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The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker
As the wife of retired ship's doctor Dr Henry Parker, Evelyn is living out her twilight years aboard the Golden Sunset . Every night she dresses for dinner - gown, tiara, runners - and regales her fellow passengers with stories of a glamorous life travelling the world in luxury.
But now Henry is missing, and it is up to Evelyn to find him.
THE LAST VOYAGE OF MRS HENRY PARKER is a love letter to the memories we make over the course of a lifetime, and how the heart remembers what matters, even when the mind has long forgotten.
'Whip-smart dialogue, humour and sarcasm add a whole new dimension to Mrs Henry Parker and her last voyage. A heart-warming story, extremely well written and highly addictive' Sun Herald
But now Henry is missing, and it is up to Evelyn to find him.
THE LAST VOYAGE OF MRS HENRY PARKER is a love letter to the memories we make over the course of a lifetime, and how the heart remembers what matters, even when the mind has long forgotten.
'Whip-smart dialogue, humour and sarcasm add a whole new dimension to Mrs Henry Parker and her last voyage. A heart-warming story, extremely well written and highly addictive' Sun Herald
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2019
240 people are currently reading
1492 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Nell
7 books312 followersJoanna Nell is a UK born writer and doctor. Her short fiction has won multiple awards and has been published in various journals and literary anthologies. In 2016 she was awarded a residency at The Bundanon Trust. Her bestselling debut novel The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village was published by Hachette Australia and Hodder & Stoughton (UK) in 2018.
A former ship's doctor, Joanna now works as a GP with a passion for women's health and care of the elderly. She writes character-driven stories for women in their prime, creating young-at-heart characters who are not afraid to break the rules and defy society's expectations of ageing.
Joanna lives on Sydney's Northern Beaches, and as the mother of teenagers enjoys long walks with her dog and talking to herself.
A former ship's doctor, Joanna now works as a GP with a passion for women's health and care of the elderly. She writes character-driven stories for women in their prime, creating young-at-heart characters who are not afraid to break the rules and defy society's expectations of ageing.
Joanna lives on Sydney's Northern Beaches, and as the mother of teenagers enjoys long walks with her dog and talking to herself.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
September 14, 2019
Joanna Nell after The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village has written of another elderly character in this novel, it appears Nell is beginning to become somewhat of an expert when it comes to depicting older characters. Here she writes with humanity and compassion about Evelyn, who introduces herself as Mrs Henry Parker to others. Henry was a cruise ship doctor, now retired and the couple have chosen to spend their retirement continuing to live on the cruise ship, The Golden Sunset, that has sailed on 662 voyages since they first came on board. Evelyn is embarking on another cruise after meeting her lawyer, Dobbs, although she can't quite remember what their conversation was about. She is wondering where Henry is, as she acquires some trainers from whom or where she has not a clue. However, she does find the trainers considerably more comfortable than her usual shoes, as they become her Find Henry shoes.
She finds herself in a colouring class, where she meets Nola and Frank, who have suffered personal loss and are on the cruise to get away from it all. They begin to take a close interest in Evelyn as she begins to tell them stories of her life as the ship doctor's wife through the years. Evelyn had become determined to become a nurse after reading about Florence Nightingale, a woman who had saved the lives of so many. Fending off attempts to dissuade her from her career, after the loss of her diplomat father, she embarks on a ship to travel to Australia to work as a nurse after her training. Suffering terrible seasickness in the Bay of Biscay, she first encounters Henry on board, working as a surgeon's assistant, soon to be promoted to ship's doctor. Despite unfavourable impressions of Henry at the beginning, the two begin to become closer on their journey, so much so that Henry proposes in Australia. The feisty Evelyn regales her stories of life on board the cruise ships to Nola and Frank, as we learn of the traumas she has faced in her past. In an often comic narrative, Evelyn continues her all consuming and dedicated search for Henry, having night time adventures in the casino, dancing in a nightclub, acquiring injuries and venturing into forbidden areas of the ship in what turns out to be her last voyage. But where is Henry?
Nell does a wonderful job in her characterisation of Evelyn, a woman with sharp memories of poetry, such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge poems, and the words of Florence Nightingale, but whose other memories of life remain elusive, or come and go, occasionally coaxed out, names are a particular terror for her to remember. Those of you who have elderly relatives and/or parents will find yourself recognising many moments of the all too human ageing process in this novel. Where the author excels is in painting a picture of Evelyn shot through with hope, light and fun, despite the many challenges that getting older often brings. Many thanks to Hodder and Stoughton for an ARC.
She finds herself in a colouring class, where she meets Nola and Frank, who have suffered personal loss and are on the cruise to get away from it all. They begin to take a close interest in Evelyn as she begins to tell them stories of her life as the ship doctor's wife through the years. Evelyn had become determined to become a nurse after reading about Florence Nightingale, a woman who had saved the lives of so many. Fending off attempts to dissuade her from her career, after the loss of her diplomat father, she embarks on a ship to travel to Australia to work as a nurse after her training. Suffering terrible seasickness in the Bay of Biscay, she first encounters Henry on board, working as a surgeon's assistant, soon to be promoted to ship's doctor. Despite unfavourable impressions of Henry at the beginning, the two begin to become closer on their journey, so much so that Henry proposes in Australia. The feisty Evelyn regales her stories of life on board the cruise ships to Nola and Frank, as we learn of the traumas she has faced in her past. In an often comic narrative, Evelyn continues her all consuming and dedicated search for Henry, having night time adventures in the casino, dancing in a nightclub, acquiring injuries and venturing into forbidden areas of the ship in what turns out to be her last voyage. But where is Henry?
Nell does a wonderful job in her characterisation of Evelyn, a woman with sharp memories of poetry, such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge poems, and the words of Florence Nightingale, but whose other memories of life remain elusive, or come and go, occasionally coaxed out, names are a particular terror for her to remember. Those of you who have elderly relatives and/or parents will find yourself recognising many moments of the all too human ageing process in this novel. Where the author excels is in painting a picture of Evelyn shot through with hope, light and fun, despite the many challenges that getting older often brings. Many thanks to Hodder and Stoughton for an ARC.
September 27, 2019
EXCERPT: Evelyn knew that she and Henry, like the ship that was their home, were approaching the end of their lives. Yet the older she got, the less she worried about getting old. It was as inevitable as the weather, and just as unpredictable. Like the weather, it could be forecast but not controlled. Best to be prepared, Evelyn maintained, but go ahead with the picnic regardless. When it came to ageing, the best you could do was to carry an umbrella, and a life jacket.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: As the wife of retired ship’s doctor Dr Henry Parker, Evelyn is living out her twilight years aboard the Golden Sunset. Every night she dresses for dinner and regales her fellow passengers with stories of a glamorous life travelling the world. The crew treat her with deference. And forbearance.
But when Henry goes missing, Evelyn sets off to search every part of the ocean liner to find him; misadventures are had – all new to Evelyn. If only she could remember the events of the night before as clearly as she can recall the first time she met Henry on a passage from England to Australia in 1953 and fell in love – abandoning her dreams to become a midwife to be a wife instead – and the long-ago painful events that left Evelyn all at sea.
Why is it so hard to remember some things and so hard to forget others? And where is Henry?
MY THOUGHTS: Oh how I enjoyed my insomnia last night. I adore Evelyn. I am sure that I know her. And Nola. And Frank. I see some of myself in Evelyn, as will most people facing their twilight years.
I love the way she has of linking words to find the right one. How I used to (silently) laugh at my mother when she would run through all our names before plucking out the correct one/s.
Joanna Nell has a wonderful understanding of the vagaries of ageing and has treated her subject with both empathy and humour. She has written a wonderfully touching story of a woman who has become lost in the familiar, and her attempts to navigate her way through her changing lifescape. I only hope that I can face the future with Evelyn's courage and fortitude.
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a book that had me smiling, crying and laughing out loud. Repeatedly. I read this in one sitting. Absolutely delightful. And inspiring. And not at all predictable. There are a few surprises in store for the reader.
#TheLastVoyageOfMrsHenryParker #NetGalley
😊🤣😥😍🤗
THE AUTHOR: Joanna Nell is a UK born writer and doctor. Her short fiction has won multiple awards and has been published in various journals and literary anthologies. In 2016 she was awarded a residency at The Bundanon Trust. Her bestselling debut novel The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village was published by Hachette Australia and Hodder & Stoughton (UK) in 2018.
