle’s mother Diana and how she fell under suspicion, was an interesting angle.
All in all, it was a slow moving, predictable, been-here-before kind of story. But still sweet. 3.5 stars.
Premise: Belle Hatton has come in search of answers to a mystery that has haunted her family for more than 20 years.
She is looking for clues that may explain the disappearance of her parents’ baby daughter, Elvira, from January 1911.
Belle had grown up in England, unaware that her elder sister ever existed.
But now that both of her parents are dead, going through their personal things, she discovered a newspaper clipping describing the day Elvira, only 3 weeks old at the time, vanished from the family garden in Rangoon.
Now Belle wants to know if she is alive.
The mystery element of the novel was slightly predictable. The setting was beautiful. The storyline about Belle’s mother Diana and how she fell under suspicion, was an interesting angle.
All in all, it was a slow moving, predictable, been-here-before kind of story. But still sweet. 3.5 stars.
December 28, 2022
Головна героїня Аннабель приїжджає до Бірми працювати співачкою в готелі, але насправді вона хоче розплутати давню сімейну загадку - колись тут жили її батьки, і так само тут немовлям зникла її старша сестра. Спочатку у зникненні обвинувачували матір, але потім справу в поліції закрили, і більше двадцяти років ніхто нічого не знав. Тепер Аннабель знайомиться з місцевим світським товариством, серед яких дуже приємний чиновник, його вишукана сестра і не зовсім світський американський журналіст, а її спроби щось дізнатися перериватимуться то повстанням, то листами з погрозами. Але все вона зрештою розплутає.
Нічого особливо поганого про цю книгу написати не можу, але нічого хорошого теж. Така дуже передбачувана оповідь, де всі галочки закреслені (любов та підозра, розкішні краєвиди, подорож і не безпека), а мотиви та відчуття тричі проговорюються, щоб вже до кожної читачки дійшло. Якби оці всі проговорення викинути, а деяких другорядних персонажів прописати, було б набагато краще.
Нічого особливо поганого про цю книгу написати не можу, але нічого хорошого теж. Така дуже передбачувана оповідь, де всі галочки закреслені (любов та підозра, розкішні краєвиди, подорож і не безпека), а мотиви та відчуття тричі проговорюються, щоб вже до кожної читачки дійшло. Якби оці всі проговорення викинути, а деяких другорядних персонажів прописати, було б набагато краще.
October 29, 2025
Nebiju sajūsmā par abām sižeta līnijām, bet patika aprakstītā vide. Viegls romāns ar detektīva elementiem un skaistu dabas aprakstu, kurā iepīta arī vēsture un angļu kolonizācija Birmā. Vēsturiskais aspekts laikam patika visvairāk.
April 5, 2023
Ak šīs necilās grāmatas, kurām grāmatnīcā pavisam noteikti paietu garām, jo vāks nu galīgi nešķiet saistošs..
Tad ir labi, ja kāds tomēr šo grāmatu nolemj tev uzdāvināt, jo tas, kas slēpjas grāmatas lappusēs gan šķiet pat ļoti saistošs.
Bellas piedzīvojumi un pārdzīvojumi mēģinot noskaidrot patiesību par pazudušo māsu aizrāva jau no pirmajām lappusēm un tā vien gribējās ātrāk uzzināt, kā stāsts atrisināsies.
Tad ir labi, ja kāds tomēr šo grāmatu nolemj tev uzdāvināt, jo tas, kas slēpjas grāmatas lappusēs gan šķiet pat ļoti saistošs.
Bellas piedzīvojumi un pārdzīvojumi mēģinot noskaidrot patiesību par pazudušo māsu aizrāva jau no pirmajām lappusēm un tā vien gribējās ātrāk uzzināt, kā stāsts atrisināsies.
April 14, 2019
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/2019/...
