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The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay
England, 1919: Rose and Ivy board a ship bound for Australia.
One is travelling there to marry a man she has never met.
One is destined never to arrive.
Australia, 2016: Amongst her late-grandmother's possessions, Molly uncovers a photograph of two girls dressed in First World War nurses' uniforms, labelled 'Rose and Ivy 1917', and a letter from her grandmother, asking her to find out what happened to her own mother, Rose, who disappeared in the 1960s.
Compelled to carry out her grandmother's last wish, Molly embarks on a journey to England to unravel the mystery of the two girls whose photograph promised they'd be 'together forever' . . .
One is travelling there to marry a man she has never met.
One is destined never to arrive.
Australia, 2016: Amongst her late-grandmother's possessions, Molly uncovers a photograph of two girls dressed in First World War nurses' uniforms, labelled 'Rose and Ivy 1917', and a letter from her grandmother, asking her to find out what happened to her own mother, Rose, who disappeared in the 1960s.
Compelled to carry out her grandmother's last wish, Molly embarks on a journey to England to unravel the mystery of the two girls whose photograph promised they'd be 'together forever' . . .
400 pages, Hardcover
First published September 16, 2021
113 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
January 9, 2022
Rose Luscombe and Ivy Toms were best friends, but their friendship couldn’t last. Although children, Rose came from money while Ivy’s family were poor. When they joined the war effort as nurses in 1917, Ivy still felt inferior. But Rose met someone who would direct her future and Ivy also had someone special. But immediately secrets were kept. It was when shocking news was given to both Rose and Ivy that the plan was made for Rose to travel to Australia to marry a man she had only communicated with by letter. Ivy would go with Rose on the SS Osprey from England…
When Molly was going through her late grandmother’s possessions, she came across a photo of two young women in nursing uniform with ‘Together Forever’ on the back. She also found a letter from her Nan, begging Molly to continue the search Nan had been doing to find Rose. Rose had drowned off Bridgewater Bay in 1963 and while everyone said it was suicide, Nan never believed she was gone. Molly took time off from her teaching position and headed for England to the Luscombe property to do some research. But what would she find? It was a long time ago and with only one descendent of the Luscombe family remaining, she had little confidence in her success.
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is a dual timeline historical novel by Julie Brooks (aka Carol Jones) which I thoroughly enjoyed. Intriguing, captivating and filled with secrets and twists, I enjoyed the characters (though I wasn’t too fond of Rose) throughout the two timeframes. I loved the mischievous Richard, the old man filled with humour and trickery. Molly was also fiercely determined to find the answers she sought. I must say how much I love this cover too :) Highly recommended.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When Molly was going through her late grandmother’s possessions, she came across a photo of two young women in nursing uniform with ‘Together Forever’ on the back. She also found a letter from her Nan, begging Molly to continue the search Nan had been doing to find Rose. Rose had drowned off Bridgewater Bay in 1963 and while everyone said it was suicide, Nan never believed she was gone. Molly took time off from her teaching position and headed for England to the Luscombe property to do some research. But what would she find? It was a long time ago and with only one descendent of the Luscombe family remaining, she had little confidence in her success.
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is a dual timeline historical novel by Julie Brooks (aka Carol Jones) which I thoroughly enjoyed. Intriguing, captivating and filled with secrets and twists, I enjoyed the characters (though I wasn’t too fond of Rose) throughout the two timeframes. I loved the mischievous Richard, the old man filled with humour and trickery. Molly was also fiercely determined to find the answers she sought. I must say how much I love this cover too :) Highly recommended.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2022
A duel time line story set in World War 1 England and Australia now, this is a page turner of a story as old family secrets are uncovered, we get to know Rose Luscombe and Ivy Toms as their lives entwine then there is Molly Wilson young Aussie school teacher who uncovers the truth about the past and finds herself and happiness on the journey. This is a story I thoroughly enjoyed, Julie Brooks has ticked all boxes for this story and had my mind going in many directions.
Molly is going through her late grandmothers things when she finds a letter addressed to her, a request to continue searching to find answers as to what happened to her great grandmother Rose Turner who went missing in the ocean in 1963. She has a photo of two young woman in their VAD uniforms labelled Rose and Ivy 1917, together forever. The historian in Molly comes to the surface and she makes a trip to England to uncover what she can.
Rose and Ivy are born one year apart on the Luscombe estate one born into the family one more to a family that works on the farm but as little girls they become friends and form a bond that should have lasted forever but life changes for these girls as they are from such different worlds, World War 1 is here and Ivy is now Rose’s maid, they become nurses and Rose decides that moving to Australia and marrying a man she has not met is the best thing for her, after her world is turned upside down with a revelation. So Ivy is sent along as her maid and companion for the trip, two woman leave England only one arrives in Australia.
When Molly arrives at the Luscombe estate she meets Richard Luscombe who is getting on in years now but has a lot of information and when he asks Molly to help archive the old paperwork Molly finds a lot of answers and more questions about Rose and Ivy and Molly is determined to get the answers and find out the truth.
This story had me invested from the start, so many fabulous characters that come to life on the pages, I felt transported back in time with Rose and Ivy and I loved uncovering the secrets and answers that Molly finds. My feelings throughout the story changed a few times with how I felt about the people in the story sometimes I was cheering them on and then not so happy with them and in my opinion that is the sign of a great story if I am so truly invested.
This is a story that I would highly recommend, come along for the journey and meet Rose, Ivy and Robert and Molly, Richard and Lucas who finally helps Molly put her past behind her and find happiness.
My thanks to Hachette Au for my copy to read and review
Molly is going through her late grandmothers things when she finds a letter addressed to her, a request to continue searching to find answers as to what happened to her great grandmother Rose Turner who went missing in the ocean in 1963. She has a photo of two young woman in their VAD uniforms labelled Rose and Ivy 1917, together forever. The historian in Molly comes to the surface and she makes a trip to England to uncover what she can.
Rose and Ivy are born one year apart on the Luscombe estate one born into the family one more to a family that works on the farm but as little girls they become friends and form a bond that should have lasted forever but life changes for these girls as they are from such different worlds, World War 1 is here and Ivy is now Rose’s maid, they become nurses and Rose decides that moving to Australia and marrying a man she has not met is the best thing for her, after her world is turned upside down with a revelation. So Ivy is sent along as her maid and companion for the trip, two woman leave England only one arrives in Australia.
When Molly arrives at the Luscombe estate she meets Richard Luscombe who is getting on in years now but has a lot of information and when he asks Molly to help archive the old paperwork Molly finds a lot of answers and more questions about Rose and Ivy and Molly is determined to get the answers and find out the truth.
This story had me invested from the start, so many fabulous characters that come to life on the pages, I felt transported back in time with Rose and Ivy and I loved uncovering the secrets and answers that Molly finds. My feelings throughout the story changed a few times with how I felt about the people in the story sometimes I was cheering them on and then not so happy with them and in my opinion that is the sign of a great story if I am so truly invested.
