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Stars Over the Southern Ocean
A sweeping Australian saga of one woman's impossible choice between family and freedom.
With her home and freedom on the line, will her family force her to leave it all behind?
1937 - Seventeen year old Marina Fairbrother has lived in the small logging town of Mole Creek, Tasmania, her whole life. When she meets Jory Trevelyan, she is intrigued by the young man with the strange name and his tales of the west coast. Stories of wild winds and a tumultuous sea leave her hungering for a freedom she hadn't realised she lacked.
1993 - After a terminal diagnosis, Marina knows there is only one place she wants to spend her remaining days. The remote coastal property of Noamunga has been her home for the past fifty years. Her memories are imprinted on the walls of the house and the rocks of the cliffs. Here she raised their three children, loved deeply, survived a war, worked hard, grieved deeply and lived a good life.
But there are forces that threaten to pull her away from her beloved home. Daughters whose well-intentioned concerns hide selfish ambition, a son who puts his future in the hands of the wrong people, and an oil company intent on striking oil just off the coast of her land.
Praise for White Sands of Summer'A wonderful story of family, relationships, love, stamina and business. A great read!' - Beauty & Lace
With her home and freedom on the line, will her family force her to leave it all behind?
1937 - Seventeen year old Marina Fairbrother has lived in the small logging town of Mole Creek, Tasmania, her whole life. When she meets Jory Trevelyan, she is intrigued by the young man with the strange name and his tales of the west coast. Stories of wild winds and a tumultuous sea leave her hungering for a freedom she hadn't realised she lacked.
1993 - After a terminal diagnosis, Marina knows there is only one place she wants to spend her remaining days. The remote coastal property of Noamunga has been her home for the past fifty years. Her memories are imprinted on the walls of the house and the rocks of the cliffs. Here she raised their three children, loved deeply, survived a war, worked hard, grieved deeply and lived a good life.
But there are forces that threaten to pull her away from her beloved home. Daughters whose well-intentioned concerns hide selfish ambition, a son who puts his future in the hands of the wrong people, and an oil company intent on striking oil just off the coast of her land.
Praise for White Sands of Summer'A wonderful story of family, relationships, love, stamina and business. A great read!' - Beauty & Lace
416 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2020
2 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
J.H. Fletcher
20 books30 followersJ.H. Fletcher is the prize-winning author of fifteen novels, published to both critical and popular acclaim in Australia, Germany and the UK, as well as numerous short stories and plays for radio and television.
He was educated in England and France and travelled and worked in Europe, Asia and Africa before emigrating to Australia in 1991. Home is now a house within sight of the Western Tier Mountains in northern Tasmania.
He was educated in England and France and travelled and worked in Europe, Asia and Africa before emigrating to Australia in 1991. Home is now a house within sight of the Western Tier Mountains in northern Tasmania.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 30, 2024
Marina Fairbrother had known no other life than that of Mole Creek, but the night she went to the local dance and met the stranger who was only in town for one night, her destiny changed. Accompanying Jory Trevelyan back to his home on the opposite side of Tasmania, to the property of Noamunga near the town of Boulders, where the wild southern ocean made an impact on the house and its inhabitants, filled her with excitement and trepidation. But she was seventeen and full of youth and a strength she didn’t know she had.
Marina lived her life quietly beside Jory and her in-laws until Jory went to war. Once again things changed, life moved forward, three children were born and Noamunga gave Marina and her family a good, solid life. Now, at seventy-three years of age, Marina was nearing the end of her life. She had no thoughts of leaving the home that had nurtured her for the past fifty plus years. But others saw differently. What would be the outcome for Marina and her three children, each one different to the other; each having suffered in their pasts as well?
Stars Over the Southern Ocean is the best of Aussie author J.H. Fletcher’s that I have read in my opinion. From 1937 through to 1993, the story is filled with life, with hope, optimism and courage. It tells many stories which come together perfectly as one family. For a time, I was on the west coast of Tasmania, feeling the salt air blowing on my face. I was on the east coast, among the lush green of the trees. But I was also with Marina, a woman filled with determination, love and fervour as she kept her family together and close, caring quietly for them all. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Marina lived her life quietly beside Jory and her in-laws until Jory went to war. Once again things changed, life moved forward, three children were born and Noamunga gave Marina and her family a good, solid life. Now, at seventy-three years of age, Marina was nearing the end of her life. She had no thoughts of leaving the home that had nurtured her for the past fifty plus years. But others saw differently. What would be the outcome for Marina and her three children, each one different to the other; each having suffered in their pasts as well?
Stars Over the Southern Ocean is the best of Aussie author J.H. Fletcher’s that I have read in my opinion. From 1937 through to 1993, the story is filled with life, with hope, optimism and courage. It tells many stories which come together perfectly as one family. For a time, I was on the west coast of Tasmania, feeling the salt air blowing on my face. I was on the east coast, among the lush green of the trees. But I was also with Marina, a woman filled with determination, love and fervour as she kept her family together and close, caring quietly for them all. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2020
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**3.5 stars**
Stars Over the Southern Ocean by J.H. Fletcher (2020).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free advance readers copy of this novel; published 15 June 2020**
1937. 17 year old Marina has always lived in a small logging town. When she meets Jory she is intrigued by him and follows him to his isolated homeplace.
1993. After a terminal diagnosis, Marina knows she wants to spend her remaining days at the remote coastal Noamunga. Her memories are imprinted on the walls of the house and the rocks of the cliffs. Here she raised their 3 children, survived a war, worked hard, grieved deeply and lived a good life.
But there are forces that threaten to pull her away from her beloved home. Daughters with selfish ambition, a foolish son and an oil company who is interested in her land.
