All We Dream

by Pamela Cook

All We Dream is a revised edition of Essie's Way

A forgotten necklace. A family secret. Two women hiding from the truth.

When successful Sydney lawyer Miranda McIntyre searches for something old to go with her wedding dress, she remembers an antique necklace from her childhood. Her mother's denial of its existence only deepens Miranda's curiosity but the discovery of a faded wedding photo and an old newspaper clipping reveal long-buried family secrets.

Who is the woman in the photo? And why are these keepsakes hidden in her mother's closet?

Miranda's quest for the truth takes her on a road trip south to the idyllic seaside village of Pelican Point where she stumbles upon a secluded cliff-top cottage and the reclusive Esther Wilson. As Miranda begins to unravel the mystery, a tale of daring rescue, forbidden love and shocking betrayal unfolds.

Meeting enigmatic horse trainer Vincent Kennedy forces Miranda to question the life she has worked so hard to create, throwing into turmoil everything she thought she knew about the past and about herself.



A multi-generational story of family, hope and following your heart.

Genres: Womens Fiction, Fiction, Audiobook, Australia, Contemporary

368 pages, Paperback

First published November 26, 2013

About the author

Pamela Cook is the author of five page-turning women’s fiction novels. Her stories feature flawed but strong women, tangled family relationships and deal with the complications of life. Her most recent novel, Cross My Heart (September 2019) is a haunting story of friendship, guilt and redemption set in the beautiful central west of New South Wales. Pamela's previous novels are Blackwattle Lake (2012) Essie’s Way (2013), Close To Home (2015) and The Crossroads (2016). Pamela is the co-host of the exciting new podcasts Writes4Women and Writes4Festivals, and is proud to be a Writer Ambassador for Room To Read, a not-for-profit organisation that promotes literacy and gender equality in developing countries. When she’s not writing, reading or podcasting she wastes as much time as possible riding her handsome quarter horses, Morocco and Rio.


She loves to connect with readers both in person and online:

www.pamelacook.com.au
www.facebook.com/PamelaCookAuthor
www.writes4women.com
Twitter @PamelaCookAU
Instagram @pamelacookwrites and @w4wpodcast

Reviews

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holding back tears whilst trying on her wedding dress Miranda McIntyre knew her mother wouldn't turn up to the fitting and this wasn't the first time and there was always an excuse and this time it was because she'd missed her train. Meeting up with her mother for a bite to eat after the fitting her mother eventually asks about the wedding plans which surprises, Miranda as she has shown very little interest so far. Her mother asks her if she'll be having something old, something new which triggers an image from her childhood. Miranda asks her mother about a pearl necklace, an old one with a stone in it like an amethyst. Immediately Kathleen turns pale and her whole attitude changes. Within minutes Kathleen gets up and promptly leaves, leaving Miranda a little confused.

Over the following weekend whilst James is on a boys weekend, Miranda decides to pop over to her parents house and see if she can find the necklace. After her mother's reaction the other day, Miranda knew something wasn't right and she had to set her mind at rest. Miranda felt bad for snooping, but she had a key so it wasn't like she was breaking in. Her parents lived not that far out from her and James in the suburb of Oatley in the south of Sydney. After looking through drawers and the wardrobe, Miranda finally finds what she is looking for. The necklace is in a little box with a folded piece of newspaper which contained a small photograph of a woman in a lace wedding dress. The newspaper clipping was on an article about a local girl named Esther Wilson, who rescued a lone survivor of a boat that sunk in a storm off the coast of Pelican Point. But what was this doing in her mother's possession and who was this woman?

Miranda's curiosity gets the better of her and she decides to take a bit of time out for herself and heads to Pelican Point. She knows it's a long shot, but she really wants to try and find out more about the woman in the newspaper article. But will Miranda find the answers she is looking for or will the woman and the history of the necklace stay a secret.

What a marvelously written story by Aussie author Pamela Cook. This story had me hooked right from the beginning and as I neared closer to the end, I really didn't want it to end. A heartwarming and intriguing story of love, family and history that I absolutely LOVED. HIGHLY recommended.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miranda McIntyre met up with her mother after her wedding dress fitting and as they ate lunch in the QVB (Queen Victoria Building) in Sydney’s CBD, Miranda approached the subject of an antique necklace which she remembered from her childhood. She was sure it would go with her wedding dress. But her mother denied knowing anything about it, leaving Miranda shocked at her abrupt departure. Investigating further – curiosity had her desperate to find out more – she discovered a newspaper article and a faded black and white photo which were hidden in her mother’s wardrobe.

