Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
By Marion Lennox, Mira, $29.99.
It’s an appealing blend of melodrama, some laugh-out-loud moments, a multi-generational romance and a finale that is both humorous and sweet.
Set in a coastal Australian farming community, Dr Jennifer Kelly inherits a farm, a dog and a surfing school from the grandfather she never knew. Why now?
After a desolate childhood with a distant grandmother, life now seems everything she’s ever wanted. She has reached the pinnacle of her career as a successful Manhattan obstetrician, complete with ambitious, blue–blooded fiancé.
Jennifer plans a quick trip to put the farm up for sale. Her aloof, socialite grandmother, Muriel, is appalled, yet insists on accompanying her. It’s time to sell it quickly and get back to life in New York. They leave for Nautilus Island for a short trip, but nothing turns out like either of them had planned.
Once there, Jenny finds herself caught, by cows, by turtles – and by Jack McLachlan, the overworked island doctor who desperately needs her help. Muriel’s caught too, with ghosts of her wartime past threatening to crack the shell she’s built with such dedication and care.
While the islanders don’t like the idea of the property turning into a resort, there’s a medical emergency and Jenny can see the strain under which the local doctor operates. Stranded on the island, Jenny reluctantly offers to help – but only for as long as she must. Is it likely that she feel enchanted by the island and a past she never knew about it?
Combining all the emotions you need between the pages – love, happiness, sadness and humour – this makes for an entertaining read. I guess that should come as no surprise since the Queenscliff-Victoria-based Marion is the third writer admitted into the Romance Writers of Australia’s Hall of Fame!