This is a story that I would highly recommend, come along for the journey and meet Rose, Ivy and Robert and Molly, Richard and Lucas who finally helps Molly put her past behind her and find happiness.
My thanks to Hachette Au for my copy to read and review
January 1, 2022
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay by Julie Brooks is a beautifully written dual timeline family drama. Historical fiction lovers will enjoy discovering the secrets in this novel about two young girls Rose and Ivy who set off on a ship bound for Australia in 1919.
Which girl will marry a man she’s never met before and which other will never reach her destination?
Australia 2016 - Amongst her late grandmothers posessions Molly unearths a photo of two girls dressed in World War I nurse uniforms (1917) and a letter from her late grandmother wanting Molly to find out what happened to her own mother, Rose who disappeared.
Molly being a historian sets out to find out more about her great-grandmother’s disappearance and travels to England to begin her search.
The further I read the more invested I became in the mystery of Rose and Ivy, I thought I had worked it all out but the main twist really surprised me. The characters were well thought out, I found their stories fascinating! There was also a touch of darkness to this tale. An intriguing read!
Thank you so much Hachette Australia for the review copy
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay by Julie Brooks is a beautifully written dual timeline family drama. Historical fiction lovers will enjoy discovering the secrets in this novel about two young girls Rose and Ivy who set off on a ship bound for Australia in 1919.
Which girl will marry a man she’s never met before and which other will never reach her destination?
Australia 2016 - Amongst her late grandmothers posessions Molly unearths a photo of two girls dressed in World War I nurse uniforms (1917) and a letter from her late grandmother wanting Molly to find out what happened to her own mother, Rose who disappeared.
Molly being a historian sets out to find out more about her great-grandmother’s disappearance and travels to England to begin her search.
The further I read the more invested I became in the mystery of Rose and Ivy, I thought I had worked it all out but the main twist really surprised me. The characters were well thought out, I found their stories fascinating! There was also a touch of darkness to this tale. An intriguing read!
Thank you so much Hachette Australia for the review copy
April 26, 2022
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**3.5 stars**
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay by Julie Brooks. (2021).
England, 1919. Rose and Ivy board a ship bound for Australia. One is traveling to marry a man she has never met. One is destined never to arrive. Australia, 2016. Amongst her late-grandmother's possessions, Molly uncovers a photo of two girls labeled 'Rose and Ivy, 1917', and a letter from her grandmother asking her to find out what happened to her own mother, Rose, who disappeared in the 1960s. Molly embarks on a journey to England to unravel the mystery of the two girls whose photo promised they'd be 'together forever'.
I have no doubt many readers will enjoy this dual timeline full of secrets which is evidenced by the many high reviews it is receiving. For myself, I picked a few of the big twists quite early on and I feel that lessened my enjoyment slightly. In terms of characters, although I was interested by the historical fiction aspects, I ended up preferring Molly's timeline as I found myself disliking both Rose and Ivy the more I read. The historical storyline is full of jealousy and resentment, with the contemporary storyline being more about Molly emotionally healing and unraveling family secrets.
Overall: I would recommend this novel for those readers that enjoy dual timeline fiction; it is highly rated and I liked it despite my small criticisms.
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**3.5 stars**
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay by Julie Brooks. (2021).
England, 1919. Rose and Ivy board a ship bound for Australia. One is traveling to marry a man she has never met. One is destined never to arrive. Australia, 2016. Amongst her late-grandmother's possessions, Molly uncovers a photo of two girls labeled 'Rose and Ivy, 1917', and a letter from her grandmother asking her to find out what happened to her own mother, Rose, who disappeared in the 1960s. Molly embarks on a journey to England to unravel the mystery of the two girls whose photo promised they'd be 'together forever'.
I have no doubt many readers will enjoy this dual timeline full of secrets which is evidenced by the many high reviews it is receiving. For myself, I picked a few of the big twists quite early on and I feel that lessened my enjoyment slightly. In terms of characters, although I was interested by the historical fiction aspects, I ended up preferring Molly's timeline as I found myself disliking both Rose and Ivy the more I read. The historical storyline is full of jealousy and resentment, with the contemporary storyline being more about Molly emotionally healing and unraveling family secrets.
Overall: I would recommend this novel for those readers that enjoy dual timeline fiction; it is highly rated and I liked it despite my small criticisms.
February 6, 2022
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
In a stunning dual timeline rendition, The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is the first historical fiction novel from Julie Brooks. The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is a story of secrets, friendship bonds, childhood, love, travel and change. A moving read and a strong historical fiction composition, I enjoyed this novel very much.
Set in the years 2016 and 2019, The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay unfurls the incredible secret journey of two women, who set sail on a ship destined for Australia. When one survives and the other never sets foot on Australia’s shores, the impact of this set of circumstances will be felt for generations to come. In the year 2016 we meet Molly, a woman who discovers a photograph of two girls in nursing attire in her late grandmother’s belongings. The snap is clearly from the First World War period and Molly can only assume her grandmother was one of the nurses in the picture. A letter linking to a family disappearance in the 1960s is also found. Molly is compelled to try and find out more about the two girls in the wartime photograph. As a result Molly follows her grandmother’s final wishes, to travel to England to settle the ghosts of the past. What will Molly uncover?
A new face to my 2022 reading radar, it was nice to be introduced to Brisbane born author Julie Brooks. I really took a liking to Julie Brooks’ first adult historical fiction release and I look forward to reading more work from this author in the future. I had a strong feeling that I was going to love The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay. I am a dual narrative junkie so this one completely matched my reading preferences. The cover was a bonus too, it took my breath away!
Julie Brooks successfully moves the reader to her past Great War based storyline thanks to her delivery of her narrative situated in the tumultuous First World War period. With plenty of descriptive passages devoted to life during this time, with a specific focus on class and the world of a servant versus the upper class, I really warmed to this branch of the novel. It is clear that Julie Brooks has undertaken a huge amount of research into this area. Julie Brooks’ website is a treasure trove of historical research. I highly recommend you visit this site to further enhance your reading experience of The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay. Brooks’ devotion and commitment to her historical footing shines through the text. From common wartime practices, feelings, emotions, social rules, moral codes, expectations and behaviour of this time outlined, Julie Brooks has produced a thoroughly engaging wartime period novel.
Friendships, connection, division, betrayal, jealously and protection all play a part in The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay. I was moved by the strong bonds, love, high emotion, feelings and behaviours of the characters of this story. I didn’t really have a favourite character, but I did feel that I managed to engage with all of them in some form or another. Molly’s quest in the modern-day storyline was compelling and interesting. In fact, I would have loved to have been in Molly’s shoes! It was nice to spend time with Molly, but I did feel myself yearning to come back to the historical moments of the novel. Thankfully Julie Brooks satisfied my reading requirements in this area.
With plenty of drama, romance, matters of the heart, big secrets to uncover, last wishes to settle and unmentionable things to finally air, The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay was a consuming read. I would place this one in the hands of historical fiction fans and those who love a good dual timeline style novel.