I loved the format of being with Belle in 1936 and Diana’s narrative moving forwards from 1921. As Belle becomes more caught up in the search for Elvira the past slowly unravels. The anxiety of fight or flight, of being hyper alert, is portrayed well and used to great effect. I had so much empathy for Diana and willed her to mental wellness. Belle has much strength in her quest to find the truth and I loved her spirit of adventure.
Dinah Jefferies settings are always vivid and vibrant and The Missing Sister is no exception. All of my senses and emotions were drawn in and as a ‘visual’ reader, I experienced it all. In fact, there is one particular scene in the Indian quarter in Rangoon that had more of an effect of me than I realised. It was only after I had related a dream to colleagues and friends and I was trying to pinpoint if anything had been going on in my life that I realised the connection! My subconscious had translated it as an experience into my world. Belle’s anguish and fear had become my own … One of my favourite scenes has to be the hot air balloon ride – not just for the things that I saw but the effect it had on Belle. Epiphany.
I really had no idea who I should trust. Gloria? Her brother Edward? Oliver? They all seemed to have their own agenda but who was trying to cover up this secret and what would they do to stop Belle finding out the truth? I was suspicious of Belle’s room-mate Rebecca and even Diana’s best friend Simone … This kept me ready to spot any inconsistencies and I wavered between them all. Except for Harry! It was obvious he was up to something but I didn’t think for one moment it would have the conclusion it did.
Near the end of the story I cried. Not just a few tears wending their way down my face but big ugly tears with sobs. Perfect.
This story will keep you intrigued as you journey the streets of Rangoon and on the river to Mandalay. There will be sights and sounds you never thought you would see or hear. You’ll see the worst of human nature and the best; the consequences of the past and how it affects people in the future. You’ll experience melancholy, sadness, fear and love. The Missing Sister packs a powerful emotional punch. Highly recommended.
I loved the format of being with Belle in 1936 and Diana’s narrative moving forwards from 1921. As Belle becomes more caught up in the search for Elvira the past slowly unravels. The anxiety of fight or flight, of being hyper alert, is portrayed well and used to great effect. I had so much empathy for Diana and willed her to mental wellness. Belle has much strength in her quest to find the truth and I loved her spirit of adventure.
Dinah Jefferies settings are always vivid and vibrant and The Missing Sister is no exception. All of my senses and emotions were drawn in and as a ‘visual’ reader, I experienced it all. In fact, there is one particular scene in the Indian quarter in Rangoon that had more of an effect of me than I realised. It was only after I had related a dream to colleagues and friends and I was trying to pinpoint if anything had been going on in my life that I realised the connection! My subconscious had translated it as an experience into my world. Belle’s anguish and fear had become my own … One of my favourite scenes has to be the hot air balloon ride – not just for the things that I saw but the effect it had on Belle. Epiphany.
I really had no idea who I should trust. Gloria? Her brother Edward? Oliver? They all seemed to have their own agenda but who was trying to cover up this secret and what would they do to stop Belle finding out the truth? I was suspicious of Belle’s room-mate Rebecca and even Diana’s best friend Simone … This kept me ready to spot any inconsistencies and I wavered between them all. Except for Harry! It was obvious he was up to something but I didn’t think for one moment it would have the conclusion it did.
Near the end of the story I cried. Not just a few tears wending their way down my face but big ugly tears with sobs. Perfect.
This story will keep you intrigued as you journey the streets of Rangoon and on the river to Mandalay. There will be sights and sounds you never thought you would see or hear. You’ll see the worst of human nature and the best; the consequences of the past and how it affects people in the future. You’ll experience melancholy, sadness, fear and love. The Missing Sister packs a powerful emotional punch. Highly recommended.
March 10, 2019
Visit the locations in the novel
There are some authors you can always rely on to create magical stories with twists and turns. All set in the most stunning and captivating locations! Dinah Jefferies is one of those authors. Her way of writing and evoking locations, together with the interweaving stories are a fascinating and very successful mix.