Unsettled and edgy, Miranda took a week off from work, and with James’ blessing, headed south from Sydney to an idyllic coastal town called Pelican Point where she wondered if she might solve some of her family’s long-held secrets. Her meeting with the elderly, reclusive and testy Esther Wilson was the beginning of a cavalcade of knowledge which made Miranda question everything about her life; everything which had been familiar to her for so long.

All We Dream is a re-do of the 2013 publication of Essie’s Way, with extensive revision and more scenes, mainly toward the end. Aussie author Pamela Cook has been a long time favourite writer and although I’d read Essie’s Way many years ago, I wanted to read All We Dream – I wasn’t disappointed. It's like a new novel, all over again. Set in two time frames, both were done exceptionally well. There was heartbreak, forgiveness, love and hope – but mostly it showed how following your heart and not doing what everyone says you should, is the way to go. An excellent read, All We Dream is one I recommend highly, and I have to mention the fabulous cover - it works well with the story.

With thanks to the author for my digital ARC which I won.

[Brooke - Brooke's Reading Life · Rating 4 out of 5]

*www.onewomansbbr.wordpress.com
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr

**4.5 stars**

All We Dream by Pamela Cook. (2021).
(A revised and retitled edition of Essie's Way, published 2013).

**Thank you to the author for getting in contact and sending me a free copy of this novel, I am very appreciative**

When successful Sydney lawyer Miranda searches for something old to go with her wedding dress, she remembers an antique necklace from her childhood. Her mother's denial of its existence only deepens Miranda's curiosity but the discovery of a faded wedding photo and an old newspaper clipping reveal long-buried family secrets. Who is the woman and why has her mother hidden these keepsakes? Miranda's quest for truth takes her to Pelican Point and the reclusive Esther. As Miranda begins to unravel the mystery, a tale of daring rescue, forbidden love and shocking betrayal unfolds. Meeting enigmatic horse trainer Vincent also forces Miranda to question her life and throws everything into turmoil.

I really, really enjoyed this novel. I haven't read the original edition so can't compare but I can say that I think a lot of readers would love this one. Miranda is our lead character, and I thought it was believable and realistic that all of a sudden she has found that the things she thought she wanted in life, are not in fact making her truly happy. Reading of her desire to have a 'normal' relationship with her mum was quite moving, and it was easy at first to dislike her mother Kathleen a bit, but when we later find out what Kathleen has been through her nature is understandable. Esther was a cracker of a woman; independent, fiery, stubborn, blunt, intelligent and feisty. The chapters which were Esther's (aka Essie) diary entries were where we learnt her story and how she came to be living alone in a downtrodden cottage on a cliff-top. The diary entries were my favourite part, Essie's story was just so heartbreaking. I really loved the ending of this one, it felt perfect.
Overall: an excellent Australian domestic drama that explores following your heart in things that matter. Highly recommend!

[Dale Harcombe · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story opens with a descriptive prologue detailing a dream of a dramatic sea rescue at Pelican Point. But it ends up being more than a dream. Then the story flips to Sydney where Miranda McIntyre is trying on her wedding gown. A successful lawyer, Miranda things she has everything organised. Then why does she have this nagging feeling that something is not right? She also remembers an antique necklace she saw once as a child. It would go beautifully with her wedding dress. But her mother denies knowledge of any such piece of jewellery.
Not convinced, Miranda seeks to find out more. The reader just knows that somehow that necklace will be the link between the current story and the story from long before Miranda was born. Could the original owner of the necklace and Esther Wilson, who had the sea rescue dream, be her grandmother? If so, why would her mother deny all knowledge of the necklace and its original owner?
Miranda decides to take time off from work to ravel to Pelican Point on the South Coast of NSW, to find out more. At Pelican Point Miranda finds a lot more than she expected.
I loved the descriptions of the coastal area and the seaside town of Pelican Point and also descriptions of Sydney and the Queen Victoria Building. Miranda, Esther (Essie), Samuel, Leonard, Vincent and people of the township are all well drawn. Encompassing mystery, romance, family and social attitudes, this novel had me wanting to keep reading when I should have been doing other things and to get back to it as soon as I had a chance. A well told story that thoroughly involved me, I recommend this great read with its beautiful Aussie setting.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miranda McIntyre found her stomach in knots when she was trying on her wedding dress for the dressmaker to finalise; only seven weeks until her and James were married – she was sure it was just nerves; wasn’t it? When she met up with her mother afterwards (she was supposed to be there but had missed the train) they lunched at a café in the Queen Victoria Building in Sydney. Miranda loved the building – the gorgeous lines of it, the peace she always felt when she ventured inside. But it wasn’t peace she felt with her mother Kathleen – she always felt she was treading on eggshells, watching everything she said. The explosion when Miranda mentioned the long forgotten antique necklace she had seen briefly as a child was completely unexpected. She had thought it would look perfect with her wedding dress – what on earth was her mother hiding?

