This is the story of 2 Australian sisters who are orphaned + move with their half-sister to England. The story stretches from the late 1940s to the 70s as we follow mainly Caro's love life and Grace's marriage. It is intricately told with precise + beautiful writing. The ending is a shock as a secret is revealed, which changes the readers' views on well drawn characters. This is my 1st Shirley Hazzard, and I loved the story and her wonderful prose