In 1951, Esther Durrant, a young mother, is committed to an isolated mental asylum by her husband. Run by a pioneering psychiatrist, the hospital is at first Esther's prison but soon becomes her refuge. In 2017, Free-spirited marine scientist Rachel Parker embarks on a research posting in the Isles of Scilly, off the Cornish coast. When a violent storm forces her to take shelter on a far-flung island, she discovers a collection of hidden love letters. Captivated by their passion and tenderness, Rachel determines to track down the intended recipient.
Nunn’s U.S. debut is an engaging, dual-period narrative that unravels slowly ... The romance is unexpected yet authentic, and the ending highlights the enduring power of love and forgiveness. Ideal for readers of Lucinda Riley and Sarah Jio.
Vivid descriptions highlight intertwining plot lines that seamlessly build to a satisfying climax. For fans of the author’s other works (The Botanist’s Daughter) and fiction by authors such as Lauren Willig and Kate Morton.
... beautifully written but uneven ... While Nunn’s descriptions of Esther and Richard’s emotional bond are heavy-handed and a late plot twist is predictable, the bond between Esther and Eve is natural and affecting. This drawn-out love story misses the mark.
