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The Redgum River Retreat
The heart-warming new novel by the bestselling author of The Kookaburra Creek Hotel and The Wattle Island Book Club
HOPE
Single mother Sarah is guilt-ridden when an accident leaves her young daughter Melody seriously injured and their once music-filled lives silent. When she discovers her grandmother Rosalie's war correspondence, she thinks she might have found a way to save her family, but it will require a leap of faith ...
HEARTACHE
In 1945 Rosalie is desperate to forge a career as a journalist, and taking photos for soldiers serving in the war might just lead to the job of her dreams. But when two brothers she's been corresponding with come home to Redgum River, her life is turned upside down, and she flees, vowing to never return.
HEALING
Decades on, the hope that a music retreat can help Melody lures the three generations of women to Redgum River, where Sarah draws together the threads of Rosalie's past. A heartbreaking family mystery comes to light, and they discover that the ghosts of the past can lead them to their future, and they might all be more in tune than they first thought.
Welcome to the Redgum River Retreat, where harmony is found when hope is lost.
HOPE
Single mother Sarah is guilt-ridden when an accident leaves her young daughter Melody seriously injured and their once music-filled lives silent. When she discovers her grandmother Rosalie's war correspondence, she thinks she might have found a way to save her family, but it will require a leap of faith ...
HEARTACHE
In 1945 Rosalie is desperate to forge a career as a journalist, and taking photos for soldiers serving in the war might just lead to the job of her dreams. But when two brothers she's been corresponding with come home to Redgum River, her life is turned upside down, and she flees, vowing to never return.
HEALING
Decades on, the hope that a music retreat can help Melody lures the three generations of women to Redgum River, where Sarah draws together the threads of Rosalie's past. A heartbreaking family mystery comes to light, and they discover that the ghosts of the past can lead them to their future, and they might all be more in tune than they first thought.
Welcome to the Redgum River Retreat, where harmony is found when hope is lost.
368 pages, Paperback
Published March 21, 2023
11 people are currently reading
455 people want to read
About the author
Sandie Docker
6 books248 followersAustralian author, Sandie Docker grew up in Coffs Harbour, and first fell in love with reading when her father introduced her to fantasy books as a teenager. Her love of Women’s Fiction began when she first read Jane Austen for the HSC, but it wasn’t until she was taking a translation course at university that her Mandarin lecturer suggested she might have a knack for writing – a seed of an idea that sat quietly in the back of her mind while she lived overseas and travelled the world.
Now back in Sydney, Sandie writes about love, loss, family and small country towns. Sandie is also the founder and director of The Northern Beaches Readers Festival.
(head shot photo credit @ainsliecophotography)
Now back in Sydney, Sandie writes about love, loss, family and small country towns. Sandie is also the founder and director of The Northern Beaches Readers Festival.
(head shot photo credit @ainsliecophotography)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
August 17, 2023
An engaging story with two timelines. In 1945 the war has ended in Europe but America, Japan and Australia continue until the disasters of Hiroshoma and Nagasaki. Rosalie is a news photographer in Australia who becomes involved with a returned soldier.
In the current day Rosalie is a grandmother with a hidden story. When her granddaughter, Sarah, and great granddaughter, Melody, have a car accident with unfortunate results the story takes them all back to Redgum River where it all began.
I enjoyed the story very much and there were a few tear jerking moments. The ending is not happy for everyone, but at least everything is at last resolved. The inclusion of a child with selective mutism was intriguing and very well done.
I still have several books by this author to read and I am looking forward to doing so.
In the current day Rosalie is a grandmother with a hidden story. When her granddaughter, Sarah, and great granddaughter, Melody, have a car accident with unfortunate results the story takes them all back to Redgum River where it all began.
I enjoyed the story very much and there were a few tear jerking moments. The ending is not happy for everyone, but at least everything is at last resolved. The inclusion of a child with selective mutism was intriguing and very well done.
I still have several books by this author to read and I am looking forward to doing so.
April 25, 2023
Another beautiful story from the wonderful pen of MS Sandie Docker, her stories are filled with emotion and honest people and stories that will pull the reader in from page one and this one is a gorgeous story of love, hope, heartache and healing as Rosalie, Sarah and Melody put the past behind them and look to the future in the small town of Redgum River.
Sarah is a gifted cellist and single mum to Melody, driving home from a concert at the Opera House they are in a terrible car accident that sees Melody seriously injured, leaving her in a wheel chair and not speaking and Sarah blaming herself for what happened, this will change their lives.
Rosalie is Sarah’s grandmother a famous photo journalist through the years, she grew up in Redgum River, during the second world war Rosalie took photos for the YMCA snapshot cause and became very close to two brothers Edward and Albert but when they return from the war life is not the same and Rosalie leaves Redgum River vowing never to return.
When Sarah finds a hatbox with a photo album in it she discovers precious photos that her grandmother had taken and this is something that Granny Rose has never spoken about and then they discover a music retreat in Redgum River, will this be the answer to bring Melody’s speech back or will it be too hard for Rosalie to return to her past.
Rosalie will do anything to help her beloved Sarah and Melody even if it means returning to her past and uncovering secrets and a mystery that is decades old. A gorgeous heartwarming and heartbreaking tale that will see truths come out and hearts healed it shows the strength that these three family members show. I do highly recommend this one it is sure to keep you turning the pages with a cast of awesome characters and such a beautiful setting.
Sarah is a gifted cellist and single mum to Melody, driving home from a concert at the Opera House they are in a terrible car accident that sees Melody seriously injured, leaving her in a wheel chair and not speaking and Sarah blaming herself for what happened, this will change their lives.
Rosalie is Sarah’s grandmother a famous photo journalist through the years, she grew up in Redgum River, during the second world war Rosalie took photos for the YMCA snapshot cause and became very close to two brothers Edward and Albert but when they return from the war life is not the same and Rosalie leaves Redgum River vowing never to return.
When Sarah finds a hatbox with a photo album in it she discovers precious photos that her grandmother had taken and this is something that Granny Rose has never spoken about and then they discover a music retreat in Redgum River, will this be the answer to bring Melody’s speech back or will it be too hard for Rosalie to return to her past.