The Missing Sister intrigued me from the start. Burma in the 1930s – nightclubs and the hot buzz of the city – I was there! Add to this the story of a girl finding out about her missing sister and then going on to search for her was a compelling premise. The various strands of the story built nicely, wove in and around the lyrical writing and really created a narrative I didn’t want to end.
This was essentially an historical drama but Dinah’s attention to detail meant that I learned a lot about Britain’s occupying years in the country and region. There’s detail but never too much. You soon realise by the end just how much of an insight into the mystery and the heritage of the country you’ve experienced. That’s always a joy for a reader isn’t it? A story that lingers and stays with you.
There were parts of the story set in Cheltenham with Diana’s story which worked well too, but it was Burma that really captivated me. The contrast between two such different places was nicely done!
Back in Burma, there were two characters richly described and part of Belle’s story who I was particularly interested in. You’re never sure if you can trust him but he’s got that smouldering presence you can understand Belle is going to either love or hate. Gloria de Clemente, was the other character I enjoyed meeting. She was an influential wealthy British socialite who lived in Golden Valley which is where Belle’s parents once lived. Could she and brother Edward in Rangoon help her solve her family’s mystery?
Gripping and lyrically written. A real treat.
March 26, 2019
The Missing Sister isn't my usual sort of read but when I saw the beautiful cover and read the blurb, I was intrigued. What followed was an enchanting and, at times, heartbreaking story of a British baby, Elvira, stolen in 1911 from her parents' garden in Burma.
Gossip-mongers suspect the baby may have been killed by the mother, Diana, but no charges are brought. Diana gives birth to a second child, Belle, but unable to recover from the loss of Elvira and now suffering mental health issues, her husband packs her off to England with an understanding that it's in Belle's best interest she never sees her mother again.
Fast forward to 1936 and an adult Belle has accepted a job as a nightclub singer in Rangoon, Burma. With both parents now dead, she's determined to discover what happened to her sister all those years earlier - is she still alive and if so, what became of her? But when Belle starts asking questions, it soon becomes apparent Elvira's disappearance has been covered up. . .
Although I have all of Dinah Jefferies' previous novels on my bookcase, The Missing Sister is the first I've read. I was transported to another time and place with the author's beautiful, vivid descriptions. It felt authentic - I could smell the spices in the marketplace and feel the sun's heat beating down on me. The expressive and faultless writing will stay with me for a very long time.
Characterisation was superb; especially Belle and Diana. To have a child stolen and then be expected to pick up the pieces of a shattered life is beyond comprehension and without compassion. The pre-war British 'stiff upper lip' was excellently portrayed, with any hint of a scandal being swept under the carpet.
I thought this was a great piece of historical romantic fiction and it's opened my eyes to the possibility that actually yes, I maybe do kind of like this genre after all.
Buy the book here https://amzn.to/2TCOryp
Read my review on my blog: https://bit.ly/2Ots91h
Gossip-mongers suspect the baby may have been killed by the mother, Diana, but no charges are brought. Diana gives birth to a second child, Belle, but unable to recover from the loss of Elvira and now suffering mental health issues, her husband packs her off to England with an understanding that it's in Belle's best interest she never sees her mother again.
Fast forward to 1936 and an adult Belle has accepted a job as a nightclub singer in Rangoon, Burma. With both parents now dead, she's determined to discover what happened to her sister all those years earlier - is she still alive and if so, what became of her? But when Belle starts asking questions, it soon becomes apparent Elvira's disappearance has been covered up. . .
Although I have all of Dinah Jefferies' previous novels on my bookcase, The Missing Sister is the first I've read. I was transported to another time and place with the author's beautiful, vivid descriptions. It felt authentic - I could smell the spices in the marketplace and feel the sun's heat beating down on me. The expressive and faultless writing will stay with me for a very long time.
Characterisation was superb; especially Belle and Diana. To have a child stolen and then be expected to pick up the pieces of a shattered life is beyond comprehension and without compassion. The pre-war British 'stiff upper lip' was excellently portrayed, with any hint of a scandal being swept under the carpet.
