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Currawong Manor
Currawongs appearing at the Manor in vast numbers had come to portend one thing...
Death was on its way.
When photographer Elizabeth Thorrington is invited to document the history of Currawong Manor for a book, she is keen to investigate a mystery from years before: the disappearance of her grandfather, the notorious artist Rupert Partridge, and the deaths of his wife, Doris, and daughter, Shalimar. For years, locals have speculated whether it was terrible tragedy or a double murder, but until now, the shocking truth of what happened at the Manor that day has remained a secret.
Relocating to the manor, Elizabeth interviews Ginger Flower, one of Rupert's life models from the seventies, and Dolly Shaw, the daughter of the enigmatic 'dollmaker' who seems to have been protected over the years by the Partridge family. Elizabeth is sure the two women know what happened all those years ago, but neither will share their truths unconditionally. And in the surrounding Owlbone Woods, a haunting presence still lurks, waiting for the currawongs to gather...
An evocative tale set in the spectacular Blue Mountains, Currawong Manor is a mystery of art, truth and the ripple effects of death and deception.
Death was on its way.
When photographer Elizabeth Thorrington is invited to document the history of Currawong Manor for a book, she is keen to investigate a mystery from years before: the disappearance of her grandfather, the notorious artist Rupert Partridge, and the deaths of his wife, Doris, and daughter, Shalimar. For years, locals have speculated whether it was terrible tragedy or a double murder, but until now, the shocking truth of what happened at the Manor that day has remained a secret.
Relocating to the manor, Elizabeth interviews Ginger Flower, one of Rupert's life models from the seventies, and Dolly Shaw, the daughter of the enigmatic 'dollmaker' who seems to have been protected over the years by the Partridge family. Elizabeth is sure the two women know what happened all those years ago, but neither will share their truths unconditionally. And in the surrounding Owlbone Woods, a haunting presence still lurks, waiting for the currawongs to gather...
An evocative tale set in the spectacular Blue Mountains, Currawong Manor is a mystery of art, truth and the ripple effects of death and deception.
400 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2014
3 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 9, 2017
This is a brooding atmospheric book. Rather gothic in tone. I was looking forward to reading it. I liked the way the setting in the Blue Mountains of Australia was portrayed and other descriptions. For a while that got me in, along with wanting to know what had really happened with the deaths of the artist Rupert’s wife and daughter and his own disappearance. But in the end it wasn’t enough to keep me interested. I felt detached from all that was going on. Instead of being eager to pick up the book I was bored and struggled to keep reading. I usually like books about artists and about places with a history and secrets, but this one just didn’t do it for me. I found it weird. It was not helped by the fact that I didn’t like any of the characters. This is the second book I have read by this author and neither have grabbed me. Yet I know others have loved both of them, so I suspect it is just a case of me not clicking with this author. Best idea is read it and make up your own mind. You may like it better than I did.
June 13, 2014
An atmospheric novel of mystery, drama and tragedy, Currawong Manor has a similar tone and premise to author Josephine Pennicott's previous novel, Poet's Cottage.
Photographer Elizabeth Thorrington has always been eager to learn more about her grandfather, Rupert Partridge, a well known, controversial artist who mysteriously vanished in 1945 on the same day his beloved daughter, Shalimar, and wife Doris, met their tragic deaths. Invited by the current owners of Currawong Manor, the Partridge's former estate, to collaborate on a book about her grandfather's life and art, Elizabeth is excited by the opportunity to meet with one of Rupert's notorious muses, Ginger Flower, and Dolly Shaw, the daughter of the Partridge's housekeeper, once Shalimar's playmate. Elizabeth is convinced these women know what happened on that fateful day and hopes they will share the secrets they have kept for more than half a century... but perhaps some mysteries are best left unsolved.
The narrative moves between the past and the present as Elizabeth, along with true crime writer, and former muso, Nick Cash begin to piece together the history of the manor and its former residents, aided by Ginger's recall of her time at Currawong Manor as one of Rupert's three life models, known as the 'Flowers'. Slowly Pennicott unravels an intriguing story of love, art, scandal and betrayal that reveals the truth of the tragedy that befell the Partridge family.
The writing is evocative, with lyrical phrasing creating a haunting, oppressive atmosphere. Set in Mt Bellbird, a small village in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales, there are definite gothic overtones to this novel. The grand, partially restored Currawong Manor looms from the bush, surrounded by barely tamed gardens and bordered by the forbidding Owlbone Woods, in which something unseen lurks.
An impressively crafted literary story, Currawong Manor is an absorbing and dramatic tale.
July 15, 2014
I just loved this book so much!
You know those books you read that you just keep grabbing and reading whenever you get a moment because you love it just so much? this is one of those books; you become immersed in the story and the characters become almost a real part of your life.
Josephine Pennicott loves words and they love her. A beautifully written book by an author who just keeps getting better and better. I cannot wait until her next tale.
You know those books you read that you just keep grabbing and reading whenever you get a moment because you love it just so much? this is one of those books; you become immersed in the story and the characters become almost a real part of your life.
Josephine Pennicott loves words and they love her. A beautifully written book by an author who just keeps getting better and better. I cannot wait until her next tale.
June 10, 2014
In this atmospheric and historically detailed tale set in the Blue Mountains, Josephine Pennicott tells the story of Elizabeth Thorrington, a renown photographer, who’s invited to the home her famous grandfather, the artist, Rupert Partridge, Currawong Manor, in order to photograph the house and some of the people that used to live there for a new book that’s been commissioned. This book is set to celebrate the life and talents of Rupert. But Currawong Manor is a place of secrets and regrets, of lies and deceptions, of long-held suspicions and is the place where a great tragedy happened many years earlier. A tragedy for which no satisfactory explanation has ever been provided… until perhaps now…
Knowing her family’s tortured history, Elizabeth is a rather sad and quite prickly young woman, who has her own skeletons in the closet. Introduced to the current residents as well as one of her grandfather’s muses, the still vibrant and sassy Ginger, Elizabeth is keen to commence the project for which she’s been commissioned and delighted to be working with one of her grandfather’s “Flowers” as the young women were known back then.
Back in the 1940s, Ginger was one of three young women who lived with her grandfather, his wife, Doris and their lovely young daughter Shalimar, and posed for his many paintings. Whispered about, the source of much gossip and speculation as well as desire, regarded as a “fallen woman”, Ginger has risen above her origins as a “Surrey Hill rat” to become celebrated in her own right. Aware of the debt she owes Rupert and his legacy, grateful for the chance he once gave her, Ginger has agreed to be interviewed and photographed, but that doesn’t mean she has to like it.
Elizabeth also meets the former musician and journalist, Nick, who has made a living writing “true crime” stories and who has been hired to write the prose that will accompany Elizabeth’s photographs for the new book.
Curious about what happened back in the 1940s when so many lives were cruelly cut short, and determined to uncover the truth, Elizabeth quickly realises that Ginger and another resident at the Manor, Dolly, know more than they are prepared to tell.
Determined to get the heart of the matter, to clear her grandfather’s reputation and find out what really happened all those years ago, Elizabeth not only has to confront her family’s past, but the toll that years of secrets and dissembling has taken upon her and those she loves most.