A former ship's doctor, Joanna now works as a GP with a passion for women's health and care of the elderly. She writes character-driven stories for women in their prime, creating young-at-heart characters who are not afraid to break the rules and defy society's expectations of ageing.
Joanna lives on Sydney's Northern Beaches, and as the mother of teenagers enjoys long walks with her dog and talking to herself.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Hachette Australia via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker by Joanna Nell for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page, or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT THIS BOOK: As the wife of retired ship’s doctor Dr Henry Parker, Evelyn is living out her twilight years aboard the Golden Sunset. Every night she dresses for dinner and regales her fellow passengers with stories of a glamorous life travelling the world. The crew treat her with deference. And forbearance.
But when Henry goes missing, Evelyn sets off to search every part of the ocean liner to find him; misadventures are had – all new to Evelyn. If only she could remember the events of the night before as clearly as she can recall the first time she met Henry on a passage from England to Australia in 1953 and fell in love – abandoning her dreams to become a midwife to be a wife instead – and the long-ago painful events that left Evelyn all at sea.
Why is it so hard to remember some things and so hard to forget others? And where is Henry?
MY THOUGHTS: Oh how I enjoyed my insomnia last night. I adore Evelyn. I am sure that I know her. And Nola. And Frank. I see some of myself in Evelyn, as will most people facing their twilight years.
I love the way she has of linking words to find the right one. How I used to (silently) laugh at my mother when she would run through all our names before plucking out the correct one/s.
Joanna Nell has a wonderful understanding of the vagaries of ageing and has treated her subject with both empathy and humour. She has written a wonderfully touching story of a woman who has become lost in the familiar, and her attempts to navigate her way through her changing lifescape. I only hope that I can face the future with Evelyn's courage and fortitude.
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a book that had me smiling, crying and laughing out loud. Repeatedly. I read this in one sitting. Absolutely delightful. And inspiring. And not at all predictable. There are a few surprises in store for the reader.
#TheLastVoyageOfMrsHenryParker #NetGalley
😊🤣😥😍🤗
THE AUTHOR: Joanna Nell is a UK born writer and doctor. Her short fiction has won multiple awards and has been published in various journals and literary anthologies. In 2016 she was awarded a residency at The Bundanon Trust. Her bestselling debut novel The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village was published by Hachette Australia and Hodder & Stoughton (UK) in 2018.
A former ship's doctor, Joanna now works as a GP with a passion for women's health and care of the elderly. She writes character-driven stories for women in their prime, creating young-at-heart characters who are not afraid to break the rules and defy society's expectations of ageing.
Joanna lives on Sydney's Northern Beaches, and as the mother of teenagers enjoys long walks with her dog and talking to herself.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Hachette Australia via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker by Joanna Nell for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page, or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 12, 2019
I can't give this one the love that other reviewers are giving it! I found I was just plain uncomfortable with the premise that a woman in the early stages off dementia could be left wandering around a cruise ship for days.
That did not work for me but putting it aside it was a well written book with a lot of interesting back story. The character of Mrs.Parker was certainly well written - I wanted to gather her up and help her much like a few of the passengers did. The ending was unexpected and a bit over the top, but I can't say any more or I will spoil the book for other readers.
For me it was interesting and irritating in equal measure, but everyone else seems to love it. Read it and see what you think!
That did not work for me but putting it aside it was a well written book with a lot of interesting back story. The character of Mrs.Parker was certainly well written - I wanted to gather her up and help her much like a few of the passengers did. The ending was unexpected and a bit over the top, but I can't say any more or I will spoil the book for other readers.
For me it was interesting and irritating in equal measure, but everyone else seems to love it. Read it and see what you think!
July 24, 2022
Evelyn Parker can't seem to remember where she put her husband. In fact, quite a few other details seem to be slipping away from her these days. It was a delight to walk around the ship with Evelyn in her "Finding Henry" shoes. She has a plan, but neither the ship nor the crew seem to be cooperating. Interspersed throughout the narrative are quotes from Florence Nightingale and Coleridge's "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner." Evelyn has lived a full life first as a midwife, then a doctor's wife, and finally retiring on a cruise ship. Filled with humor and heart, this book will remind you of how important it is to treat those we meet with kindness and grace.
January 16, 2021
Evelyn Parker – Mrs Henry Parker – and Henry had been living on the cruise ship, the Golden Sunset since Henry’s retirement as ship’s doctor. Once again Evelyn was on board after the turn-around, preparing herself for another wonderful voyage. But she couldn’t find Henry. In the days as she searched every inch of the ship, she met Nola and Frank, who stayed by her side, helping her in many ways. She had trouble remembering what she was doing, and why she was doing it. Everything was new to her – but the one constant – where was Henry?
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker by Aussie author Joanna Nell was heartbreaking. Watching Evelyn as her memory let her down, as she embarrassed herself, determined not to accept help because she was quite capable. I couldn’t wrap myself in this story because of the dementia and the heartache as Evelyn tried to find Henry. The writing was beautifully done – Evelyn was an exceptional character as she relived her past – but oh it was sad.
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker by Aussie author Joanna Nell was heartbreaking. Watching Evelyn as her memory let her down, as she embarrassed herself, determined not to accept help because she was quite capable. I couldn’t wrap myself in this story because of the dementia and the heartache as Evelyn tried to find Henry. The writing was beautifully done – Evelyn was an exceptional character as she relived her past – but oh it was sad.
August 22, 2019
For years Evelyn and her husband Henry have lived aboard the Golden Sunset ocean liner. For years he was the ship’s doctor. But now Henry is missing. Evelyn need to find him. While searching for him, in her special Finding Henry running shoes, Evelyn makes some new friends. She is only too happy to tell them of how she and Henry met back in 1953 and share some of the highlights of their life together. While she remembers these things clearly, other details escape her. How can her memory be so good in some areas and so lacking in others? She has a passion for the poet Coleridge, is able to recite large portions of his poetry and has extensive knowledge of Florence Nightingale who inspired her to be a nurse. Evelyn is not averse to sharing her knowledge on any topic with others. This is not always appreciated. But sharing her memories of Henry and their life together is.
Evelyn Parker, or Mrs Henry Parker as she usually introduces herself, is one of those characters that work beautifully in fiction but maybe in real like not so much, since she is opinionated and does not take advice easily. But in this story she is endearing and there to help when it is needed. From the beginning this story got me in and held me all the times. There are moments of joy and sadness. A poignant tale of love, loss, marriage and friendship.
A highly entertaining read that engaged my emotions and had me wanting to know more of Evelyn and Henry. A feel good read it captures the heart and emotions. This is my first book by this author but it will not be my last. My thanks go to Hachette for my uncorrected proof copy to read and review. Such a joy to read.
Evelyn Parker, or Mrs Henry Parker as she usually introduces herself, is one of those characters that work beautifully in fiction but maybe in real like not so much, since she is opinionated and does not take advice easily. But in this story she is endearing and there to help when it is needed. From the beginning this story got me in and held me all the times. There are moments of joy and sadness. A poignant tale of love, loss, marriage and friendship.
A highly entertaining read that engaged my emotions and had me wanting to know more of Evelyn and Henry. A feel good read it captures the heart and emotions. This is my first book by this author but it will not be my last. My thanks go to Hachette for my uncorrected proof copy to read and review. Such a joy to read.
February 11, 2024
3.5★
Aussie author Joanna Nell is a favourite author of mine. I admire and enjoy the way she writes about older characters. Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I thought I was going to. I felt part way through the book was a bit slow and seemed to drag on, but that could’ve just been me.
Evelyn Parker – Mrs Henry Parker is a very likeable and heartwarming character who at times had me laughing out loud. The storyline for this one just didn’t sit well with me, but in saying that many readers have loved this one.
Aussie author Joanna Nell is a favourite author of mine. I admire and enjoy the way she writes about older characters. Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I thought I was going to. I felt part way through the book was a bit slow and seemed to drag on, but that could’ve just been me.
Evelyn Parker – Mrs Henry Parker is a very likeable and heartwarming character who at times had me laughing out loud. The storyline for this one just didn’t sit well with me, but in saying that many readers have loved this one.
September 14, 2019
“Home. Evelyn considered the word. What did home mean? The place where one lived? Not bricks and mortar, certainly, for theirs had been made of steel and glass. If home meant family, then this ship and all its crew and passengers were the only home she could remember. But if home was the place where she and Henry were together, side by side as man and wife, then she was already homeless.”
