Mandarin Summer

An evocative novel about secrets, disillusion and a unique place.


Luke Freeman returns from the Second World War keen to start a new life with his wife, Constance, and eleven-year-old daughter, Emily. However, after arriving in Northland, it is clear the patch of land he has bought from Brigadier Barnsley is useless. During the drought-stricken summer that follows, the Freeman's lives become interwoven with the demanding Barnsleys. Like the elusive springs of water, secrets are bubbling just under the surface - will they be discovered?