After finding some long hidden information that had her interest peaked even more, Miranda decided to discover the truth for herself. The grandmother that her mother wouldn’t talk about – the family that was lost to her; she wanted to know more. She needed to know more…

Taking a week off work and with James’ blessing, Miranda headed down the South Coast of NSW to a little place called Pelican Point. Immediately she felt more relaxed; freer; under less stress and pressure – again, she decided it must only be nerves about her upcoming wedding – the road trip would be good for her. And if she could find out more information about the lady in the faded photograph, it would be an added bonus.

Pelican Point was a sleepy little town with not much to see or do – perfect! But as Miranda started poking around and asking questions, the answers she was receiving only gave her more questions. The beauty of the beach, the whiteness of the sand – but what was hidden behind the animosity of some of the locals? Determined to discover more, Miranda was nevertheless shocked at what happened. Would she solve the family mystery? Would she find some peace?

I absolutely loved Essie’s Way by Aussie author Pamela Cook. I previously read Blackwattle Lake , her debut, and loved it as well. So I’ll definitely be looking out for her third book. The suspense and mystery in Essie’s Way was outstanding; the plot was executed well. It was a great story of family, hidden secrets that can affect many lives and the love that brings families together again. I have no hesitation in recommending Essie’s Way highly.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Essie's Way is about family, secrets, and love. When Miranda McIntyre needs something old for her wedding, she remembers an antique necklace that belongs to her family. However, her mother did not have any knowledge of the jewellery. Miranda McIntryre wanted the truth, so she decided to investigate by going on a road trip. The readers of Essie's Way will continue to follow Miranda McIntryre to find out if she finds the necklace.

Essie's Way is another excellent book by Pamela Cook that engaged me from the first page. I love the portrayal of the characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. I like the way Pamela Cook described the settings of this book and the way it complemented the plot of this book. Essie's Way is well written and researched by Pamela Cook. The way Pamela Cook incorporated the historical story in the plot done excellently by Pamela.

The readers of Essie's Way will learn about another way of family violence that can affect families and communities. The readers of Essie's Way will learn about living in a small coastal town.

I recommend this book.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story, so many emotions flowing through the pages, two woman who have had their lives turned upside down. Can they now find each other, can they open up and get answers? Miranda McIntyre remembers a memory about a necklace from when she was a child and now with her wedding approaching she would like to wear it but her mother is distraught when the question is asked. Will Miranda uncover the truth from the past?

Miranda is a lawyer in Sydney her world is all set to what she has always wanted, she is engaged to be married she has the job she always wanted, but there is something pulling her back, she is on edge and remembering the necklace opens a up a can of worms when she discovers not only the necklace but a wedding photo and a newspaper clipping and Miranda needs to find answers, maybe a trip to Pelican Point on the South Coast of NSW will give her the answers she needs.

Miranda takes a walk on the beach in Pelican Point and discovers a woman, Esther Wilson injured, she is cantankerous and in pain, getting her to her beachside shack is not easy but they get there and Miranda stays to help her and starts to unravel a mystery that is years old with daring rescues, secret loves and a shocking betrayal. Miranda is wary of opening up to Esther as her health worsens.