I liked the respective storylines within this novel. We have Marina, who is dying and just wants to live in her isolated house. Marina's eldest daughter is Charlotte who is extremely ambitious and wants her mum to sell her land to her husband to advance his career. Marina's other daughter Tasmyn is also ambitious but needs a lot of money to advance her career. Finally there is Greg who is simply an extremely naive man in business and suddenly owes a lot of money. I found Charlotte very unlikable and Greg I just didn't really have much respect for. I didn't like Tasmyn much but when her backstory was revealed my opinion changed. I quite liked Marina; she was an extremely strong woman her entire life and I thought her kids were being selfish to try and discourage her from living how she wanted at the end of her life. What I didn't enjoy about this book was I found the composition to be quite disjointed; we flick between different characters and different time periods so I felt it didn't flow. Others might really enjoy that style though.
Overall, an interesting saga that covers a family's journey over time. I think a lot of readers would enjoy this one.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
**3.5 stars**
Stars Over the Southern Ocean by J.H. Fletcher (2020).
**Thank you to Harlequin Australia for sending me a free advance readers copy of this novel; published 15 June 2020**
1937. 17 year old Marina has always lived in a small logging town. When she meets Jory she is intrigued by him and follows him to his isolated homeplace.
1993. After a terminal diagnosis, Marina knows she wants to spend her remaining days at the remote coastal Noamunga. Her memories are imprinted on the walls of the house and the rocks of the cliffs. Here she raised their 3 children, survived a war, worked hard, grieved deeply and lived a good life.
But there are forces that threaten to pull her away from her beloved home. Daughters with selfish ambition, a foolish son and an oil company who is interested in her land.
I liked the respective storylines within this novel. We have Marina, who is dying and just wants to live in her isolated house. Marina's eldest daughter is Charlotte who is extremely ambitious and wants her mum to sell her land to her husband to advance his career. Marina's other daughter Tasmyn is also ambitious but needs a lot of money to advance her career. Finally there is Greg who is simply an extremely naive man in business and suddenly owes a lot of money. I found Charlotte very unlikable and Greg I just didn't really have much respect for. I didn't like Tasmyn much but when her backstory was revealed my opinion changed. I quite liked Marina; she was an extremely strong woman her entire life and I thought her kids were being selfish to try and discourage her from living how she wanted at the end of her life. What I didn't enjoy about this book was I found the composition to be quite disjointed; we flick between different characters and different time periods so I felt it didn't flow. Others might really enjoy that style though.
Overall, an interesting saga that covers a family's journey over time. I think a lot of readers would enjoy this one.
June 15, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin Australia, J. H. Fletcher for my copy of Stars Over the Southern Ocean.
In 1937, Marina Fairbrother lives with her ramshackle family in a little logging town in Tasmania called Mole Creek and one night at a CWA dance she meets handsome Jory Trevelyan. He’s visiting his uncle the local butcher, he lives on the remote rugged west coast of the island where the winds are fierce, seas are rough and you need to be strong to survive. Marina is intrigued by Jory Trevelyan and the stories he shares about where he lives and she decides on impulse to leave her family and go with him. Jory’s family property is called Noamunga, his dad Marrek and mum Ellen also live in the old weather beaten house and Jory works on a fishing boat.
The book has a dual timeline, it works well and I had no trouble following the story.
In 1993, Marina receives the news she has terminal cancer and checks herself out of hospital; and she wants to spend what time she has left at Noamunga. Her home of fifty years, she loves the old place, she has many happy memories of her life with Jory and her three children were all born there. Her children ages are spaced out due to their dad Jory joining the Australian Navy during WW II, Charlotte was born before the war and Tamsyn and Gregory after the war ended.
Her daughters are very concerned about her leaving hospital, both visit her and Charlotte has more on her mind than her mother’s health. Marina lives in a beautiful area, the property has been owned by the Trevelyan family for over hundred years and she doesn’t want to sell it. An oil company is very interested in her land, Marina doesn’t want the rugged coastline ruined, or jeopardize the marine creatures and wild life.
Stars Over the Southern Ocean looks at the complex relationships Marina has had during her life, both in the past and in the present. Marina is no push over; she loves her children, of course worries about them and her children are all very different. Marina has lived a good life; she’s determined to leave behind a lasting legacy and she follows her heart. I enjoyed reading Stars Over the Southern Ocean, the first book I have read by J. H. Fletcher, I gave it four stars and it won’t be my last.
In 1937, Marina Fairbrother lives with her ramshackle family in a little logging town in Tasmania called Mole Creek and one night at a CWA dance she meets handsome Jory Trevelyan. He’s visiting his uncle the local butcher, he lives on the remote rugged west coast of the island where the winds are fierce, seas are rough and you need to be strong to survive. Marina is intrigued by Jory Trevelyan and the stories he shares about where he lives and she decides on impulse to leave her family and go with him. Jory’s family property is called Noamunga, his dad Marrek and mum Ellen also live in the old weather beaten house and Jory works on a fishing boat.
The book has a dual timeline, it works well and I had no trouble following the story.
In 1993, Marina receives the news she has terminal cancer and checks herself out of hospital; and she wants to spend what time she has left at Noamunga. Her home of fifty years, she loves the old place, she has many happy memories of her life with Jory and her three children were all born there. Her children ages are spaced out due to their dad Jory joining the Australian Navy during WW II, Charlotte was born before the war and Tamsyn and Gregory after the war ended.
Her daughters are very concerned about her leaving hospital, both visit her and Charlotte has more on her mind than her mother’s health. Marina lives in a beautiful area, the property has been owned by the Trevelyan family for over hundred years and she doesn’t want to sell it. An oil company is very interested in her land, Marina doesn’t want the rugged coastline ruined, or jeopardize the marine creatures and wild life.