*Thanks is extended to Hachette Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
In a stunning dual timeline rendition, The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is the first historical fiction novel from Julie Brooks. The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is a story of secrets, friendship bonds, childhood, love, travel and change. A moving read and a strong historical fiction composition, I enjoyed this novel very much.
Set in the years 2016 and 2019, The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay unfurls the incredible secret journey of two women, who set sail on a ship destined for Australia. When one survives and the other never sets foot on Australia’s shores, the impact of this set of circumstances will be felt for generations to come. In the year 2016 we meet Molly, a woman who discovers a photograph of two girls in nursing attire in her late grandmother’s belongings. The snap is clearly from the First World War period and Molly can only assume her grandmother was one of the nurses in the picture. A letter linking to a family disappearance in the 1960s is also found. Molly is compelled to try and find out more about the two girls in the wartime photograph. As a result Molly follows her grandmother’s final wishes, to travel to England to settle the ghosts of the past. What will Molly uncover?
A new face to my 2022 reading radar, it was nice to be introduced to Brisbane born author Julie Brooks. I really took a liking to Julie Brooks’ first adult historical fiction release and I look forward to reading more work from this author in the future. I had a strong feeling that I was going to love The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay. I am a dual narrative junkie so this one completely matched my reading preferences. The cover was a bonus too, it took my breath away!
Julie Brooks successfully moves the reader to her past Great War based storyline thanks to her delivery of her narrative situated in the tumultuous First World War period. With plenty of descriptive passages devoted to life during this time, with a specific focus on class and the world of a servant versus the upper class, I really warmed to this branch of the novel. It is clear that Julie Brooks has undertaken a huge amount of research into this area. Julie Brooks’ website is a treasure trove of historical research. I highly recommend you visit this site to further enhance your reading experience of The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay. Brooks’ devotion and commitment to her historical footing shines through the text. From common wartime practices, feelings, emotions, social rules, moral codes, expectations and behaviour of this time outlined, Julie Brooks has produced a thoroughly engaging wartime period novel.
Friendships, connection, division, betrayal, jealously and protection all play a part in The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay. I was moved by the strong bonds, love, high emotion, feelings and behaviours of the characters of this story. I didn’t really have a favourite character, but I did feel that I managed to engage with all of them in some form or another. Molly’s quest in the modern-day storyline was compelling and interesting. In fact, I would have loved to have been in Molly’s shoes! It was nice to spend time with Molly, but I did feel myself yearning to come back to the historical moments of the novel. Thankfully Julie Brooks satisfied my reading requirements in this area.
With plenty of drama, romance, matters of the heart, big secrets to uncover, last wishes to settle and unmentionable things to finally air, The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay was a consuming read. I would place this one in the hands of historical fiction fans and those who love a good dual timeline style novel.
*Thanks is extended to Hachette Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
June 21, 2022
This was a lovely book. I loved the dual time line. The story unfurled slowly but steadily and although it dragged a little in the middle it picked up again after that and got much more interesting. The ending surprised me but, in a good way. I highly recommend this book as it will sweep you away into another era. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
March 13, 2022
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay by Julie Brooks
Synopsis /
England, 1919: Rose and Ivy board a ship bound for Australia.
One is travelling there to marry a man she has never met.
One is destined never to arrive.
Australia, 2016: Amongst her late-grandmother's possessions, Molly uncovers a photograph of two girls dressed in First World War nurses' uniforms, labelled 'Rose and Ivy 1917', and a letter from her grandmother, asking her to find out what happened to her own mother, Rose, who disappeared in the 1960s.
Compelled to carry out her grandmother's last wish, Molly embarks on a journey to England to unravel the mystery of the two girls whose photograph promised they'd be 'together forever'.
My Thoughts /
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is the author's first novel writing as Julie Brooks. Brooks (aka Carol Jones) has been a full-time author since 1999 and is the author of several young adult novels as well as children's fiction and non-fiction.
The story alternates between two timelines, past and present. The story's main thread is centred round childhood friends, Rose Luscombe and Ivy Toms. Rose is from a wealthy, privileged family; whilst Ivy's background is a lot less affluent -her family are poor and her father is often abusive. Despite their vastly different backgrounds, the girls become fast friends - Rose is craving the freedom from societal restraint, while Ivy simply wants something (anything) better than what she has. Through circumstance, Ivy comes into the employ of the Luscombe household as Rose's maid. Over a relatively short period, the girls' initial close bond begins to erode, as Rose starts to occupy the role expected of her and her social standing as a wealthy young girl in 1917. She is at pains to explain to friends and visitors alike, that Ivy is her servant and not a friend. For Ivy, this feels like a bitter betrayal and tension soon builds between them.
2016, present day Australia and Molly Wilson finds a box with a collection of her Grandmother’s mementos. Going through its contents, Molly comes across a photo of two women, each in a nursing uniform with arms around each other (‘Rose and Ivy, 1917’) and written on the back of the photograph ‘Together Forever’. Together with the photograph was a letter written by Molly's gran, in which she implored Molly to solve the mystery of Rose's disappearance. It was thought that Rose had drowned off Bridgewater Bay in 1963 - a suicide, but her Nan never believed Rose had taken her own life. Thought of as the 'family historian', Molly's interest in the mystery surrounding Rose's disappearance is piqued. Taking a leave of absence from her teaching position, Molly makes the decision to travel to England to find out more about Rose and what might have really happened to her.
Upon arriving at Luscombe estate, Molly meets its curator, Richard Luscombe, who charms his way into Molly's heart. Richard convinces Molly to stay and help catalogue the vast amount of paperwork and collectables that the estate still holds. In her quest to find out the truth about Rose, Molly only discovers more questions than answers within the walls of Luscombe estate. But the deeper Molly dives into the mystery of Rose's disappearance the more she becomes invested in the outcome.
There are a lot of themes at play here:-
— friendship;
— jealousy;
— societal divisions;
— secrets; and
— betrayal.
The story moves fairly well between timelines and the author does a good job to keep you involved revealing some surprising twists and turns in the story along the way. A well written dual timeline historical novel that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
Synopsis /
England, 1919: Rose and Ivy board a ship bound for Australia.
One is travelling there to marry a man she has never met.
One is destined never to arrive.
Australia, 2016: Amongst her late-grandmother's possessions, Molly uncovers a photograph of two girls dressed in First World War nurses' uniforms, labelled 'Rose and Ivy 1917', and a letter from her grandmother, asking her to find out what happened to her own mother, Rose, who disappeared in the 1960s.
Compelled to carry out her grandmother's last wish, Molly embarks on a journey to England to unravel the mystery of the two girls whose photograph promised they'd be 'together forever'.
My Thoughts /
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is the author's first novel writing as Julie Brooks. Brooks (aka Carol Jones) has been a full-time author since 1999 and is the author of several young adult novels as well as children's fiction and non-fiction.
