Untitled
The Secrets at Ocean's Edge did not captivate me.
The dialogue and sentence structure were not to my taste, and at times I found it hard to concentrate on the story. - David (QBD)
Guest, 14/02/2018
Untitled
‘The Secret’s At Ocean’s Edge’ is a beautifully crafted debut novel by Australian writer, Kali Napier.
Based on Kali’s own family history, The Secret’s At Ocean’s Edge is an engaging story right from the first page.
Set in small town Western Australia during the Great Depression, the story is a richly crafted tapestry brimming with well researched history from the era.
Readers will love the the family dynamics that play out between characters during the novel. Characters are well written and multi layered.
Readers will empathise with Lily who desperately wants to fit in with her small town community and feel the struggle of her secretive husband Ernie who has demons of his own.
Gerlie, the couple’s daughter, has her share of struggles, too. She finds out that being a newcomer is never easy when she tries to make friends, to please her mother.
Enter Lily’s brother, Tommy, who is suffering from PTSD from his time in the war. Will Tommy’s sudden arrival unravel well hidden family secrets?
Themes of mental illness, homelessness, prejudice and racial discrimination are dealt with gently and sympathetically through the novel.
Fans of Di Morrissey and M.L Stedman will adore this book. - Rebecca (QBD)
Guest, 14/02/2018
Untitled
The Secrets At Ocean's Edge perfectly blend fiction and history, whilst telling the story of Napier's family during and after the great depression as certain secrets are revealed. Napier's debut novel is gripping and written fantastically, highly recommended for anyone interested in a historically relevant drama novel. - Peta (QBD)
Guest, 11/02/2018
Untitled
Graves weren't quiet. Wind whistled past the statues and urns, waves crashed against the shore just over the sand hills, and the dead clamoured. - Angelique (QBD)
Guest, 11/02/2018
Untitled
This is a riveting tale of domestic drama that follows the Hass Family from Perth to Dongarah. Lilly Hass, A mother unhappy with her social standing and lot in life. Ernie Hass a Husband who has some big dreams but has bad luck trying to execute them. And a young Daughter Girlie, who really just wants to fit and make some real friends. Battling social and class prejudices they strive to create a new peaceful life for themselves. Which gets even harder to do when Lilly's brother who served and fought in the great war comes to stay with them bringing his own struggles
This is a great story that will give you a perspective on what life was like in WA in the 1930's. - Norton (QBD)
Guest, 06/02/2018
Untitled
The Secrets At Ocean’s Edge is a beautifully written Australian debut novel set in a small town during the Great Depression. It centres on the Hass family as they settle into their new town and make a fresh start. As the secrets of the newly arrived family start to unravel, it is revealed that the rest of the town is not so innocent either. I had to stop everything I was doing so I could find out. - Elisha (QBD)
Guest, 05/02/2018
Untitled
The Secret's at Ocean's edge is the perfect book to take you away from reality but still give you insights into coastal Australia after the depression as well as 1900's Aussie racism and some real life struggles of moving to new towns and trying to settle.
Along with it's beautiful cover, this book will give you a beautiful story with bite. - Hannah (QBD)
Guest, 05/02/2018
Untitled
The Secrets of the Oceans Edge is Kali Napier’s debut novel and is undoubtedly a captivating and powerful family saga.Ernie and Lily Haas learn that in a small town there is lots of rivalry, gossip and jealousy. Each family member has their secrets and that sometimes there is much more to lose than just possessions. The Secrets of the Oceans Edge will keep you until the last page is done. - Toni (QBD)
Guest, 05/02/2018
Untitled
A well constructed of an often overlooked period of Australian history. Napier carefully situates the novel around the lives of Lily and Ernie, and their family and friends as they struggle to rebiuld their loives after the depression.
Kali Napiers well researched novel demonstates the grit determination and spirit of Australians.