Stars Over the Southern Ocean looks at the complex relationships Marina has had during her life, both in the past and in the present. Marina is no push over; she loves her children, of course worries about them and her children are all very different. Marina has lived a good life; she’s determined to leave behind a lasting legacy and she follows her heart. I enjoyed reading Stars Over the Southern Ocean, the first book I have read by J. H. Fletcher, I gave it four stars and it won’t be my last.
November 2, 2021
This is a beautifully written story set from 1937 through to 1994, that takes the reader on an extensive tour of some lovely Asian countries, we also visit the World War 2 years and Tasmania such a beautiful rugged place, the descriptions of all places made me feel like I was there and then of course are the characters who have been bought to life especially, Marina, I do hope that you come along and meet Marina this strong woman one who I admired so much.
Young Marina Fairbrother is seventeen years old and has lived her life in the logging town of Mole Creek, it is 1937 and life is what it is but when she meets Jory Trevelyan at a dance he tells her tales of the place he lives on the wild west coast, strong winds and wild seas and she is off to start a new life with Jory a complete change for her but life on the coast has soon wormed its way into Marina’s life and blood and her and Jory have three children over the years when he is not at sea fishing or fighting in WW11. Life wasn’t always easy but Marina thrived through heartache and joy.
It is 1993 and life is throwing curve balls at Marina again with a terminal diagnosis she signs herself out of hospital because she knows the only place she wants to be is at Noamunga the place she has lived for more than half a century now, all her memories are here, her life with Jory her true love, her children, the war years and the sea and cliffs, but her children have different ideas for Marina, Charlotte who is all self- ambition, a son who really has himself in trouble are making them known to her but Marina is nothing if not stubborn and determined to live the rest of her lifer her way.
This is a fabulous story that had me enthralled from the start a family all different and a woman who knew how to stand up for herself and those she loves, the settings are wonderful so many places to visit, this is one that I would highly recommend, I think Marina is one of the strongest woman characters I have ever read.
My thanks the Netgalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review
Young Marina Fairbrother is seventeen years old and has lived her life in the logging town of Mole Creek, it is 1937 and life is what it is but when she meets Jory Trevelyan at a dance he tells her tales of the place he lives on the wild west coast, strong winds and wild seas and she is off to start a new life with Jory a complete change for her but life on the coast has soon wormed its way into Marina’s life and blood and her and Jory have three children over the years when he is not at sea fishing or fighting in WW11. Life wasn’t always easy but Marina thrived through heartache and joy.
It is 1993 and life is throwing curve balls at Marina again with a terminal diagnosis she signs herself out of hospital because she knows the only place she wants to be is at Noamunga the place she has lived for more than half a century now, all her memories are here, her life with Jory her true love, her children, the war years and the sea and cliffs, but her children have different ideas for Marina, Charlotte who is all self- ambition, a son who really has himself in trouble are making them known to her but Marina is nothing if not stubborn and determined to live the rest of her lifer her way.
This is a fabulous story that had me enthralled from the start a family all different and a woman who knew how to stand up for herself and those she loves, the settings are wonderful so many places to visit, this is one that I would highly recommend, I think Marina is one of the strongest woman characters I have ever read.
My thanks the Netgalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review
July 27, 2020
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Stars Over the Southern Ocean is the latest family saga title from Australian author J.H. Fletcher. A sprawling tale that unfurls via two narratives, themes of love, loss, happiness, sadness, relationships, loyalty, possession and entitlement all come into play during this eventful sojourn. Stars Over the Southern Ocean was an engrossing story and another great addition to the J.H. Fletcher collection.
Spanning the years 1937 through to 1993, Stars Over the Southern Ocean introduces lead character Marina. We are first acquainted with Marina as a seventeen year old girl, living in Mole Creek, a close knit logging community in Tasmania. When Marina encounters Jory Trevelyan her life changes dramatically. Marina leaves Mole Creek for the wild west coast of Tasmania. It is here that Marina learns about the values of love, life and family. Decades later in 1993, Marina faces her own mortality. Diagnosed with a terminal illness, Marina has only one wish, to live out her last remaining days in this world on the remote property of Noamunga, the only place that feels like home. As Marina reflects on her very full life as illness takes hold, she must deal with a number of difficult situations engulfing her family. From ambition, greed, ill choices and restriction, Marina must do all she can settle these family grievances before she says goodbye.
It is always a pleasure to be able to read and review a new J.H. Fletcher title. I have been a fan of Fletcher’s work since I read Dust of the Land. I have religiously picked up each new title as it has been released and I genuinely look forward to immersing myself in a new saga from this talented Australian storyteller. Stars Over the Southern Ocean was another utterly engrossing novel from a writer I have really come to embrace over the years.
I really love the structure J.H. Fletcher takes to his books. The dual timeline narrative works well in Stars Over the Southern Ocean. Despite the fairly expansive timeline this novel takes, the reader is always of Fletcher’s central concern and he grounds the audience very easily in the era in which he is conveying through his writing. I enjoyed travelling with Marina, Fletcher’s lead, from the 1930s through the decades. To follow a protagonist from the early stages of their life through to the end of their life is quite involving and emotional. I found this was the case in Stars Over the Southern Ocean, I was truly swept up in Marina’s trials and tribulations.
As this is a family saga, there are some great dynamics that arise in this story. It was a nice progression to follow Marina’s coming of age story, through to her romance, marriage, family life and later years. Thrown in the mix are settlement issues, family stresses, war and even economic strains this family unit must contend with. In the modern day sequences we are given a bird’s eye view of the impact of pure greed, betrayal, suppression, ambition and land control issues. Each of these complexities is presented with an air of insight, honesty and interest.