The story alternates between two timelines, past and present. The story's main thread is centred round childhood friends, Rose Luscombe and Ivy Toms. Rose is from a wealthy, privileged family; whilst Ivy's background is a lot less affluent -her family are poor and her father is often abusive. Despite their vastly different backgrounds, the girls become fast friends - Rose is craving the freedom from societal restraint, while Ivy simply wants something (anything) better than what she has. Through circumstance, Ivy comes into the employ of the Luscombe household as Rose's maid. Over a relatively short period, the girls' initial close bond begins to erode, as Rose starts to occupy the role expected of her and her social standing as a wealthy young girl in 1917. She is at pains to explain to friends and visitors alike, that Ivy is her servant and not a friend. For Ivy, this feels like a bitter betrayal and tension soon builds between them.
2016, present day Australia and Molly Wilson finds a box with a collection of her Grandmother’s mementos. Going through its contents, Molly comes across a photo of two women, each in a nursing uniform with arms around each other (‘Rose and Ivy, 1917’) and written on the back of the photograph ‘Together Forever’. Together with the photograph was a letter written by Molly's gran, in which she implored Molly to solve the mystery of Rose's disappearance. It was thought that Rose had drowned off Bridgewater Bay in 1963 - a suicide, but her Nan never believed Rose had taken her own life. Thought of as the 'family historian', Molly's interest in the mystery surrounding Rose's disappearance is piqued. Taking a leave of absence from her teaching position, Molly makes the decision to travel to England to find out more about Rose and what might have really happened to her.
Upon arriving at Luscombe estate, Molly meets its curator, Richard Luscombe, who charms his way into Molly's heart. Richard convinces Molly to stay and help catalogue the vast amount of paperwork and collectables that the estate still holds. In her quest to find out the truth about Rose, Molly only discovers more questions than answers within the walls of Luscombe estate. But the deeper Molly dives into the mystery of Rose's disappearance the more she becomes invested in the outcome.
There are a lot of themes at play here:-
— friendship;
— jealousy;
— societal divisions;
— secrets; and
— betrayal.
The story moves fairly well between timelines and the author does a good job to keep you involved revealing some surprising twists and turns in the story along the way. A well written dual timeline historical novel that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
January 25, 2022
4.5*
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is a well written generational family drama. A historical narrative from the early years of the 1900s to WWI and then to the present day with family members seeking answers to strange occurrences. Was everything as it appeared in that smiling photograph of Rose and Ivy from 1917?
‘We all have our ghosts, dear. Some take human form, while others are as ephemeral as regrets.’
The story alternates between the dual time narrative of past and present and I am happy to say, I enjoyed both storyline’s. With the historical narrative an assured winner, I was excited to be so invested in the contemporary tale with Molly's (great granddaughter) efforts to unravel past mysteries whilst undergoing her own personal challenges.
‘She didn’t have to live the life that was expected of her. She could live an unexpected life. If she chose to. If she dared to reach out and make it so.’
In the past, the tale of Rose and Ivy - friends from a young age yet grow apart as a consequence of their different social standings - is one fraught with conflict and turmoil. Julie does a great job of leaving clues along the way as you seek to find out which of the girls will arrive on Australian shores. As stated, I enjoyed the current narrative just as much with Molly who is fighting her own demons as she seeks to find peace from her past. Despite readers possibly piecing together the mystery before its conclusion, I still feel that Julie included some unexpected twists that kept me fully engaged until the final chapter.
‘History is the reason we are what we are. We can’t simply bury it and forget it.’
Julie Brooks first novel with this new publisher is a sure winner. It's a solid dual time narrative in inviting locations with strong characters and a worthy mystery. I was invested from start to finish and would recommend this to lovers of this genre.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is a well written generational family drama. A historical narrative from the early years of the 1900s to WWI and then to the present day with family members seeking answers to strange occurrences. Was everything as it appeared in that smiling photograph of Rose and Ivy from 1917?
‘We all have our ghosts, dear. Some take human form, while others are as ephemeral as regrets.’
The story alternates between the dual time narrative of past and present and I am happy to say, I enjoyed both storyline’s. With the historical narrative an assured winner, I was excited to be so invested in the contemporary tale with Molly's (great granddaughter) efforts to unravel past mysteries whilst undergoing her own personal challenges.
‘She didn’t have to live the life that was expected of her. She could live an unexpected life. If she chose to. If she dared to reach out and make it so.’
In the past, the tale of Rose and Ivy - friends from a young age yet grow apart as a consequence of their different social standings - is one fraught with conflict and turmoil. Julie does a great job of leaving clues along the way as you seek to find out which of the girls will arrive on Australian shores. As stated, I enjoyed the current narrative just as much with Molly who is fighting her own demons as she seeks to find peace from her past. Despite readers possibly piecing together the mystery before its conclusion, I still feel that Julie included some unexpected twists that kept me fully engaged until the final chapter.
‘History is the reason we are what we are. We can’t simply bury it and forget it.’
Julie Brooks first novel with this new publisher is a sure winner. It's a solid dual time narrative in inviting locations with strong characters and a worthy mystery. I was invested from start to finish and would recommend this to lovers of this genre.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
March 17, 2023
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is the debut historical fiction of Australian author Julia Brooks. It is a dual timeline story that shifts between contemporary Australian school teacher-come-historian Molly Wilson and her grandmother Rose Luscombe in Devon in the 1910s.
After the death of her Nan, Molly comes across a letter begging her to find out what happened to her mother (Molly’s great-grandmother) Rose who apparently drowned off the coast of Bridgewater Bay in 1963. She also finds a war-time photo of two girls in nurses uniforms labelled “Rose and Ivy”. Molly goes to England and meets Richard, the charming elderly owner of the Luscombe estate and begins to piece together Rose’s story.
Rose Luscombe has been born to privilege and wealth, but despite her family’s disapproval enjoys playing with village girl Ivy Toms. As they grow older Ivy becomes Rose’s maid and their friendship degenerates and dies. The two go nursing during WW1 and finally Rose, accompanied by Ivy, sets forth for Australia to marry a man she has never met. The two leave together but only Rose arrives. The story unearths the dark secrets that surround the two and leads Molly into her own journey of self-discovery and love.
This was a gripping, enjoyable read. I figured out some of the plot twists before they happened but was still engaged with the mystery. My main complaint was that both girls were so unlikeable. Rose was spoilt and petty, although seemed to find some inner strength and resolve. Ivy had our sympathies more as she was the poor and abused maid, but she also had a strong self-serving streak, which probably stemmed from a sense of self preservation. I would be happy to read another book by this author. The audionarration by Karen Kass was good for the English parts of the story but included some truly horrible Aussie accents so maybe the ebook would have been better. 3.5 stars.
After the death of her Nan, Molly comes across a letter begging her to find out what happened to her mother (Molly’s great-grandmother) Rose who apparently drowned off the coast of Bridgewater Bay in 1963. She also finds a war-time photo of two girls in nurses uniforms labelled “Rose and Ivy”. Molly goes to England and meets Richard, the charming elderly owner of the Luscombe estate and begins to piece together Rose’s story.