A moving novel with the hallmarks of an Australian classic. - Neisha (QBD)
Guest, 03/02/2018
Untitled
If you loved "The Light Between Oceans" this is the book for you. Heartwarming and true in it's descriptions of the trials and tribulations amongst family and the bonds that keep them together. A wonderful addition to Australian literature. - Damien (QBD)
Guest, 03/02/2018
Untitled
Historical Fiction set in W.A. I especially appreciate the way Kali Napier portrayed her characters. Kali Napier did a fantastic job to ensure that we engaged with her characters and the plot of The Secrets at Ocean's Edge....The historical period in which the novel is set feels authentic and the research involved is obvious....
Looking for a New Aussie Author Kali Napier is it... - Karen (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
'The Secrets at Ocean's Edge' speaks of only good things for Napier's future novels. The plight of an Australian family leaving behind their beloved farm and moving to a new, unfamilar place strikes a poignant cord, mirroring the struggles that Australian farmers continue to face today. Family secrets, trauma and intrigue all continue to captivate the reader until the very last page is turned. - Emily (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Told with eloquence, The Secrets At Ocean's Edge provides an Australian tale of historical fiction and takes the reader on a journey of family and hidden discovery. The attention to detail allows the chapters to flow with ease and each character to interwine, developing a story of tangled webs and intrigue right to the very end.
A must read! - Dannielle (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Another great debut novel by an Australian Author.We have been spoilt once again with am amazing historical fiction novel set in Australia .
Through each charpter I could only image the struggle this family were confronted with, having abandoned their farm and treking across baron country carrying the weight of sercets that are destine to be revealed with devistating effects. - Amanda (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Kali Napier's new novel is - as betrayed by the title - one of secrets, ones that you are unlikely to quickly forget. Set in a small town on the Australian coast, the author allows the story - its characters, tales and mysteries - to unfold as the novel progresses in a fashion that will keep you entranced and engaged until the final, melancholic chapters. A brilliant debut; I loved it. - Joshua (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
The Secrets at Ocean's Edge is Kali Napier's debut novel and it is one that does not disappoint. Set in 1932, this is a story of the trials and tribulations that follow a family after moving to a new town. All the Hasses' want is to belong but as we all know, it's not as easy as it seems to make friends while also mending a broken family. Great for lovers of historical fiction. - Lisa (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
The Hass family leave their small hometown for an easier life on Australia's west coast. But the Depression and the Great War has left Ernie, Lily and their duaghter Girlie in shambles, and the their secrets slowly start to unveil themselves. - Olivia (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
The Secrets at Ocean’s Edge is a touching, lyrical tale of one family's struggle after losing everything they had in the Great Depression. Throughout the novel, Napier eloquently transports us back through time, crafting a beautiful tale of struggle and toil, and reminds us of what it is to be Australian.
A perfect read for fans of "The Light Between Oceans" and "The Dressmaker". - Melanie (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
This is one of the best Australian books I have read in a long time.
From the first page the reader is pulled into a small family that have seen hard times due to the depression.
After moving to a new town, making friends is not as easy as one would think especially when your family turn up threating to unearth family secrets.
Beautfiully written story, set in a small town in WA, this author's description of Australia's west coast sets the story up really well.