Dark, the story unfolds languidly, moving the reader backwards in time before returning to the present, weaving a tapestry of mood and affect. Different points of view dominate, but mainly Elizabeth and Ginger’s and it’s through these two women that the reader, like those who study the challenging works of art and photographs that pepper the narrative, telling their own story, comes to understand the truth. We have to look closely, delve deeper, read the imagery and the meanings that accrue around people, their actions and the objects they hold dear in order to uncover the secrets. Just as Rupert used symbols to expose the brutality and callousness of war and the human wreckage it leaves behind, so too, Pennicott uses the architecture of the house and the magnificent grounds with its abundant flora as well as the haunting and dangerous Owlbone Woods (which is a character in itself), to hint at what’s to come, at what lies below the surface.
The settings are richly and beautifully drawn. You can smell the flowers, feel the cold press of the snow or the dewy warmth of a humid summer. Likewise, as the mystery unravels, you can feel the whispers of the past and the weight of guilt that hangs upon those who carry their secrets, determined to protect themselves and others. Like the birds that occasionally darken the eaves of the house, doom walks through the pages and reading Currawong Manor becomes a visceral experience – at once exciting and dramatic.
A Gothic treat for lovers of mystery, family dramas, history and suspense.
Knowing her family’s tortured history, Elizabeth is a rather sad and quite prickly young woman, who has her own skeletons in the closet. Introduced to the current residents as well as one of her grandfather’s muses, the still vibrant and sassy Ginger, Elizabeth is keen to commence the project for which she’s been commissioned and delighted to be working with one of her grandfather’s “Flowers” as the young women were known back then.
Back in the 1940s, Ginger was one of three young women who lived with her grandfather, his wife, Doris and their lovely young daughter Shalimar, and posed for his many paintings. Whispered about, the source of much gossip and speculation as well as desire, regarded as a “fallen woman”, Ginger has risen above her origins as a “Surrey Hill rat” to become celebrated in her own right. Aware of the debt she owes Rupert and his legacy, grateful for the chance he once gave her, Ginger has agreed to be interviewed and photographed, but that doesn’t mean she has to like it.
Elizabeth also meets the former musician and journalist, Nick, who has made a living writing “true crime” stories and who has been hired to write the prose that will accompany Elizabeth’s photographs for the new book.
Curious about what happened back in the 1940s when so many lives were cruelly cut short, and determined to uncover the truth, Elizabeth quickly realises that Ginger and another resident at the Manor, Dolly, know more than they are prepared to tell.
Determined to get the heart of the matter, to clear her grandfather’s reputation and find out what really happened all those years ago, Elizabeth not only has to confront her family’s past, but the toll that years of secrets and dissembling has taken upon her and those she loves most.
Dark, the story unfolds languidly, moving the reader backwards in time before returning to the present, weaving a tapestry of mood and affect. Different points of view dominate, but mainly Elizabeth and Ginger’s and it’s through these two women that the reader, like those who study the challenging works of art and photographs that pepper the narrative, telling their own story, comes to understand the truth. We have to look closely, delve deeper, read the imagery and the meanings that accrue around people, their actions and the objects they hold dear in order to uncover the secrets. Just as Rupert used symbols to expose the brutality and callousness of war and the human wreckage it leaves behind, so too, Pennicott uses the architecture of the house and the magnificent grounds with its abundant flora as well as the haunting and dangerous Owlbone Woods (which is a character in itself), to hint at what’s to come, at what lies below the surface.
The settings are richly and beautifully drawn. You can smell the flowers, feel the cold press of the snow or the dewy warmth of a humid summer. Likewise, as the mystery unravels, you can feel the whispers of the past and the weight of guilt that hangs upon those who carry their secrets, determined to protect themselves and others. Like the birds that occasionally darken the eaves of the house, doom walks through the pages and reading Currawong Manor becomes a visceral experience – at once exciting and dramatic.
A Gothic treat for lovers of mystery, family dramas, history and suspense.
August 22, 2014
‘Fate can be a dangerous mistress.’
A book has been commissioned about Currawong Manor, once the home of Rupert Partridge, a famous artist. Elizabeth Thorrington, a renowned photographer, and Rupert’s granddaughter, has been invited to the house to take photographs of it and of some of the people that used to live there. The book, to be written by true crime writer and former musician Nick Cash, is intended to celebrate Rupert Partridge’s life, and to showcase his talents.
‘But there’s still time to leave, my girl. There’s always a choice of path – and sometimes it’s wise to take the less exciting one.’
But Currawong Manor, in the picturesque (Australian) Blue Mountains, with its own history and secrets, was the place where a great tragedy occurred in the 1940s. In the space of a single day, Rupert‘s wife Doris and their daughter Shalimar died separate tragic deaths. The only member of the family who survived was Elizabeth’s mother. Rupert himself disappeared. Elizabeth meets Dolly Sharp, who was a child living at Currawong Manor in the 1940s, and Ginger, one of her grandfather’s ‘Flowers’ as the three young women who lived with the Partridge family and posed for Rupert’s paintings were known.
Ginger has agreed to be interviewed and photographed, but she does not seem particularly enthusiastic. Elizabeth realises that both Ginger and Dolly know more about the mysteries of Currawong Manor than they seem prepared to share. Elizabeth is keen to find out more about her family’s past and to uncover the truth (or truths) behind the tragedy. Her own mother wants nothing to do with Currawong Manor, and warned Elizabeth against going there. So, what is the truth behind the tragedy? And will Ginger and Dolly tell Elizabeth what they know?
What is the truth of Owlbone Woods, and does a gathering of currawongs signal impending death?
‘Are you up for an adventure?’
The story of Currawong Manor and its previous inhabitants unfolds as we move between Elizabeth’s present and Ginger’s past. If you like dark, brooding, atmospheric novels, this is one to savour. Secrets abound, and while some may appear obvious to the reader, others take time to be revealed.
‘Revenge is a lit match in a summer bush- you destroy everything around you as well as yourself.’
I confess that I did not like this novel as much its predecessor, ‘Poet’s Cottage’. The story is well written, the setting well described but at times it was a little too dramatic for me. Perhaps I prefer not to have the loose ends tied up quite so completely.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
A book has been commissioned about Currawong Manor, once the home of Rupert Partridge, a famous artist. Elizabeth Thorrington, a renowned photographer, and Rupert’s granddaughter, has been invited to the house to take photographs of it and of some of the people that used to live there. The book, to be written by true crime writer and former musician Nick Cash, is intended to celebrate Rupert Partridge’s life, and to showcase his talents.
‘But there’s still time to leave, my girl. There’s always a choice of path – and sometimes it’s wise to take the less exciting one.’
But Currawong Manor, in the picturesque (Australian) Blue Mountains, with its own history and secrets, was the place where a great tragedy occurred in the 1940s. In the space of a single day, Rupert‘s wife Doris and their daughter Shalimar died separate tragic deaths. The only member of the family who survived was Elizabeth’s mother. Rupert himself disappeared. Elizabeth meets Dolly Sharp, who was a child living at Currawong Manor in the 1940s, and Ginger, one of her grandfather’s ‘Flowers’ as the three young women who lived with the Partridge family and posed for Rupert’s paintings were known.