Rose Luscombe has been born to privilege and wealth, but despite her family’s disapproval enjoys playing with village girl Ivy Toms. As they grow older Ivy becomes Rose’s maid and their friendship degenerates and dies. The two go nursing during WW1 and finally Rose, accompanied by Ivy, sets forth for Australia to marry a man she has never met. The two leave together but only Rose arrives. The story unearths the dark secrets that surround the two and leads Molly into her own journey of self-discovery and love.
This was a gripping, enjoyable read. I figured out some of the plot twists before they happened but was still engaged with the mystery. My main complaint was that both girls were so unlikeable. Rose was spoilt and petty, although seemed to find some inner strength and resolve. Ivy had our sympathies more as she was the poor and abused maid, but she also had a strong self-serving streak, which probably stemmed from a sense of self preservation. I would be happy to read another book by this author. The audionarration by Karen Kass was good for the English parts of the story but included some truly horrible Aussie accents so maybe the ebook would have been better. 3.5 stars.
June 23, 2022
Discover the locations in the novel
A dual timeline novel set in Victoria, Australia 2016 and pre-WW1 England.
A mystery with a very interesting premise. Two woman on a journey to the other side of the world, but only one will get there. A photograph found years later with a request to go looking for the truth….
Molly is from the 2016 story and we meet her in the wonderfully named Port Fairy in Victoria. She finds a photo of two women, ‘Rose and Ivy, 1917’. She wants to find out more and as a keen historian, who better placed to go to England and find out? I immediately warmed to her and was as eager as she was to find out more about her family. Such an intriguing photo to find! Molly is a bit lost herself and so, she also goes on a journey – this time of self-discovery at the same time and that was a part of the novel I particulary enjoyed!
In the 1917 stioryline, we meet Rose and Ivy, two girls from vastly different backgrounds, as they fight to escape the lives mapped out for them from birth. Rose wants freedom from her gilded cage of an existance whilst Ivy merely wants a better lot in life. The way they bond on the boat and their hopes for the future got me fully invested in both of them.
What was clever here was the way the author wrote both timelines but mirrored our understanding of women’s freedom and trauma, friendship and hopes in many different ways. Women, separated by decades and status, are not that different after all, and Julie takes time to let us get to know all three women so we can put their stories together in a very personal way.
As well as the fantastic interweaving plot, the locations are brilliantly evoked. From Devon to Australia via Colombo and Tasmania, this really is a novel of a journey and discovery. The ending, well, that was just a lovely surprise. Very unexpected but a gem if ever I read one.
Plenty of secrets in Bridgewater Bay it turns out!
April 4, 2022
So excited for the publication of my debut novel with Headline!
November 7, 2021
This was such a beautifully written novel, I was drawn in instantly. I really enjoyed travelling through the double timelines, the characters were written with such great detail and were equally as fascinating.
January 26, 2022
This novel has it all - intrigue, romance, friendship and family saga. We follow the intertwined lives of Rose and Ivy in 20th century England and Molly in 21st century Australia.
It is a very readable historical fiction novel with wonderful descriptions of place and time.
A MUST read!
It is a very readable historical fiction novel with wonderful descriptions of place and time.
A MUST read!
November 19, 2022
Listening to this book in audio reminded me very much of Kate Morton's style of writing, like the peeling of an onion, layer after layer. It was a gripping read with some major twists, and well-defined characters, but if you're looking for hope and mercy, you won't find much here.
January 13, 2025
I don't know how to do half a star rating?? 3.5 stars.
I did enjoy this book although I guessed the main story line on about page 10 and other plot twists before they were revealed throughout the book. Still an enjoyable read.
I did enjoy this book although I guessed the main story line on about page 10 and other plot twists before they were revealed throughout the book. Still an enjoyable read.
March 7, 2025
Me lo he pasado TAN BIEN. Ha sido un viaje increíble. Es cierto que puede ser previsible, pero eso no quita que sea una fantasía. Un libro a lo Downton Abbey meets Kate Morton que lo tiene TODO. Parece escrito para mí y solo puedo dar gracias.
August 31, 2024
I love history based stories. This story definitely had me hanging on every chapter.
October 24, 2021
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay by Julie Brooks
Julie Brooks has written an impeccably researched novel with a wonderful sense of history and character.
Molly discovers her late grandmother's note to her asking her to find out the truth of her mother Rose's disappearance in the 60's, she was presumed drowned. She has a photo of two girls in First World War nurses' uniforms labelled Rose and Ivy 1917.
The novel moves seamlessly as the plot builds from past to present.
Molly travels to North Devon, Rose's ancestral home, Luscombe Park where she discovers dark family secrets, love, loss and betrayal as she traces her family history and the complex relationship Rose and Ivy experienced.
There are surprising twists and turns in the novel that are captivating and keep you totally involved as more is revealed. The characters are developed in great detail and I loved this novel.
I thoroughly recommend it to lovers of historical fiction. Robyne Grundy
Julie Brooks has written an impeccably researched novel with a wonderful sense of history and character.
Molly discovers her late grandmother's note to her asking her to find out the truth of her mother Rose's disappearance in the 60's, she was presumed drowned. She has a photo of two girls in First World War nurses' uniforms labelled Rose and Ivy 1917.
The novel moves seamlessly as the plot builds from past to present.
Molly travels to North Devon, Rose's ancestral home, Luscombe Park where she discovers dark family secrets, love, loss and betrayal as she traces her family history and the complex relationship Rose and Ivy experienced.
There are surprising twists and turns in the novel that are captivating and keep you totally involved as more is revealed. The characters are developed in great detail and I loved this novel.
I thoroughly recommend it to lovers of historical fiction. Robyne Grundy
September 23, 2021
The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay was a beautifully written book. I could picture exactly what Rose, Ivy, and Molly's lives were like during their different time periods. Rose & Ivy's lives connected in the early 1900's England when Rose was the rich daughter of the manor and Ivy was a local girl who's parents worked the land. They played together in secret as young girls but as they got older Ivy went to work as Rose's servant.
The women travel together in 1919 to Australia where Rose is to marry a man she has been communicating with via letters, but never met. Rose arrives in Australia alone.
In 2016, Rose's great-granddaughter, Molly, is tasked by her recently deceased grandmother to figure out the mystery of Rose's disappearance decades ago. Molly uses her knowledge of history to try to solve the family mystery. She travels back to England where Rose's life began, she finds a relative she didn't know she had and a love interest.
The book is very well written and the lives of all the women are interesting and fulfilling in their searches for meaning in life. I would rate this book higher if it wasn't for the fact that so many historical fiction books are now written in two different time frames, it used to seem new and fresh and now it has become a little stale.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for this honest review.
The women travel together in 1919 to Australia where Rose is to marry a man she has been communicating with via letters, but never met. Rose arrives in Australia alone.
In 2016, Rose's great-granddaughter, Molly, is tasked by her recently deceased grandmother to figure out the mystery of Rose's disappearance decades ago. Molly uses her knowledge of history to try to solve the family mystery. She travels back to England where Rose's life began, she finds a relative she didn't know she had and a love interest.