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is the second novel by Australian GP, author (and former ship’s doctor), Joanna Nell. As Evelyn Parker joins another cruise on the Golden Sunset, she recalls boarding the liner for the maiden voyage as wife of the ship’s doctor. She can’t see him right now, but Dr Henry Parker will turn up soon, she’s assured by the stewards who look after her so well. Cruising on this ship has been their life for the last twenty years, so everyone knows them well.
But Henry is proving elusive: he’s left a breakfast tray in the cabin, but he’s not there now. And someone has left her a parcel: a pair of lace-ups that turn out to be very comfortable, and will be just the thing if she’s going to search the ship for Henry, not to mention doing her daily laps of the boat deck.
The young woman who says she is the ship’s doctor (just a girl!) would like a chat; Evelyn avoids that by heading for Mindful Colouring (whatever that is) in the Library. As she colours in a bird (An owl? An eagle? A seagull?) a chatty lady (Nola) and her agreeable husband (Frank) are very interested to hear all about how she first met Henry, and the many cruises they have done.
Later, she can’t always remember their names, but she likes them: “Evelyn still couldn’t think who these people were. One generous, verging on wasteful with words, the other so frugal. Whoever they were they belonged together, she decided, their talking budget well balanced.”
Everything she needs for her search is in her handbag: “Evelyn opened her handbag, hoping to find a clue. The clasp sprang open, revealing all manner of objects. The tiara. An unopened letter. A fountain pen and a spare bottle of blue-black Quink. Mints. Coleridge. A wooden carving of a turtle and its baby.” A trained nurse, Evelyn often quotes Florence Nightingale, as well as Henry’s favourite, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, from memory.
The narrative switches between the present day, as an often-confused Evelyn searches for Henry, and the past, from 1953 onwards, as Evelyn remembers or relates the events of the life she shared with him. Her recall of much of the past is crystal clear, but sometimes: “Evelyn rummaged through the untidy drawer where her thoughts and memories lay tangled in bits of old string, paperclips and spare batteries. She simply couldn’t find what she was looking for, the words skimming across the surface of her comprehension.”
Evelyn is a wonderful character: sometimes reserved or critical, but she also gives a lot of joy and is often just an anxious old lady about whom it’s difficult not to care. “She liked it when Nola talked, even if she couldn’t make sense of the words. Silence, she decided, was far more frightening. It only made her worries and fears easier to hear.”
Nell’s portrayal of senile dementia is an insightful and sensitive one: Evelyn’s thought processes, and the utterances that ensue, show just how poor memory, distraction, confusion and occasionally flawed logic can lead to seemingly meaningless sentences.
She often gives the reader a wonderful turn of phrase: “Back in the present, the woman was talking again, a conveyor belt of words and sentences that Evelyn could barely keep up with” and “Her thoughts scattered like a shoal of fish from a shark” and “When the doors opened, however, it was full of soft-bodied passengers pressed together like marshmallows in a jar. She tutted her judgement. She blamed elasticated clothing for the overcrowding in modern-day elevators” are examples.
There’s plenty of humour in this novel: lots of laugh-out-loud moments; but what makes this a really heart-warming read is the care and patience that all the ship’s crew show a clearly-demented Evelyn on her final cruise. They all know and love her, even if she often can’t remember their names, despite her clever mnemonics. And it’s Evelyn’s interactions with some of the support cast that may cause a lump in the throat and tears to well in the final chapters. Funny and feel-good, a wonderful read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Hachette Australia
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is the second novel by Australian GP, author (and former ship’s doctor), Joanna Nell. As Evelyn Parker joins another cruise on the Golden Sunset, she recalls boarding the liner for the maiden voyage as wife of the ship’s doctor. She can’t see him right now, but Dr Henry Parker will turn up soon, she’s assured by the stewards who look after her so well. Cruising on this ship has been their life for the last twenty years, so everyone knows them well.
But Henry is proving elusive: he’s left a breakfast tray in the cabin, but he’s not there now. And someone has left her a parcel: a pair of lace-ups that turn out to be very comfortable, and will be just the thing if she’s going to search the ship for Henry, not to mention doing her daily laps of the boat deck.
The young woman who says she is the ship’s doctor (just a girl!) would like a chat; Evelyn avoids that by heading for Mindful Colouring (whatever that is) in the Library. As she colours in a bird (An owl? An eagle? A seagull?) a chatty lady (Nola) and her agreeable husband (Frank) are very interested to hear all about how she first met Henry, and the many cruises they have done.
Later, she can’t always remember their names, but she likes them: “Evelyn still couldn’t think who these people were. One generous, verging on wasteful with words, the other so frugal. Whoever they were they belonged together, she decided, their talking budget well balanced.”
Everything she needs for her search is in her handbag: “Evelyn opened her handbag, hoping to find a clue. The clasp sprang open, revealing all manner of objects. The tiara. An unopened letter. A fountain pen and a spare bottle of blue-black Quink. Mints. Coleridge. A wooden carving of a turtle and its baby.” A trained nurse, Evelyn often quotes Florence Nightingale, as well as Henry’s favourite, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, from memory.
The narrative switches between the present day, as an often-confused Evelyn searches for Henry, and the past, from 1953 onwards, as Evelyn remembers or relates the events of the life she shared with him. Her recall of much of the past is crystal clear, but sometimes: “Evelyn rummaged through the untidy drawer where her thoughts and memories lay tangled in bits of old string, paperclips and spare batteries. She simply couldn’t find what she was looking for, the words skimming across the surface of her comprehension.”
Evelyn is a wonderful character: sometimes reserved or critical, but she also gives a lot of joy and is often just an anxious old lady about whom it’s difficult not to care. “She liked it when Nola talked, even if she couldn’t make sense of the words. Silence, she decided, was far more frightening. It only made her worries and fears easier to hear.”
Nell’s portrayal of senile dementia is an insightful and sensitive one: Evelyn’s thought processes, and the utterances that ensue, show just how poor memory, distraction, confusion and occasionally flawed logic can lead to seemingly meaningless sentences.
She often gives the reader a wonderful turn of phrase: “Back in the present, the woman was talking again, a conveyor belt of words and sentences that Evelyn could barely keep up with” and “Her thoughts scattered like a shoal of fish from a shark” and “When the doors opened, however, it was full of soft-bodied passengers pressed together like marshmallows in a jar. She tutted her judgement. She blamed elasticated clothing for the overcrowding in modern-day elevators” are examples.
There’s plenty of humour in this novel: lots of laugh-out-loud moments; but what makes this a really heart-warming read is the care and patience that all the ship’s crew show a clearly-demented Evelyn on her final cruise. They all know and love her, even if she often can’t remember their names, despite her clever mnemonics. And it’s Evelyn’s interactions with some of the support cast that may cause a lump in the throat and tears to well in the final chapters. Funny and feel-good, a wonderful read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Hachette Australia
December 5, 2019
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
‘Ahead of them, their twilight years and a never-ending voyage in the lap of luxury.’
Author Joanna Nell of last year’s heartwarming ‘uplit’ novel, The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village, returns with a novel that is draws on her past experience as a cruise ship doctor. The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a story that takes a sensitive and informed approach to ageing, dementia, sea travel, love, relationships, memories and care for the elderly. Joanna Nell’s second novel truly touched my heart.
Evelyn, or Mrs Henry Parker as she would prefer to be addressed as, is married to a retired cruise ship doctor. Now the couple are free to enjoy life on board the Golden Sunset, without the pressure of Henry’s work commitments. Over the years, Evelyn has collected a whole host of memories from her cruising experience, which she delights in sharing with the old and new customers on board the Golden Sunset. However, Evelyn runs into trouble when she realizes that her believed Henry is missing. With no one on board prepared to help her, Evelyn sets off on a mission to discover where her dear husband could be hiding. It is an expedition that will take her to every nook and cranny on the Golden Sunset and it also becomes a trip into the past, as this search ignites so many memories from times gone by. Along the way, the reader learns about the ups and down of life for the Parkers on board a luxury liner. Evelyn’s memories represent a link to the past and the future, possibly providing the answer to Henry’s current whereabouts.