I thought this was a great piece of historical romantic fiction and it's opened my eyes to the possibility that actually yes, I maybe do kind of like this genre after all.
Buy the book here https://amzn.to/2TCOryp
Read my review on my blog: https://bit.ly/2Ots91h
June 8, 2019
On the strength of a couple of other Jeffries' book, I picked up The Missing Sister and am glad that I did. The book is well-written—beautifully written in spots—and the author's descriptions of Rangoon and the surrounding countryside delighted me. I found the protagonist to have a clear, realiable voice (although sometimes, she's clueless, which drives me nuts). The depiction of Colonial Burma is right on target with other books I've read, and I'm glad to see Jeffries pin the drama in the book on a Brit, instead of a Burman.
Some of the passages were disturbing, particularly those related to the protagonist's mother and her treatment by fellow Brits in Burma. However, this harshness deepened the story.
It was obvious early on, though, where the fault was going to lie—who did what, who was good and who was bad—and the ending was a little cliched. But those are minor quibbles when cast against a truly original story written so well.
Definitely recommended.
Some of the passages were disturbing, particularly those related to the protagonist's mother and her treatment by fellow Brits in Burma. However, this harshness deepened the story.
It was obvious early on, though, where the fault was going to lie—who did what, who was good and who was bad—and the ending was a little cliched. But those are minor quibbles when cast against a truly original story written so well.
Definitely recommended.
February 12, 2019
As always a fantastic story. This time we are transpoerted to Burma prior to WW2 and immersed in the sights and senses of Rangoon and Mandalay as Belle investigates what happened to her sister and tries to solve the mystery of the baby’s disappearance. I always find that I am engossed in Dinah’s books from the first page and eagerly await the next one. There are certain authors where you just know that their books will be excellent and Dinah is at the top of my list.
April 5, 2019
Dinah Jefferies new novel The Missing Sister takes us back many years to the exotic location of Burma in the late 1930's. It is another colonial country controlled by the British but times are changing and turbulent and it might be for not much longer that the British continue to govern the country. A young woman Belle has recently arrived in the bustling city of Rangoon principally to start a new job as a singer at a luxurious hotel but also she has a personal mission. This quest makes up the backbone of the story and the sense of mystery, secrecy and intrigue is evident from the very beginning. So many questions simmer to the surface and the tension and suspicion apparent from chapter one is maintained right until the big final, breathtaking reveal.
I was instantly sucked into this story as I already have been with every book that Dinah has written and that's because the writing is excellent and so vivid. Every page is so descriptive and you get such a feel for the time and place. You are sucked back in time to a country vastly different from the one in which I presume exists today. It's clear extensive research was undertaken but also that Dinah enjoyed visiting Burma and was eager to transfer her visions and ideas on to paper in order to write a captivating story. I could feel the heat as Belle explores Burma as her journey takes her further away from Rangoon. The stifling heat and tropical climate along with the tension surrounding the plot just kept increasing and gaining in strength so you knew something would have to give in the end.
I could clearly visualise the setting in my head, the bustling streets crowded with people going about their daily lives. The colourful and vibrant trees humming with wildlife. The villagers eking out an existence in the countryside and the stunning temples amidst jungle vegetation. But in contrast is the luxurious hotels and specific areas for the British where opulence is always on show. It seems they didn't ingratiate themselves with the locals rather instead they brought a slice of Britain to foreign shores and with that a secret that has been buried deep for so many years and one which Belle is determined to solve.
Right from the outset I thought Belle was brave and courageous. Firstly to travel to the other side of the world on her own but it also showed how tenacious and how strong willed and purposeful she was. She had burning questions and had a strong desire for answers. At first she seemed like a fish out of water and that at every point she was met with opposition and a blank wall. For Belle is resolved to find out what did happen to her long lost sister all those years ago. Elvira was just three weeks old when she was taken from her parents garden in Rangoon. Suspicion fell upon her mother Diana with her father Douglas torn in two as to what happened. Since both upped and left Rangoon after the devastating event leaving Douglas' important job behind the enigma has remained just that.