For me, the true highlight of any J.H. Fletcher story is without a doubt the setting. In the case of Stars Over the Southern Ocean, Tasmania is the front and centre of this narrative, providing a stunning Australian backdrop to the interplay between the characters in this story, with Marina always based at the axis point of these happenings. We are also given a few cosmopolitan international destinations to bask in as the narrative unfolds. From India to Thailand, this is a colourful and flavoursome tale. I enjoyed this aspect of the novel a great deal.
Let Marina, J.H. Fletcher’s engaging lead, consume your thoughts for a weekend or over a few nights, as you follow this determined soul’s life journey. Stars Over the Southern Ocean is a touching Australian saga and a novel that I am happy to recommend.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Stars Over the Southern Ocean is the latest family saga title from Australian author J.H. Fletcher. A sprawling tale that unfurls via two narratives, themes of love, loss, happiness, sadness, relationships, loyalty, possession and entitlement all come into play during this eventful sojourn. Stars Over the Southern Ocean was an engrossing story and another great addition to the J.H. Fletcher collection.
Spanning the years 1937 through to 1993, Stars Over the Southern Ocean introduces lead character Marina. We are first acquainted with Marina as a seventeen year old girl, living in Mole Creek, a close knit logging community in Tasmania. When Marina encounters Jory Trevelyan her life changes dramatically. Marina leaves Mole Creek for the wild west coast of Tasmania. It is here that Marina learns about the values of love, life and family. Decades later in 1993, Marina faces her own mortality. Diagnosed with a terminal illness, Marina has only one wish, to live out her last remaining days in this world on the remote property of Noamunga, the only place that feels like home. As Marina reflects on her very full life as illness takes hold, she must deal with a number of difficult situations engulfing her family. From ambition, greed, ill choices and restriction, Marina must do all she can settle these family grievances before she says goodbye.
It is always a pleasure to be able to read and review a new J.H. Fletcher title. I have been a fan of Fletcher’s work since I read Dust of the Land. I have religiously picked up each new title as it has been released and I genuinely look forward to immersing myself in a new saga from this talented Australian storyteller. Stars Over the Southern Ocean was another utterly engrossing novel from a writer I have really come to embrace over the years.
I really love the structure J.H. Fletcher takes to his books. The dual timeline narrative works well in Stars Over the Southern Ocean. Despite the fairly expansive timeline this novel takes, the reader is always of Fletcher’s central concern and he grounds the audience very easily in the era in which he is conveying through his writing. I enjoyed travelling with Marina, Fletcher’s lead, from the 1930s through the decades. To follow a protagonist from the early stages of their life through to the end of their life is quite involving and emotional. I found this was the case in Stars Over the Southern Ocean, I was truly swept up in Marina’s trials and tribulations.
As this is a family saga, there are some great dynamics that arise in this story. It was a nice progression to follow Marina’s coming of age story, through to her romance, marriage, family life and later years. Thrown in the mix are settlement issues, family stresses, war and even economic strains this family unit must contend with. In the modern day sequences we are given a bird’s eye view of the impact of pure greed, betrayal, suppression, ambition and land control issues. Each of these complexities is presented with an air of insight, honesty and interest.
For me, the true highlight of any J.H. Fletcher story is without a doubt the setting. In the case of Stars Over the Southern Ocean, Tasmania is the front and centre of this narrative, providing a stunning Australian backdrop to the interplay between the characters in this story, with Marina always based at the axis point of these happenings. We are also given a few cosmopolitan international destinations to bask in as the narrative unfolds. From India to Thailand, this is a colourful and flavoursome tale. I enjoyed this aspect of the novel a great deal.
Let Marina, J.H. Fletcher’s engaging lead, consume your thoughts for a weekend or over a few nights, as you follow this determined soul’s life journey. Stars Over the Southern Ocean is a touching Australian saga and a novel that I am happy to recommend.
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
June 15, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley, Harlequin Australia, J. H. Fletcher for my copy of Stars Over the Southern Ocean.
In 1937, Marina Fairbrother lives with her ramshackle family in a little logging town in Tasmania called Mole Creek and one night at a CWA dance she meets handsome Jory Trevelyan. He’s visiting his uncle the local butcher, he lives on the remote rugged west coast of the island where the winds are fierce, seas are rough and you need to be strong to survive. Marina is intrigued by Jory Trevelyan and the stories he shares about where he lives and she decides on impulse to leave her family and go with him. Jory’s family property is called Noamunga, his dad Marrek and mum Ellen also live in the old weather beaten house and Jory works on a fishing boat.
The book has a dual timeline, it works well and I had no trouble following the story.
In 1993, Marina receives the news she has terminal cancer and checks herself out of hospital; and she wants to spend what time she has left at Noamunga. Her home of fifty years, she loves the old place, she has many happy memories of her life with Jory and her three children were all born there. Her children ages are spaced out due to their dad Jory joining the Australian Navy during WW II, Charlotte was born before the war and Tamsyn and Gregory after the war ended.
Her daughters are very concerned about her leaving hospital, both visit her and Charlotte has more on her mind than her mother’s health. Marina lives in a beautiful area, the property has been owned by the Trevelyan family for over hundred years and she doesn’t want to sell it. An oil company is very interested in her land, Marina doesn’t want the rugged coastline ruined, or jeopardize the marine creatures and wild life.