Rosalie will do anything to help her beloved Sarah and Melody even if it means returning to her past and uncovering secrets and a mystery that is decades old. A gorgeous heartwarming and heartbreaking tale that will see truths come out and hearts healed it shows the strength that these three family members show. I do highly recommend this one it is sure to keep you turning the pages with a cast of awesome characters and such a beautiful setting.
March 16, 2023
Single mother Sarah and her young daughter Melody, were on their way home from a concert in the Sydney Opera House, where Sarah had starred, when a dreadful accident hit their lives. Now, twelve months on and Melody's selective mutism along with the fact she would never walk again, ate Sarah up inside. Sarah's injuries had healed, at least on the outside, but her guilt didn't ever leave her. Sarah and Melody now lived in Sarah's grandmother's guest house on the property, along with Ryan, Sarah's cousin. It was a perfect solution as Rosalie - Granny Rose - was in her nineties, so having her family around her helped.
The day Sarah found an old hatbox with a photo album and an old camera inside was the day Sarah first heard of Redgum River. She had known Rosalie was a photo journalist during and after the war, but that was all. Decades before, Granny Rose had left there - her home - and moved to Sydney. She never spoke of her past, but with a music retreat designed for trauma, in Redgum River, it seemed Rosalie would finally have to face her past...
The Redgum River Retreat is another outstanding novel by Aussie author Sandie Docker. Heartwarming and poignant, the stories of three generations of women who each faced extreme difficulties, is a special one. You never know your own strength until you're set to test it, and Rosalie, Sarah and Melody each had their demons to crush. The Redgum River Retreat is Ms Docker's 5th book, and I have loved each and every one, along with their startlingly beautiful covers. I have no hesitation in recommending Ms Docker's latest highly.
With thanks to Penguin Random House AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The day Sarah found an old hatbox with a photo album and an old camera inside was the day Sarah first heard of Redgum River. She had known Rosalie was a photo journalist during and after the war, but that was all. Decades before, Granny Rose had left there - her home - and moved to Sydney. She never spoke of her past, but with a music retreat designed for trauma, in Redgum River, it seemed Rosalie would finally have to face her past...
The Redgum River Retreat is another outstanding novel by Aussie author Sandie Docker. Heartwarming and poignant, the stories of three generations of women who each faced extreme difficulties, is a special one. You never know your own strength until you're set to test it, and Rosalie, Sarah and Melody each had their demons to crush. The Redgum River Retreat is Ms Docker's 5th book, and I have loved each and every one, along with their startlingly beautiful covers. I have no hesitation in recommending Ms Docker's latest highly.
With thanks to Penguin Random House AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2023
What should have been a triumph turns into a tragedy. Single mum Sarah carries guilt for the accident that left her daughter Melody seriously injured The music that had made up a huge part of her life and that of her daughter was silenced like Melody’s voice. Her grandmother Rosalie, has her own guilt and secrets she has harboured for years. When Sarah finds a box and a photo album she cannot understand why her grandmother, now in her nineties, refuses to talk about it and her past as a photo journalist. But then past is too painful. Rosalie left Redgum River years before vowing never to return. , but now a music retreat forces Rosalie back to the place she ran from as she seeks to help Sarah and Melody. If Rosalie is able to confront her fears, maybe Sarah can too? Over the course of the retreat to help Melody, secrets and past pain are uncovered, but also a mystery from that past in unearthed. What will it mean for Rosalie, Sarah, Melody and others?
Sometimes you fall in love with a book from the first page. That was certainly the case with this one. Alternating between present day and 1945 with Rosalie’s story, this one drew me quickly in. Which was about as I expected as I have loved all this author’s other books.
Great believable characters, lovely setting and a story with heart. Beautifully told and a highly recommended read. I adored it. I loved the Snapshots from Home angle which I had not heard about before. The pictures of war and trauma are balanced by the steadfast spirit and resilience of the strong women in this story. Tears yes, but also moments of hope and joy. A heartwarming book told by a great storyteller. What’s not to love?
Sometimes you fall in love with a book from the first page. That was certainly the case with this one. Alternating between present day and 1945 with Rosalie’s story, this one drew me quickly in. Which was about as I expected as I have loved all this author’s other books.
Great believable characters, lovely setting and a story with heart. Beautifully told and a highly recommended read. I adored it. I loved the Snapshots from Home angle which I had not heard about before. The pictures of war and trauma are balanced by the steadfast spirit and resilience of the strong women in this story. Tears yes, but also moments of hope and joy. A heartwarming book told by a great storyteller. What’s not to love?
August 22, 2023
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**4.5 stars**
The Redgum River Retreat by Sandie Docker. (2023).
Single mother Sarah is guilt-ridden after an accident leaves her young daughter Melody injured, and their once music-filled lives silent. Then she discovers her grandmother Rosalie's war correspondence. In 1945 Rosalie is a budding journalist, who has been asked to take photos for serving soldiers. But when two brothers she's been corresponding with return home to Redgum River, her life is turned upside down and she flees vowing never to return. Now the hope that a music retreat can heal Melody lures them to Redgum River, where Sarah draws together the threads of Rosalie's past...
I've read a couple of books from this author and loved them so I was really looking forward to this novel. Happily, it is just as excellent as the others. The narrative features two timelines being the present and 1945. Both were engaging storylines that kept me deeply absorbed. I really felt for Sarah and even though she was clearly extremely overprotective of Melody, it was very understandable. Rosalie's storyline was quite compelling as she tries to navigate her parents expectations that she should be getting married versus her career aspirations. A very well-written and engaging book!
Overall: highly recommend this fantastic story that will tug at the heartstrings.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
**4.5 stars**
The Redgum River Retreat by Sandie Docker. (2023).
Single mother Sarah is guilt-ridden after an accident leaves her young daughter Melody injured, and their once music-filled lives silent. Then she discovers her grandmother Rosalie's war correspondence. In 1945 Rosalie is a budding journalist, who has been asked to take photos for serving soldiers. But when two brothers she's been corresponding with return home to Redgum River, her life is turned upside down and she flees vowing never to return. Now the hope that a music retreat can heal Melody lures them to Redgum River, where Sarah draws together the threads of Rosalie's past...
