I thoroughly enjoyed "The Distant Shores" and it was only when I was putting my review on did I discover that it is actually the fifth in a series. However, I never felt disadvantaged at not having read the first four books; it was perfectly fine as a stand-alone.

The author writes well and I was quickly engrossed in the story. The characters were many and varied, and Margot was a strong, intelligent protagonist with a kind heart. I loved that she was an author. While researching her latest book she forges some wonderful friendships.

"The Distant Shores" was a beautiful, emotive story set in Ireland dealing with love, secrets, hope and family reconciliations. ( )

Perhaps starting at the 5th book in the series was the problem. But the story has not grabbed me by the end of Part 1/12. Margo is telling the story of writing a book about the Deverills, in Ireland. So a contemporary setting against the many generations history of the Deverills.

I don't think I've heard this narrator before, and her voice is very pleasant - Genevieve Gaunt. She doesn't get a mention associated with the book in the library catalogue and I only found one other audiobook with her voice across my libraries. ( )