Grab a cup of tea and a biscuit and get comfy wile you enjoy this amazing book from a Debut author. - Louise (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
I was immediately drawn into Lily's life, curious about her secrets, and willing her through her struggles. This is a beautifully written book, describing the scenery and the times perfectly. If you enjoy Australian novels and gripping dramas, pick this up! - Alexandra (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
All families have their secrets and the Hass family is no different. But it isn't until Lilly's brother returns, world-weary and seeking answers, that those secrets risk coming out. Heavily inspired by her family's history, Kali Napier weaves her words with such grace you'll feel like you're right there in West Coast Australia, watching the plot and its players unravel before your very eyes. - Samuel (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
The Secrets at Ocean's Edge is the first book I have read of Kali Napier, and I did enjoy reading it. I like Kali Napier's different but intriguing writing style with her of use Multi-POV. It is an engaging mystery with an absorbing tale of family secrets, lies, betrayal and sacrifice. A story that many readers will find themselves turning the page to find out what happens next. - Cassandra (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
This new Australian author beautifully weaves a story of family drama, ambition, secrets and love. Kali Napier ties in her own past to tell the tale of the Hass family and the harrowing path of navigating the past and the hopes for the future. Easy to follow perspectives and complex characters made this a true delight to sink my teeth into. - Caitlyn (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
When a family tries to start a fresh their lives are thrown into uncertainty when Tommy- the mothers brother- arrives and begins to uncover a whirlwind of secrets with lies. Emotional, raw, and touching, with a splash of chaos, this novel is an emotional wreck in itself, I especially liked the multiple point of view style allowing you to emote with each character individually. Great debut writing. - Sarah (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
The Secrets at Ocean’s Edge is a beautifully atmospheric novel, with complex characters and emotions. I really felt for Girlie and Lily, despite not always agreeing with their actions, because they were written in such a warm and truthful way. Kali Napier has written a really intricate and interesting novel, and her descriptions were so vivid that I could hear, see, and smell the dim house that they have made their home, and the powerful beaches and sea that surrounds it. -Maddie - Lindsay (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Set in 1932 Australia it feels a world away from the present day Australia but I found myself able to easily relate with their struggles.Written from 4 different pespectives it gives depth as each revisit the same incident and I found myself reading faster to try and discover the secrets they hold close.Perfect for fans of light between oceans or if you're looking for a distinctly Aussie novel - Courtney (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
In this very accomplished debut novel, Kali Napier has perfectly captured the jealousy, gossip and claustrophobia of a small community in 1930s Australia. Recommended for all readers who enjoy a well researched and engaging historical novel. - Claire (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
It's 1932, and a family leave their drought-stricken farm to look for greener pastures. But the problems they have left behind are following them and the secrets they keep threaten the fragile plans they have made. This is a wonderfully atmospheric, evocative, and heart-rending read, if you enjoyed 'The Light Between Oceans', you will love this as well. - Marica (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Really enjoyed this historical fiction, set in Australia during the depression. Each of the main characters was really engaging. Often with books that have the multiple viewpoints, I find myself rushing though one, or some, waiting to get back to the chapters about the character I like the most - but not this time. Really didn’t see the end twist coming - and I love that too! - Tina - James (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
A deeply moving tale revolving around a families desire to be accepted. Napiers debut is inspired, in part, by her own family history and experience as an anthropologist, providing a unique perspective on this tumultous time in Australias history. Perfect for fans of Kate Morton. - Peta (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
This book allows your mind to wonder into history and give you a sense of being back in a time where times were tough...The Great Depression. Post war, poverty and trying to keep face amoungst society. Discover the Secret at the Oceans Edge. - Belinda (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Lily's family secrets have driven her to a new town and a new life, and it is the last place she expected her brother to find her. This novel keeps you guessing, wondering, and intrigued as it switches points of view. If you are interested in family drama, secrets, post war events, or Australian stories this book is certainly the one for you! - Mackenzie (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Kali Napier's debut novel Secrets at Ocean's Edge is nothing short of amazing. The novel follows a family and their heartache as they battle the great depression, fleeing their failing life in a small town and starting again on the WA coast. With alternating chapters told in the four main characters perspectives, this novel really brings to life the hardships of Australians during this time. - Tegan (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