Trust is a very important word throughout this book because there seems to be a shroud of secrecy surrounding the events which changed the life of a family forever. I admired that at all times Belle followed her gut. Gloria the woman Belle meets on the boat on the way over and who seems to slot herself into Belle's life at every opportunity came across to me as if she was trying to be the mother figure but then on the other hand I was wary of her as I was of most people who featured. Gloria's brother Edward who worked in the British administration seemed to be so helpful and wanted Belle to find the answers but then again I was second guessing everyone's actions.
As Belle delves deeper into the past she starts to understand why her mother was the person she was when Belle was growing up, how losing her baby so deeply affected her. What also really helped the reader to gain a more insightful understanding of the overall picture was the fact that running alongside Belle's story was the story of her mother Diana as told from her perspective. I was reading the first chapter and then randomly it jumped back to Diana without me even realising it. I genuinely thought there had been an error in the book and that I had missed out on a page or two but no it soon became clear that we were learning of Diana's experiences after her beloved child was taken and how she dealt with the blame falling upon her shoulders. How doubt, suspicion, intrigue and illness drove a family to despair. How decisions were made that had ramifications and repercussions for so many years. But now as Bella wades deeper into the seething, boiling den of complications and conspiracies danger lurks around every corner.
Belle was a young woman who was so loyal to her family and she desperately needed to know what had happened and why. She wasn't one to rest on her laurels and even when things go against her and it seems as if everything is happening to throw her off track and off the scent she just keeps ploughing on. She hopes that attempting to find out the truth will make up for what she has been missing in her life and allow her to move forward but what happens if she doesn't find what she is seeking? Will she be forever left wondering and it might drive her mad?
When an investigative journalist, an American by the name of Oliver, makes an appearance I was suspicious of him too. After all news reporters are only out to find the big story which will further their career. Were his intentions genuine or just too good to be true? I think I doubted Oliver because I felt that way about so many of the characters apart from Belle because of the way the story was written but I think that is a good thing as I was really left guessing right until the moment Dinah had chosen to reveal all to her readers. As Belle falls deeper into a bigger picture she wonders should she just stop and give up everything seeing as trouble, threats and warnings meet her at every turn. She worries about things she can't change but as answers come within touching distance I was urging her on. The union she had struck up with Oliver could have been fruitful after all if only she could keep pushing through and emerge even stronger and successful out the other side.
Dinah Jefferies has once again written another brilliant book that reels you in from the first page and doesn't relinquish its grasp until the final word. I felt initially it was a slow burner but then the tension just grew and grew and I was as eager as Belle to discover all the secrets. It was an interesting, detailed and absorbing read which shows what a talented and impressive author Dinah Jefferies truly is and reaffirms why I love her books so much. I'm already looking forward to what part of the world she will take us to next and what brilliant story she will bring us.
I was instantly sucked into this story as I already have been with every book that Dinah has written and that's because the writing is excellent and so vivid. Every page is so descriptive and you get such a feel for the time and place. You are sucked back in time to a country vastly different from the one in which I presume exists today. It's clear extensive research was undertaken but also that Dinah enjoyed visiting Burma and was eager to transfer her visions and ideas on to paper in order to write a captivating story. I could feel the heat as Belle explores Burma as her journey takes her further away from Rangoon. The stifling heat and tropical climate along with the tension surrounding the plot just kept increasing and gaining in strength so you knew something would have to give in the end.
I could clearly visualise the setting in my head, the bustling streets crowded with people going about their daily lives. The colourful and vibrant trees humming with wildlife. The villagers eking out an existence in the countryside and the stunning temples amidst jungle vegetation. But in contrast is the luxurious hotels and specific areas for the British where opulence is always on show. It seems they didn't ingratiate themselves with the locals rather instead they brought a slice of Britain to foreign shores and with that a secret that has been buried deep for so many years and one which Belle is determined to solve.