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a beautiful and touching ode to the past, ageing, memories, connections and life. Often the elderly, or those living with dementia, tend to be dismissed from literature. In The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker, Joanna Nell ensures that she gives a voice to those who suffer from this incurable and very common disease. Although I was touched greatly by Evelyn and Henry’s story, I think above all, this book instilled a great sense of awareness and compassion around those who are dealing with, or have dealt with this disease. It provides us with an essential glimpse into the life of a woman coping with this disease, from an empathetic and enlightening angle.
It is a sad but true fact that many retired men and women choose to live out their twilight years on board a cruise ship, rather than enter a retirement or nursing home. The Last Voyage of Mrs. Henry Parker draws our attention to this alternative mode of living. What the novel also succeeds in is providing a snapshot of cruise ship life in the past. This jump into cruising in years gone by offered a gentle sense of nostalgia, which I enjoyed very much. With my past experience only extending to one cruise ship adventure, I also appreciated the insight into modern cruising life, complete with casinos, non-stop entertainment and endless dining facilities.
What made The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker unique and special was the mystery surrounding the disappearance the lead protagonist’s husband Henry. We know that Evelyn is confused and as the novel progresses, it becomes quite clear that she is an unreliable narrator. As the ship rolls into its destination, Evelyn’s memories fade in and out. We are taken on a journey into the past, which is clearly marked by good times and bad. These experiences help form a strong picture of Evelyn, her husband and their relationship. Evelyn’s clear recall of her past, in comparison to her confusion in the present, reminded me a great deal of my own Grandmother’s experiences in the last few years of her life. It was sad and heart-wrenching to watch, as well as read. However, this story is so tender, and I am certain that it will provide some semblance to readers directly affected by someone with dementia.
Evelyn herself is such an enigmatic figure. I adored taking a trip down memory lane and learning of her past, it was such a colourful life. Evelyn will instantly earn your affection, she is a formidable woman, who truly has a heart of gold underneath her confusion. There were times when I found Evelyn incredibly humorous, and I admit to having a chuckle or two at her escapades, as well as observations on life. I took an instant like to Evelyn and I genuinely wanted to find out where her husband was located. I had a couple of scenarios in mind, both of which didn’t end on a happy note, but I was satisfied by the conclusion.
Take a rolling journey on the high seas into the memory books of Mrs Henry Parker, as she tries in vain to locate her missing husband, with surprising results. The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a highly recommended read from an author who writes with a kind heart and a sense of conviction.
*Thanks is extended to Hachette Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is book #146 of the 2019 Australian Women Writers Challenge
4.5 stars
‘Ahead of them, their twilight years and a never-ending voyage in the lap of luxury.’
Author Joanna Nell of last year’s heartwarming ‘uplit’ novel, The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village, returns with a novel that is draws on her past experience as a cruise ship doctor. The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a story that takes a sensitive and informed approach to ageing, dementia, sea travel, love, relationships, memories and care for the elderly. Joanna Nell’s second novel truly touched my heart.
Evelyn, or Mrs Henry Parker as she would prefer to be addressed as, is married to a retired cruise ship doctor. Now the couple are free to enjoy life on board the Golden Sunset, without the pressure of Henry’s work commitments. Over the years, Evelyn has collected a whole host of memories from her cruising experience, which she delights in sharing with the old and new customers on board the Golden Sunset. However, Evelyn runs into trouble when she realizes that her believed Henry is missing. With no one on board prepared to help her, Evelyn sets off on a mission to discover where her dear husband could be hiding. It is an expedition that will take her to every nook and cranny on the Golden Sunset and it also becomes a trip into the past, as this search ignites so many memories from times gone by. Along the way, the reader learns about the ups and down of life for the Parkers on board a luxury liner. Evelyn’s memories represent a link to the past and the future, possibly providing the answer to Henry’s current whereabouts.
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a beautiful and touching ode to the past, ageing, memories, connections and life. Often the elderly, or those living with dementia, tend to be dismissed from literature. In The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker, Joanna Nell ensures that she gives a voice to those who suffer from this incurable and very common disease. Although I was touched greatly by Evelyn and Henry’s story, I think above all, this book instilled a great sense of awareness and compassion around those who are dealing with, or have dealt with this disease. It provides us with an essential glimpse into the life of a woman coping with this disease, from an empathetic and enlightening angle.
It is a sad but true fact that many retired men and women choose to live out their twilight years on board a cruise ship, rather than enter a retirement or nursing home. The Last Voyage of Mrs. Henry Parker draws our attention to this alternative mode of living. What the novel also succeeds in is providing a snapshot of cruise ship life in the past. This jump into cruising in years gone by offered a gentle sense of nostalgia, which I enjoyed very much. With my past experience only extending to one cruise ship adventure, I also appreciated the insight into modern cruising life, complete with casinos, non-stop entertainment and endless dining facilities.
What made The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker unique and special was the mystery surrounding the disappearance the lead protagonist’s husband Henry. We know that Evelyn is confused and as the novel progresses, it becomes quite clear that she is an unreliable narrator. As the ship rolls into its destination, Evelyn’s memories fade in and out. We are taken on a journey into the past, which is clearly marked by good times and bad. These experiences help form a strong picture of Evelyn, her husband and their relationship. Evelyn’s clear recall of her past, in comparison to her confusion in the present, reminded me a great deal of my own Grandmother’s experiences in the last few years of her life. It was sad and heart-wrenching to watch, as well as read. However, this story is so tender, and I am certain that it will provide some semblance to readers directly affected by someone with dementia.
Evelyn herself is such an enigmatic figure. I adored taking a trip down memory lane and learning of her past, it was such a colourful life. Evelyn will instantly earn your affection, she is a formidable woman, who truly has a heart of gold underneath her confusion. There were times when I found Evelyn incredibly humorous, and I admit to having a chuckle or two at her escapades, as well as observations on life. I took an instant like to Evelyn and I genuinely wanted to find out where her husband was located. I had a couple of scenarios in mind, both of which didn’t end on a happy note, but I was satisfied by the conclusion.
Take a rolling journey on the high seas into the memory books of Mrs Henry Parker, as she tries in vain to locate her missing husband, with surprising results. The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a highly recommended read from an author who writes with a kind heart and a sense of conviction.
*Thanks is extended to Hachette Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is book #146 of the 2019 Australian Women Writers Challenge
January 2, 2021
This is the second book I have read by Joanna Nell and I am becoming fan!
In this book, Evelyn, who prefers to be called Mrs Henry Parker, is on board the 'Golden Sunset' a cruise ship. All of the staff know her, as her husband has been a ship's doctor for all of their married life. The one problem being that Henry is nowhere to be found and Evelyn has a memory that is becoming increasingly unreliable.
This is a story told with much humour, but also very descriptive of dementia and memory loss. Evelyn reminds me a lot of my mother and the gaps in memory are absolutely excruciating. However, I found it very touching how the staff on the ship allowed Evelyn to maintain her dignity while trying to watch her and keep her safe.
A lovely story about love, life and ageing.
In this book, Evelyn, who prefers to be called Mrs Henry Parker, is on board the 'Golden Sunset' a cruise ship. All of the staff know her, as her husband has been a ship's doctor for all of their married life. The one problem being that Henry is nowhere to be found and Evelyn has a memory that is becoming increasingly unreliable.
This is a story told with much humour, but also very descriptive of dementia and memory loss. Evelyn reminds me a lot of my mother and the gaps in memory are absolutely excruciating. However, I found it very touching how the staff on the ship allowed Evelyn to maintain her dignity while trying to watch her and keep her safe.
A lovely story about love, life and ageing.
November 29, 2019
Evelyn Parker was married to a ship's doctor. When he retired, they lived in cruise ships until they were nearing the end of their lives. During her voyage, she spends her days looking for Henry and making new friends.
This is a well crafted story. I feel like I was on the cruise ship making a new friend in Evelyn. I warmed to her instantly. Shes a woman with a lot of interesting stories and she will tell them regardless to whether you want to hear them or not. At times this story is funny, other times it's sad. It will remind you just how precious memories are. The author covers dementia sensitively. A truly lovely read.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Hodder and Stoughton and the author Joanna Nell for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a well crafted story. I feel like I was on the cruise ship making a new friend in Evelyn. I warmed to her instantly. Shes a woman with a lot of interesting stories and she will tell them regardless to whether you want to hear them or not. At times this story is funny, other times it's sad. It will remind you just how precious memories are. The author covers dementia sensitively. A truly lovely read.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Hodder and Stoughton and the author Joanna Nell for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2020
Following on from The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village theme of addressing in a beautiful manner the health and security obstacles of getting old this read is equally as delightful.