As Kali Napier debut book The Secrets at Ocean's Edge was a great read. Set in Australia, the book focus' on a family of 3 who move to another town because of the hardships of farming life. What you realise as you read the book, there are quite a few secrets that each member of the family is holding on to and will they find out what they are. Loved this book. - Fabiola (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Set during the height of the Great Depression, in the kind of town that is deeply suspicious of outsiders, and your secrets belong to everyone; the Hass family struggle to fit in. And Lily has some BIG skeletons buried. The characters in the novel feel deep, intiricate and well developed; you believe that they had a life before the book starts and one after the last page is closed. - Laurence (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Kali has an amazing writing style that I found truly engaging. I didn't not want to put this book down! This is a gripping story set in Australia and is filled with intriguing family secrets that keep you guessing with every turn of the page. - Kelly (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
A couple, wracked with hidden secrets, desperate for a new life, a lonely child, a shell shocked brother with demons of his one, and the trying times of the Depression make for a mighty story which doesn't dissapoint, and the increasingly dramatic storyline will keep you on the edge of your seat. Sensitively written and oozing emotion, your heart will both bleed and rejoice with this family. - Maxine (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
A fabulous Australian family drama set in the 1930's depression. Trying to make a new life for yourself can be difficult especially if your secrets threaten to track you down. If you love Jodi Picoult or The Light Between the Oceans you will thoroughly enjoy this novel too - Gillian (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
I find it rare for a debut author to leave me with an impression that they're a 10 year veteran. Reminiscent to the vibe of The Dressmaker and Light Between Oceans, Kali Napier sets an entrancing tale of new beginnings after heart breaking failure in the 1930's. Having been inspired by Kali's own history is gives an honest and frank impression of authenticity. - Allison (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
I was immediately caught up in the banalities of the everyday life of the Hass family, as they live through the Great Depression in Western Australia. I think the author really captured the time-frame well, and the scenery is beautifully evoked. Of course, this is all a great backdrop to the secrets which are carefully hidden by the main characters, and their differring points of view. - Steve (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
If you loved Colleen McCullough's Thorn Birds then you'll enjoy this debut novel by Kali Napier. I really enjoyed the classic Australian feel, the characters, and the landscape. Set during the Australian Depression the Hass family are trying to fit into are trying to fit into a new town after leaving their previous home in the middle of the night. Will their past and secrets catch up with them? - Janelle (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
The small town of Dongarra knows everyone's secrets.
Lily, Ernie and Girlie have moved to the west coast of Australia, leaving their failing wheat farm on the quest to rebuild their lives after the Depression and open a beachside guesthouse. However connecting with the locals in a town driven by status proves difficult, and mysteries ensue when Lily's brother Tommy enter's the families life. - Kathleen (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
For a debut author, Kali Napier is no novice! She brings to life the reality and arduous time that many Australian's faced during the great depression, and how they did not accept defeat! With the raw Australian landscape as its backdrop, this tale is about old secrets coming to pass with terrible ramifications, all written in a gripping and consuming prose. For fans of historical fiction, 4/5! - Samantha (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
This dramatic, tense novel beautifully captures the spirit of post-war, Depression-era small town Australia. The characters are complex and you will desperately want to know the secrets they are all hiding. But while this was a well-written book, I found myself reluctant to keep reading as it is all a bit depressing and painful. - Eleanor (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
A beautiful, heartbreaking tale that takes you on a journey. It's a tale of grief, family and love. Kali Napier takes the reader on a ride that pulls on their emotions and their heart. Breaking it over and over again. With the beautiful west coast of Australia 'The Secrets at Ocean's Edge' is harrowing but beautiful tale. - Angelique (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
If you are Australian there is a good chance ‘The secrets at the oceans edge’ will resonate within your family’s history.
Set after the depression, Kali Napier’s debut novel based on historical details re-tells an authentic portrayal of 1932 Australian society. Focusing on the dynamics of a family that has lost everything but each other and the secrets they keep. - Raychel (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
The Secrets at Oceans Edge is a beautifully written debut novel set in Australia in the early 1930s. A country still struggling after WWI and suffering through the depression. Ernie and Lilly have lost everything and move for a fresh start but that is never easy. This story is all about family secrets and the tragic consequences they can have. A fantastic read for those who love Australian fiction - Julie (QBD)
Guest, 02/02/2018
Untitled
Delving into the hardship that Australian farmer's had to endure during the Great Depression, the repercussion's of war and the pain it leaves upon families. As the novel progresses it becomes apparent as to the severity of the emotional and mental issues and strains that rural Australians had to deal with on their own. A real eye opener to a tragic and unfortunate moment in our nation's history. - Henry (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
I'm yet to find out what's at the core of the Hass family secret!
