From Fiona McIntosh comes a sweeping and emotional historical novel set in early 20th-century Australia—filled with resilience, love, and the fight to carve out your own path.

Fleur Appleby begins life as an orphan—but is given a second chance when she’s adopted by a kind undertaker and his wife. Growing up surrounded by loss, she develops a unique compassion for the grieving and dreams of becoming the country’s first female mortician—despite a society that refuses to accept her.

Far away, Tom Catchlove is also shaped by tragedy. Raised in the harsh outback, he works tirelessly toward a better future, determined to rise above his circumstances.

A chance meeting as children binds their lives together in ways neither could have imagined.

As they grow into adulthood, both face hardship, betrayal, and the pressures of a changing world. When their paths cross again, they are drawn into danger, secrets, and even a murder investigation—forced to rely on each other in a world that has never made things easy.

Epic, heartfelt, and richly detailed, The Orphans explores love, loss, ambition, and the enduring power of connection.

✨ Genre: Historical Fiction / Drama / Romance
🌶️ Spice Level: Moderate (themes)

📚 Series: Standalone

Emotional, immersive, and inspiring—perfect for readers who love sweeping historical sagas, strong characters, and stories of overcoming adversity 💛📖