Mrs Henry (Evelyn) Parker and her husband Henry, ships' doctor have been permanent residents of a cruise liner even after Henry retired, this has been the alternative to an onshore aged care facility. Why not? the meals are superior, dining with the Captain is more glamorous, more entertainment is readily available and with different destinations to look forward to, etc.
One day there is an incident that starts to put things out of kilter for Evelyn and she starts getting into a muddle whereby the past starts to creep into her present day thinking. As time goes on because she can't seem to locate Henry even with a plan for scouring every venue on the ship more and more the past becomes her reality. Even with the vigilant staff of the cruise liner and two people that take her under their wing Evelyn gets herself into some unusual situations but with her ready reckoner from a Florence Nightingale textbook that Evelyn can recite by heart as well as from the The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, she manages to extricate herself out leaving a trail of warmth and empathy to those lives that she touches.
Whilst Evelyn has enjoyed a loving and rewarding marriage with Henry it's the losses that revisit her present memory and those who are in her life now are not in her memory at all. What happened to Henry isn't revealed until the end and whilst the reader may draw their own sad conclusion, it's Henry that has the tears.
Mrs Henry (Evelyn) Parker and her husband Henry, ships' doctor have been permanent residents of a cruise liner even after Henry retired, this has been the alternative to an onshore aged care facility. Why not? the meals are superior, dining with the Captain is more glamorous, more entertainment is readily available and with different destinations to look forward to, etc.
One day there is an incident that starts to put things out of kilter for Evelyn and she starts getting into a muddle whereby the past starts to creep into her present day thinking. As time goes on because she can't seem to locate Henry even with a plan for scouring every venue on the ship more and more the past becomes her reality. Even with the vigilant staff of the cruise liner and two people that take her under their wing Evelyn gets herself into some unusual situations but with her ready reckoner from a Florence Nightingale textbook that Evelyn can recite by heart as well as from the The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, she manages to extricate herself out leaving a trail of warmth and empathy to those lives that she touches.
Whilst Evelyn has enjoyed a loving and rewarding marriage with Henry it's the losses that revisit her present memory and those who are in her life now are not in her memory at all. What happened to Henry isn't revealed until the end and whilst the reader may draw their own sad conclusion, it's Henry that has the tears.
August 24, 2019
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker by Joanna Nell a fantastic five-star read. I loved the Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village, so was excited to read this one and love how this author has a way of writing older people and capturing them in a great manner, the characters are loveable but also real, Mrs Henry Parker isn’t just a lovely old lady, who gets along with everyone all the time, she is opinionated and reminds me of a couple of the older ladies that I work with. This is a great story and it will wring your emotions leaving you with a gut like a washing machine at times as your emotions are so up and down, you get so emotionally invested you won’t be able to put this story down.
January 24, 2020
I read The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village and absolutely loved it as it was fresh and different with the life of a 79 year old pensioner. Although The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is about the wife of a retired ship's doctor Dr Henry Parker, it didn't feel me with such enjoyment as The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village, that remains my favourite. However I'm a fan of Joanna Nell, so I will be reading her next book.
February 1, 2020
I wanted to read this book because I absolutely loved the author's previous book, The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village. It was funny, heartfelt and touching, with such loveable characters. That's what I hoped for this book too, and I was in luck. That's exactly what I got.
Mrs Henry Parker is the wife of a ship's surgeon. She spends the book looking for her missing husband and recounting tales of their long life together, aboard the luxury cruise liner where they made their home.
I don't have much more to say about this book really. It's beautifully written, and Mrs Parker is an absolute gem. It's equally lighthearted and gut-wrenchingly bittersweet. I smiled and was sad. And I was with Mrs Parker all the way. I didn't want to put the book down, and at the end I didn't want to say goodbye to Mrs Parker.
This is women's fiction for sure, and probably for the more mature audience because the youngsters might not be able to relate quite as well (I'm 35 but I know what it's like to want comfy shoes and have sore knees). Basically if you like a nice gentle story full of feels good and not so good, you will enjoy this.
Mrs Henry Parker is the wife of a ship's surgeon. She spends the book looking for her missing husband and recounting tales of their long life together, aboard the luxury cruise liner where they made their home.
I don't have much more to say about this book really. It's beautifully written, and Mrs Parker is an absolute gem. It's equally lighthearted and gut-wrenchingly bittersweet. I smiled and was sad. And I was with Mrs Parker all the way. I didn't want to put the book down, and at the end I didn't want to say goodbye to Mrs Parker.
This is women's fiction for sure, and probably for the more mature audience because the youngsters might not be able to relate quite as well (I'm 35 but I know what it's like to want comfy shoes and have sore knees). Basically if you like a nice gentle story full of feels good and not so good, you will enjoy this.
September 19, 2019
‘Her mind had popped out, visited elsewhere for a while. It had returned home to find Henry gone.’
Evelyn Parker and her husband Henry have spent much of their life together cruising around the world. Evelyn trained as a nurse and was on her way to Australia in 1953 by ship when she met Dr Henry Parker, a ship’s doctor. After they married, she gave up work to accompany him.
Evelyn has been Mrs Henry Parker for a very long time. She can’t work out exactly how many years they’ve been married (the maths is beyond her just now) but she’s very concerned that Henry is missing. The Golden Sunset may be a big cruise ship, but surely Evelyn can track him down.
‘Alone, surrounded by seven hundred strangers.’
This delightful story (it is both sad and funny, heart-wrenching and uplifting) steers us through a minefield of ageing, confusion and memory loss, guided by love.
Evelyn Parker may have trouble remembering people’s names, what time it is and exactly where her cabin is, but she does remember the past. And her stories of the past entertain others, especially her newfound friends (fizzy cola) Nola and (earnest) Frank. She’s concerned that there’s such a young person pretending to be the ship’s doctor, and her handbag does not seem to be quite as accommodating as it once was (otherwise why would she have such trouble finding important things?). Poor Evelyn, searching the ship seems more difficult than she thought it would be, and the doctor keeps nagging her about tablets she needs to take.
But where is Henry?
I enjoyed this novel. The ending wasn’t quite what I expected, but that’s okay. Life is like that, even in novels. I have a feeling that Mrs Henry Parker will adjust to life onshore just fine, as long as she can hang onto her memories of the past and others can keep her safe in the present. This is Ms Nell’s second novel: I’ve added her first to my reading list.
‘Just as she was slowly letting go of the present, the past was slipping away too. Her memories were little more than distorted echoes of events long ago.’
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Evelyn Parker and her husband Henry have spent much of their life together cruising around the world. Evelyn trained as a nurse and was on her way to Australia in 1953 by ship when she met Dr Henry Parker, a ship’s doctor. After they married, she gave up work to accompany him.
Evelyn has been Mrs Henry Parker for a very long time. She can’t work out exactly how many years they’ve been married (the maths is beyond her just now) but she’s very concerned that Henry is missing. The Golden Sunset may be a big cruise ship, but surely Evelyn can track him down.
‘Alone, surrounded by seven hundred strangers.’
This delightful story (it is both sad and funny, heart-wrenching and uplifting) steers us through a minefield of ageing, confusion and memory loss, guided by love.
Evelyn Parker may have trouble remembering people’s names, what time it is and exactly where her cabin is, but she does remember the past. And her stories of the past entertain others, especially her newfound friends (fizzy cola) Nola and (earnest) Frank. She’s concerned that there’s such a young person pretending to be the ship’s doctor, and her handbag does not seem to be quite as accommodating as it once was (otherwise why would she have such trouble finding important things?). Poor Evelyn, searching the ship seems more difficult than she thought it would be, and the doctor keeps nagging her about tablets she needs to take.
But where is Henry?
I enjoyed this novel. The ending wasn’t quite what I expected, but that’s okay. Life is like that, even in novels. I have a feeling that Mrs Henry Parker will adjust to life onshore just fine, as long as she can hang onto her memories of the past and others can keep her safe in the present. This is Ms Nell’s second novel: I’ve added her first to my reading list.
‘Just as she was slowly letting go of the present, the past was slipping away too. Her memories were little more than distorted echoes of events long ago.’