I'm picking up clues and have some ideas of where things might be heading but the last third of the novel is still to be revealed to me...
Secrets- family; war horrors; relationships; business; origins; childhood; small town; race. They're all there and are slowly being uncovered, layer by layer, just like an onion.
3 stars just because I haven't finished it yet - Susan (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
Reading 'The Secret's at Ocean's Edge', I felt like I was actually out in the scorching heat of the Western Australian sun, watching as this poor family began to pack up their lives and start anew elsewhere.From the very first page the tension is palpable and I just couldn't stop readingh. Reminiscent of Fiona McIntosh's work, Kali Napier's debut novel is great for any historical fiction buff! - Lana (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
This book plunges you straight into the dry, rugged landscape of 1930's Western Australia, where the young Hass family leave their struggling wheat farm for a new venture in town, but Lily's estranged brother appearing makes it difficult for them to have the easy life they dreamed of. An engaging Australiana read that sets a clear picture of what it would have been like to eke out a living during this time. - Danielle (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
Napier exhibits a maturity virtually unknown among debut novelists; Ocean's Edge is a powerful and engaging Australian drama, set in the 1930s. Through multiple characters, we explore the hidden spaces and secrets of a family: a map of a soul. There are dangerous places. But there may be redemption too... Napier uses the landscape of Australia to render mood from the page with a chilling effect. - Jeremy (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
A wonderfully written new novel, The Secrets At Ocean's Edge is the debut novel from Australian writer, Kali Napier. If you enjoyed The Light Between The Oceans like I did, then this story is for you. A family full of secrets and the consequences they hold. Also a great book if you enjoy other Australian authors like Di Morrissey and Judy Nunn. - Mark (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
Scandal, secrets & suspicion run deep in Kali Napier's The Secrets at Ocean's Edge. The Hass family, beaten down by the Depression and the burden of their secrets, set up a new life in Dongarra. But in a small town where everyone has something to hide, it's hard to start fresh as the Hass' desire. Small town gossip, adultery and the lasting effects of War, it's a deep narrative on the 1930s in WA. - Rosie (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
A family bound together by secrets but trying to make a new start in coastal W.A. after their farm failed in the depression years.
Written from each characters viewpoint the reader can become totally sympathetic to the decisions and struggles in their lives and how they impact on those around them.
Napier has written a gripping but sensitive debut novel with issuse that still are relevant today - Gina (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
The Secrets at Ocean's Edge is written beautifully, with incredible character development which belies Napire being a debut author. Within the first chapter you are drawn into post World War 1 Australia, in a family dealing with grief, the trauma of war, dought, economic crisis, and tackles the issue of racial prejudice and the challenges facing indigenous Australians in that generation. - Coreena (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
A heart warming drama about an Australian family who struggled through the depression. This debut novel is written beautifully and will keep you entertained until the end. Read this is you liked "Light between oceans" or books by Peter Watt. - Yvonne (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
Set in 1932 Ernie & Lily Hass & daughter Girlie move to W.Aust. after losing their wheat farm during the depression. They attempt to make a new start by building a summer guesthouse. After escaping small town gossip they try to form new friendships, which isn't easy. Lily has many secrets that she is desperate to keep to herself. This is a moving tale of one family's search for belonging. - Jo (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
The Depression took everything Lily held dear and her husband was quick to pack them off to a beachside town to begin again. If they can keep their secrets hidden they may just make it in Dongarra. If you enjoy historical fiction & are looking for something different this is the one for you. It has it all- Love, hardship, sadness, joy. It will take you on an emotional roller coaster ride! - Dee - Meagan (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
Another haunting and memorable tale brings Australian history to life once again. If you enjoyed Light Between Oceans, then you will be captivated by the unravelling of family secrets during the struggles of the thirties depression. This is another great Australian classic to add to the list. - Christopher (QBD)
Guest, 01/02/2018
Untitled
The secret's at Oceans Edge is a great debut novel by an Australian Author. I normally do not read historical fiction, but found this novel captivating. Its the story of a family trying to be accepted in Australia during the depression era. The novel unfolds at a steady, even pace dealing with a wide range of issues including racism, drought, and economic hardship. Highly recommended! - Lynda (QBD)
Guest, 31/01/2018
Untitled
A heart gripping tale about Tommy who delves to the deepest waters to uncover family secrets which threaten to tear apart all he knows. A novel with family secrets, lies, betrayal and sacrifice... difficult to put down! - Cassandra (QBD)
Guest, 31/01/2018
Untitled
If you liked "The Light Between Oceans" this book will definitely blow you away!
The book was inspired by Kali's own family history.
Beautifully written,it takes the reader on an epic journey!! - Sally (QBD)
Guest, 31/01/2018
Untitled
This book was so eloquently and thoughtfully written. As soon as I finished the first chapter I was well invested in Lily and Girlies story. Kali Napier paints a picture of an era where aboriginal house slaves, damaged veterans and long petticoates in scorching heat were the norm. The secrets and mysteries surrounding the family will have you needing more. - Chaille (QBD)
Guest, 31/01/2018
Untitled
An engaging story of mystery, betrayal and sacrifice. Napier provides an authentic story that transports the reader to another time and place, that being a small town in Western Australia, the type of town where everybody knows everyones business, even if you don't want them to. Set during 1932, the nation is in the grips of the depression and is still adjusting to the aftermath of the Great War. - Adriana (QBD)
Guest, 31/01/2018
Untitled
This novel will break and warm your heart! The story of this Australian family will hit close to home for many, as they struggle to find where they belong. As family secrets break these beautifully vulnerable characters, I thought of my own family history and how lives evolve and change. If you loved The Light between Oceans, you will fall hard for this family's tale. - Kaitlyn (QBD)
Guest, 30/01/2018
Untitled
Kali Napier's first novel is amazing.
She captures the 1930's perfectly in this family drama novel. The Hasses are a family trying to start a new life. But they are hiding secrets, plus there's all the obstacles life in 1930s West Australia can throw at them.
The author has you enthralled with this family and wondering, what are the revelations to come?
An incredible Australian novel. - Steven (QBD)
Guest, 29/01/2018
Untitled
Kali Napier's debut novel is a stunning story set during the 1930's whilst Australia was in the grip of depression.Whilst it did take me a few chapters before the book grabbed me,once it did i was hooked.When Ernie Hass loses everything in Perenjori he decides to take his wife Lily and daughter Girlie to the West Australian Coast to rebulid their lives but it is not as easy as he thought and secrets and lies follow you wherever you go especially when Lily's brother Tommy re enters their lives.This book is written with so much description I'm sure I could smell the coast whilst reading.If you loved "Light between the oceans" than this is a must read for you.
- Melissa (QBD)
Guest, 29/01/2018
Untitled
The light between the Oceans meets to family history and lies of Kate Morton, all set in the harsh Australian landscape of Judy Nunn.
The Hass family will take you from a small town full of bad choices and gossip to Dongarra where they desperatly try to rebuild their lives. How do you start over when your deepest darkest secrets threaten to reveal who you really are at every turn?? - Jodie (QBD)
Guest, 29/01/2018
Untitled
This may be Kali Napier's debut novel but it is certainly not one to be missed. As the title sugests, this is an twisted tale of secrets that will certainly keep you turning the pages. Napier's descriptive writing style gives you the feeling of being immersed into 1930's Australia. Inspired by the author's own family history, this novel is an expressive tale of one family's search for acceptance. - Barbara (QBD)
Guest, 27/01/2018
Untitled
The Secrets at Ocean's Edge is a debut novel by Kali Napier. It's an historical fiction, set in Australia during the depression.