Stars Over the Southern Ocean looks at the complex relationships Marina has had during her life, both in the past and in the present. Marina is no push over; she loves her children, of course worries about them and her children are all very different. Marina has lived a good life; she’s determined to leave behind a lasting legacy and she follows her heart. I enjoyed reading Stars Over the Southern Ocean, the first book I have read by J. H. Fletcher, I gave it four stars and it won’t be my last. I have shared my review on Goodreads, Australian Amazon, Kobo, Twitter, NetGalley, Facebook and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
In 1937, Marina Fairbrother lives with her ramshackle family in a little logging town in Tasmania called Mole Creek and one night at a CWA dance she meets handsome Jory Trevelyan. He’s visiting his uncle the local butcher, he lives on the remote rugged west coast of the island where the winds are fierce, seas are rough and you need to be strong to survive. Marina is intrigued by Jory Trevelyan and the stories he shares about where he lives and she decides on impulse to leave her family and go with him. Jory’s family property is called Noamunga, his dad Marrek and mum Ellen also live in the old weather beaten house and Jory works on a fishing boat.
The book has a dual timeline, it works well and I had no trouble following the story.
In 1993, Marina receives the news she has terminal cancer and checks herself out of hospital; and she wants to spend what time she has left at Noamunga. Her home of fifty years, she loves the old place, she has many happy memories of her life with Jory and her three children were all born there. Her children ages are spaced out due to their dad Jory joining the Australian Navy during WW II, Charlotte was born before the war and Tamsyn and Gregory after the war ended.
Her daughters are very concerned about her leaving hospital, both visit her and Charlotte has more on her mind than her mother’s health. Marina lives in a beautiful area, the property has been owned by the Trevelyan family for over hundred years and she doesn’t want to sell it. An oil company is very interested in her land, Marina doesn’t want the rugged coastline ruined, or jeopardize the marine creatures and wild life.
Stars Over the Southern Ocean looks at the complex relationships Marina has had during her life, both in the past and in the present. Marina is no push over; she loves her children, of course worries about them and her children are all very different. Marina has lived a good life; she’s determined to leave behind a lasting legacy and she follows her heart. I enjoyed reading Stars Over the Southern Ocean, the first book I have read by J. H. Fletcher, I gave it four stars and it won’t be my last. I have shared my review on Goodreads, Australian Amazon, Kobo, Twitter, NetGalley, Facebook and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
July 16, 2020
What a remarkable story this has been. Marina Trevelyan is one of the strongest heroines I’ve ever encountered. Her life is no walk in the park but she takes her challenges on the chin. Marina is the central thread that runs through this story and around her the other characters move. Her three children, Self-centred Charlotte, focused and driven Tamsyn and fairytale dreamer Gregory each have their place in this story as does her husband Jory but Marina is at the core of all their stories. Stars over the Southern Ocean spans much of Marina’s life from the time she moved to Noamunga on Tasmania’s harsh west coast to the twilight of her life in 1993 where she’s facing the prospect of her death. This story is both compelling and intriguing as it reveals the challenges facing Marina and her children. It showcases a lifestyle that is at odds with our technological world and had me as a reader questioning the worth of possessions when compared with taking happiness and a sense of fulfilment from each day lived. I loved this book.
June 29, 2020
Thank you Harper Collins Australia for sending me a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This is a beautifully emotional story of family, love, fear, hope and contentment. J H Fletcher writes this dual timeline novel whilst sharing the story of Marina and her children. Although there are different settings and perspectives, the novel is so well written that it flows easily. From the atmospheric coastal property of Noamunga to the colourful and spectacular buildings of India to the hustle and bustle of Thailand. I loved that the author had the reader in a variety of settings that spoke to the senses. I could smell the spices in India and the fresh air of Noamunga. The main story revolves around Marina, who at 17 years old meets Jory Trevelyan. Marina moves from Mole Creek, Tasmania to the remote Noamunga to share her life with him. As this story is told we are also taken to 1993, as Marina is diagnosed with a terminal illness and her adult children selfishly consider their inheritance above all else... J H Fletcher writes in such a way that I connected with each place in an instant. This is the first time I have read a J H Fletcher novel. This will not be my last. Stars Over the Southern Ocean is real, raw and kept me intrigued the entire time.
July 3, 2020
“Stars Over the Southern Ocean” tells the story of (most of) Marina Trevelyan’s life. It’s a warm and absorbing family story, albeit one with sharp edges. I enjoyed it a great deal.
The story opens as Marina, in her 70s, is contemplating a terminal diagnosis. Much of the story is told in flashbacks; it’s concerned more with exploring the relationships in Marina’s life than every event. We meet her husband, Jory, and their three children, and see something of their joys and travails as well.
I’m not always a fan of the sprawling family saga. It’s too easy for an author to get lost in the minutia of daily life, or fail to distinguish the characters in large cast. Neither of these are a problem here; Fletcher is selective about what he dwells on, and keeps his cast tight enough to bring them all to life vividly.
This novel takes place largely in less trodden places: the wilds of Tasmania most notably. The settings are also vivid, and it’s easy to sink yourself into a time and lifestyle you’re probably not familiar with. This is a distinctively Australian novel, but with an unusual setting: not the outback, not our big cities, but a corner of the country that is more remote than most people realise.
In tracing back through major events in Marina’s life, we meet her husband Jory. Just as he grows on Marina till she cannot envision life without him, we gradually come to understand the depth and strength of their relationship. We see Jory only through her eyes, yet develop a strong understanding of him and of what passes between them.
It’s hard to paint a vivid picture of a mother without also looking to her children. Marina and Jory have three: Charlotte, Tamsyn and Gregory. The three are very different, and it’s interesting to consider how much of that is in-born, and how much is influenced by Marina’s parenting and the family situation in their formative years. Each of them has a different story – although each is interesting in its’ own way – and it’s likely that readers will pick a favorite to engage with most strongly.