I've read a couple of books from this author and loved them so I was really looking forward to this novel. Happily, it is just as excellent as the others. The narrative features two timelines being the present and 1945. Both were engaging storylines that kept me deeply absorbed. I really felt for Sarah and even though she was clearly extremely overprotective of Melody, it was very understandable. Rosalie's storyline was quite compelling as she tries to navigate her parents expectations that she should be getting married versus her career aspirations. A very well-written and engaging book!
Overall: highly recommend this fantastic story that will tug at the heartstrings.
March 31, 2023
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
The Redgum River Retreat is Sandie Docker's fifth book, she is such a gifted story teller and you can’t help but become attached to her heart warming and interesting characters.
The Redgum River Retreat is a beautiful and touching story weaving mystery, the love of music, hope and family through dual timelines.
Single mother and musician Sarah constantly feels guilt over an accident that leaves her daughter in a wheelchair and mute. Since the accident Sarah and daughter Melody have been living in Sarah’s grandmothers guest house, cousin Ryan and grandmother Rosalie are also living on the property.
When Sarah discovers some photographs and war correspondence from Rosalie’s past as a journalist Rosalie behaves strangely. What is she hiding?
A music retreat which may help Sarah and Melody heal sends Rosalie into turmoil as she remembers events from her past at the location where the RIvergum River Retreat is now situated.
I needed to know the mystery of what happened to Rosalie all those years ago, I found her story so intriguing and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
Publication Day 21 March 2023
Publisher Penguin Books Australia
Thanks so much Penguin Book Australia for a copy of the book to read ♥️
The Redgum River Retreat is Sandie Docker's fifth book, she is such a gifted story teller and you can’t help but become attached to her heart warming and interesting characters.
The Redgum River Retreat is a beautiful and touching story weaving mystery, the love of music, hope and family through dual timelines.
Single mother and musician Sarah constantly feels guilt over an accident that leaves her daughter in a wheelchair and mute. Since the accident Sarah and daughter Melody have been living in Sarah’s grandmothers guest house, cousin Ryan and grandmother Rosalie are also living on the property.
When Sarah discovers some photographs and war correspondence from Rosalie’s past as a journalist Rosalie behaves strangely. What is she hiding?
A music retreat which may help Sarah and Melody heal sends Rosalie into turmoil as she remembers events from her past at the location where the RIvergum River Retreat is now situated.
I needed to know the mystery of what happened to Rosalie all those years ago, I found her story so intriguing and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
Publication Day 21 March 2023
Publisher Penguin Books Australia
Thanks so much Penguin Book Australia for a copy of the book to read ♥️
September 7, 2023
This is a dual timeline historical fiction by Australian author Sandie Docker that shifts between contemporary and WWII Tasmania.
The modern storyline involves single mother and musician Sarah who is stricken by grief and guilt when her daughter Melody is injured in an accident. They go to the Redgum River Retreat to seek some healing and solace in musical therapy. In Redgum River Sarah begins to uncover some of her grandmother Rosalee’s story growing up there and working as a photographer in the war sending snapshots of home to the soldiers. Sarah wonders about the significance of twins Albert and Edward in her grandmother’s photo album.
This was a pleasant read and I enjoyed the historical insight about the Snapshots from Home project. Somehow though I found myself not fully able to connect to the characters in either storyline. The storyline also felt a little too easy. 3.5 stars for me.
The modern storyline involves single mother and musician Sarah who is stricken by grief and guilt when her daughter Melody is injured in an accident. They go to the Redgum River Retreat to seek some healing and solace in musical therapy. In Redgum River Sarah begins to uncover some of her grandmother Rosalee’s story growing up there and working as a photographer in the war sending snapshots of home to the soldiers. Sarah wonders about the significance of twins Albert and Edward in her grandmother’s photo album.
This was a pleasant read and I enjoyed the historical insight about the Snapshots from Home project. Somehow though I found myself not fully able to connect to the characters in either storyline. The storyline also felt a little too easy. 3.5 stars for me.
June 25, 2025
A heartwarming story of heartache and healing.
April 17, 2023
Returning home one night from another successful concert, single mother Sarah and her only child, Melody, are involved in an accident which leaves Melody with serious lasting injuries and trauma.
Sarah’s injuries though, for the most part not as obvious as Melody’s, are nonetheless as debilitating. Sarah remains guilt ridden for her part in the accident which has cost her little girl so much, and she can’t find it within herself to trust the advice of the treating specialists who promise she will improve over time…further eroding Sara’s faith in a brighter future.
When Sarah accidentally stumbles on an old box in her grandmother Rosalie’s attic, she finds an album among its contents containing lots of old photographs and other wartime newspaper articles and paraphernalia.
Skimming through the album, Sarah sees her grandmother in some old photos with men she doesn’t recognise in a place she also doesn’t recognise, and her curiosity is piqued.
Sarah decides to ask her grandmother about the photos and perhaps also get her permission to use the album and it’s other invaluable materials in a museum display at her work. Thus solving a problem for her boss at the same time as possibly finding out a bit about her family history that has so obviously been hidden away.
The tension starts to build throughout as one thing leads to another and Sarah starts to piece together a mystery that could well be hers and Melody’s saviour, but also cause a lot of angst for her grandmother Rosalie.
We are transported with Rosalie, via her memories, to wartime 1945 when she was a budding young “female” photojournalist in a small Australian country town.
But to Sarah’s dismay, Rosalie is reluctant to revisit those long since locked away memories, memories which now appear to be causing her much anguish to once more acknowledge.
Sarah is now even more bewildered by a multitude of unanswered questions…And just where is Redgum River?
And what is Redgum River Retreat?…
Sarah resorts to Google for some answers but is left with even more questions.
Read on and enjoy the unfolding mysteries of this lovely, mysterious and moving story.
This truly is a uniquely satisfying read, the story covers things which are not commonly known about…’Snapshots From Home League’ to name but one…and yet should be. It gave me so much thirst to know more about the places and events mentioned, and I love a book that can do that!