Fans of "The Light Between Oceans" will enjoy this eloquently written novel about family secrets, lies, betrayal and sacrifice.
With really engaging character portayal, and memorable plot line, it will not take you long to devour this book. - Stacey (QBD)
Guest, 27/01/2018
Untitled
A beautifully written and engaging story of lies, betrayal and family secrets. An absorbing and realistic mystery. I never wanted it to end, but I also really wanted to know the answers... no other book has filled me with such a feeling of ambivalence before. - Sam-Maree (QBD)
Guest, 27/01/2018
Untitled
Set in the early 1930's, this sweeping family saga is full of secrets, betrayals and redemption.
Ernie is a wheat farmer - not a great businessman - returned from The Great War who mortgages his farm and loses everything. This is his story of trying to keep his family together and begin again. With his wife Lily and daughter Girlie, they move to the seaside town of Dongarra on the WA coast not too far from Perth.
Every member of the family has a secret, the choice to keep a secret is made with love to try and protect the family unit. Yet, when some of those secrets are discovered by the townsfolk, there is drama and hostility. Will all the secrets and lies bring the family closer or tear them apart?
Trouble follows the family; Tommy - Lily's brother - is a returned soldier. He is itinerant and has PTSD, he walks hundreds of miles to find Lily. He has nightmares, hallucinations, memory loss and needs Lily to put him back together. Meanwhile, Lily is trying to fit into the new place and still keep her secrets.
A fascinating read, with twists and turns, perfect for a lazy afternoon.
- Kerryn (QBD)
Guest, 27/01/2018
Untitled
Set in the early 1930's, this sweeping family saga is full of secrets, betrayals and redemption. Encompassing PTSD, secrets, fitting in to society, portraying public facade over private agony all lead to a fascinating read, with twists and turns, perfect for a lazy afternoon. - Kerryn (QBD)
Guest, 27/01/2018
Untitled
The Secrets at Ocean's Edge, written by Kali Napier, is a novel that truly depicts what it means to be Australian. Based in the depression, this book is about a family stuggle to stay afloat and keep secrets from ripping them apart. Exploring the lives of Lily and Ernie, this book uncovers the history of their family and how it has left their minds in a perilous battle of honesty, lies and escape. - Jessica (QBD)
Guest, 26/01/2018
Untitled
Kali Napier seemed to be channelling Rosalie Ham and Sally Hepworth when she penned this marvellous Australian drama. After the release of his brother Tommy from prison, Erine Hass and his wife Lily's new life in Western Australia come under fire when Tommy unearths family secrets best left undisturbed. Kali Napier creates a sharp level of suspense that will keep you hooked chapter by chapter - Tiffany (QBD)
Guest, 25/01/2018
Untitled
This is'nt a book that I would normally read but i was quite pleasently suprised, great characters the location is superb near the ocean. A family moves to the west coast of Australia after losing their wheat farm business to start a new life. It doesnt go well when Lily's brother Tommy comes back and all the secrets start to come. Kali Napier is such a great story teller. - Bill (QBD)
Guest, 25/01/2018
Untitled
I found The Secrets At Ocean's Edge an enjoyable read that keeps you interested thorought.
You want to keep reading to find out what secrets the Hass family are hiding and why they are so keen to get to know the influential people in town.
Even Lily's brother senses things aren't right.
It definitely reminded me of TheLlight Between Oceans.
A well written Australian historical novel. - Peter (QBD)
Guest, 23/01/2018
Untitled
A moving tale about the lengths one family will go to in order to belong set during the Depression in Western Australia in the 1930s. Almost every character in the novel holds their dark secrets close until the past they've being trying to run from reemerges and threatens to unravel their web of lies. - Nola (QBD)
Guest, 22/01/2018