It’s hard to say much about events in the novel without creating spoilers. However, the events are almost secondary to the relationships. These are explored with sensitivity and considerable depth, and are what left the lasting impression of a “warm” novel. Marina’s life isn’t always happy – what life is? – but I found it engaging and quietly moving.
This isn’t a novel that will appeal if you want breakneck action, or an exciting plot, or edge of your seat tension. It’s calmer than that. It’s a novel for those who want to explore character deeply; for readers who want to think about why people behave in particular ways. Sure, there are moments of tension and problems to resolve, but those just don’t feel like the main point of this novel.
As I said, I enjoyed it a lot. I found myself absorbed in the characters and their dilemmas, and genuinely interested in each next step. The novel sneaks up on you a bit; I wasn’t sure about it for the first few pages, and then the next thing I knew, I was halfway through and completely engaged. For the right audience, this is a really strong novel.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
The story opens as Marina, in her 70s, is contemplating a terminal diagnosis. Much of the story is told in flashbacks; it’s concerned more with exploring the relationships in Marina’s life than every event. We meet her husband, Jory, and their three children, and see something of their joys and travails as well.
I’m not always a fan of the sprawling family saga. It’s too easy for an author to get lost in the minutia of daily life, or fail to distinguish the characters in large cast. Neither of these are a problem here; Fletcher is selective about what he dwells on, and keeps his cast tight enough to bring them all to life vividly.
This novel takes place largely in less trodden places: the wilds of Tasmania most notably. The settings are also vivid, and it’s easy to sink yourself into a time and lifestyle you’re probably not familiar with. This is a distinctively Australian novel, but with an unusual setting: not the outback, not our big cities, but a corner of the country that is more remote than most people realise.
In tracing back through major events in Marina’s life, we meet her husband Jory. Just as he grows on Marina till she cannot envision life without him, we gradually come to understand the depth and strength of their relationship. We see Jory only through her eyes, yet develop a strong understanding of him and of what passes between them.
It’s hard to paint a vivid picture of a mother without also looking to her children. Marina and Jory have three: Charlotte, Tamsyn and Gregory. The three are very different, and it’s interesting to consider how much of that is in-born, and how much is influenced by Marina’s parenting and the family situation in their formative years. Each of them has a different story – although each is interesting in its’ own way – and it’s likely that readers will pick a favorite to engage with most strongly.
It’s hard to say much about events in the novel without creating spoilers. However, the events are almost secondary to the relationships. These are explored with sensitivity and considerable depth, and are what left the lasting impression of a “warm” novel. Marina’s life isn’t always happy – what life is? – but I found it engaging and quietly moving.
This isn’t a novel that will appeal if you want breakneck action, or an exciting plot, or edge of your seat tension. It’s calmer than that. It’s a novel for those who want to explore character deeply; for readers who want to think about why people behave in particular ways. Sure, there are moments of tension and problems to resolve, but those just don’t feel like the main point of this novel.
As I said, I enjoyed it a lot. I found myself absorbed in the characters and their dilemmas, and genuinely interested in each next step. The novel sneaks up on you a bit; I wasn’t sure about it for the first few pages, and then the next thing I knew, I was halfway through and completely engaged. For the right audience, this is a really strong novel.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
August 19, 2020
I have not read J.H. Fletcher before, although they have an incredibly extensive backlist. This one is set on the wild west coast of Tasmania in mostly two different timelines, although there are other points in time as well, to fill in backstory of several characters. In the more current timeline, which is in 1993, Marina has been dealt a terminal illness diagnosis however she has chosen to check herself out of hospital and return to her clifftop house, which is regularly battered by the weather and quite remote. It’s been her home for over 50 years and even the entreatment of her children, particularly eldest Charlotte and middle child Tamsyn, cannot convince her to sell the property and move to a more city location like Hobart, where both can keep an eye on her. Youngest child Gregory is overseas, developing a resort in Thailand – until he finds himself in trouble.
In the historical timeline, Marina is a young woman who meets a boy and follows him back to his home. It’s an entirely different landscape to what she’s used to and Jory, the man who took her to his home, is often away on fishing boats for long stretches, leaving her with his dying mother and his father, whom she does not trust. But Marina and Jory build a life together, interrupted as it is, by World War II and the demons Jory brings home with him. And in the 1990s, when her children, especially Charlotte, want her to leave, the memories of the life she has built and the love she has for her home force her to stubbornly stay put.
I enjoyed this book a lot – the setting was absolutely fascinating to me. I’ve never been to Tasmania and books I have read there have been more predominantly set on the east coast – around Hobart and Bruny. I don’t know a lot about Tasmania’s west coast and the house that Marina returns to in the opening chapter is set on top of a cliff and anchored into the rocks by steel pillars. When the tide is in, the waves even spray over the house. 12,000kms west across a stretch of vast Southern Ocean, lies Patagonia at the tip of South America. It honestly seemed like such an amazing place to live, although how practical it would be, I cannot say. It would take a tough person to live there year round, especially when that person is of older years and has just been diagnosed with an illness where it’s only a matter of time until it takes their life.
Marina’s life is an interesting one, full of tragedy and grief but also love and strength. She leaves her family behind at a very young age to go with Jory, across the country to where he grew up. And then she’s left with his parents, in what would be a difficult and uncomfortable situation as Jory’s mother is bedridden and dying, requiring care and his father is a somewhat gruff man who intimidates Marina at first. But Marina carves a niche for herself in this hard place, not only in the house but also in the closest town. Jory spends more time away than he does at home, firstly on the fishing boats and then later on, joining the Navy and serving in WWII. What Jory experiences is brutal beyond description and he returns a very different man to the one that left and is plagued constantly by demons, which he fights every day. Marina is supportive and caring, her love for Jory unending.