*Trivia note: Whilst reading about the music retreat I was reminded of an old movie (2012) Starring Maggie Smith called Quartet, about a home for aging retired musicians.
Loved this book!
5⭐️s 👏👏👏🎶👌
Sarah’s injuries though, for the most part not as obvious as Melody’s, are nonetheless as debilitating. Sarah remains guilt ridden for her part in the accident which has cost her little girl so much, and she can’t find it within herself to trust the advice of the treating specialists who promise she will improve over time…further eroding Sara’s faith in a brighter future.
When Sarah accidentally stumbles on an old box in her grandmother Rosalie’s attic, she finds an album among its contents containing lots of old photographs and other wartime newspaper articles and paraphernalia.
Skimming through the album, Sarah sees her grandmother in some old photos with men she doesn’t recognise in a place she also doesn’t recognise, and her curiosity is piqued.
Sarah decides to ask her grandmother about the photos and perhaps also get her permission to use the album and it’s other invaluable materials in a museum display at her work. Thus solving a problem for her boss at the same time as possibly finding out a bit about her family history that has so obviously been hidden away.
The tension starts to build throughout as one thing leads to another and Sarah starts to piece together a mystery that could well be hers and Melody’s saviour, but also cause a lot of angst for her grandmother Rosalie.
We are transported with Rosalie, via her memories, to wartime 1945 when she was a budding young “female” photojournalist in a small Australian country town.
But to Sarah’s dismay, Rosalie is reluctant to revisit those long since locked away memories, memories which now appear to be causing her much anguish to once more acknowledge.
Sarah is now even more bewildered by a multitude of unanswered questions…And just where is Redgum River?
And what is Redgum River Retreat?…
Sarah resorts to Google for some answers but is left with even more questions.
Read on and enjoy the unfolding mysteries of this lovely, mysterious and moving story.
This truly is a uniquely satisfying read, the story covers things which are not commonly known about…’Snapshots From Home League’ to name but one…and yet should be. It gave me so much thirst to know more about the places and events mentioned, and I love a book that can do that!
*Trivia note: Whilst reading about the music retreat I was reminded of an old movie (2012) Starring Maggie Smith called Quartet, about a home for aging retired musicians.
Loved this book!
5⭐️s 👏👏👏🎶👌
March 6, 2023
Thank you Sandie and Penguin for gifting us a copy to read and review.
An accident leaves single mother Sarah’s daughter Melody gravely injured and she stops talking.
Sarah feels the guilt constantly.
When Sarah discovers something in her grandmother Rosalie’s past, she comes up with an idea.
A music retreat when it could heal them all from the past.
Back in 1945, Rosalie begins a career that sets her on a path that includes two brothers and the place that eventually becomes the secluded retreat.
Now history is entering the present and will change destiny.
In the superstar author’s latest novel we are taken on a mesmerising journey in the present and a touching tour of the past.
Featuring a cast of loveable lead and secondary characters, a seamless dual timeline engaging plot and showcasing a past that affected many.
Sandie always invites you into her story and there you get welcomed with open arms.
Well written, tightly created, smoothly continuous and smartly executed, it’s one story that will be remembered.
A way with words, Sandie has given readers the pleasure of a tale that’s memorable, exciting and deeply moving.
The portions where we go back in time are very heartfelt, poignant, emotional and gentle.
Although my time with The Redgum River Retreat has ended, it will be with me for a long time to come.
An accident leaves single mother Sarah’s daughter Melody gravely injured and she stops talking.
Sarah feels the guilt constantly.
When Sarah discovers something in her grandmother Rosalie’s past, she comes up with an idea.
A music retreat when it could heal them all from the past.
Back in 1945, Rosalie begins a career that sets her on a path that includes two brothers and the place that eventually becomes the secluded retreat.
Now history is entering the present and will change destiny.
In the superstar author’s latest novel we are taken on a mesmerising journey in the present and a touching tour of the past.
Featuring a cast of loveable lead and secondary characters, a seamless dual timeline engaging plot and showcasing a past that affected many.
Sandie always invites you into her story and there you get welcomed with open arms.
Well written, tightly created, smoothly continuous and smartly executed, it’s one story that will be remembered.
A way with words, Sandie has given readers the pleasure of a tale that’s memorable, exciting and deeply moving.
The portions where we go back in time are very heartfelt, poignant, emotional and gentle.
Although my time with The Redgum River Retreat has ended, it will be with me for a long time to come.
March 21, 2023
Could not have loved this novel more. I could easily be the president of the Sandie Docker fan club. I LOVE her heartfelt, poignant moving novels. For me they’re the whole package; complex real characters, beautifully told page turners of a story. And The Redgum River Retreat is my new favourite. I read this novel so slowly stretching out my enjoyment of it until I just had to know what had happened to Rosalie in 1945..I just loved it. Sarah, Melody, Ryan, Penelope, Edward, Henry..even Pineapple the Possum…I could hug them all so tight!!! This is a incredibly moving story that had me wiping the tears away by page seven (surely a world record?) about the magic of music, the power of trauma, the beauty of friendship…everyone should read it at least once and I’m wondering if it’s too early to start on a reread..
January 2, 2024
The Redgum River Retreat is not only my first book of 2024, but also my first five star read.
Driving home from a performance at the Sydney Opera House, concert cellist Sarah was involved in a car accident. Sadly, her daughter, Melody was in the back seat and took the brunt of the impact.
A year on, Melody relies on a wheelchair to get around, but the trauma has caused her to be selectively mute. Sarah has done her absolute best for her daughter- moving in with her Granny Rose and cousin Ryan; trying different therapists with no success and even forgoing her own wellbeing so she could hear her little girls sunny voice again.
The answer lays amongst her grandmother's belongings. More specifically, a well used camera, a hat box that's seen better days and a photo album falling apart at the seams. Further investigation suggests that before Rosalie made her name as a successful photojournalist, she played a big part restoring hope during the war in the little town of Redgum River.
Sarah knew nothing about this, of course. Granny Rose has always been one to clam up regarding her past. But when opportunity knocks in the form of a musical retreat back where everything begun, it's time for this family to face up to all those fears that's been holding them back.
