A country at war. A love to last a lifetime.
Hong Kong 1941, Fifteen-year-old Kate lives a rarefied life of wealth and privilege in the pre-war Hong Kong expatriate community, but when the Japanese invade she’s interned in squalid Stanley Camp with her parents.
Enduring cramped conditions, humiliation, disease, and starvation, Kate befriends seventeen-year-old Charles, and they give their hearts to each other under the orchid tree.
But neither of the young lovers know what terrible cruelties lie in their future. The internment camp is just the beginning, and as they face the horrors of war, will they - as well as their bond - survive?
From international bestselling author Siobhan Daiko, an evocative, moving and heartbreaking story of survival against the odds. Perfect for readers of Dinah Jefferies, Ann Bennett and Kate Furnivall.
Previously published as The Orchid Tree
'Once I started this mesmerizing book, I was hooked and could not put it down until I had reached the end... An evocative tale, beautifully told. Highly recommended.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'a beautiful and touching story... A smooth and very enjoyable read that drew you along, not wanting to stop reading for one moment.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'A wonderful sweeping historical romance... I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to be transported to a different place and time and wants a thoroughly absorbing read.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'This is a fantastic story, so evocative of both time and place... I can't recommend it enough.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'A delightful mix of adventure, romance and tragic modern history.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
'Amazing read completely enjoyed.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review
PRAISE FOR SIOBHAN DAIKO
'Reading Siobhan's Daughters of Tuscany was like meeting an old, dear friend after a long absence. What a poignant, emotional, thoroughly enjoyable read this was! ... such beautiful prose and such a brilliant story that completely transported me.' Renita D'Silva
'... wonderfully fast-paced and readable... I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to be transported to a different place and time and wants a thoroughly absorbing read, Ann Bennett
'A fantastic story, so evocative of both time and place,' Jo Bartlett
Siobhan Daiko writes powerful and sweeping historical fiction set in Italy and in the Far East during the second World War, with strong women at its heart. She now lives near Venice, having been a teacher in Wales for many years.