Review of 'The Orphans' by Fiona McIntosh
Release date: March 21, 2025
Publisher: Storm Publishing
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REVIEW
The Orphans by Fiona McIntosh is an amazing and stunning historical novel set between 1914 and 1935 in South Australia. I have read a few of the author’s books (and enjoyed them immensely) but I had not read this one. So when Storm Publishing posted an ARC (it’s a re-release) I jumped at the offer to read and review it. And I was not disappointed as it is an enthralling roller coaster read from start to finish. Over and over, my heart was shaken and bursting with emotions. This is a powerful story of overcoming loss, deep grief, adversity, class snobbery and malicious attacks. It blooms with hope amid the thorns of the characters’ struggles. For the sweet rose of forgiveness, second chances, courage and honour abound.
There is a convincing cast of supporting characters, surrounding the two leads, Fleur and Tom, who each tell their stories. These orphans are the heartbeat of the novel. Their journeys, separate and together, lead us into some eye-opening territory on past social norms (with particular focus on women’s challenges) and the livelihoods of morticians, sheep shearers, wool classers and drovers. Fiona paints a vivid picture that allows us to explore all these areas in great detail.
Though faced with extreme adversity, it is easy to see what each of these orphans learned from those who loved them. Their responses reflect such positive influence. It is said adversity can make you stronger, give you more empathy for others and this is very true of Tom and Fleur who often take the path less travelled, especially when they are wronged. Their diamond spirits glisten on the page, and in the tears they shed. They are both strong, admirable, passionate overcomers. And this novel is a beautiful testament to what can happen when people choose to love over hate. It is also a unique love story that defies the odds. Romantic to the core when these two reunite after twenty odd years of separation. They made such an impression on each other during their brief encounter as children that it lasted many years.
Before continuing, I need to add that the quality of story-telling and writing style exhibited in this novel is flawless. It is an extraordinary, magnificent masterpiece. And pure joy to read. Fiona has researched and utilised the information of a mortician’s job expertly. I learned a great deal about the industry and also its history. The landscape surrounds the characters like a comforter. And draws out each person’s characteristics. There is real substance because of Fiona’s craftmanship for she has drawn from a worthy well of inspiration: people she has known. They are fictional but realistic as seen in Fleur, Tom and others. I truly felt I knew who they were by the end of the story. There are some lovely surprises that expose the reasons behind certain evil actions of others.
Fleur was adopted by a wonderful couple in the mortuary business. She is well loved by her adopted parents and it has had a positive effect on her life. She takes a great interest in her father’s profession. It is unusual but she is comfortable working on the dead. She has grown up in this environment that has not only become a safe haven for her but also a place where her gift of empathy is appreciated. She has big dreams of becoming the first female mortician and wants to provide more support for women who have lost their children. As an eight year old child, her moral fibre and tenderness for others becomes evident in her chance meeting with Tom who has just lost his mother and sister. Fleur is deeply moved with concern for him and so the seeds are planted. Little does she know that one day, she will also lose her own mother at a young age and she will be thrust into a less than favourable position when her father remarries. During this period, many awful things happen that threaten Fleur’s future and the father she adores.
Tom, also an orphan, in many ways, has had a different life from Fleur but there are similarities. Losing his beautiful mother at a young age left him in a bad position, too. His father does not weather his own grief well and he distances himself from his son. Tom often must fend for himself. But he manages well for he carries the heart of his mother and all her positive efforts. These learned truths have made him into a wonderful man. He works hard in the sheep business and proves himself. But there are secrets in his family he uncovers that will change the direction of his life. And lead him back to Fleur, twenty odd years later…
The journey from the innocence of youth to the harsh realities of adulthood connect these two in special ways. We watch Tom and Fleur grow as they each share the narrative. These two orphans are such a beautiful pair. Although much tragedy strikes in each of their lives separate and together, I found the attitudes they inhibited and the directions they chose were nothing short of admirable. They reflected the love they were reared in and became the ‘better person’ when their enemies tried to bring them down.
I truly loved The Orphans and these two unforgettable characters will stay with me a long time. I wish there was a sequel as there certainly is scope to explore the next stage of Tom and Fleur’s life together! I highly recommend this gorgeously written, heart- changing novel that reverberates with perfection. It astoundingly delivers in all areas. An absolute must-read! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for a review copy.