Little is known about the Snapshots from Home League, set up by the YMCA. Soldiers could request a photo of something that would comfort them- their family, home, whatever- and those involved would happily fulfill that request. As one of the volunteers, Rosie interacted with many families impacted by the war, but never ones that became so important as the Dawson's.
Music therapy and rehabilitation is something that I'm a huge advocate for and it's represented so beautifully throughout. I feel so much calmer just by reading about the different strategies.
Can I please have a Ryan of my own? Sarah's cousin is a ray of sunshine whose own journey, however small, is just as inspiring as his family's.
Loved this to bits. Bravo Sandie!
5🌟
Driving home from a performance at the Sydney Opera House, concert cellist Sarah was involved in a car accident. Sadly, her daughter, Melody was in the back seat and took the brunt of the impact.
A year on, Melody relies on a wheelchair to get around, but the trauma has caused her to be selectively mute. Sarah has done her absolute best for her daughter- moving in with her Granny Rose and cousin Ryan; trying different therapists with no success and even forgoing her own wellbeing so she could hear her little girls sunny voice again.
The answer lays amongst her grandmother's belongings. More specifically, a well used camera, a hat box that's seen better days and a photo album falling apart at the seams. Further investigation suggests that before Rosalie made her name as a successful photojournalist, she played a big part restoring hope during the war in the little town of Redgum River.
Sarah knew nothing about this, of course. Granny Rose has always been one to clam up regarding her past. But when opportunity knocks in the form of a musical retreat back where everything begun, it's time for this family to face up to all those fears that's been holding them back.
Little is known about the Snapshots from Home League, set up by the YMCA. Soldiers could request a photo of something that would comfort them- their family, home, whatever- and those involved would happily fulfill that request. As one of the volunteers, Rosie interacted with many families impacted by the war, but never ones that became so important as the Dawson's.
Music therapy and rehabilitation is something that I'm a huge advocate for and it's represented so beautifully throughout. I feel so much calmer just by reading about the different strategies.
Can I please have a Ryan of my own? Sarah's cousin is a ray of sunshine whose own journey, however small, is just as inspiring as his family's.
Loved this to bits. Bravo Sandie!
5🌟
April 13, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this story - engaging, heartfelt and emotional (as Sandie Docker’s books always are). Love that I also learnt about a piece of Australian history I’d never heard of - Snapshots from Home League. Sadly it finished all too soon and the long wait for Sandie’s next book begins.
August 31, 2023
Once again Aussie author Sandie Docker has written another fabulous book for her readers to devour and enjoy and that’s exactly what I did.
The Redgum River Retreat is a heartwarming and moving story with wonderful characters, a storyline that will stay with you long after you’ve finished it and a beautiful cover. Sandie Docker is up there with the top best authors and I have loved all of her books including this one. I can’t wait to see what she writes next. If you are trying to decide what to read next then think no longer and pick this book up I promise you will enjoy it. Highly recommended.
The Redgum River Retreat is a heartwarming and moving story with wonderful characters, a storyline that will stay with you long after you’ve finished it and a beautiful cover. Sandie Docker is up there with the top best authors and I have loved all of her books including this one. I can’t wait to see what she writes next. If you are trying to decide what to read next then think no longer and pick this book up I promise you will enjoy it. Highly recommended.
March 19, 2023
Sandie Docker fans (like me!) are in for a treat with this one! Family secrets and past traumas give rise to a powerful story of two women - Sarah and Rosalie, grandaughter and grandmother - coming to grips with the trauma of their pasts. So many fabulous themes are explored - the healing properties of music, the nature of memory, the toxicity of longheld secrets and the way WWII changed the lives of everyone in this country - those who served and those who kept the home fires burning. This is a heartfelt and intelligent novel with characters you will grow to love. Brilliant!
March 30, 2023
1945: the war in Europe has ended but the fight in the Pacific still goes on for brothers Edward and Albert.
Rosalie Reynolds has dreams of a career as a journalist but in the meantime in 1945, she is taking photos of families of those serving fulfilling the need of Snapshots From Home League.
2017: Sarah, grand-daughter of Rosalie, is enjoying a career as a gifted cellist and raising her five year old daughter Melody when tragedy strikes the very heart of her family.
The Redgum River Retreat is a place of healing and the place where Rosalie grew up but left in 1945, never to return. With courage and determination, Rosalie returns to her childhood home with Sarah, Melody and Sarah's cousin Ryan so that Melody may receive the therapy she needs.
Hidden secrets will be revealed and will have impact on all of them.
I have now read all five stand alone books by Sandie Docker...each one of them containing secrets, dreams, sacrifice, love and hope. I have loved each one of these very different stories but this one has completely taken my heart and is my very favourite of her stories.
The quote on the back of the book: "That's the beauty of music. It's always there when we need it".
I cannot recommend too highly the beauty and honesty of this story. I love it and I would ask readers to experience the talent of Sandie Docker in this book and all four other books. Thank you Sandie, I look forward to more of your stories. And thank you Emily.
Rosalie Reynolds has dreams of a career as a journalist but in the meantime in 1945, she is taking photos of families of those serving fulfilling the need of Snapshots From Home League.
2017: Sarah, grand-daughter of Rosalie, is enjoying a career as a gifted cellist and raising her five year old daughter Melody when tragedy strikes the very heart of her family.
The Redgum River Retreat is a place of healing and the place where Rosalie grew up but left in 1945, never to return. With courage and determination, Rosalie returns to her childhood home with Sarah, Melody and Sarah's cousin Ryan so that Melody may receive the therapy she needs.
Hidden secrets will be revealed and will have impact on all of them.
I have now read all five stand alone books by Sandie Docker...each one of them containing secrets, dreams, sacrifice, love and hope. I have loved each one of these very different stories but this one has completely taken my heart and is my very favourite of her stories.
The quote on the back of the book: "That's the beauty of music. It's always there when we need it".
I cannot recommend too highly the beauty and honesty of this story. I love it and I would ask readers to experience the talent of Sandie Docker in this book and all four other books. Thank you Sandie, I look forward to more of your stories. And thank you Emily.