Ginger has agreed to be interviewed and photographed, but she does not seem particularly enthusiastic. Elizabeth realises that both Ginger and Dolly know more about the mysteries of Currawong Manor than they seem prepared to share. Elizabeth is keen to find out more about her family’s past and to uncover the truth (or truths) behind the tragedy. Her own mother wants nothing to do with Currawong Manor, and warned Elizabeth against going there. So, what is the truth behind the tragedy? And will Ginger and Dolly tell Elizabeth what they know?
What is the truth of Owlbone Woods, and does a gathering of currawongs signal impending death?
‘Are you up for an adventure?’
The story of Currawong Manor and its previous inhabitants unfolds as we move between Elizabeth’s present and Ginger’s past. If you like dark, brooding, atmospheric novels, this is one to savour. Secrets abound, and while some may appear obvious to the reader, others take time to be revealed.
‘Revenge is a lit match in a summer bush- you destroy everything around you as well as yourself.’
I confess that I did not like this novel as much its predecessor, ‘Poet’s Cottage’. The story is well written, the setting well described but at times it was a little too dramatic for me. Perhaps I prefer not to have the loose ends tied up quite so completely.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
July 31, 2014
I was really looking forward to this book after reading and enjoying another of Josephine Pennicott's books, Poet's Cottage.
Her latest, Currawong Manor takes place in the Blue Mountains in NSW, a place I have spent quite a bit of time in, which really added to my enjoyment of this story.
The main character, Elizabeth, is a photographer who is hired to take photos at her grandfather's house, where the whole family died or mysteriously disappeared one night decades ago. Her grandfather was a famous artist, and we have flashbacks through one of his muses, Ginger, who is finally telling her story.
I loved the descriptions of the Australian bush and the whole house, and enjoyed the art references. The cover captures the atmosphere of the novel with its moody colours and the house seen through the mist.
The mystery was compelling and at some points quite spooky, I found myself racing through the second half of the novel to discover what had happened in the past. Very suspenseful with lots of twists.
Her latest, Currawong Manor takes place in the Blue Mountains in NSW, a place I have spent quite a bit of time in, which really added to my enjoyment of this story.
The main character, Elizabeth, is a photographer who is hired to take photos at her grandfather's house, where the whole family died or mysteriously disappeared one night decades ago. Her grandfather was a famous artist, and we have flashbacks through one of his muses, Ginger, who is finally telling her story.
I loved the descriptions of the Australian bush and the whole house, and enjoyed the art references. The cover captures the atmosphere of the novel with its moody colours and the house seen through the mist.
The mystery was compelling and at some points quite spooky, I found myself racing through the second half of the novel to discover what had happened in the past. Very suspenseful with lots of twists.
June 29, 2014
★Currawong Manor ★ Josephine Pennicott ★ 3.5 stars★
This is the second novel I've read by Australian author, Josephine Pennicott, the previous being, Poet's Cottage. Like it's predecessor, Currawong Manor takes us on a journey of discovery of long held family secrets and tragedies.
Elizabeth Thorrington a young photographer has been invited to document the history of Currawong Manor, the family home of her grandfather, Rubert Partridge, who mysteriously dissappeared shortly after the tragic death of his daughter, Shalimar and wife Doris. Currawong Manor is located in Mount Bellwood, Blue Mountains, NSW, with many of the locals still speculating around the tragic events from the past.
Elizabeth meets with Nick Cash and together they relocate to Currawong Manor, and join other characters including Ginger Lawson, one of Ruperts life models with the aim of unravelling the historic mystery. This book had so many well drawn characters from the larger than life Ginger, the little bit different Dolly Sharp, former childhood friend of the beautiful Shalimar.
The story unfolds primarily through the memories of Ginger, who feels compelled to have the truth exposed to lift the "curse" of Currawong Manor. The story is emotive, mystery of long held secrets
This is the second novel I've read by Australian author, Josephine Pennicott, the previous being, Poet's Cottage. Like it's predecessor, Currawong Manor takes us on a journey of discovery of long held family secrets and tragedies.
Elizabeth Thorrington a young photographer has been invited to document the history of Currawong Manor, the family home of her grandfather, Rubert Partridge, who mysteriously dissappeared shortly after the tragic death of his daughter, Shalimar and wife Doris. Currawong Manor is located in Mount Bellwood, Blue Mountains, NSW, with many of the locals still speculating around the tragic events from the past.
Elizabeth meets with Nick Cash and together they relocate to Currawong Manor, and join other characters including Ginger Lawson, one of Ruperts life models with the aim of unravelling the historic mystery. This book had so many well drawn characters from the larger than life Ginger, the little bit different Dolly Sharp, former childhood friend of the beautiful Shalimar.
The story unfolds primarily through the memories of Ginger, who feels compelled to have the truth exposed to lift the "curse" of Currawong Manor. The story is emotive, mystery of long held secrets
September 3, 2014
Thoroughly enjoyed this. I think Josephine is a fine writer and she continues to shine. Similar style to Poet's Cottage but this time the setting is the Blue Mountains and the story of an artist, his family and his muses. The history of the period (1940s) is well captured and I was intrigued by the current day events - yes I love having two periods captured in a story. Gives me my historical fiction fix that's for sure! I thought her characters were well written and her story was mystical and captivating. I think her writing style is beautiful, creative and poetic. Can't wait to see what she does next.
April 29, 2015
I really don't understand why you would name a child after Rupert...best case scenario, he was a colossal dickhead, and worst case scenario, he was actually a paedophile.
But then I don't understand a lot of the motivation of the characters in this book.
But then I don't understand a lot of the motivation of the characters in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2015
das buch war sehr schön geschrieben. ich mochte die geschichte und konnte mir die charaktere und deren handlungen gut vorstellen.
ich würde das buch immer wieder gerne lesen. :)
ich würde das buch immer wieder gerne lesen. :)
February 5, 2019
DEUTSCH │ GERMAN
"Sturmtöchter" hat mich wirklich begeistert.
Als Leser begleitet man Protagonistin Elizabeth, welche als Fotografin arbeitet, nach Australien - zum alten Herrenhaus ihres Großvaters.
Zu Lebzeiten arbeitete dieser als Aktkünstler zusammen mit drei Musen; seinen "Blumen": die berühmte und damals atemberaubend schöne Ginger; der blondgelockte Engel Kitty, welche bereits verstorben ist; und die italienische Schönheit Wanda.
1945 wird Elizabeths Großvater, Rupert Pattridge, für den Mord an seiner Tochter Shalima verurteilt und hingerichtet.
Seine Enkelin möchte nun mit einem Besuch auf Mount Bellwoodt seine Unschuld herausfinden, von der sie fest überzeugt ist.
Zusammen mit Krimi-Autor Nick Bash soll sie zusammen für ein Buch ("Flowers of the Ruin") dort recherchieren und Fotos aufnehmen.
Die berühmt-berüchtigte rothaarige Ginger ist jedoch das einzig brauchbare "Flower-Girl". Wanda lebt mit Demenz im Altersheim und Kitty ist bereits verstorben. Doch Ginger rückt mit der Wahrheit nicht raus; sie ist verschwiegen und möchte weder Nick, noch Elizabeth etwas erzählen. Nach anfänglichen Schwierigkeiten berichtet sie jedoch ausführlich über ihr gesamtes Leben - wie sie ein Flower-Girl wurde, wie sie lebte etc. etc.