Miranda meets a local on the beach Vincent Kennedy who apparently is one of the only people in town who is close to Esther, he also works for Esther’s nephew who would like to see Esther move out, but when Esther really needs help Vincent and Miranda get her to the hospital and Miranda discovers a lot of truths from the past and lot of what Miranda should do with her future.

This is a beautifully written story about families and the secrets that hurt and change people’s lives. Dreams play a big part in this story, nighttime dreams and dreams for the future, this is a poignant and touching story that bought three generations of woman together when they should never have been pulled apart. A fabulous read and one that I highly recommend.

This is an updated version of Essie’s Way published in 2013, which was one I hadn’t read and devoured this one savouring every word, Pamela Cook has never disappointed me with one of her stories.

Thank you to the author Pamela Cook for my digital copy to read and review

[Craig and Phil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Pamela for sending us a copy to read and review.
Previously published in 2013 and a little tweak here and there we have a updated version and a new title.
I have to be honest, my memory of the story of Essie’s Way is somewhat faded and while I remember I really enjoyed it, going into All We Dream was like new territory and what a wonderful experience I had.
Lawyer Miranda McIntyre is about to be married.
The traditional rhyme that details what a bride should wear for her wedding and good luck, gets Miranda thinking.
She remembers an antique necklace her mother owns and thinks it would be perfect.
Kathleen, Miranda’s mother, denies its existence when asked to borrow the jewellery.
But Miranda is convinced it’s very much real and in the possession of her mother.
When a opportunity to search the family home happens, Miranda’s curiosity gets the better of her and begins the task.
She soon finds it, as well as a photo and newspaper article revealing a past secret.
Miranda then begins a search for the truth and ends up in Pelican Point and finding an isolated cottage and it’s owner, the mysterious Esther Wilson.
As the truth comes out, all the women learn more about themselves and each other.
A magnificently written and heartfelt story of family, love and hidden secrets that beautifully captures rural and coastal Aussie life.
Well crafted and compelling this tale will have you totally wrapped up in the drama and suspense, not letting go until you have turned that final page.
Pamela has the natural ability to whisk you away, give you word magic and awake your senses.
Characters that are written so realistic, they will magically appear in front of your eyes.
A truly mesmerising and enchanting story.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this storyline. Loved Essie's character and the unfolding of her life's story - lifetime love and tragedy.

There is always two sides to a story and the truth may not always be what you've been led to believe!

[Sue Gerhardt Griffiths · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fabulous novel! It had me glued to my seat from start to finish. This book had everything I wanted in a story - mystery, suspense, drama and just a touch of romance - perfect!
Looking forward to reading many more Pamela Cook novels.

[Theresa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this novel, All We Dream, and I think it would make a terrific book club choice. There’s a lot to unpack, both about the characters and the themes, that would provide ample fodder for a robust discussion. I enjoyed the stories of both of the main characters, but I was particularly moved by Esther’s backstory. The injustice that Esther was subjected to, whilst in the grips of unsupported grief, was abhorrent. It chills me to think that wives were at the mercy of their husbands so completely, that they could be rendered mute in such a fashion; and not all that far in the past, either.

Miranda’s journey, both the physical and the metaphorical, was one I enjoyed embarking on. There was much I could relate to here and I found myself deeply invested in her happiness. Pamela Cook knows how to craft her stories well, optimising the suspense and maximising the emotional impact. Her strong feminist themes of owning your own life and living on your own terms appeal to me greatly, as does the way in which she weaves important issues unique to women into her narrative.

With its engaging characters, compelling family mystery, and emotionally charged storyline that seamlessly blends the past with the present, All We Dream is a novel to treasure from an author who offers the best when it comes to Australian storytelling.

Thanks is extended to the author for providing me with a copy of All We Dream for review.

[Laura Boon]

Three generations of women search for identity, trust, love and family connection in a story that moves between WWII and the present. Successful Sydney lawyer Miranda McIntyre is getting cold feet about her wedding, but she puts it down to bridal nerves. As the day draws nearer, she remembers a necklace of her mother’s that would be perfect; except that her mother denies it’s very existence and retreats into tantrums and icy silence when Miranda tries to bring it up. Hunting for the necklace and it origins help keep Miranda from making a decision about the wedding and lead her to the small coastal town of Pelican Point. Could Esther Williams be the grandmother she was told was dead? Why are she and her mother estranged? And what does her attraction to the enigmatic Vincent Kennedy mean for her upcoming nuptials? In the search for answers, Miranda finds it is impossible to move forward without acknowledging the influence of her family's past.