March 19, 2023
A beautiful story of familial love, loss, guilt, secrets and redemption. The dual timeline was skilfully woven throughout the story, not giving its final secret up until the end. Tears were shed and at one point I triumphantly fist-pumped the air (to my Bloke's complete surprise). Five Stars, Must Read.
May 9, 2023
Sandie Docker is an incredible Author. I loved this book just like i loved other books of hers i have read. Well done Sandie on a fabulous book.
July 3, 2023
This was my first time picking up a Sandie Docker novel, and I can’t work out why the bloody hell it’s taken me so long to discover her! I adored her writing style, her voice and the easy way she slips between timelines.
Guilt-ridden Sarah and her secretive grandmother Rosalie are haunted by the past, but both are willing to revisit theirs at the River Redgum Retreat if it helps young Melody heal from her own internal scars.
The three generations are beautifully drawn, each timeline woven together seamlessly, and the plot kept me guessing until the end. A heart-wrenching but ultimately uplifting story of love, hope, war, music and making peace with the past.
Guilt-ridden Sarah and her secretive grandmother Rosalie are haunted by the past, but both are willing to revisit theirs at the River Redgum Retreat if it helps young Melody heal from her own internal scars.
The three generations are beautifully drawn, each timeline woven together seamlessly, and the plot kept me guessing until the end. A heart-wrenching but ultimately uplifting story of love, hope, war, music and making peace with the past.
Read
May 3, 2023Thoroughly enjoyed Sandie Docker's latest novel. As always, Sandie gives us great character depth, dual timelines, and a page turning story that you are invested in. I particularly loved the historic timeline and learning about Rosalie and the Snapshots from Home League. Both timelines were woven together deftly to a heartwarming yet bittersweet, realistic conclusion. Another ripper, Sandie!
April 28, 2023
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review
Thankyou for writing such a wonderful story, kept me intrigued till the very end. Heart warming, full of surprises and i felt like i was living along side everyone at Redgum River Retreat.
Thankyou for writing such a wonderful story, kept me intrigued till the very end. Heart warming, full of surprises and i felt like i was living along side everyone at Redgum River Retreat.
June 19, 2023
Sandie Docker has done it again! Absolutely loved Redgum River Retreat
July 14, 2023
This review is way overdue but I had a car accident just as I started reading this. And while my accident wasn't in any way close in consequences as the one at the start of this book (just a ding to our cars), my head was swamped with what-ifs so I just had to put this read aside for some time.
Getting back into it was fairly easy; these characters were so likeable and I could pick up the thread of the stories with no problem at all. The last Sandie Docker's book I read reduced me to a sobbing blob but this one (despite some heartaches) left me with a smile. Still, I had to ask, did she have to kill that character?! I really didn't think that was necessary at all and nearly right at the end too so the ending felt a bit rushed to me. Nevertheless, I just love the small Aussie town setting and the timeslips between the present and the 1940s. It was a beautiful story of kindness and hope; full of heart.
My thanks to Penguin Random House Australia for gifting me a copy of this book. Thoughts are mine own.
Getting back into it was fairly easy; these characters were so likeable and I could pick up the thread of the stories with no problem at all. The last Sandie Docker's book I read reduced me to a sobbing blob but this one (despite some heartaches) left me with a smile. Still, I had to ask, did she have to kill that character?! I really didn't think that was necessary at all and nearly right at the end too so the ending felt a bit rushed to me. Nevertheless, I just love the small Aussie town setting and the timeslips between the present and the 1940s. It was a beautiful story of kindness and hope; full of heart.
My thanks to Penguin Random House Australia for gifting me a copy of this book. Thoughts are mine own.
November 4, 2025
Enjoyed Sandie Docker's writing style and storyline. The 1940's era has always captured my interest, probably due to my parents' recollection and stories from that time.
Will check out other books by Sandie Docker.
Will check out other books by Sandie Docker.
May 29, 2023
The Redgum River Retreat is another outstanding novel from Australian author Sandie Docker.
On their way home from a concert at the Sydney Opera House, cellist Sarah and her daughter Melody are involved in a severe car accident that changes their lives forever. In an attempt to recover emotionally they are persuaded by Sarah’s grandmother Rosalie and her cousin Ryan to attend a music retreat in Rosalie’s home town of Redgum River.
Rosalie’s own story unfolds as a dual narrative - a powerful story of lost love, heartache, friendship and healing.
On their way home from a concert at the Sydney Opera House, cellist Sarah and her daughter Melody are involved in a severe car accident that changes their lives forever. In an attempt to recover emotionally they are persuaded by Sarah’s grandmother Rosalie and her cousin Ryan to attend a music retreat in Rosalie’s home town of Redgum River.
Rosalie’s own story unfolds as a dual narrative - a powerful story of lost love, heartache, friendship and healing.
July 4, 2024
This read reminded me of a young woman that I know, who through trauma suffered with Selective Mutism and for the time it took, counselling and patience for her to begin vocalising again.
In this read one would suspect that guilt played a big part in Melody's condition, causing her mother, Sarah, to have a car accident due to her disobedience. Melody's condition is further complicated as she is now wheelchair bound. Sarah, though, carries the blame for the accident and gives up her position in the orchestra to concentrate on Melody's recuperation.
Alternating between 1945 and present day takes the reader into grandmother Rosalie's past and in her returning to the place where she, as a young journalist had left behind and had followed her dream to become an acclaimed photo-journalist, she is now confronted by her past and painful memories. With Sarah discovering a box of memories, Rosalie still cannot bring herself to reveal her past young life.
Music plays a part in Melody's therapy and with an event which includes the locals from this tiny area, Rosalie is reunited with people she left behind, as old as her ninety plus years with at long last the truth of events finally coming to light.
In this read one would suspect that guilt played a big part in Melody's condition, causing her mother, Sarah, to have a car accident due to her disobedience. Melody's condition is further complicated as she is now wheelchair bound. Sarah, though, carries the blame for the accident and gives up her position in the orchestra to concentrate on Melody's recuperation.