Die Handlung ist hierbei in zwei Ebenen unterteilt: Die Erzählung in der "Gegenwart" mit Elizabeth und ihren Recherchen. Sowie wird dieser Handlungsstrang durch mal kurze, mal längere Einschübe unterbrochen, in welchen Ginger Elizabeth und/oder Nick aus ihrem Leben erzählt.
Fazit:
Mir gefiel das Buch wirklich sehr sehr gut. Ich habe es sehr genossen, es zu lesen, was bei einem Roman dieser Art bei mir eigentlich nicht häufig vorkommt (ich tendiere doch eher zu Fantasy).
Das Schöne an dem Roman ist, dass man wirkliche Einblicke in die Kriegszeit erhascht. Ginger erzählt viel aus ihrem Leben vor und während dem Krieg, was sie erlebt hat und wie sie und ihre Familie damals leben mussten. An dieser Stelle wurde wirklich sehr gut recherchiert, das damals sehr armselige Leben wurde perfekt und dramatisch in Szene gesetzt.
Auch den Schreibstil fand ich sehr flüssig und angenehm zu lesen. An einigen wenigen Stellen fand ich das Buch ein kleines bisschen langatmig, was aber im Endeffekt nicht besonders zur Minderung der Qualität dieses Romans beitrug.
Ein wirklich gelungener (historischer) Roman mit sehr viel Feingefühl und Humor. Wer sich gerne in "ferne" Welten entführen lässt und eine atemberaubende Geschichte lesen möchte ist mit "Sturmtöchter" sehr gut bedient!
"Sturmtöchter" hat mich wirklich begeistert.
Als Leser begleitet man Protagonistin Elizabeth, welche als Fotografin arbeitet, nach Australien - zum alten Herrenhaus ihres Großvaters.
Zu Lebzeiten arbeitete dieser als Aktkünstler zusammen mit drei Musen; seinen "Blumen": die berühmte und damals atemberaubend schöne Ginger; der blondgelockte Engel Kitty, welche bereits verstorben ist; und die italienische Schönheit Wanda.
1945 wird Elizabeths Großvater, Rupert Pattridge, für den Mord an seiner Tochter Shalima verurteilt und hingerichtet.
Seine Enkelin möchte nun mit einem Besuch auf Mount Bellwoodt seine Unschuld herausfinden, von der sie fest überzeugt ist.
Zusammen mit Krimi-Autor Nick Bash soll sie zusammen für ein Buch ("Flowers of the Ruin") dort recherchieren und Fotos aufnehmen.
Die berühmt-berüchtigte rothaarige Ginger ist jedoch das einzig brauchbare "Flower-Girl". Wanda lebt mit Demenz im Altersheim und Kitty ist bereits verstorben. Doch Ginger rückt mit der Wahrheit nicht raus; sie ist verschwiegen und möchte weder Nick, noch Elizabeth etwas erzählen. Nach anfänglichen Schwierigkeiten berichtet sie jedoch ausführlich über ihr gesamtes Leben - wie sie ein Flower-Girl wurde, wie sie lebte etc. etc.
Die Handlung ist hierbei in zwei Ebenen unterteilt: Die Erzählung in der "Gegenwart" mit Elizabeth und ihren Recherchen. Sowie wird dieser Handlungsstrang durch mal kurze, mal längere Einschübe unterbrochen, in welchen Ginger Elizabeth und/oder Nick aus ihrem Leben erzählt.
Fazit:
Mir gefiel das Buch wirklich sehr sehr gut. Ich habe es sehr genossen, es zu lesen, was bei einem Roman dieser Art bei mir eigentlich nicht häufig vorkommt (ich tendiere doch eher zu Fantasy).
Das Schöne an dem Roman ist, dass man wirkliche Einblicke in die Kriegszeit erhascht. Ginger erzählt viel aus ihrem Leben vor und während dem Krieg, was sie erlebt hat und wie sie und ihre Familie damals leben mussten. An dieser Stelle wurde wirklich sehr gut recherchiert, das damals sehr armselige Leben wurde perfekt und dramatisch in Szene gesetzt.
Auch den Schreibstil fand ich sehr flüssig und angenehm zu lesen. An einigen wenigen Stellen fand ich das Buch ein kleines bisschen langatmig, was aber im Endeffekt nicht besonders zur Minderung der Qualität dieses Romans beitrug.
Ein wirklich gelungener (historischer) Roman mit sehr viel Feingefühl und Humor. Wer sich gerne in "ferne" Welten entführen lässt und eine atemberaubende Geschichte lesen möchte ist mit "Sturmtöchter" sehr gut bedient!
June 28, 2017
The book is set in the beautiful Blue Mountains in NSW. The story takes place in a town called Mount Bellwood. Not sure where this is however the author uses town names such as Katoomba, Leura, Lithgow to give you an understanding of the general location.
The story is based around the main character, photographer Elizabeth Thorrington, who is invited to Currawong Manor (unaffectionatly labled "The Ruins") to document the history of the property. The manor had once belonged to her family and is said to have been cursed. Elizabeth is keen to uncover the truth about the deaths of her Aunty and Grandmother that occured on this property and discover the reason behind the mysterious disappearance of her Grandfather, notorious artist Rupert Partridge.
With the help of Ginger Lawson, one of Rupert's models from the 1940s, Elizabeth and Nick Cash intend to publish a book featuring photographs, journals, letters and articles about the three young women who had posed for Rupert, titled "Flowers of the Ruins".
Through one on one interviews and prerecorded tapes, you learn of Ginger's early days at the manor and meet the residents of "The Ruins", including Shalimar who is said to have "accidentally" drown in a glen within the forest. Could it be that Ginger knows more about the young girl's death than she is letting on? And is that the real reason Nick Cash is so interested in writting this book?
The mood of this whole story is one of foreboding, with a strong sense of impending danger as shadows and unexplained noises emanate from the forrest. With such a dark storyline, and the suspence that is maintained throughout the book I believe that it is very well thought out.
The story is based around the main character, photographer Elizabeth Thorrington, who is invited to Currawong Manor (unaffectionatly labled "The Ruins") to document the history of the property. The manor had once belonged to her family and is said to have been cursed. Elizabeth is keen to uncover the truth about the deaths of her Aunty and Grandmother that occured on this property and discover the reason behind the mysterious disappearance of her Grandfather, notorious artist Rupert Partridge.
With the help of Ginger Lawson, one of Rupert's models from the 1940s, Elizabeth and Nick Cash intend to publish a book featuring photographs, journals, letters and articles about the three young women who had posed for Rupert, titled "Flowers of the Ruins".
Through one on one interviews and prerecorded tapes, you learn of Ginger's early days at the manor and meet the residents of "The Ruins", including Shalimar who is said to have "accidentally" drown in a glen within the forest. Could it be that Ginger knows more about the young girl's death than she is letting on? And is that the real reason Nick Cash is so interested in writting this book?
The mood of this whole story is one of foreboding, with a strong sense of impending danger as shadows and unexplained noises emanate from the forrest. With such a dark storyline, and the suspence that is maintained throughout the book I believe that it is very well thought out.
September 10, 2019
I tossed up between giving this a 1 or a 2. In the end I settled for a 2 as I actually finished it. I didn't really take to it and it only annoyed me more and more as it continued (and it wouldn't stop, continuing way past when it should have finished - it became more a biography of Ginger than the solving of a mystery).