The narrative explores not just Marina’s choice to return to her home but also the lives of her children – Charlotte’s careful cultivating of her husband’s career, Tamsyn’s holiday to India and the circumstances thereof, Gregory’s dreams to develop a resort on an island in Thailand. In the present day, Marina finds herself under siege mostly from Charlotte, to sell her home and move away, for reasons which will mostly benefit Charlotte. Tamsyn and Gregory are more of a mind to let their mother do what makes her happy, although they do also have varying degrees of concern for her being there alone, particularly now that she is ill. Marina however, is a formidable character, determined and strong, knowing her own mind and not willing to be bullied, cowed, cajoled or otherwise, into doing something that she doesn’t want. It was easy to admire Marina, she is a person at peace with herself and her life. She knows what she wants, what will make her happy and that even though her life is now of uncertain duration, she’s willing to accept that and live out her remaining days in the way that she wants. And that’s in her home, the place she has lived for over 50 years and the place that has shaped her. It’s her children’s childhood home, even though they’ve all left and gone on to other things. She embraces the wildness of her home and it’s almost like she takes strength in her surroundings – the sea, the wildlife.
For me, the ending did feel a bit “magically things worked out for the best and everything ended up in the neatest of bows” but I actually enjoyed the way it was orchestrated.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
In the historical timeline, Marina is a young woman who meets a boy and follows him back to his home. It’s an entirely different landscape to what she’s used to and Jory, the man who took her to his home, is often away on fishing boats for long stretches, leaving her with his dying mother and his father, whom she does not trust. But Marina and Jory build a life together, interrupted as it is, by World War II and the demons Jory brings home with him. And in the 1990s, when her children, especially Charlotte, want her to leave, the memories of the life she has built and the love she has for her home force her to stubbornly stay put.
I enjoyed this book a lot – the setting was absolutely fascinating to me. I’ve never been to Tasmania and books I have read there have been more predominantly set on the east coast – around Hobart and Bruny. I don’t know a lot about Tasmania’s west coast and the house that Marina returns to in the opening chapter is set on top of a cliff and anchored into the rocks by steel pillars. When the tide is in, the waves even spray over the house. 12,000kms west across a stretch of vast Southern Ocean, lies Patagonia at the tip of South America. It honestly seemed like such an amazing place to live, although how practical it would be, I cannot say. It would take a tough person to live there year round, especially when that person is of older years and has just been diagnosed with an illness where it’s only a matter of time until it takes their life.
Marina’s life is an interesting one, full of tragedy and grief but also love and strength. She leaves her family behind at a very young age to go with Jory, across the country to where he grew up. And then she’s left with his parents, in what would be a difficult and uncomfortable situation as Jory’s mother is bedridden and dying, requiring care and his father is a somewhat gruff man who intimidates Marina at first. But Marina carves a niche for herself in this hard place, not only in the house but also in the closest town. Jory spends more time away than he does at home, firstly on the fishing boats and then later on, joining the Navy and serving in WWII. What Jory experiences is brutal beyond description and he returns a very different man to the one that left and is plagued constantly by demons, which he fights every day. Marina is supportive and caring, her love for Jory unending.
The narrative explores not just Marina’s choice to return to her home but also the lives of her children – Charlotte’s careful cultivating of her husband’s career, Tamsyn’s holiday to India and the circumstances thereof, Gregory’s dreams to develop a resort on an island in Thailand. In the present day, Marina finds herself under siege mostly from Charlotte, to sell her home and move away, for reasons which will mostly benefit Charlotte. Tamsyn and Gregory are more of a mind to let their mother do what makes her happy, although they do also have varying degrees of concern for her being there alone, particularly now that she is ill. Marina however, is a formidable character, determined and strong, knowing her own mind and not willing to be bullied, cowed, cajoled or otherwise, into doing something that she doesn’t want. It was easy to admire Marina, she is a person at peace with herself and her life. She knows what she wants, what will make her happy and that even though her life is now of uncertain duration, she’s willing to accept that and live out her remaining days in the way that she wants. And that’s in her home, the place she has lived for over 50 years and the place that has shaped her. It’s her children’s childhood home, even though they’ve all left and gone on to other things. She embraces the wildness of her home and it’s almost like she takes strength in her surroundings – the sea, the wildlife.
For me, the ending did feel a bit “magically things worked out for the best and everything ended up in the neatest of bows” but I actually enjoyed the way it was orchestrated.
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
July 7, 2020
I found this story pretty incredible. A moving Australian saga of families, love, greed, ambition....
Marina is a young woman when she comes to live in Noamunga, on the wild west coast of Tasmania. There she is quite often left with the company of her in-laws whilst her husband works and she finds the environment there very different to the one she grew up in. She adjusts and in time she brings three children into the world, all of whom are very different and who will go their own ways as adults, not always with good outcomes.
We read about Marina's early married years and the difficulties she has with her adult children later on. We also read all about the loves and losses of her children, told from their points of view, which is very interesting. My heart was in my mouth more than once, especially when it came to Greg's story!
I loved Marina, she was one heck of a woman. There was some parts where I was wondering if I could have handled the situations that she had to, especially early on when Noamunga was very remote indeed and there were not a heck of a lot of mod cons there. Nevertheless, having spent time on the west coast of Tassie myself, there is something about that part of the island which is special and I envied her her lifestyle.
Really makes you think about what is important in life though, a real deep thinker of a book, written by a talented storyteller.