The book is very well written and the lives of all the women are interesting and fulfilling in their searches for meaning in life. I would rate this book higher if it wasn't for the fact that so many historical fiction books are now written in two different time frames, it used to seem new and fresh and now it has become a little stale.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for this honest review.
September 21, 2021
Molly's nan has passed away, while clearing her things she finds a letter asking her to find out the disappearance of her great-grandmother; because Molly is a historian she's the best person to ask.
This search will take her on an adventure; but, whilst delving into her family's past she must let go of her own.
I actually guessed some of the storyline in this novel, however, this does not take away from the narrative and beautifully detailed description that Brooks gives.
I thought it was interesting that the novel jumps in time, seeming to tell two parallel stories that unwind, giving the reader a double story.
Brooks also leaves us with a clever display of depth within her characters, where I found myself to either like or dislike them.
In this novel, family secrets are uncovered and skeletons come out of the closet, but we also have romance and loss; Brooks gives us a range of themes to explore tying them all together across two different countries and different generations which works well together.
For me, this was a nice read which allowed me to get lost in.
This search will take her on an adventure; but, whilst delving into her family's past she must let go of her own.
I actually guessed some of the storyline in this novel, however, this does not take away from the narrative and beautifully detailed description that Brooks gives.
I thought it was interesting that the novel jumps in time, seeming to tell two parallel stories that unwind, giving the reader a double story.
Brooks also leaves us with a clever display of depth within her characters, where I found myself to either like or dislike them.
In this novel, family secrets are uncovered and skeletons come out of the closet, but we also have romance and loss; Brooks gives us a range of themes to explore tying them all together across two different countries and different generations which works well together.
For me, this was a nice read which allowed me to get lost in.
January 17, 2022
http://jessjustreads.com
Julie Brooks’ The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is a dual-timeline historical fiction debut, transporting readers from WWI England to present day Australia. Centred around two young women — friends for a decade but bound together by a shocking secret — who set sail for a new life in Australia.
In present day, Australian woman Molly is searching for the truth behind her great-grandmother’s disappearance over fifty years earlier. Not a lot is known about the reclusive and camera-shy Rose, and Molly travels to England to find out more about Rose’s upbringing, in the hope it may come to understand what really happened to her.
“For months she had imagined that Ivy, like Rose, had migrated to Australia and begun a new life. She had envisaged her as the matriarch of a clan with a long, fruitful life. For whatever reason, Rose’s life had turned sour; she hoped that her friend’s had worked out happier.”
Julie Brooks captures the friendship between Ivy and Rose incredibly well — their initial close bond and the idea that they’ll be best friends forever. But, over time, Rose starts to inhabit the role expected of her — the privileged, wealthy young woman on the cusp of taking her place in society. Perhaps without realising, she starts to treat Ivy like a servant not like a friend, and bitter tension builds between them. As secrets come to light, the friendship soon deteriorates.
As someone who reads a lot of historical fiction, I found this novel incredibly refreshing. A mystery about a great-grandmother (not a grandmother) offers something a little different to the genre. That extra generation accounts for limited knowledge about that character, forcing a deeper dig into their life to find out the truth. It also means the connection between Molly and Rose is limited, given the age difference, so the story doesn’t rely on memories or emotional connection between the characters and more on facts and evidence, which provides a more thrilling, fast-paced story.
“But Rose knew that Ivy did indeed care. She always cared what her da would do, because he had a history of doing unpleasant things. Rose couldn’t remember her own father, but she couldn’t imagine him taking to her with a willow stick or shutting her in the coal box for an afternoon.”
Class plays an important role in this novel — whilst Rose is from a wealthy, privileged family, her best friend Ivy comes from a poor, abusive household. No one expects her to secure a comfortable life, so Ivy has to believe in herself if she’s going to rise above her surroundings. She refuses to be a servant or maid for the rest of her life, and is looking for a way to carve a respectable path for herself.
The only fault I can give this novel is the prevalence of perhaps a few too many signs that point towards the twist. Molly’s memories of Rose — her personality and her hatred of being in photographs, in particular — made it a little too easy to guess the ending of the novel. But apart from that, this is one of my favourite historical fiction reads from the past 12 months.
“Molly woke breathless, struggling to escape the undertow of her dream. Plunging her face into the pillow, she tried to vanquish the lingering images. Yet in the blackness her father was there, along with the ghostly form of the long-dead Rose, drifting before her eyes.”
A rich, sweeping tale of betrayal, and how long-held family secrets can tear apart even the strongest of friendships. Recommended for historical fiction readers, The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is skewed towards female readers, 25+
Thank you to the publisher for mailing me a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Julie Brooks’ The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is a dual-timeline historical fiction debut, transporting readers from WWI England to present day Australia. Centred around two young women — friends for a decade but bound together by a shocking secret — who set sail for a new life in Australia.
In present day, Australian woman Molly is searching for the truth behind her great-grandmother’s disappearance over fifty years earlier. Not a lot is known about the reclusive and camera-shy Rose, and Molly travels to England to find out more about Rose’s upbringing, in the hope it may come to understand what really happened to her.
“For months she had imagined that Ivy, like Rose, had migrated to Australia and begun a new life. She had envisaged her as the matriarch of a clan with a long, fruitful life. For whatever reason, Rose’s life had turned sour; she hoped that her friend’s had worked out happier.”
Julie Brooks captures the friendship between Ivy and Rose incredibly well — their initial close bond and the idea that they’ll be best friends forever. But, over time, Rose starts to inhabit the role expected of her — the privileged, wealthy young woman on the cusp of taking her place in society. Perhaps without realising, she starts to treat Ivy like a servant not like a friend, and bitter tension builds between them. As secrets come to light, the friendship soon deteriorates.
As someone who reads a lot of historical fiction, I found this novel incredibly refreshing. A mystery about a great-grandmother (not a grandmother) offers something a little different to the genre. That extra generation accounts for limited knowledge about that character, forcing a deeper dig into their life to find out the truth. It also means the connection between Molly and Rose is limited, given the age difference, so the story doesn’t rely on memories or emotional connection between the characters and more on facts and evidence, which provides a more thrilling, fast-paced story.
“But Rose knew that Ivy did indeed care. She always cared what her da would do, because he had a history of doing unpleasant things. Rose couldn’t remember her own father, but she couldn’t imagine him taking to her with a willow stick or shutting her in the coal box for an afternoon.”
Class plays an important role in this novel — whilst Rose is from a wealthy, privileged family, her best friend Ivy comes from a poor, abusive household. No one expects her to secure a comfortable life, so Ivy has to believe in herself if she’s going to rise above her surroundings. She refuses to be a servant or maid for the rest of her life, and is looking for a way to carve a respectable path for herself.
The only fault I can give this novel is the prevalence of perhaps a few too many signs that point towards the twist. Molly’s memories of Rose — her personality and her hatred of being in photographs, in particular — made it a little too easy to guess the ending of the novel. But apart from that, this is one of my favourite historical fiction reads from the past 12 months.