For a start why would anyone invite an author and photographer to a house in the middle of winter? Presumably just to make it more "gothic" and forboding, but totally illogical. The book plodded along and I found Elizabeth annoying, giving Nick the cold shoulder for no reason for one minute, then swooning over him the next. I nearly vomited towards the end, it was so twee.
I won't be reading any more books by this author.
For a start why would anyone invite an author and photographer to a house in the middle of winter? Presumably just to make it more "gothic" and forboding, but totally illogical. The book plodded along and I found Elizabeth annoying, giving Nick the cold shoulder for no reason for one minute, then swooning over him the next. I nearly vomited towards the end, it was so twee.
I won't be reading any more books by this author.
March 27, 2018
Elizabeth is excited to return to her grandparents' estate in the Blue Mountains. Her grandfather Rupert was an artist who had three models living on the estate. In his studio he would create what sounded like really weird art with the models, whom he called 'Flowers'. This seems closely related to Norman Lindsey who also lived at Springwood in the Blue Mountains. Elizabeth is about to create a coffee table book with her beautiful photography and while she is there, hopes to learn more about her family history. The family history is really intriguing.
The story is set in 1945 and 2000 and I struggled to keep up as there are a lot of characters.
The story is set in 1945 and 2000 and I struggled to keep up as there are a lot of characters.
August 2, 2018
Das Buch ist wirklich klasse. Ich hab es als Hörbuch gehört und die beiden Vorlesestimmen war super. Die Geschichte hat mich total gefesselt und ich hab immer weiter gehört, sobald sich die Möglichkeit für mich ergab. Ich lese sehr gern Familiengeschichten, bei denen Tragödien aufgedeckt werden. Die Geschichte um das alte Anwesen und deren Bewohner ist sehr spannend. Die Rückblenden sind flüssig und alles ist verständlich. Tolle Charaktere! Nur den deutschen Titel "Sturmtöchter" kann ich weniger nachvollziehen. Der Originaltitel "Currawong Manor" hätte es meiner Meinung nach auch im deutschen getan.
July 9, 2020
I love this book. And I really love a book that features a house, or in this case, a Manor as a character in the story. This Manor is set in the beautiful Blue Mountains and is an atmospheric, mesmerising mystery about art, truth, death and deception. Compelling and hypnotic, I found it very difficult to put down. Now I look forward to reading Poet's Cottage...I have had both these books for a number of years...now is the time to read both. If you love an atmospheric mystery, you will love Currawong Manor.
February 24, 2018
I really disliked the main character, Elizabeth in this novel. I found her to be childish, boring and annoying. I felt like this book could have had much more potential if it had been written better.
December 28, 2018
Wow. Don't read if you don't like Main characters who are okay with child porn... I am so disgusted by the last five chapters. Gross.
March 20, 2018
Das Buch hat mir überraschend gut gefallen, es war doch anders als die üblichen Familiensagas. Der literarische Anspruch und die Sprache sind vielleicht einigen etwas zu einfach, aber es las sich angenehm, flüssig und durchaus spannend. Einziger Wermutstropfen: ich fand die Auflösungen beider Erzählstränge nicht völlig überzeugend. Die Motivation einiger Personen konnte ich nicht nachvollziehen.
May 19, 2015
*4.5 stars
Josephine Pennicott, author of Currawong Manor, was inspired to write her latest novel based on her time as an art student in the Blue Mountains region of NSW. Art is a central theme in Currawong Manor, as the story focuses on unravelling the mystery surrounding a family tragedy involving decorated artist Rupert Partridge, his wife and their young daughter. Rupert’s granddaughter in the present day, Elizabeth Thorrington is a successful photographer and finds herself drawn into her family’s tragic past. The new owners of Currawong Manor invite her to take photographs for a book that is to be released about her Grandfather’s life. Elizabeth finds herself immediately drawn into the secrets of Currawong Manor, while collaborating on her work for the book with writer Nick Cash and a former life model of her Grandfather’s Ginger. Ginger is the only surviving model of Rupert Partridge’s renowned “Flowers” a name coined for the muses who inspired Partridge’s paintings. Currawong Manor shifts effortlessly between the past and the present. Ginger’s flashbacks about her time at Currawong Manor as a life model with the Partridge family provide a link to the past. While in the present, Elizabeth’s determination to finally get answers to a deep seated family mystery drives the present day storyline to a dramatic collision with the past.
I have previously read and absolutely loved Josephine Pennicott’s last book the Poet’s Cottage. It is still on my list of my top ten best reads. It was with some trepidation that I set out to read Currawong Manor, in fact I must confess I have had this book on my shelf to read for some time. Despite savouring this book to read, I was impressed, I did love it but it did not quite reach the mark that the Poet’s Cottage did. It is a remarkable book, very gothic with a strong sense of atmosphere. The book depicts the art scene that was present in the Blue Mountains around the 1940’s. I really enjoyed reading about the history of Australian art and artists such as Rupert Partridge and Norman Lindsay. This is a fascinating slice of history which Currawong Manor has introduced me to .The novel also touches on with sensitivity the long lasting effects of war on soldier’s such as Rupert. These parts of Currawong Manor make for compelling and emotive reading. The highlight of Currawong manor is the setting. It really is a joy to read, I loved the descriptions of the landscape that surrounds Currawong Manor. The flora and fauna inhabiting the area of Currawong Manor is described in such as way that it was truly a feast for the senses. I liked the idea that the bush holds its secrets and the eerie tone that it emits adds a strong sense of readability to the book. Currawong Manor itself is almost a character in its own right, dark, brooding and the keeper of secrets. I felt completely drawn to the house and its inhabitants. Pennicott’s characters both in the past and present are wonderfully layered and complex. Currawong Manor's cast of characters also compliment each other well, supporting one another to progress the story to a natural conclusion. The ending was completely satisfying. I did find my reading speed definitely increased for the last half of the novel, as I was keen to find out how the secrets would be revealed. A beautifully written book, which will appeal to lovers of books that blend Australian history, mystery, family secrets, suspense and romance.
Josephine Pennicott, author of Currawong Manor, was inspired to write her latest novel based on her time as an art student in the Blue Mountains region of NSW. Art is a central theme in Currawong Manor, as the story focuses on unravelling the mystery surrounding a family tragedy involving decorated artist Rupert Partridge, his wife and their young daughter. Rupert’s granddaughter in the present day, Elizabeth Thorrington is a successful photographer and finds herself drawn into her family’s tragic past. The new owners of Currawong Manor invite her to take photographs for a book that is to be released about her Grandfather’s life. Elizabeth finds herself immediately drawn into the secrets of Currawong Manor, while collaborating on her work for the book with writer Nick Cash and a former life model of her Grandfather’s Ginger. Ginger is the only surviving model of Rupert Partridge’s renowned “Flowers” a name coined for the muses who inspired Partridge’s paintings. Currawong Manor shifts effortlessly between the past and the present. Ginger’s flashbacks about her time at Currawong Manor as a life model with the Partridge family provide a link to the past. While in the present, Elizabeth’s determination to finally get answers to a deep seated family mystery drives the present day storyline to a dramatic collision with the past.