Right from the outset I thought Belle was brave and courageous. Firstly to travel to the other side of the world on her own but it also showed how tenacious and how strong willed and purposeful she was. She had burning questions and had a strong desire for answers. At first she seemed like a fish out of water and that at every point she was met with opposition and a blank wall. For Belle is resolved to find out what did happen to her long lost sister all those years ago. Elvira was just three weeks old when she was taken from her parents garden in Rangoon. Suspicion fell upon her mother Diana with her father Douglas torn in two as to what happened. Since both upped and left Rangoon after the devastating event leaving Douglas' important job behind the enigma has remained just that.
Trust is a very important word throughout this book because there seems to be a shroud of secrecy surrounding the events which changed the life of a family forever. I admired that at all times Belle followed her gut. Gloria the woman Belle meets on the boat on the way over and who seems to slot herself into Belle's life at every opportunity came across to me as if she was trying to be the mother figure but then on the other hand I was wary of her as I was of most people who featured. Gloria's brother Edward who worked in the British administration seemed to be so helpful and wanted Belle to find the answers but then again I was second guessing everyone's actions.
As Belle delves deeper into the past she starts to understand why her mother was the person she was when Belle was growing up, how losing her baby so deeply affected her. What also really helped the reader to gain a more insightful understanding of the overall picture was the fact that running alongside Belle's story was the story of her mother Diana as told from her perspective. I was reading the first chapter and then randomly it jumped back to Diana without me even realising it. I genuinely thought there had been an error in the book and that I had missed out on a page or two but no it soon became clear that we were learning of Diana's experiences after her beloved child was taken and how she dealt with the blame falling upon her shoulders. How doubt, suspicion, intrigue and illness drove a family to despair. How decisions were made that had ramifications and repercussions for so many years. But now as Bella wades deeper into the seething, boiling den of complications and conspiracies danger lurks around every corner.
Belle was a young woman who was so loyal to her family and she desperately needed to know what had happened and why. She wasn't one to rest on her laurels and even when things go against her and it seems as if everything is happening to throw her off track and off the scent she just keeps ploughing on. She hopes that attempting to find out the truth will make up for what she has been missing in her life and allow her to move forward but what happens if she doesn't find what she is seeking? Will she be forever left wondering and it might drive her mad?
When an investigative journalist, an American by the name of Oliver, makes an appearance I was suspicious of him too. After all news reporters are only out to find the big story which will further their career. Were his intentions genuine or just too good to be true? I think I doubted Oliver because I felt that way about so many of the characters apart from Belle because of the way the story was written but I think that is a good thing as I was really left guessing right until the moment Dinah had chosen to reveal all to her readers. As Belle falls deeper into a bigger picture she wonders should she just stop and give up everything seeing as trouble, threats and warnings meet her at every turn. She worries about things she can't change but as answers come within touching distance I was urging her on. The union she had struck up with Oliver could have been fruitful after all if only she could keep pushing through and emerge even stronger and successful out the other side.
Dinah Jefferies has once again written another brilliant book that reels you in from the first page and doesn't relinquish its grasp until the final word. I felt initially it was a slow burner but then the tension just grew and grew and I was as eager as Belle to discover all the secrets. It was an interesting, detailed and absorbing read which shows what a talented and impressive author Dinah Jefferies truly is and reaffirms why I love her books so much. I'm already looking forward to what part of the world she will take us to next and what brilliant story she will bring us.
December 30, 2024
"Belė juto, kaip sukasi ir nerimsta praeitis, lyg staiga būtų vėl atgijusi, ir žinojo, kad kol kas kai kurie dalykai yra svarbesni už žodžius."