5 stars from me.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for the chance to read this book. My opinions are entirely my own and not influenced by anyone else.
Marina is a young woman when she comes to live in Noamunga, on the wild west coast of Tasmania. There she is quite often left with the company of her in-laws whilst her husband works and she finds the environment there very different to the one she grew up in. She adjusts and in time she brings three children into the world, all of whom are very different and who will go their own ways as adults, not always with good outcomes.
We read about Marina's early married years and the difficulties she has with her adult children later on. We also read all about the loves and losses of her children, told from their points of view, which is very interesting. My heart was in my mouth more than once, especially when it came to Greg's story!
I loved Marina, she was one heck of a woman. There was some parts where I was wondering if I could have handled the situations that she had to, especially early on when Noamunga was very remote indeed and there were not a heck of a lot of mod cons there. Nevertheless, having spent time on the west coast of Tassie myself, there is something about that part of the island which is special and I envied her her lifestyle.
Really makes you think about what is important in life though, a real deep thinker of a book, written by a talented storyteller.
5 stars from me.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia for the chance to read this book. My opinions are entirely my own and not influenced by anyone else.
July 28, 2021
I remember picking up this title about six months ago, reading the first few pages, and closing the cover. At the time, my mother-in-law had just been diagnosed with terminal cancer, and I couldn’t bear to read a story with such heartbreaking and emotional events.
But now that I’m in a better headspace, I've returned to ‘Stars Over the Southern Ocean,’ and although it packed an emotional punch, it was so much more than what I was expecting.
Marina Trevelyan is the definition of a strong heroine, and her incredible life story is not one I will forget any time soon.
What to expect: coming of age, romance, war, greed, ambition, family drama, and Marina’s children, who on more than one occasion I wanted to slap some sense into.
This novel really makes you think about what’s important in life!
But now that I’m in a better headspace, I've returned to ‘Stars Over the Southern Ocean,’ and although it packed an emotional punch, it was so much more than what I was expecting.
Marina Trevelyan is the definition of a strong heroine, and her incredible life story is not one I will forget any time soon.
What to expect: coming of age, romance, war, greed, ambition, family drama, and Marina’s children, who on more than one occasion I wanted to slap some sense into.
This novel really makes you think about what’s important in life!
September 22, 2020
I enjoyed this family saga, set in Tasmania and Asia. It covers a big part of Marina's life and that of her children. It also had things to say about the environment, greed, war, love and loss. Most things that happened were realistic and believable. I did wonder about Gregory's escape, and was a little disappointed with the shallowness of Charlotte. But I liked the rest of the story.
March 23, 2021
This would be the best book I have read by this author. I was prepared to skim though it initially but it improved as I progressed.
March 8, 2021
A chance meeting at a local dance changes the path of 17 year old Marina Fairbrother's life dramatically. Leaving her home amongst the timber country of Mole Creek, she accompanies Jory Trevalyan, a fisherman, to his home on the wild and windswept west coast of Tasmania. Here the Southern Ocean continually batters the land. Marina comes to fiercely love the remoteness of Noamunga despite the hardships, the uncertainty and loneliness when Jory puts to sea. She also has to contend with the menacing presence of Jory's father.
Now in her 70s and diagnosed with a terminal illness, Marina checks out of the hospital to return to Noamunga. Her family's negative response to her decision is what she expected, but she is determined to end her days in the place that she loves best, surrounded by her memories, good and bad. Those memories, and the action in the present day which ranges to India, Thailand and back to Tasmania, combine in another heartwarming story from a master of the family saga.
I've been a fan of J.H. Fletcher since reading The Governor's House. His books are always satisfying. I especially enjoy how he fills his stories with diverse characters but always at the core is an independent and intelligent woman, in this case Marina, with a sense of adventure, willing to take a gamble on what life has to offer.
Like all mothers, Marina is aware of her children's strengths and weaknesses, and refuses to be bullied by them to sell Noamunga for their own selfish reasons. It is gratifying that all three: Charlotte, Tamsin and Greg, come to realise that through their mother's stance to protect Noamunga, there is more to life than acquiring money and status.
Fletcher's descriptions of the landscape always hit the mark too. They give a better understanding of the love of the land that so many of his female protagonists share.
Stars Over the Southern Ocean is another pleasurable read from this author and one I'm happy to recommend.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia/Mira via NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book.
*https://adarngoodread.blogspot.com/
Now in her 70s and diagnosed with a terminal illness, Marina checks out of the hospital to return to Noamunga. Her family's negative response to her decision is what she expected, but she is determined to end her days in the place that she loves best, surrounded by her memories, good and bad. Those memories, and the action in the present day which ranges to India, Thailand and back to Tasmania, combine in another heartwarming story from a master of the family saga.
I've been a fan of J.H. Fletcher since reading The Governor's House. His books are always satisfying. I especially enjoy how he fills his stories with diverse characters but always at the core is an independent and intelligent woman, in this case Marina, with a sense of adventure, willing to take a gamble on what life has to offer.
Like all mothers, Marina is aware of her children's strengths and weaknesses, and refuses to be bullied by them to sell Noamunga for their own selfish reasons. It is gratifying that all three: Charlotte, Tamsin and Greg, come to realise that through their mother's stance to protect Noamunga, there is more to life than acquiring money and status.
Fletcher's descriptions of the landscape always hit the mark too. They give a better understanding of the love of the land that so many of his female protagonists share.
Stars Over the Southern Ocean is another pleasurable read from this author and one I'm happy to recommend.
Thank you to Harlequin Australia/Mira via NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book.
*https://adarngoodread.blogspot.com/
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