Summary: Rosamunde Pilcher's beloved, #1 New York Times bestselling novel is the captivating story of one family—mothers and daughters, husbands and lovers—and of the passions and heartbreak that have held them together for three generations. At the end of a long and useful life, Penelope Keeling's prized possession is The Shell Seekers , painted by her father, and symbolizing her unconventional life, from bohemian childhood to wartime romance. When her grown children learn their grandfather's work is now worth a fortune, each has an idea as to what Penelope should do. But as she recalls the passions, tragedies, and secrets of her life, she knows there is only one answer...and it lies in her heart. "A huge warm saga...A deeply satisfying story written with love and confidence." — Maeve Binchy for The New York Times Book Review