The Shell Seekers: A Beloved Classic Family Drama - Perfect for Book Clubs & Radio 4 Listeners (April 2024)

I read this novel many years ago when it was first released as a hard bound edition. I had forgotten how delightfully enjoyable and entertaining a story it is. Extremely well written with finely drawn characters that seem so real you almost expect them to walk off the page and sit down to chat with you. The kind of old fashioned story that no one seems to know how to write anymore. The kind that reaches out and grabs you by the throat and doesn't let go until the very last page.At the heart of the story is Penelope Keeling, a most complex and amazing woman. It follows her life from her childhood in Cornwall, the turbulent years of WWII, and her marriage and life in London. The daughter of an English father who is a renowned artist and a French mother she is shaped by her life events into a most extraordinary woman.A finely woven story with intricate details so vivid you almost imagine you are there reliving the events of her life, experiencing them right along with her. Other people become part of her story and life, each adding rich layers to the story. Her oldest daughter and her son both whom feel entitled and are extremely selfish. Her second daughter Olivia who was my other favorite character most like her Mom. A marriage that didn't quite work out and the true love of her life who was lost in war.I am one of those individuals that will read a book more than once if I find it truly enjoyable. It's like revisiting and spending time with old friends you haven't seen in ages. I enjoyed this book just as much the second time. Still laughed out loud in places, still shed tears at the end, still had the warm satisfied feeling that only a really good book provides.I may go back and read September by this author again. I actually purchased it in digital and added it to my Kindle library. I was surprised to find this title on Kindle Unlimited, so it was an added bonus. Noel redeemed himself in September, set in Scotland and was the only character from the Shell Seekers to make an appearance. That alone is worth a second read. I recommend any novel written by this author. You will not be disappointed! ??