Kaip ir buvo galima nuspėti iš knygos pavadinimo istorija apie dingusią seserį. Belė Haton visą gyvenimą augo manydama esanti vienturtė, bet galiausiai sužinojo paslaptį, kad turi vyresniąją seserį. Deja, bet viskas ne taip paprasta kaip būtų galima tikėtis. Mane pasitiko nuotykių pilna kelionė ieškant dingusios sesers. Nors istorija graži ir paprasta, bet man trūko cinkelio, vietomis varčiau akis dėl kvailų poelgių ir neišmanymo, tačiau reikia nepamiršti, kad dalis siužeto vyko 1911m. Kas tokiu laikmečiu greičiausiai buvo normalu.
"Sesuo - dovana."
Skaitydamą knygą atsidūriau Birmoje ir autorė labai vaizdžiai apipasakoja egzotišką kraštovaizdį, tryrančius kvapus, gražiuosius sodus ir kitas nepaprastas vietas. Tarsi pati vaikščiočiau tomis gatvėmis ir takeliais, patirčiau egzotiškos šalies nepakeliamą karštį. Jeigu norisi nusikelti į kelionę mieste kur gimsta svajonės, ši knyga kaip tik jums.
🌸3.5🌺
Kaip ir buvo galima nuspėti iš knygos pavadinimo istorija apie dingusią seserį. Belė Haton visą gyvenimą augo manydama esanti vienturtė, bet galiausiai sužinojo paslaptį, kad turi vyresniąją seserį. Deja, bet viskas ne taip paprasta kaip būtų galima tikėtis. Mane pasitiko nuotykių pilna kelionė ieškant dingusios sesers. Nors istorija graži ir paprasta, bet man trūko cinkelio, vietomis varčiau akis dėl kvailų poelgių ir neišmanymo, tačiau reikia nepamiršti, kad dalis siužeto vyko 1911m. Kas tokiu laikmečiu greičiausiai buvo normalu.
"Sesuo - dovana."
Skaitydamą knygą atsidūriau Birmoje ir autorė labai vaizdžiai apipasakoja egzotišką kraštovaizdį, tryrančius kvapus, gražiuosius sodus ir kitas nepaprastas vietas. Tarsi pati vaikščiočiau tomis gatvėmis ir takeliais, patirčiau egzotiškos šalies nepakeliamą karštį. Jeigu norisi nusikelti į kelionę mieste kur gimsta svajonės, ši knyga kaip tik jums.
🌸3.5🌺
August 10, 2020
J'ai une fois de plus été subjuguée par la plume de Dinah Jefferies qui nous propose avec La disparue de Birmanie une histoire prenante où nous allons suivre le combat d'une femme pour retrouver sa soeur disparue.
j'ai passé un excellent moment de lecture en compagnie de personnages aux passés troublés. La quête de la vérité se fera au diapason de la découverte de ce pays en plein changement. Entre trahisons, secrets, manipulations, notre héroïne devra déjouer tous les pièges qui se dresseront sur son chemin afin de connaître ce qui est véritablement arrivé à sa soeur.
Chronique complète à lire sur : https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
j'ai passé un excellent moment de lecture en compagnie de personnages aux passés troublés. La quête de la vérité se fera au diapason de la découverte de ce pays en plein changement. Entre trahisons, secrets, manipulations, notre héroïne devra déjouer tous les pièges qui se dresseront sur son chemin afin de connaître ce qui est véritablement arrivé à sa soeur.
Chronique complète à lire sur : https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
March 7, 2020
Romanzo storico ambientato in Birmania, con la protagonista impegnata a risolvere il mistero della scomparsa della sorella maggiore mai conosciuta. E' proprio la voglia di conoscere il risultato della ricerca che ti convince a proseguire la lettura. Ho trovato il racconto un po' troppo lento, con l'esclusione dell'inevitabile picco finale con il precipitare degli eventi verso il previsto lieto fine. Lo stile è semplice e curato e i capitoli molto corti facilitano la lettura. In sostanza, un romanzo storico non pesante da leggere senza troppo impegno.
Read
March 24, 2019Dnf
August 29, 2022
This is very mysterious and well written. I loved the duel timelines that worked perfectly and I really felt for Alice who is the mum of our lead character Belle..
Displaying 1 - 30 of 291 reviews