I have previously read and absolutely loved Josephine Pennicott’s last book the Poet’s Cottage. It is still on my list of my top ten best reads. It was with some trepidation that I set out to read Currawong Manor, in fact I must confess I have had this book on my shelf to read for some time. Despite savouring this book to read, I was impressed, I did love it but it did not quite reach the mark that the Poet’s Cottage did. It is a remarkable book, very gothic with a strong sense of atmosphere. The book depicts the art scene that was present in the Blue Mountains around the 1940’s. I really enjoyed reading about the history of Australian art and artists such as Rupert Partridge and Norman Lindsay. This is a fascinating slice of history which Currawong Manor has introduced me to .The novel also touches on with sensitivity the long lasting effects of war on soldier’s such as Rupert. These parts of Currawong Manor make for compelling and emotive reading. The highlight of Currawong manor is the setting. It really is a joy to read, I loved the descriptions of the landscape that surrounds Currawong Manor. The flora and fauna inhabiting the area of Currawong Manor is described in such as way that it was truly a feast for the senses. I liked the idea that the bush holds its secrets and the eerie tone that it emits adds a strong sense of readability to the book. Currawong Manor itself is almost a character in its own right, dark, brooding and the keeper of secrets. I felt completely drawn to the house and its inhabitants. Pennicott’s characters both in the past and present are wonderfully layered and complex. Currawong Manor's cast of characters also compliment each other well, supporting one another to progress the story to a natural conclusion. The ending was completely satisfying. I did find my reading speed definitely increased for the last half of the novel, as I was keen to find out how the secrets would be revealed. A beautifully written book, which will appeal to lovers of books that blend Australian history, mystery, family secrets, suspense and romance.
April 29, 2016
Düster und mit Potential, aber klischeebeladener Schreibstil
Australien, 2000 und 1945: Elizabeth ist eine bekannte Fotografin. Für ein Buchprojekt reist sie nach Currawong Manor, dem Anwesen ihres Großvaters in den Blue Mountains, und Ort einer schrecklichen Familientragödie. Elizabeths Großvater war der Maler Rupert Partridge,der unter anderem als teuflisch verschrien war und dem wilde Orgien nachgesagt wurden. Zusammen mit seiner Familie und drei jungen Aktmodellen lebt er im Herrenhaus, umgeben von einem unheilvollen Wald. Doch dann wird seine Tochter tot aufgefunden und Rupert als ihr Mörder hingerichtet. Zusammen mit einem der ehemaligen Aktmodelle begibt sich Elizabeth auf die Reise in die dunkle Familiengeschichte.
Ich bin bei diesem Buch etwas zwiegespalten. Generell fand ich es schön düster und mit Nervenkitzelpotential. Ich fühlte mich, was die Handlung und die unheimlichen Elemente anging, durchaus etwas an "Die amerikanische Nacht" erinnert. Doch stilistisch kann "Sturmtöchter" da keineswegs mithalten. Bis mich Gingers Rückblenden gepackt und in die Handlung hineingezogen hatten, hatte ich teilweise schwer mit dem Schreibstil zu kämpfen. In diese ersten Kapitel habe ich nur ganz schwer hineingefunden und die Dialoge als sehr hölzern empfunden. Insgesamt war vor allem der Gegenwartshandlungsstrang ziemlich klischeebeladen und teilweise kitschig. Zudem litten die Geschichte und die Auflösung unter ein paar logischen Schwächen, die jedoch nicht allzu sehr ins Gewicht fallen, wenn man nicht unbedingt angestrengt an den Anfang des Buches zurückdenkt. Die unheimliche Stimmung war an manchen Stellen vielleicht etwas erzwungen, aber überwiegend hat mich die Atmosphäre überzeugt. Ich finde allerdings, dass man das Cover düsterer und weniger frauenromanhaft gestalten könnte.
Von der Autorin ist bereits ein anderes Buch auf deutsch erschienen ("Dornentöchter") und der aktuelle Titel suggeriert, dass die beiden Bücher zusammenhängen, was sie aber nicht tun. Die erste Geschichte wird ein einziges Mal sehr am Rande erwähnt, trägt aber nichts zur Handlung von "Sturmtöchter" bei. Das könnte etwas irreführend sein. Ich hatte das erste Buch auch als stilistisch besser in Erinnerung. Daher war ich vom Schreibstil von "Sturmtöchter" negativ überrascht.
Alles in allem bin ich mit dem Leseerlebnis bei "Sturmtöchter" unzufrieden. Die Geschichte hatte Potential und war aufgrund der düsteren Atmosphäre durchaus packend. Der Schreibstil war jedoch streckenweise hölzern, klischeebeladen und verkitscht, was auch die interessante Handlung für mich nicht retten konnte.
Australien, 2000 und 1945: Elizabeth ist eine bekannte Fotografin. Für ein Buchprojekt reist sie nach Currawong Manor, dem Anwesen ihres Großvaters in den Blue Mountains, und Ort einer schrecklichen Familientragödie. Elizabeths Großvater war der Maler Rupert Partridge,der unter anderem als teuflisch verschrien war und dem wilde Orgien nachgesagt wurden. Zusammen mit seiner Familie und drei jungen Aktmodellen lebt er im Herrenhaus, umgeben von einem unheilvollen Wald. Doch dann wird seine Tochter tot aufgefunden und Rupert als ihr Mörder hingerichtet. Zusammen mit einem der ehemaligen Aktmodelle begibt sich Elizabeth auf die Reise in die dunkle Familiengeschichte.
Ich bin bei diesem Buch etwas zwiegespalten. Generell fand ich es schön düster und mit Nervenkitzelpotential. Ich fühlte mich, was die Handlung und die unheimlichen Elemente anging, durchaus etwas an "Die amerikanische Nacht" erinnert. Doch stilistisch kann "Sturmtöchter" da keineswegs mithalten. Bis mich Gingers Rückblenden gepackt und in die Handlung hineingezogen hatten, hatte ich teilweise schwer mit dem Schreibstil zu kämpfen. In diese ersten Kapitel habe ich nur ganz schwer hineingefunden und die Dialoge als sehr hölzern empfunden. Insgesamt war vor allem der Gegenwartshandlungsstrang ziemlich klischeebeladen und teilweise kitschig. Zudem litten die Geschichte und die Auflösung unter ein paar logischen Schwächen, die jedoch nicht allzu sehr ins Gewicht fallen, wenn man nicht unbedingt angestrengt an den Anfang des Buches zurückdenkt. Die unheimliche Stimmung war an manchen Stellen vielleicht etwas erzwungen, aber überwiegend hat mich die Atmosphäre überzeugt. Ich finde allerdings, dass man das Cover düsterer und weniger frauenromanhaft gestalten könnte.
Von der Autorin ist bereits ein anderes Buch auf deutsch erschienen ("Dornentöchter") und der aktuelle Titel suggeriert, dass die beiden Bücher zusammenhängen, was sie aber nicht tun. Die erste Geschichte wird ein einziges Mal sehr am Rande erwähnt, trägt aber nichts zur Handlung von "Sturmtöchter" bei. Das könnte etwas irreführend sein. Ich hatte das erste Buch auch als stilistisch besser in Erinnerung. Daher war ich vom Schreibstil von "Sturmtöchter" negativ überrascht.
Alles in allem bin ich mit dem Leseerlebnis bei "Sturmtöchter" unzufrieden. Die Geschichte hatte Potential und war aufgrund der düsteren Atmosphäre durchaus packend. Der Schreibstil war jedoch streckenweise hölzern, klischeebeladen und verkitscht, was auch die interessante Handlung für mich nicht retten konnte.
June 2, 2015
*Review of German edition*
Currawong Manor is Josephine Pennicott's second Australian gothic mystery novel. Elizabeth Thorrington is a photographer who travels to Currawong Manor, an old house in the Blue Mountains, NSW Australia, to work on a book about what happened at that property in 1945. In that year, her grandfather Rubert Partridge worked there as an artist. He was infamous because of his confronting paintings, whose themes were highly influenced by his time in the second world war. Also, three nude models, called 'The Flowers' were living and working for Rupert, and everyone in the little village believed there were orgies and affairs going on all over the place. In November 1945, Rupert's little daughter Shalimar was found brutally murdered in the Owlbone Woods, and Rupert was hanged after he admitted to have committed the crime.
In 2000, Elizabeth and Nick, the author of the book-to-come, meet Ginger, one of the former 'Flowers' who is now in her 70s, at Currawong Manor. They interview Ginger about how she came to be a Flower and want to find out what really happened back then, because they do not believe in Ruperts responsibility for his daughter's death. About half of the book is therefore told from Ginger's perspective - but it turns out she is not a reliable narrator at all, and that she is lying to Elizabeth as well as to the reader...
Josephine Pennicott is a REALLY talented author. Her descriptions of the house, its gardens, its interior, Ruperts paintings and the woods are extremely vivid. I could visualize it all so well while reading, even if I've never been to Australia. Also the characterization of the personages is done greatly. The older Ginger would be my favorite: a highly eccentric woman who hasn't lost her sex appeal in all those years, even if she's in her 70s now.
I loved the gothic/suspense atmosphere, which origined in the old, dusty house with its towers, the mysterious, creepy woods, the mist that would cover the manor, the witchlike character of Dolly Sharp and the currawong crows that were believed to foretell when someone at the manor was about to die... A great read indeed. I will absolutely read this in English as soon as I can get my hands on a copy - I think I will enjoy it even more in Josephine's original language.
Currawong Manor is Josephine Pennicott's second Australian gothic mystery novel. Elizabeth Thorrington is a photographer who travels to Currawong Manor, an old house in the Blue Mountains, NSW Australia, to work on a book about what happened at that property in 1945. In that year, her grandfather Rubert Partridge worked there as an artist. He was infamous because of his confronting paintings, whose themes were highly influenced by his time in the second world war. Also, three nude models, called 'The Flowers' were living and working for Rupert, and everyone in the little village believed there were orgies and affairs going on all over the place. In November 1945, Rupert's little daughter Shalimar was found brutally murdered in the Owlbone Woods, and Rupert was hanged after he admitted to have committed the crime.
In 2000, Elizabeth and Nick, the author of the book-to-come, meet Ginger, one of the former 'Flowers' who is now in her 70s, at Currawong Manor. They interview Ginger about how she came to be a Flower and want to find out what really happened back then, because they do not believe in Ruperts responsibility for his daughter's death. About half of the book is therefore told from Ginger's perspective - but it turns out she is not a reliable narrator at all, and that she is lying to Elizabeth as well as to the reader...
Josephine Pennicott is a REALLY talented author. Her descriptions of the house, its gardens, its interior, Ruperts paintings and the woods are extremely vivid. I could visualize it all so well while reading, even if I've never been to Australia. Also the characterization of the personages is done greatly. The older Ginger would be my favorite: a highly eccentric woman who hasn't lost her sex appeal in all those years, even if she's in her 70s now.
I loved the gothic/suspense atmosphere, which origined in the old, dusty house with its towers, the mysterious, creepy woods, the mist that would cover the manor, the witchlike character of Dolly Sharp and the currawong crows that were believed to foretell when someone at the manor was about to die... A great read indeed. I will absolutely read this in English as soon as I can get my hands on a copy - I think I will enjoy it even more in Josephine's original language.
May 2, 2015
Die Fotografin Elisabeth bekommt die einmalige Chance, an einem Bildband über die „Flowers of the Ruins“, jenen drei Damen, die für Elisabeth Großvater Modell gestanden haben, mitzuarbeiten und so mehr über ihre eigene Familiengeschichte zu erfahren:
Hat der Künstler Rupert Partridge seine eigene Tochter getötet, woraufhin die Mutter verrückt vor Trauer vor ein Auto lief?
Auf Currawong Manor trifft Elisabeth auf Ginger, einst eine der „Flowers“ und die Geliebte des Großvaters. Doch Ginger ist seltsam abweisend, obwohl sie mehr über die damaligen Geschehnisse auf Currawong Manor zu wissen scheint.
Elisabeth ahnt nicht, dass Ginger Geheimnisse hat, die ihr eigenes Leben in Frage stellen wird.
Josefine Pennicott erzählt die Geschichte der „Sturmtöchter“ in zwei Zeitebenen:
Zum einen befinden wir uns mit Elisabeth, Ginger und Nick im heute während der Arbeiten zum Bildband über die „Flowers of the ruins“ und wir erleben u. a. Die aufkommende Liebe zwischen Nick und Elisabeth mit. Elisabeth hat von ihrer Mutter Lois nie wirkliche Mutterliebe erfahren und so ist sie sehr erpicht darauf zu erfahren, was damals mit ihrer Tante Shalimar und infolgedessen mit ihrem Großvater geschah.
Zum anderen erleben wir die Zeit um 1945 mit, als der Künstler Rupert Partridge und seine Ehefrau Doris mehrere junge Mädchen auf Currawong Manor beherbergten. Mädchen, die dem Maler als Aktmodelle dienten und als „Blumen“ auf seinen Gemälden verewigt wurden.
Diese unterschiedlichen Zeiten beschreibt J. Pennicott sehr ausführlich und manchmal etwas langatmig, zumindest was die Zeit von Rupert und den Blumen betrifft, denn der Leser weiss bereits ziemlich zu Anfang, wie die Geschichte – und Rupert – enden.
Überraschenderes wird im „heute“ offenbart, doch mit dieser Offenbarung endet das Buch nicht wie gewöhnlich, sondern der Leser kann miterleben, wie die unterschiedlichen Protagonisten in der Folgezeit mit diesen Neuigkeiten zu leben lernen. Interessant ist das allemal, doch macht die Autorin dabei einige Zeitsprünge, die mich hier und da den Faden verlieren ließen. Trotzdem ein Buch, das ich gern gelesen habe und mich nicht davon abhält, weiteres aus der Feder der Autorin lesen zu wollen.
Hat der Künstler Rupert Partridge seine eigene Tochter getötet, woraufhin die Mutter verrückt vor Trauer vor ein Auto lief?
Auf Currawong Manor trifft Elisabeth auf Ginger, einst eine der „Flowers“ und die Geliebte des Großvaters. Doch Ginger ist seltsam abweisend, obwohl sie mehr über die damaligen Geschehnisse auf Currawong Manor zu wissen scheint.
Elisabeth ahnt nicht, dass Ginger Geheimnisse hat, die ihr eigenes Leben in Frage stellen wird.
