The Shell Seekers is a warm and satisfying family novel, with rich layers of description and engagingly flawed characters that you will come to care deeply about. This story of this English family begins with 64-year-old Penelope Keeling returning to her country house after an illness, and her three adult children's varying reactions. Each chapter centers on one character in the family's history, with the unifying thread being a beloved oil painting entitled "The Shell Seekers." Rosamund Pilcher's characters are well-drawn, real, and engrossing people. A thoroughly charming book, light fiction that is a satisfying read whether you are relaxing on the beach or curled up in an armchair beside a cheery fire.
Helpful Score: 3
Is more than 5 stars an option?, September 1, 2001
Reviewer: Denise Bentley "Kelsana" (The California Redwoods)
This has got to be one of the best books I have ever read. Pilcher takes you in, warms your heart and then wraps you up in the tales of her story, which is spun so intricately with love. Her writing style leaves no corner of a setting or character uncovered. You can see the tilt of their head or an upturned smile, even the scent that they might be wearing or the sea breeze as the wind whips the hair against your face. She is a master.
Penelope is in the later years of her life. After time spent in the hospital she is facing her mortality, along with the present she is remembering her life, loves, and secrets. One of which she has carried quietly over the decades. She is taking a good hard look at her 3 grown children who have not all turned out like a mother might hope for. As they quibble over Penelope's assets she is disgusted by their behavior.
I became so entranced by this book that it was all I wanted to read. There are several surprises along the way and the book is filled with characters that are quite memorable. I have read and enjoyed many of Pilcher's works, one of my favorites being WINTER SOLSTICE, but I have to say this was indeed my favorite of all time.
Reviewer: Denise Bentley "Kelsana" (The California Redwoods)
This has got to be one of the best books I have ever read. Pilcher takes you in, warms your heart and then wraps you up in the tales of her story, which is spun so intricately with love. Her writing style leaves no corner of a setting or character uncovered. You can see the tilt of their head or an upturned smile, even the scent that they might be wearing or the sea breeze as the wind whips the hair against your face. She is a master.
Penelope is in the later years of her life. After time spent in the hospital she is facing her mortality, along with the present she is remembering her life, loves, and secrets. One of which she has carried quietly over the decades. She is taking a good hard look at her 3 grown children who have not all turned out like a mother might hope for. As they quibble over Penelope's assets she is disgusted by their behavior.
I became so entranced by this book that it was all I wanted to read. There are several surprises along the way and the book is filled with characters that are quite memorable. I have read and enjoyed many of Pilcher's works, one of my favorites being WINTER SOLSTICE, but I have to say this was indeed my favorite of all time.
Helpful Score: 2
I LOVED this book! I read it many years back as a summer read and I escaped into it completely. It felt as though I was living the book with the author. I felt truly connected to it. I'm not sure why.
I read it again years later and loved it just as much.
Watching the Hallmark movie of it was a letdown because so much was not included, but casting Angela Lansbury in the lead was a good fit for me.
I would highly suggest this book to others.
I read it again years later and loved it just as much.
Watching the Hallmark movie of it was a letdown because so much was not included, but casting Angela Lansbury in the lead was a good fit for me.
I would highly suggest this book to others.
Helpful Score: 2
One of the handful of books I'd take to a deserted island.
Helpful Score: 2
One of the best books ever written. After reading this book I actually felt like I have been to Scotland. Pilcher gives such vivid descriptions and tells such beautiful stories. This is one to reread.