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Australia for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
September 14, 2019
This story has so many things that make it great, it is emotional and sad at times, funny and uplifting with the care and love that is shown and above all else it is a beautiful love story told by a beautiful character Mrs. Henry Parker, even if she can’t remember everything, she never forgets Henry, I hope that you pick this one up and enjoy the search for Henry as much as I did.
Evelyn Parker has lived most of her life cruising the world she is a nurse and gave that up when she married ships doctor Henry parker, they have spent theirs years on the beautiful Golden Sunset, Evelyn is a true cruiser dressing up for dinner tiara and all and keeping her fellow passengers amused with her stories, the staff love her even when she is trying and she does not go anywhere without her handbag.
But it seems that Henry has gone missing and Evelyn is determined to search every part of the ship till she finds him, there are a lot of mishaps and calamities along the way, she does meet some wonderful people though, fizzy cola Nola and Ernest Frank, and the new shoes that appeared on her bed finding Henry shoes or walk everywhere shoes that help with her long walks.
Her stories start at the beginning in 1953 when she first meets Henry and continues through their lives of love and loss and the adventures they had along the way, but Evelyn has such a hard time remembering so many things and yet other memories come easy, if only she could find Henry.
I loved this story, there were tears there was laughter and there was so many surprises, Evelyn and Henry were such fabulous people it was fabulous hearing about Henry’s life as a ships doctor and the love that they shared. I love cruising and have been on many myself and have a couple more booked so this one appealed to from the start, but I would highly recommend this story to anyone who loves a story packed with emotion and fun, thank you MS Nell I am sure that I will be watching out for Mrs. Henry Parker on my next cruise.
Evelyn Parker has lived most of her life cruising the world she is a nurse and gave that up when she married ships doctor Henry parker, they have spent theirs years on the beautiful Golden Sunset, Evelyn is a true cruiser dressing up for dinner tiara and all and keeping her fellow passengers amused with her stories, the staff love her even when she is trying and she does not go anywhere without her handbag.
But it seems that Henry has gone missing and Evelyn is determined to search every part of the ship till she finds him, there are a lot of mishaps and calamities along the way, she does meet some wonderful people though, fizzy cola Nola and Ernest Frank, and the new shoes that appeared on her bed finding Henry shoes or walk everywhere shoes that help with her long walks.
Her stories start at the beginning in 1953 when she first meets Henry and continues through their lives of love and loss and the adventures they had along the way, but Evelyn has such a hard time remembering so many things and yet other memories come easy, if only she could find Henry.
I loved this story, there were tears there was laughter and there was so many surprises, Evelyn and Henry were such fabulous people it was fabulous hearing about Henry’s life as a ships doctor and the love that they shared. I love cruising and have been on many myself and have a couple more booked so this one appealed to from the start, but I would highly recommend this story to anyone who loves a story packed with emotion and fun, thank you MS Nell I am sure that I will be watching out for Mrs. Henry Parker on my next cruise.
August 27, 2019
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker by Joanna Nell is a delightful tale of Mrs Parker searching for her husband Henry on the Golden Sunset Ocean Liner. Henry Parker used to be the doctor on the Golden sunset now retired living on the liner with His wife Evelyn. But one day Henry goes missing. Evelyn goes on a mission to find him, using the ships maps and remembering the life they have lived on it. But, at times getting confused which results her getting herself in all sorts of trouble. She meets an eclectic group of people along the way.
Thank you with NetGalley and the Hodder and Stoughton for a copy of this book. I loved Joanna Nell’s first book The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village, so I was delighted to get a copy of this. This is another heart-warming and unputdownable story of people of a certain age. I loved how the story went backwards and forward of the life of Evelyn and Henry, the places they visited and the sacrifices she made to be with Henry. It also highlighted subject of dementia and just because people are older, they still have feelings too. This is very good read.
Thank you with NetGalley and the Hodder and Stoughton for a copy of this book. I loved Joanna Nell’s first book The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village, so I was delighted to get a copy of this. This is another heart-warming and unputdownable story of people of a certain age. I loved how the story went backwards and forward of the life of Evelyn and Henry, the places they visited and the sacrifices she made to be with Henry. It also highlighted subject of dementia and just because people are older, they still have feelings too. This is very good read.
September 22, 2019
Mrs Henry Parker is the wife of a retired ship's doctor she has spent most of her life at sea. She spends her days wandering the ship as if it is her home and her nights dressed up to the nines and entertaining the very revolving round of fellow passengers of tales of her past adventures.
But Henry seems to have gone missing and Mrs Parker sets out with her 'Finding Henry' shoes to search the vast liner she is on.
However through this search she makes new friends and finds herself reminiscing about the past voyages while experiencing some new adventures.
The trouble is the new adventures are not memorable, but the events of meeting Henry on that first voyage, her nursing training and other poignant events are as clear as if they happened yesterday.
Mrs Parker cannot understand why everyone is so poorly dressed at breakfast, why she is in a colouring class, gambling in a casino, dancing in a nightclub and with mysterious injuries and what seems like the endless pursuit by the people in blue pyjamas and Tuesday's child. Amongst the muddle of Mrs Parker's brain it all makes sense.
All the time she is looking for Henry.
This voyage of Mrs Henry Parker has to come to an end and I was surprised by the twist it took, I had already made my mind up about that had happened to Henry and I was wrong. I am so glad I was.
Some might find this book uncomfortable, tragic in a way that such a thing was allowed to go on. But the author's insightful research and reading of someone who was suffering with senility was dealt with sympathy and kindness. It might have seemed a strange place to set such a story and how events unfolded, but I have heard first hand that this story is not in fact unique.
This is a wonderful second book from Joanna Nell and she has insightfully captured a rather difficult topic well and shown how important memories are and that we need to make so many of them.
Poignant and thoughtful this book will stay with me for a while yet. If you were a fan of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry or the story of Queenie Hennessy then you will enjoy this quiet book with so much to tell.
But Henry seems to have gone missing and Mrs Parker sets out with her 'Finding Henry' shoes to search the vast liner she is on.
However through this search she makes new friends and finds herself reminiscing about the past voyages while experiencing some new adventures.
The trouble is the new adventures are not memorable, but the events of meeting Henry on that first voyage, her nursing training and other poignant events are as clear as if they happened yesterday.
Mrs Parker cannot understand why everyone is so poorly dressed at breakfast, why she is in a colouring class, gambling in a casino, dancing in a nightclub and with mysterious injuries and what seems like the endless pursuit by the people in blue pyjamas and Tuesday's child. Amongst the muddle of Mrs Parker's brain it all makes sense.
All the time she is looking for Henry.
This voyage of Mrs Henry Parker has to come to an end and I was surprised by the twist it took, I had already made my mind up about that had happened to Henry and I was wrong. I am so glad I was.
Some might find this book uncomfortable, tragic in a way that such a thing was allowed to go on. But the author's insightful research and reading of someone who was suffering with senility was dealt with sympathy and kindness. It might have seemed a strange place to set such a story and how events unfolded, but I have heard first hand that this story is not in fact unique.
This is a wonderful second book from Joanna Nell and she has insightfully captured a rather difficult topic well and shown how important memories are and that we need to make so many of them.
Poignant and thoughtful this book will stay with me for a while yet. If you were a fan of The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry or the story of Queenie Hennessy then you will enjoy this quiet book with so much to tell.
October 21, 2019
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a mixture of happiness and sadness. Thanks to Hachette for my ARC of Books With Heart Book Club's October pick. I enjoyed Joanna Nell's second novel just as much as her first.
May 28, 2022
This is a lovely story, poignant at times but funny too. My heart was breaking for Evelyn all the way through and even now I have finished the book there’s a little bit of me hoping that she’s okay.
November 13, 2020
I really disliked this. It felt cruel to let this old woman wander the ship with nobody watching out for her. It was a miracle she didn't end up overboard! Just silly. 1 star.
July 26, 2020
“Home. Evelyn considered the word. What did home mean? The place where one lived? Not bricks and mortar, certainly, for theirs had been made of steel and glass. If home meant family, then this ship and all its crew and passengers were the only home she could remember. But if home was the place where she and Henry were together, side by side as man and wife, then she was already homeless.”
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is the second novel by Australian GP, author (and former ship’s doctor), Joanna Nell. The audio version is narrated with great feeling by Julie Nihill. As Evelyn Parker joins another cruise on the Golden Sunset, she recalls boarding the liner for the maiden voyage as wife of the ship’s doctor. She can’t see him right now, but Dr Henry Parker will turn up soon, she’s assured by the stewards who look after her so well. Cruising on this ship has been their life for the last twenty years, so everyone knows them well.