“Molly woke breathless, struggling to escape the undertow of her dream. Plunging her face into the pillow, she tried to vanquish the lingering images. Yet in the blackness her father was there, along with the ghostly form of the long-dead Rose, drifting before her eyes.”
A rich, sweeping tale of betrayal, and how long-held family secrets can tear apart even the strongest of friendships. Recommended for historical fiction readers, The Secrets of Bridgewater Bay is skewed towards female readers, 25+
Thank you to the publisher for mailing me a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2021
I enjoyed Molly's journey to solve the mystery of her great-grandmother's disappearance. Both timelines were equally interesting and moving. The writing was evocative and detailed, yet the extensive research never intruded upon the story. Witty and poignant.
September 16, 2021
This is an epic dual time novel which draws the reader in right from the start and keeps you in thrall until the very last page. The writing is superb, the descriptions detailed, lush and evocative, showing that the author has done a lot of research. I really felt as though I was there with the protagonists in both time periods. In the past, the story follows the lives of Rose and Ivy, two girls from vastly different backgrounds, as they fight to escape the lives mapped out for them from birth. Rose wants freedom from restraint, while Ivy simply wants something better than what she has. Their lives are inextricably intertwined, whether they want them to be or not, and neither of them can escape that bond. In the present, Rose’s Australian descendant Molly is fighting her own battles, with guilt and low self-esteem. I loved watching her finding her feet and growing in strength and determination. And I adored the man she meets in faraway Devon, England, who is everything a hero should be – handsome, caring, understanding and supportive. I was rooting for them all the way. A wonderful timeslip novel!
December 30, 2021
Thank you Hachette for sending us a copy to read and review.
A secret that changes the lives and strong friendship of two women.
The present, Molly embarks on discovering and unraveling the mystery of her grandmother that surrounded a photograph of two best friends.
The past, Rose and Ivy have an unbreakable bond as children but later in life they flee bound for Australia onboard a ship that is destined to alter their lives forever.
An evocative saga that incorporates a dual timeline with the chapters alternating accordingly.
I must admit I was very intrigued by the premise of this book particularly as it’s a historical fiction.
I did find some of scenes quite drawn out and I enjoyed the past story more so than the present tale as I didn’t warm to Molly at all, making me feel not as invested as much as I could have been.
Being captivated by the 1900’s storyline, admittedly that was the reason that kept me turning the pages until the end.
The characters of Rose and Ivy are very well written and developed and I found them both fascinating, I was totally attracted to their drama, wanting to know how the story was going to conclude.
A pleasant read.
A secret that changes the lives and strong friendship of two women.
The present, Molly embarks on discovering and unraveling the mystery of her grandmother that surrounded a photograph of two best friends.
The past, Rose and Ivy have an unbreakable bond as children but later in life they flee bound for Australia onboard a ship that is destined to alter their lives forever.
An evocative saga that incorporates a dual timeline with the chapters alternating accordingly.
I must admit I was very intrigued by the premise of this book particularly as it’s a historical fiction.
I did find some of scenes quite drawn out and I enjoyed the past story more so than the present tale as I didn’t warm to Molly at all, making me feel not as invested as much as I could have been.
Being captivated by the 1900’s storyline, admittedly that was the reason that kept me turning the pages until the end.
The characters of Rose and Ivy are very well written and developed and I found them both fascinating, I was totally attracted to their drama, wanting to know how the story was going to conclude.
A pleasant read.
March 1, 2022
This was ok but not a book I’d recommend to anyone.
September 25, 2022
I took a long time to read this book as I didn't find it that exciting, challenging, just humdrum and the story was easy to put together before it happened.
September 23, 2024
This dual narrative story weaves between the first quarter of the 20th Century and current times. It is mainly the tale of Rose and Ivy, who were the best of friends in childhood but ultimately forced into following different paths due to the rigid class system of their day.
It’s Australia in 2016. After her grandmother dies, teacher and historian, Molly, discovers some intriguing evidence among her effects that she doubts her own mother, Rose, drowned in Bridgewater Bay, Tasmania, in the 1960s, as everyone had surmised. Why did Rose take her own life just before a long-delayed reunion with her own brother, Robert? Could it be she was hiding something that she couldn’t face?
In the early 1900s, Rose is the high-spirited, privileged daughter of the Luscombe family, while Ivy Toms is the long-suffering eldest child of an estate worker who treats her badly. The parents on both sides disapprove of their friendship and try to keep them apart. As they become adults, Ivy is faced with the option of factory work or becoming Rose’s maid and is pressured by her admirer Robert to take on that role.
Rose grows steadily haughty and dismissive, while Ivy must deal with shabby treatment from the Luscombes and hide her clandestine relationship with Robert. During World War I, Rose and Ivy sign on as VAD (Voluntary Aid Detachment) nurses in a local military hospital. Rose writes letters for a dying soldier that are sent to his older brother in Australia and a paper relationship grows between the two. After the war ends, Rose accepts the brother’s proposal of marriage and together with Ivy embarks on the long voyage to Australia. One of them is fated never to arrive.
Molly takes a sabbatical in England, where she meets the last survivor of the Luscombe family and via estate documents and photographs pieces together the lives of Rose and Ivy. In the process, she meets the attractive Lucas Toms, who may be a cure for her own broken heart.
This is an immensely readable novel, even if one can pretty well guess its direction at the outset, but it is well-paced and the author has added a couple of twists to make it a little less predictable.
https://www.marinamaxwellauthor.com/b...
It’s Australia in 2016. After her grandmother dies, teacher and historian, Molly, discovers some intriguing evidence among her effects that she doubts her own mother, Rose, drowned in Bridgewater Bay, Tasmania, in the 1960s, as everyone had surmised. Why did Rose take her own life just before a long-delayed reunion with her own brother, Robert? Could it be she was hiding something that she couldn’t face?
In the early 1900s, Rose is the high-spirited, privileged daughter of the Luscombe family, while Ivy Toms is the long-suffering eldest child of an estate worker who treats her badly. The parents on both sides disapprove of their friendship and try to keep them apart. As they become adults, Ivy is faced with the option of factory work or becoming Rose’s maid and is pressured by her admirer Robert to take on that role.
Rose grows steadily haughty and dismissive, while Ivy must deal with shabby treatment from the Luscombes and hide her clandestine relationship with Robert. During World War I, Rose and Ivy sign on as VAD (Voluntary Aid Detachment) nurses in a local military hospital. Rose writes letters for a dying soldier that are sent to his older brother in Australia and a paper relationship grows between the two. After the war ends, Rose accepts the brother’s proposal of marriage and together with Ivy embarks on the long voyage to Australia. One of them is fated never to arrive.
Molly takes a sabbatical in England, where she meets the last survivor of the Luscombe family and via estate documents and photographs pieces together the lives of Rose and Ivy. In the process, she meets the attractive Lucas Toms, who may be a cure for her own broken heart.