[Leanne Lovegrove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh, this story is simply beautiful, I adored it

[Jodie Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This book will have you hooked from start to finish. Following the lives of Esther and Miranda and all the things that they both go through will have you turning the pages into the wee hours to find out what happens. Pamela Cook is an amazing story teller. A must read for all.

[Clare Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the idea of this book, so when a call was made for ARC readers I immediately put my hand up, and I am happy to say I was not disappointed. A wedding, family secrets and told from two characters perspectives, it had everything I look for in a book.

The two storylines of Miranda and Esther are beautifully and seamlessly woven together and move the story along in an engaging manner. I did find I could not put the book down towards the end as I needed to find out how it would end! This is the first Pamela Cook book I have read and it won't be the last. Pamela has a beautiful turn of phrase that makes you feel as if you're on that beach with the characters, you can smell the sea air. A lovely and easy read, highly recommend.

[Tanya Nellestein · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book distracted me from all the things I should have been doing and kept me up well into the small hours. Beautifully written - I was transported to Pelican Point. An emotional roller coaster. Tissues were required.

[Anna Loder · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great novel, I couldn’t see how it could be improved upon, but it has!!! It’s perfect The love, adventure, self realisation, family connection and the antique necklace 😌

[Amanda - Mrs B's Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stunningly beautiful novel that perfectly captures rural Australian life. Essie’s Way is the story of Miranda, a bride to be, searching for the perfect accompaniment to go with her dress for her upcoming wedding. This leads her to her Mother’s house, whereby she discovers a mysterious necklace, a newspaper clipping and an old photograph of a woman who looks very similar to her. Miranda begins to question if this is the Grandmother she thought never existed. This leads Miranda on a path to uncovering the truth behind the family mystery and learning more about her herself along the way, all before her wedding takes place.
This novel explores so much, love, heartache, tragedy, mystery, told through the eyes of two strong and likeable lead characters. The plot is paced in such a way that it enthralled me throughout, while also keeping me on my toes with the unexpected twists to the story. The story switches between two contrasting Australian settings, cityscape Sydney and the rural Australian coast, a little place called Pelican Point, both described in vivid detail. Upon completing my reading, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the book was actually inspired by true historical events off the coast of Western Australia. It certainly made up for not wanting this lovely novel to end. I look forward to reading Pamela Cook’s previous novel Blackwattle Lake and eagerly anticipate her future novels.

[Janine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what a great story - a multi generational story about families lost and found. Miranda is engaged to be married and chasing a partnership at her legal firm. She appears to have it all, but nagging doubts that start with a bit of blood on her wedding dress at a fitting and her mother’s continuing health issues and moodiness lead her to take time away to think things out. She comes across some photos and clippings and a beautiful necklace in her mother’s bedroom and this sets her on a mission to find out more about her family.

She meets an elderly lady who is injured on the beach and she helps her get back to her home and cares for her as her injuries worsen.

This begins a journey of discovery including diaries, a handsome man, a dog and what is important in her life.

I devoured this book in 2 days and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading about female friendship and relationships.

[Kathie Muir · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the moment I turned the first page of Essie's Way by Pamela Cook I was hooked! I loved all of the characters - Miranda is so strong and determined to find out answers to her questions and her mother Claire is very stubborn in giving her the answers that she so badly needs to hear! I have to say that I stopped reading for a day because I didn't want it to end! Pamela writes in a way that makes you feel you are truly part of this wonderful story of a family that is hiding something? Pamela's descriptions of the Australian landscape are breathtaking. When will we see the next novel - cannot wait!

[Joanna Nell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pamela Cook is an author who pays great attention to the craft of writing and it shows in this sensitive and stylish reiteration of her earlier work Essie’s Way. I sailed through the pages. The story flowed so effortlessly that I was torn between savouring the beautiful prose and racing forward to keep up with the plot. Both Miranda and Esther were each well rounded characters in their own right, as was the backdrop of the NSW South Coast which was vividly drawn. So many strands and elements woven through this novel – romance, intrigue, mystery, secrets – but the plot never feels over-crowded or forced. Highly recommend.