Alternating between 1945 and present day takes the reader into grandmother Rosalie's past and in her returning to the place where she, as a young journalist had left behind and had followed her dream to become an acclaimed photo-journalist, she is now confronted by her past and painful memories. With Sarah discovering a box of memories, Rosalie still cannot bring herself to reveal her past young life.
Music plays a part in Melody's therapy and with an event which includes the locals from this tiny area, Rosalie is reunited with people she left behind, as old as her ninety plus years with at long last the truth of events finally coming to light.
May 22, 2023
⭐⭐⭐✨ - 3.5 Stars
As a devoted fan of Sandie Docker's heartwarming novels, I eagerly anticipated her latest release, The Redgum River Retreat. The book promised to deliver the same uplifting and hopeful emotions that I've come to expect from Sandie's stories. I was excited to embark on this reading journey, especially since I had the pleasure of buddy reading it with two of my favourite bookworms, Rina & Farrah.
The narrative spans across decades, starting in 1945 and continuing into the present day. We are introduced to Sarah, a single mother and talented musician, whose life takes an unexpected turn when an accident leaves her daughter, Melody, wheelchair-bound and unable to speak. Wracked with guilt and coping with her own physical injuries, Sarah learns about a music retreat in the charming town of Redgum River that could potentially help Melody heal. Unbeknownst to her, Sarah's own grandmother, Rosalie, had a history that began in the same town. In 1945, Rosalie, aspiring to make a name for herself in journalism, becomes entangled with the Snapshots from Home League, an organization that sends family photos to soldiers during wartime. However, when two brothers she corresponds with return home, her life takes an unexpected turn, leading her to leave the town and never look back... until now.
Sandie's signature talent lies in seamlessly weaving together historical and contemporary storylines while exploring the complexities of her characters. In this novel, she introduces us to the lesser-known Snapshots from Home League, a captivating real-life aspect that piqued my interest and provided a unique backdrop. However, I found myself not connecting with this particular storyline as deeply as I have with Sandie's previous works. Perhaps it was the focus on musical therapy or the pervading sense of sadness throughout the book. Don't get me wrong; I don't expect everything to be wrapped up in a neat, pink bow, but upon finishing the story, I couldn't shake off the feeling of being emotionally flat, unlike the usual experience her novels offer.
Despite my personal reservations, I still appreciate Sandie's storytelling prowess and eagerly await her next book. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Rina and Farrah for accompanying me on this buddy reading adventure.
As a devoted fan of Sandie Docker's heartwarming novels, I eagerly anticipated her latest release, The Redgum River Retreat. The book promised to deliver the same uplifting and hopeful emotions that I've come to expect from Sandie's stories. I was excited to embark on this reading journey, especially since I had the pleasure of buddy reading it with two of my favourite bookworms, Rina & Farrah.
The narrative spans across decades, starting in 1945 and continuing into the present day. We are introduced to Sarah, a single mother and talented musician, whose life takes an unexpected turn when an accident leaves her daughter, Melody, wheelchair-bound and unable to speak. Wracked with guilt and coping with her own physical injuries, Sarah learns about a music retreat in the charming town of Redgum River that could potentially help Melody heal. Unbeknownst to her, Sarah's own grandmother, Rosalie, had a history that began in the same town. In 1945, Rosalie, aspiring to make a name for herself in journalism, becomes entangled with the Snapshots from Home League, an organization that sends family photos to soldiers during wartime. However, when two brothers she corresponds with return home, her life takes an unexpected turn, leading her to leave the town and never look back... until now.
Sandie's signature talent lies in seamlessly weaving together historical and contemporary storylines while exploring the complexities of her characters. In this novel, she introduces us to the lesser-known Snapshots from Home League, a captivating real-life aspect that piqued my interest and provided a unique backdrop. However, I found myself not connecting with this particular storyline as deeply as I have with Sandie's previous works. Perhaps it was the focus on musical therapy or the pervading sense of sadness throughout the book. Don't get me wrong; I don't expect everything to be wrapped up in a neat, pink bow, but upon finishing the story, I couldn't shake off the feeling of being emotionally flat, unlike the usual experience her novels offer.
Despite my personal reservations, I still appreciate Sandie's storytelling prowess and eagerly await her next book. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Rina and Farrah for accompanying me on this buddy reading adventure.
June 23, 2023
I didn't connect with this storyline like I had hoped. Perhaps there was too much happening to become engaged? I did enjoy the small bit of historical referencing and it was neatly tired to the present, but that's actually where is lost me. Somthing was missing.
I recently finished Meredith Jaffe's book that also had a strong musical theme. She enhanced the reader experience with a Spotify Playlist of featured songs.
This approach in Docker's story may have added another level.
However authors using this medium need to introduce it at the beginning not at the end.
Rating it readable.
I recently finished Meredith Jaffe's book that also had a strong musical theme. She enhanced the reader experience with a Spotify Playlist of featured songs.
This approach in Docker's story may have added another level.
However authors using this medium need to introduce it at the beginning not at the end.
Rating it readable.
December 31, 2023
The Redgum River Retreat is an engaging dual-timeline read, exploring the human capacity for resilience in the face of trauma, and featuring a central cast of strong female characters.
In modern-day Sydney, single-mother and performance cellist Sarah is struggling to recover her sense of self following a car accident in which her daughter Melody was seriously injured, both physically and psychologically. Sarah lives with crippling guilt as she guides Melody through a seemingly never-ending series of therapist appointments aimed at resolving the child's selective mutism.
A chance discovery of a cache of 70-year-old photographs in the attic of her beloved grandmother Rosalie's home proves a welcome distraction, although Rosalie seems curiously unwilling to discuss the subject matter of the photographs or the details of her life in the country town of Redgum River before she was married and launched into an amazing career as a photojournalist.
Young Rosalie's story is told via a series of flashbacks to 1945, as she walks a fine balance between managing her conservative parents' aspirational ambitions for her with working at the local newspaper and, under the tutelage of her beloved uncle Bernie, honing her skills as an intuitive and gifted photographer. Prompted by the local postmistress, Rosalie becomes a volunteer for the YMCA 'Snapshots from Home League', a service providing on request photographs of family members, local scenes and events to servicemen deployed overseas. The scheme brings her into contact with many of the locals in Redgum River, in particularly widowed Penelope, new in town, whose two young adult sons are currently on active service in New Guinea.