This is an immensely readable novel, even if one can pretty well guess its direction at the outset, but it is well-paced and the author has added a couple of twists to make it a little less predictable.
https://www.marinamaxwellauthor.com/b...
December 26, 2021
The Secrets of Bridgwater Bay is a captivating historical fiction. It blended romance with mystery seamlessly and I was delighted to read it.
The book bridged duel timelines and followed the points of view of Molly (present), Rose & Ivy (past). The story begins with Molly finding a note left by her late nan, asking her to solve the mystery of her great-grandmothers disappearance. The only clue is a picture of two women in WWI Nurses uniforms. Molly starts to unravel the clues and finds herself in North Devon at the Luscombe Park, where her Great Grandmother Rose grew up before heading to Australia as a War Bride at the end of WWI. Ivy was Rose's childhood friend, later turned maid.
I really enjoyed both timelines, although I was able to guess some of the reveals as I progressed through the story. I enjoy being able to piece things together and unravel the mystery as I read, but I was pleased that the author was also throwing in some unexpected twists. This kept the book very engaging all the way through.
The change in the relationship between Rose & Ivy was something that really interested me. They were childhood friends, despite the difference in the social classes. As they grew older, they grew apart but I feel a lot of the wedge between them was due the expectations of their classes and inability to just talk to each other. I did mention that this book also has some romance. Molly meets the gorgeous Lucas in the present and he helps her fight her own battles with her past.
Overall, this was a fascinating book with a well-rounded cast of characters and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to Hachette Australia for gifting me with a copy in exchange for a review.
The book bridged duel timelines and followed the points of view of Molly (present), Rose & Ivy (past). The story begins with Molly finding a note left by her late nan, asking her to solve the mystery of her great-grandmothers disappearance. The only clue is a picture of two women in WWI Nurses uniforms. Molly starts to unravel the clues and finds herself in North Devon at the Luscombe Park, where her Great Grandmother Rose grew up before heading to Australia as a War Bride at the end of WWI. Ivy was Rose's childhood friend, later turned maid.
I really enjoyed both timelines, although I was able to guess some of the reveals as I progressed through the story. I enjoy being able to piece things together and unravel the mystery as I read, but I was pleased that the author was also throwing in some unexpected twists. This kept the book very engaging all the way through.
The change in the relationship between Rose & Ivy was something that really interested me. They were childhood friends, despite the difference in the social classes. As they grew older, they grew apart but I feel a lot of the wedge between them was due the expectations of their classes and inability to just talk to each other. I did mention that this book also has some romance. Molly meets the gorgeous Lucas in the present and he helps her fight her own battles with her past.
Overall, this was a fascinating book with a well-rounded cast of characters and I highly recommend it.
Thank you to Hachette Australia for gifting me with a copy in exchange for a review.
December 28, 2021
“Two women set sail for a new life, bound by a secret that will change everything”
A beautifully written family drama set across generations. Sweeping from World War I in England to the present day in Australia this story will immerse you in the lives of Rose and Ivy.
When going through her late Grandmothers things, Molly finds a photo of two girls in WWI nurse’s uniforms plus a letter, asking her to find out what happened to her own mother Rose who disappeared in the 1960’s. It was assumed she had drowned off the coast of Victoria.
An historian herself, this glimpse into the past of her own family leads Molly to head to England to try and find out more about the life of her Great Grandmother Rose and her friend Ivy.
The story unfolds through dual timelines with chapters alternating between the early 1900’s to WWI and the complex relationship of both Rose and Ivy, and the current day as Molly tries to unravel the past and learn more about her family’s past and the secrets her Great Grandmother held.
Whilst I loved both timelines, being the historical fiction nerd that I am, I found it so easy to get lost in the past with Ivy and Rose. Two girls who’s lives were intertwined from a young age. One from a well-to-do English family, the other from the local village and never approved of amongst her friend’s family.
This was a well written debut novel with rich, strong characters that you can’t help but become invested in and one that historical fiction loves are sure to enjoy.
A beautifully written family drama set across generations. Sweeping from World War I in England to the present day in Australia this story will immerse you in the lives of Rose and Ivy.
When going through her late Grandmothers things, Molly finds a photo of two girls in WWI nurse’s uniforms plus a letter, asking her to find out what happened to her own mother Rose who disappeared in the 1960’s. It was assumed she had drowned off the coast of Victoria.
An historian herself, this glimpse into the past of her own family leads Molly to head to England to try and find out more about the life of her Great Grandmother Rose and her friend Ivy.
The story unfolds through dual timelines with chapters alternating between the early 1900’s to WWI and the complex relationship of both Rose and Ivy, and the current day as Molly tries to unravel the past and learn more about her family’s past and the secrets her Great Grandmother held.
Whilst I loved both timelines, being the historical fiction nerd that I am, I found it so easy to get lost in the past with Ivy and Rose. Two girls who’s lives were intertwined from a young age. One from a well-to-do English family, the other from the local village and never approved of amongst her friend’s family.
This was a well written debut novel with rich, strong characters that you can’t help but become invested in and one that historical fiction loves are sure to enjoy.
August 18, 2022
This is a wonderful duel timeline family drama set in both the UK and Australia. There was even part of the story taking place here in Tasmania which was pretty cool. The English countryside really caught my imagination and I could picture Luscombe Park in all its Tudor-Gothic glory.
I enjoyed how the timeline in the past bounced about a bit, where as the present ran chronological.
Beginning in 2016, Molly’s Grandmother dies and in her possessions Molly comes across a photo that will lead her on an adventure of discovery. Photographed are Ivy and Rose dressed in WWI Nurses uniform. Rose being Molly’s great-grandmother, who’d gone missing presumed drowned in 1963.
This leads Molly on a quest to find out what really happened to Rose, travelling to Devon in the UK where she meets Richard.
I loved Richard I found him adoreable, I could happily read more about him!
While in Devon at Luscombe Park, Molly painstakingly pieces together Rose’s life and what became of Ivy.
I found this book intriguing and was fascinated by the truth behind the photograph, the secrets were well played out and even though I thought I knew what was coming I loved how there was doubt until everything was finally revealed.
This is a perfect read for anyone who loves family dramas, historical fiction and novels in general!
I enjoyed how the timeline in the past bounced about a bit, where as the present ran chronological.
Beginning in 2016, Molly’s Grandmother dies and in her possessions Molly comes across a photo that will lead her on an adventure of discovery. Photographed are Ivy and Rose dressed in WWI Nurses uniform. Rose being Molly’s great-grandmother, who’d gone missing presumed drowned in 1963.
This leads Molly on a quest to find out what really happened to Rose, travelling to Devon in the UK where she meets Richard.
I loved Richard I found him adoreable, I could happily read more about him!
While in Devon at Luscombe Park, Molly painstakingly pieces together Rose’s life and what became of Ivy.
I found this book intriguing and was fascinated by the truth behind the photograph, the secrets were well played out and even though I thought I knew what was coming I loved how there was doubt until everything was finally revealed.
This is a perfect read for anyone who loves family dramas, historical fiction and novels in general!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews