Title: Voices From The Sea
Author: Evelyn Hood
Genre: Historical Fiction
 
Description:
Set against the backdrop of 1865 Scotland, "Voices From The Sea" tells the poignant story of Eppie Watt, a young widow grappling with the challenges of raising her daughter, Charlotte, after the tragic drowning of her husband. In desperate need of work, Eppie accepts a position as housekeeper for the affluent widower Alexander Geddes, who resides in a grand estate with his two children, Duncan and Lydia, and his domineering mother.
 
Initially, life at the Geddes household seems promising; Alexander is a considerate employer, and his son Duncan is a kind-hearted teenager. However, tensions quickly arise, especially with Lydia, who is spoiled and resentful, convinced that Eppie harbors romantic intentions towards her father. Despite her best efforts to integrate into the family, Eppie finds herself caught in a web of misunderstandings and escalating conflicts.
 
As Alexander begins to express his affection for Eppie, proposing marriage to alleviate his mother’s control and to embrace Eppie’s daughter as his own, complications deepen. The household dynamics shift dramatically, leading to discord between Alexander and his children, particularly with Duncan, who aspires to pursue his dreams of quarrying local marble rather than following a path in medicine.
 
When Duncan returns home with a stranger possessing a mysterious past, Eppie becomes increasingly entangled in the unfolding drama, feeling a growing sense of responsibility for the rift between father and son. Meanwhile, Eppie’s heart is drawn towards Foy, a local quarryman, igniting her inner conflict as she navigates her feelings of loyalty to Alexander and her burgeoning desire for independence.
 
Themes:
The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and personal ambition set against the constraints of societal norms and familial obligations. It highlights the struggles of women in the 19th century, the impact of class distinctions, and the complexities of human relationships.
 
Print Length: 368 pages
 
Critical Reception:
"Voices From The Sea" has been praised for its meticulous historical detail and engaging storytelling, with critics noting Hood’s ability to bring the past to life and create relatable characters. It has been described as a compelling saga that immerses readers in the rich tapestry of Scottish life during a turbulent time.