Josefine Pennicott erzählt die Geschichte der „Sturmtöchter“ in zwei Zeitebenen:
Zum einen befinden wir uns mit Elisabeth, Ginger und Nick im heute während der Arbeiten zum Bildband über die „Flowers of the ruins“ und wir erleben u. a. Die aufkommende Liebe zwischen Nick und Elisabeth mit. Elisabeth hat von ihrer Mutter Lois nie wirkliche Mutterliebe erfahren und so ist sie sehr erpicht darauf zu erfahren, was damals mit ihrer Tante Shalimar und infolgedessen mit ihrem Großvater geschah.
Zum anderen erleben wir die Zeit um 1945 mit, als der Künstler Rupert Partridge und seine Ehefrau Doris mehrere junge Mädchen auf Currawong Manor beherbergten. Mädchen, die dem Maler als Aktmodelle dienten und als „Blumen“ auf seinen Gemälden verewigt wurden.
Diese unterschiedlichen Zeiten beschreibt J. Pennicott sehr ausführlich und manchmal etwas langatmig, zumindest was die Zeit von Rupert und den Blumen betrifft, denn der Leser weiss bereits ziemlich zu Anfang, wie die Geschichte – und Rupert – enden.
Überraschenderes wird im „heute“ offenbart, doch mit dieser Offenbarung endet das Buch nicht wie gewöhnlich, sondern der Leser kann miterleben, wie die unterschiedlichen Protagonisten in der Folgezeit mit diesen Neuigkeiten zu leben lernen. Interessant ist das allemal, doch macht die Autorin dabei einige Zeitsprünge, die mich hier und da den Faden verlieren ließen. Trotzdem ein Buch, das ich gern gelesen habe und mich nicht davon abhält, weiteres aus der Feder der Autorin lesen zu wollen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2018
I really wanted to love this novel given that it's set in the blue mountains, however I was disappointed by it. There were some great intrigues and interesting characters however the novel went back and forward and sometimes I felt it was poorly constructed. Definitely more gothic than I had anticipated, but I think that worked. I liked the descriptions of Ruperts art and I really liked how we saw it through Elizabeth's eyes as a photographer. Josephine Pennicott's strength is clearly describing the arts and character development. But I found the plot itself was a bit fanciful. It seemed to be inspired by Norman Lindsay and his sirens with some murder mystery thrown in. There were some lovely passages though and attention to historical details was very good. I thought the love interest just kind of occurred towards the end without enough emphasis on the transition in their relationship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2016
http://rainydaywoman.com.au/2016/03/2...
Currawong Manor is a mystery novel set amongst the beautiful Blue Mountains of Australia at a historic homestead with an unsettling past. When Elizabeth is called to photograph her ancestors home for a new book, she is curious to learn about her family history, and get to know more about her grandfather Rupert, a famous artist who mysteriously disappeared one day and was never seen again. Mystery and tragedy seem to surround the Partridge family, who have experienced more than their fair share of grief and controversy. In fact, the whole house seems cursed, or so it is rumoured to be by the locals who have long inhabited the area. Her mother will not speak of anything that she can remember of the past, and Elizabeth is ardent about discovering more about her family and this famous artist, whom she feels she inherited her artistic ability from. Perhaps biting off more than she can chew, she sets off to Currawong Manor to meet the last remaining muse of her grandfather, and find out the missing links to her history. Little does she know she is getting more than she ever bargained for.
Currawong Manor is an intriguing Australian mystery novel with enough fascinating twists and turns to nearly give you motion sickness. An enjoyable read that keeps you guessing.
"A creative gift cannot be ignored - if you do ignore it, you deny your very existence. We are not where we are born to, or the circumstances of our lives. We are our own longings, our own triumphs and our failures - and we make our own fate."
Josephine Pennicott, Currawong Manor
Currawong Manor is a mystery novel set amongst the beautiful Blue Mountains of Australia at a historic homestead with an unsettling past. When Elizabeth is called to photograph her ancestors home for a new book, she is curious to learn about her family history, and get to know more about her grandfather Rupert, a famous artist who mysteriously disappeared one day and was never seen again. Mystery and tragedy seem to surround the Partridge family, who have experienced more than their fair share of grief and controversy. In fact, the whole house seems cursed, or so it is rumoured to be by the locals who have long inhabited the area. Her mother will not speak of anything that she can remember of the past, and Elizabeth is ardent about discovering more about her family and this famous artist, whom she feels she inherited her artistic ability from. Perhaps biting off more than she can chew, she sets off to Currawong Manor to meet the last remaining muse of her grandfather, and find out the missing links to her history. Little does she know she is getting more than she ever bargained for.
Currawong Manor is an intriguing Australian mystery novel with enough fascinating twists and turns to nearly give you motion sickness. An enjoyable read that keeps you guessing.
"A creative gift cannot be ignored - if you do ignore it, you deny your very existence. We are not where we are born to, or the circumstances of our lives. We are our own longings, our own triumphs and our failures - and we make our own fate."
Josephine Pennicott, Currawong Manor
January 23, 2016
I have never read a story set in Australia. Everything was different and I loved it!! The words, the birds, the animals, the scenery, the books, films, writers, artists, celebrities, and historical figures were all things and people I had either never heard of before or very vaguely but were obviously very common or popular in Australia. Then there's the seasons... snow in June and heat waves in December.... obviously completely opposite from North America which I knew but had never really thought about until reading this novel. I loved the ordinary differences. Adds to the charm. Once my brain reconciled all the differences in the details, the story was pure poetry. I loved it. I started the novel thinking it was supposed to be a gothic thriller or ghost story.... it wasn't. I also wasn't expecting it to be about nude artistry.... honestly I don't know what I was expecting the story to be about but I was very pleased with all the surprises! I loved the character development and Ginger's character in particular. Dolly's an interesting cookie too although most of her story doesn't really develop until the end. It feels like it moves a little slow through most of the book (being mostly Ginger's narrative as she dictates her memories) but then near the end it picks up considerably and the imagery of the story with its twists and turns is exciting!! A wonderful read!!
January 5, 2015
3.5 or 4 for the mystery itself and the setting.
2 or 2.5 for
So a 3 average
2 or 2.5 for
So a 3 average
February 12, 2023
So many times I wanted to stop reading but when I start a book, it’s a rule I have to finish it. Unfortunately, it didn’t get any better. And it wouldn’t end!!!!
The most irritating thing was the fact that the author would describe something by citing someone else’s idea. Like, “Rupert was like Sidney Nolan”. Or the Flowers were comparable to The Sirens, like the Elle McPherson movie....she actually says that!!!
Big no from me and I won’t be reading anymore of ms Pennicott ‘s novels.
The most irritating thing was the fact that the author would describe something by citing someone else’s idea. Like, “Rupert was like Sidney Nolan”. Or the Flowers were comparable to The Sirens, like the Elle McPherson movie....she actually says that!!!
Big no from me and I won’t be reading anymore of ms Pennicott ‘s novels.
June 10, 2016
Having enjoyed her first novel, PoetsCottage, I had high hopes for this book, especially with it being set in my favourite place in the world, Blue Mountains NSW. Started off well, but unfortunately didn't quite hit the mark. Not a terrible book, but very boring in parts. Read her first book, Poets Cottage, instead. It doesn't disappoint
July 3, 2015
The mystery buildup in this book was positively delicious - It gave me actual shivers and I had trouble sleeping. What stopped me from giving it a higher rating is that the charm was the actual suspense...when revealed it really was a bit of a letdown (as I find the case with many books).
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