The storylines are drawn together by the rather fortuitous suggestion that a targeted music therapy retreat might be just the thing to draw Melody out of her silence. The retreat is located (you guessed it!) in Redgum River, where grandmother Rosalie lived in her young adulthood. Sarah, Melody, a somewhat reluctant Rosalie, and Sarah's cousin Ryan, who's become jaded with his life as a corporate architect, pile into Ryan's dilapidated van and head up the highway to Redgum River.
The story moves back and forth between the past and the present day, as Melody slowly opens up to the music-based therapy, Sarah finds solace in nature and hot chocolate and the reasons for Rosalie's discomfort at facing her memories are slowly revealed.
There were no major surprises in the way events panned out, but this is a story that alternates between tragic and heart-warming as connections are made, conversations had and futures considered. I found the real-life story of the "Snapshots from Home League" fascinating and moving.
In modern-day Sydney, single-mother and performance cellist Sarah is struggling to recover her sense of self following a car accident in which her daughter Melody was seriously injured, both physically and psychologically. Sarah lives with crippling guilt as she guides Melody through a seemingly never-ending series of therapist appointments aimed at resolving the child's selective mutism.
A chance discovery of a cache of 70-year-old photographs in the attic of her beloved grandmother Rosalie's home proves a welcome distraction, although Rosalie seems curiously unwilling to discuss the subject matter of the photographs or the details of her life in the country town of Redgum River before she was married and launched into an amazing career as a photojournalist.
Young Rosalie's story is told via a series of flashbacks to 1945, as she walks a fine balance between managing her conservative parents' aspirational ambitions for her with working at the local newspaper and, under the tutelage of her beloved uncle Bernie, honing her skills as an intuitive and gifted photographer. Prompted by the local postmistress, Rosalie becomes a volunteer for the YMCA 'Snapshots from Home League', a service providing on request photographs of family members, local scenes and events to servicemen deployed overseas. The scheme brings her into contact with many of the locals in Redgum River, in particularly widowed Penelope, new in town, whose two young adult sons are currently on active service in New Guinea.
The storylines are drawn together by the rather fortuitous suggestion that a targeted music therapy retreat might be just the thing to draw Melody out of her silence. The retreat is located (you guessed it!) in Redgum River, where grandmother Rosalie lived in her young adulthood. Sarah, Melody, a somewhat reluctant Rosalie, and Sarah's cousin Ryan, who's become jaded with his life as a corporate architect, pile into Ryan's dilapidated van and head up the highway to Redgum River.
The story moves back and forth between the past and the present day, as Melody slowly opens up to the music-based therapy, Sarah finds solace in nature and hot chocolate and the reasons for Rosalie's discomfort at facing her memories are slowly revealed.
There were no major surprises in the way events panned out, but this is a story that alternates between tragic and heart-warming as connections are made, conversations had and futures considered. I found the real-life story of the "Snapshots from Home League" fascinating and moving.
August 7, 2024
There’s a slogan in screenwriting that applies just as well in novel writing and it is: Enter a scene late and leave early. It’s said to be the secret to writing a page turner because it elevates the micro-tension of every scene. And in my humble opinion, Sandie Docker is a master of this technique.
Not only do her books hook you in from the first chapter, she has a real talent for building and exploring character on the page while consistently moving the plot forward and upping the stakes. Every scene has its place and you keep reading because she weaves a spell that makes you sink into her story world, then consistently dangles the equivalent of literary carrots in front of you so you keep reading - and don’t sleep! It’s really quite impressive... and tiring. 😂
The Red Gum River Retreat is Sandie’s latest book and she delivers on the above in spades. Its a dual timeline story set in the present and in 1945 and both storylines held my attention, though it was the story focused on Rosalie and the ‘Snapshots from Home’ campaign that I was the most enamoured with because I loved the young Rosalie’s ambition and determination to choose a path for herself rather than submit to the life chosen for her by her privileged parents.
The present timeline focuses on Sarah, who takes her daughter Melody to the Red Gum River Retreat where she hopes music therapy will help heal Melody from a devastating accident. She’s led there somewhat reluctantly by her elderly grandmother, our main character in the past timeline who has some secrets she’s kept buried for decades. Secrets that could change this family forever.
The Red Gum River Retreat is a perfect combination of family drama, mystery, great love, friendship and history. It’s the kind of book that, at times, made me stop and just stare out the window, caught up in the lives, heartbreaks and struggles of the characters. It sent me to tears a few times - happy and sad - so do yourself a favour and read The Red Gum River Retreat. Hell, read all of Sandie’s books. This woman is a national fucking treasure!
All the stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Not only do her books hook you in from the first chapter, she has a real talent for building and exploring character on the page while consistently moving the plot forward and upping the stakes. Every scene has its place and you keep reading because she weaves a spell that makes you sink into her story world, then consistently dangles the equivalent of literary carrots in front of you so you keep reading - and don’t sleep! It’s really quite impressive... and tiring. 😂
The Red Gum River Retreat is Sandie’s latest book and she delivers on the above in spades. Its a dual timeline story set in the present and in 1945 and both storylines held my attention, though it was the story focused on Rosalie and the ‘Snapshots from Home’ campaign that I was the most enamoured with because I loved the young Rosalie’s ambition and determination to choose a path for herself rather than submit to the life chosen for her by her privileged parents.
The present timeline focuses on Sarah, who takes her daughter Melody to the Red Gum River Retreat where she hopes music therapy will help heal Melody from a devastating accident. She’s led there somewhat reluctantly by her elderly grandmother, our main character in the past timeline who has some secrets she’s kept buried for decades. Secrets that could change this family forever.
The Red Gum River Retreat is a perfect combination of family drama, mystery, great love, friendship and history. It’s the kind of book that, at times, made me stop and just stare out the window, caught up in the lives, heartbreaks and struggles of the characters. It sent me to tears a few times - happy and sad - so do yourself a favour and read The Red Gum River Retreat. Hell, read all of Sandie’s books. This woman is a national fucking treasure!
All the stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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