Dear Yvonne

In 1950's Australia, homes for unwed mothers were often nothing more than sweatshops and baby farms. When 17-year-old Bette 'gets into trouble' and is rejected by the baby's father, she has few options. She is sent to Broadbent where life is almost unbearable and she is coerced into giving up her baby for adoption.

Through sheer determination and hard work, Bette fulfills her dream of becoming a nurse and a midwife, and later, marries. But the emotional scars remain and she never forgets the baby she lost. She finds solace writing letters to her lost daughter, even though they may never be read by her.

Meanwhile, Bette's baby, Izzy, is growing up with loving parents. But she is anything but happy. Is it possible an adopted child can sense when she doesn't belong?

Dear Yvonne examines the effects adoption can have on all parties involved – child, birth mother, adoptive parents and others. Karen Element writes with passion and insight, giving readers an intimate view into her characters' lives.