[Jenn J McLeod · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 'Cook' has been carefully preparing her literary treats for years, and with All We Dream she has served up a very satisfying read that leaves readers wanting more stories. This book IS a revised edition of an earlier title (Essie's Way) and I did love it the first time around. I loved it even more this time.

[Claudine Tinellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautiful book that had me hooked from its opening paragraph. A multi-generational tale, Pamela expertly weaves the contemporary and historical narratives to create a rich and fascinating story. One the one hand, there's Miranda. A successful city lawyer who is unsure about her future. On the other, reclusive Esther, who suffered a terrible betrayal many years earlier. How do their stories intersect and what will the future hold for them both? "All We Dream" explores a number of fascinating themes - including forbidden love, women's equality and self-determination, motherhood, family and racism. A thoughtful, intelligent and heartwarming read. Highly recommended.

[Rachel Stienberg]

Review to come March 1.

[Susan Mackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put it down, loved Esther, Miranda and Vincent. Did not want it to end. A triumph, Ms Cook!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an emotional, but inspiring read.

[Michelle Barraclough · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love stories that encompass different generations of women, especially if there's a secret at the heart of it. All We Dream ticks all those boxes, with the added bonus of a stunning coastal setting and two beautiful love stories that tug at the heartstrings.
Essie is a feisty, passionate and talented woman who is constrained by her upbringing in the early twentieth century with it's emphasis on Victorian values including suitable activities for young women and suitable marriages. Pamela Cook weaves Essie's story of heartbreak and loss with the contemporary story of Miranda who is facing her own crisis of confidence as she prepares to walk down the aisle and continue a career that may not be fulfilling her in ways she once imagined. Then there is the mystery of her mother Kathleen, whose past threatens everything Miranda thought she knew about her family.
As always with Pamela Cook's novels, from the very first word you know you're in the hands of a talented and capable storyteller. All We Dream is an evocative, moving story with an ending that will have you reaching for the tissues.

[Carrie Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I had picked up this book I could not put it down! Having enjoyed Pamela Cook’s debut novel "Blackwattle Lake", I expected another pleasing story about life in rural Australia. "Essie’s Way" certainly surpassed any of my expectations! Family, love, tragedy, history, mystery and suspense. It had it all!
As the setting shifts between Sydney and the quaint coastal hamlet of Pelican Point, Miranda McIntyre takes us on a journey in search of answers to her family mystery. Along the way we discover that all is not what it seems and that there is often more than one side to a story. Woven beautifully into this tale of lifetime love, family heartache and the uncertainty of a life ahead, is an historical intrigue inspired by a true story.
It was most definitely a captivating read. Pamela writes in such a way that you really feel as though you are inside the story: sharing the journeys, feeling the pain, the passion, the joy and the grief with her characters. As her main character Miranda heads off in search of answers, in search of family and in search of herself, I was with her every step of the way!
Pamela’s powerful descriptive language of the Australian landscape, her down to earth characters and her passionate portrayal of horses all add to the cleverly constructed plot that maintains your interest until the very last page. Essie’s Way is a fantastic story of family, love and following your heart. I cannot recommend this book enough and I cannot wait for Pamela Cook to write her next novel!

[Mercedes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a revised version of Cook’s 2013 novel, Essie’s Way, and while I never read that version, I absolutely loved this one! Beautiful characters and a sublime plot that bridges modern times with the 1940s through one family.

The story follows Sydney lawyer Miranda McIntyre 10 weeks out from her wedding. On the hunt for her “something old” she recalls an antique necklace belonging to the family but her mother claims it never existed. Digging into her family history, Miranda visits the south coast town of Pelican Point and meets cantankerous recluse Esther Wilson who may hold the key to the long-buried family secret.

The story flows so beautifully, pulling in the 1940s timeline through discovered diary entries. A heart-warming and charming story that leaves you feeling warm and gooey.

A must-read for anyone intrigued by those family skeletons that linger in so many families.

[Tam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novel was recommended to me by a friend. I struggled to get through it, and almost gave up after the first two chapters. There wasn't any substance to the novel. It wasn't for me.