But Henry is proving elusive: he’s left a breakfast tray in the cabin, but he’s not there now. And someone has left her a parcel: a pair of lace-ups that turn out to be very comfortable, and will be just the thing if she’s going to search the ship for Henry, not to mention doing her daily laps of the boat deck.
The young woman who says she is the ship’s doctor (just a girl!) would like a chat; Evelyn avoids that by heading for Mindful Colouring (whatever that is) in the Library. As she colours in a bird (An owl? An eagle? A seagull?) a chatty lady (Nola) and her agreeable husband (Frank) are very interested to hear all about how she first met Henry, and the many cruises they have done.
Later, she can’t always remember their names, but she likes them: “Evelyn still couldn’t think who these people were. One generous, verging on wasteful with words, the other so frugal. Whoever they were they belonged together, she decided, their talking budget well balanced.”
Everything she needs for her search is in her handbag: “Evelyn opened her handbag, hoping to find a clue. The clasp sprang open, revealing all manner of objects. The tiara. An unopened letter. A fountain pen and a spare bottle of blue-black Quink. Mints. Coleridge. A wooden carving of a turtle and its baby.” A trained nurse, Evelyn often quotes Florence Nightingale, as well as Henry’s favourite, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, from memory.
The narrative switches between the present day, as an often-confused Evelyn searches for Henry, and the past, from 1953 onwards, as Evelyn remembers or relates the events of the life she shared with him. Her recall of much of the past is crystal clear, but sometimes: “Evelyn rummaged through the untidy drawer where her thoughts and memories lay tangled in bits of old string, paperclips and spare batteries. She simply couldn’t find what she was looking for, the words skimming across the surface of her comprehension.”
Evelyn is a wonderful character: sometimes reserved or critical, but she also gives a lot of joy and is often just an anxious old lady about whom it’s difficult not to care. “She liked it when Nola talked, even if she couldn’t make sense of the words. Silence, she decided, was far more frightening. It only made her worries and fears easier to hear.”
Nell’s portrayal of senile dementia is an insightful and sensitive one: Evelyn’s thought processes, and the utterances that ensue, show just how poor memory, distraction, confusion and occasionally flawed logic can lead to seemingly meaningless sentences.
She often gives the reader a wonderful turn of phrase: “Back in the present, the woman was talking again, a conveyor belt of words and sentences that Evelyn could barely keep up with” and “Her thoughts scattered like a shoal of fish from a shark” and “When the doors opened, however, it was full of soft-bodied passengers pressed together like marshmallows in a jar. She tutted her judgement. She blamed elasticated clothing for the overcrowding in modern-day elevators” are examples.
There’s plenty of humour in this novel: lots of laugh-out-loud moments; but what makes this a really heart-warming read is the care and patience that all the ship’s crew show a clearly-demented Evelyn on her final cruise. They all know and love her, even if she often can’t remember their names, despite her clever mnemonics. And it’s Evelyn’s interactions with some of the support cast that may cause a lump in the throat and tears to well in the final chapters. Funny and feel-good, a wonderful read.
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is the second novel by Australian GP, author (and former ship’s doctor), Joanna Nell. The audio version is narrated with great feeling by Julie Nihill. As Evelyn Parker joins another cruise on the Golden Sunset, she recalls boarding the liner for the maiden voyage as wife of the ship’s doctor. She can’t see him right now, but Dr Henry Parker will turn up soon, she’s assured by the stewards who look after her so well. Cruising on this ship has been their life for the last twenty years, so everyone knows them well.
But Henry is proving elusive: he’s left a breakfast tray in the cabin, but he’s not there now. And someone has left her a parcel: a pair of lace-ups that turn out to be very comfortable, and will be just the thing if she’s going to search the ship for Henry, not to mention doing her daily laps of the boat deck.
The young woman who says she is the ship’s doctor (just a girl!) would like a chat; Evelyn avoids that by heading for Mindful Colouring (whatever that is) in the Library. As she colours in a bird (An owl? An eagle? A seagull?) a chatty lady (Nola) and her agreeable husband (Frank) are very interested to hear all about how she first met Henry, and the many cruises they have done.
Later, she can’t always remember their names, but she likes them: “Evelyn still couldn’t think who these people were. One generous, verging on wasteful with words, the other so frugal. Whoever they were they belonged together, she decided, their talking budget well balanced.”
Everything she needs for her search is in her handbag: “Evelyn opened her handbag, hoping to find a clue. The clasp sprang open, revealing all manner of objects. The tiara. An unopened letter. A fountain pen and a spare bottle of blue-black Quink. Mints. Coleridge. A wooden carving of a turtle and its baby.” A trained nurse, Evelyn often quotes Florence Nightingale, as well as Henry’s favourite, The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, from memory.
The narrative switches between the present day, as an often-confused Evelyn searches for Henry, and the past, from 1953 onwards, as Evelyn remembers or relates the events of the life she shared with him. Her recall of much of the past is crystal clear, but sometimes: “Evelyn rummaged through the untidy drawer where her thoughts and memories lay tangled in bits of old string, paperclips and spare batteries. She simply couldn’t find what she was looking for, the words skimming across the surface of her comprehension.”
Evelyn is a wonderful character: sometimes reserved or critical, but she also gives a lot of joy and is often just an anxious old lady about whom it’s difficult not to care. “She liked it when Nola talked, even if she couldn’t make sense of the words. Silence, she decided, was far more frightening. It only made her worries and fears easier to hear.”
Nell’s portrayal of senile dementia is an insightful and sensitive one: Evelyn’s thought processes, and the utterances that ensue, show just how poor memory, distraction, confusion and occasionally flawed logic can lead to seemingly meaningless sentences.
She often gives the reader a wonderful turn of phrase: “Back in the present, the woman was talking again, a conveyor belt of words and sentences that Evelyn could barely keep up with” and “Her thoughts scattered like a shoal of fish from a shark” and “When the doors opened, however, it was full of soft-bodied passengers pressed together like marshmallows in a jar. She tutted her judgement. She blamed elasticated clothing for the overcrowding in modern-day elevators” are examples.
There’s plenty of humour in this novel: lots of laugh-out-loud moments; but what makes this a really heart-warming read is the care and patience that all the ship’s crew show a clearly-demented Evelyn on her final cruise. They all know and love her, even if she often can’t remember their names, despite her clever mnemonics. And it’s Evelyn’s interactions with some of the support cast that may cause a lump in the throat and tears to well in the final chapters. Funny and feel-good, a wonderful read.
November 17, 2019
The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker by Joanna Nell is yet another wonderful tale following up from her first book, The Single Ladies of Jacaranda Retirement Village. Here we have a similar heart-warming and insightful story of people in the latter stages of life as it once again opens our eyes and hearts to life for this ageing generation.
This is the story of Evelyn, her past and present, and I particularly enjoyed the flashbacks to the beginnings of her life long journey with her beloved Henry. There are indeed many layers to this story, one of which, is the sacrifices Evelyn made in giving up her own dreams to become the wife of a ships doctor. These flashbacks also provided a window into what life might have been like living aboard a cruise ship and the many, many places they were able to visit.
"There was something about travelling on a ship that was different to any other mode of transport. Away from civilisation, in close proximity to complete strangers who share that peculiar sense of being in limbo for weeks at a time, a voyage is unlike a journey in a train carriage or aircraft cabin. Time stands still on a ship. Like living for a while in a dream. "
However, the main theme here is one of aging and the issue of dementia which I thought was handled well, and with Joanna being a doctor herself, providing a real insight into what it must be like to suffer from this tormenting disease. As in her previous novel, Joanna proves that she is most adept at capturing the voice of this sometimes forgotten generation and I both love and admire that. In the character of Evelyn Parker, we have the voice of the many Seniors - both male and female - who are fighting the decline of their mental faculties. I found this interpretation to be real, honest, compassionate and at times, heartbreaking. The feelings and intelligence of people suffering from this condition is not to be underestimated, yet the frustrations and ploys to mask it truly pulled at my heartstrings.
“The whole thing was exhausting. Worrying about Henry. Being old. Trying to remember how a normal person behaved. With all her aches and pains and a bone-curdling weariness, every day she felt like she was coming down with the flu. Evelyn shrank into the lounger and let the reflection from the water dance on her face.”
So in this novel you will appreciate the setting and story but be swept away by the poignant plight of a generation fighting to maintain their independence. An emotional and nostalgic last voyage for not only Mrs Henry Parker but the many who face the curtains closing on their past memories and present engagements. I walked away appreciating just how precious, both good and bad, the memories are for not only ourselves but those dearest to us.
"It is as though I skimmed through the last few chapters, eager to see what happened without paying full attention. In my memory there are pages still stuck together, things I simply
can’t recall. I remember the emotions and feelings rather than the events themselves."
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher Hachette Australia.
This is the story of Evelyn, her past and present, and I particularly enjoyed the flashbacks to the beginnings of her life long journey with her beloved Henry. There are indeed many layers to this story, one of which, is the sacrifices Evelyn made in giving up her own dreams to become the wife of a ships doctor. These flashbacks also provided a window into what life might have been like living aboard a cruise ship and the many, many places they were able to visit.
"There was something about travelling on a ship that was different to any other mode of transport. Away from civilisation, in close proximity to complete strangers who share that peculiar sense of being in limbo for weeks at a time, a voyage is unlike a journey in a train carriage or aircraft cabin. Time stands still on a ship. Like living for a while in a dream. "
However, the main theme here is one of aging and the issue of dementia which I thought was handled well, and with Joanna being a doctor herself, providing a real insight into what it must be like to suffer from this tormenting disease. As in her previous novel, Joanna proves that she is most adept at capturing the voice of this sometimes forgotten generation and I both love and admire that. In the character of Evelyn Parker, we have the voice of the many Seniors - both male and female - who are fighting the decline of their mental faculties. I found this interpretation to be real, honest, compassionate and at times, heartbreaking. The feelings and intelligence of people suffering from this condition is not to be underestimated, yet the frustrations and ploys to mask it truly pulled at my heartstrings.
“The whole thing was exhausting. Worrying about Henry. Being old. Trying to remember how a normal person behaved. With all her aches and pains and a bone-curdling weariness, every day she felt like she was coming down with the flu. Evelyn shrank into the lounger and let the reflection from the water dance on her face.”
So in this novel you will appreciate the setting and story but be swept away by the poignant plight of a generation fighting to maintain their independence. An emotional and nostalgic last voyage for not only Mrs Henry Parker but the many who face the curtains closing on their past memories and present engagements. I walked away appreciating just how precious, both good and bad, the memories are for not only ourselves but those dearest to us.
"It is as though I skimmed through the last few chapters, eager to see what happened without paying full attention. In my memory there are pages still stuck together, things I simply
can’t recall. I remember the emotions and feelings rather than the events themselves."
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher Hachette Australia.
November 5, 2019
Joanna Nell's delightful novel, THE LAST VOYAGE OF MRS HENRY PARKER, is a simple story of love, loss and living.
In 1953, Miss Evelyn Des Roches, qualified nurse and daughter of the former French Ambassador to Britain, boarded the Orcades bound for Australia and a career in midwifery. On the way, she met the ship’s Assistant Doctor and the rest, as they say, is history.
Miss Des Roches married Dr Henry Parker and as Mrs Henry Parker has lived the past 60 years at sea. She knows every port and will tell anyone who listens stories of her life travelling the world. She knows the rank and occupation indicated by the epaulettes on each uniform and shares her superior knowledge of the ships' customs. The crew treat her with deference … and forbearance.
A product of the age when ladies dressed for dinner, she is quite shocked when her fellow passengers arrive in the dining room in shorts and slacks - really have they no sense of decorum? Mrs Henry Parker, naturally, wears evening dress and a tiara as befits the wife of a retired ship’s doctor living aboard the Golden Sunset.
There are a couple of little wrinkles in Mrs Henty Parker’s life; why is it so hard to remember some things and so hard to forget others? But she has a way of reminding herself of who’s who, for example, the stateroom attendant “who is not Virgilio” is “Tuesday’s child … Grace”.
Much more concerning, however, where is Henry?
I love Mrs Henry Parker (not having been formally introduced I don’t feel it would be proper to call her Evelyn); well what’s not to like about a lady who knows all 143 verses of The Rime of The Ancient Mariner as well as the finer biographical points of Florence Nightingale’s life and work? She tells us a sad, funny, poignant, uplifting story over a period of 7 seven decades.
The publisher’s synopsis of this novel says “The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a love letter to the memories we make over the course of a lifetime, and how the heart remembers what matters, even when the mind has long forgotten.” Highly recommend.
In 1953, Miss Evelyn Des Roches, qualified nurse and daughter of the former French Ambassador to Britain, boarded the Orcades bound for Australia and a career in midwifery. On the way, she met the ship’s Assistant Doctor and the rest, as they say, is history.
Miss Des Roches married Dr Henry Parker and as Mrs Henry Parker has lived the past 60 years at sea. She knows every port and will tell anyone who listens stories of her life travelling the world. She knows the rank and occupation indicated by the epaulettes on each uniform and shares her superior knowledge of the ships' customs. The crew treat her with deference … and forbearance.
A product of the age when ladies dressed for dinner, she is quite shocked when her fellow passengers arrive in the dining room in shorts and slacks - really have they no sense of decorum? Mrs Henry Parker, naturally, wears evening dress and a tiara as befits the wife of a retired ship’s doctor living aboard the Golden Sunset.
There are a couple of little wrinkles in Mrs Henty Parker’s life; why is it so hard to remember some things and so hard to forget others? But she has a way of reminding herself of who’s who, for example, the stateroom attendant “who is not Virgilio” is “Tuesday’s child … Grace”.
Much more concerning, however, where is Henry?
I love Mrs Henry Parker (not having been formally introduced I don’t feel it would be proper to call her Evelyn); well what’s not to like about a lady who knows all 143 verses of The Rime of The Ancient Mariner as well as the finer biographical points of Florence Nightingale’s life and work? She tells us a sad, funny, poignant, uplifting story over a period of 7 seven decades.
The publisher’s synopsis of this novel says “The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker is a love letter to the memories we make over the course of a lifetime, and how the heart remembers what matters, even when the mind has long forgotten.” Highly recommend.
October 25, 2019
I really wanted to love this book - I loved reading "The Single Ladies of the Jacaranda Retirement Village" but unfortunately, I couldn't finish this book. It was just too sad & concerning. An old lady who was obviously suffering from dementia wandering around a cruise liner on her own??? & from the half of the book I did read, something had obviously happened to her husband (died?) and no-one would tell her where he was? I apologise if that isn't how the book turned out but I hated reading this little old lady being on her own & confused & couldn't read the rest.
October 8, 2019
This delightful book is a MUST read. Put everything down including the book you are reading now and pick up this book right NOW!! It's such an enchanting, wonderful and endearing book.
Joanna Nell cleverly and beautifully intertwines the present and past stories of our main character Evelyn with humour, reverence and a touch of sassiness. I absolutely adored this book. It is one of my all time favourite books.
Joanna Nell cleverly and beautifully intertwines the present and past stories of our main character Evelyn with humour, reverence and a touch of sassiness. I absolutely adored this book. It is one of my all time favourite books.
October 13, 2019
A beautifully written story about Evelyn and her confused aging mind in search of her ship doctor husband Henry.
It’s sad, terryfying, uplifting, funny and beautiful. Joanna Nell is an expert in building characters in her stories that are endearing and get under your skin from page one. She did it in The Single Ladies in Jacaranda Retirement Village, and has mastered it wonderfully again in The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker.
It’s sad, terryfying, uplifting, funny and beautiful. Joanna Nell is an expert in building characters in her stories that are endearing and get under your skin from page one. She did it in The Single Ladies in Jacaranda Retirement Village, and has mastered it wonderfully again in The Last Voyage of Mrs Henry Parker.
December 10, 2019
Another very entertaining book by Joanna Nell. This one set on a cruise ship, which was particularly apt reading for me during a recent cruise :-) This is a story of growing old, confused, memories and trying to keep hold of them! All done with great humour and compassion, I really enjoyed it.
January 25, 2021
Mrs Henry Parker is on a cruise but can’t find her husband, we get snippets of her confused present and memories of her past as the wife of a doctor and life on a cruise ship. I really loved this one.
Fans of Elizabeth is Missing and Three things about Elsie will adore this one!
Fans of Elizabeth is Missing and Three things about Elsie will adore this one!
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