Where do I start? This is an amazing story there were tears of joy and happiness as we journey with two couples one back in 1942 during World War 11 and one in the present, the setting for both is the beautiful Whitsunday’s and the need to save the reef, this brings together Olivia Sheridan and the gorgeous Fynn James on a rollercoaster ride of danger and love, clear the decks because you will not want to put this one down once you pick it up.

Olivia Sheridan works for her father’s company and has arrived in the beautiful Whitsundays to present the proposal for the company’s plans for coal mining in the area, but this brings her to a chance meeting with local, Aunty Tat who is convinced that Olivia is someone else, and here she meets fisherman Fynn James who turns out to be her saviour the man that she will fall in love with, but not before there is danger thrown their way as they uncover corruption at its highest levels, Oliva does know that her father is very ruthless in business, but what she finds out after the wrong file is sent to her, knocks the wind out of her sails, and Fynn is there to help.

There are so many fabulous characters in this story, as we discover the story behind Aunty Tat’s missing sister who vanished during the Second World War, it is heart-felt and so very moving as we get a glimpse of how people lived in The Whitsundays years earlier and the struggles for people in love during the war.

This one had me tuning the pages, I savoured every word, going from the past to the future was an amazing journey that I felt so much a part of, as I said there were tears for Lili and Jack, as they found love during tough times and Fyn and Olivia, edge of your seat danger and joy and happiness and then Aunty Tat what a lady I am sure you will love her as I did. I can’t recommend this book enough it is a must read, so very well written and shows also how much we should be protecting that reef for the future. Thank you MS Seaton for another marvellous story, this is one that will not be forgotten.

Book blurb...
With the pristine beauty of the Whitsundays under threat, can they expose the truth in time?
When Olivia Sheridan arrives in the Whitsundays as spokesperson for big mining company Sheridan Corp, it should be a straightforward presentation to the town about their proposed project. But when a handsome local fisherman shows her what ecological impact the proposal will have, Olivia is forced to question her father's motives for the project.
Struggling with newly divided loyalties, Olivia is thrown further into turmoil when she is mistaken for a woman who disappeared more than sixty years before. When it becomes clear that Captain Jay is also keeping secrets, Olivia realises that there is more to these sunshine–soaked islands than she ever expected.
Seeking to uncover the truth, Olivia is drawn into a dangerous game where powerful businessmen will stop at nothing to ensure their plan goes ahead, even if that means eliminating her…
Against the epic Far North Queensland landscape, this is the story of two women, separated by history, drawn to Whitsunday Island where their futures will be changed forever.

My Thoughts...
Annie Seaton is a very prolific author and it shows in this, her fourth eco-adventure-meets-romance novel. Painstakingly researched to take readers from current day to 1940’s war time, the tragedy of war collides with the joy of forever love and family secrets are revealed. I really felt like I was there, in the Whitsundays - a place I’d love to visit in more detail next year, although I feel like I know it so well, thanks to Annie’s detailed descriptions that took me there.

Another fabulous read from author Annie Seaton who never fails to gain reader’s attention with the characters she brings to the pages.
Review copy received from Harlequin MIRA via Netgalley

What a wonderful story Annie Seaton weaves within the pages of her latest novel, Whitsunday Dawn. With its dual timeline narrative, Annie explores environmental threats to our barrier reef and corporate corruption in an eco-adventure-romance in the present day; while back in the 1940s, she explores the Japanese threats to Australia's coastline during WWII and the efforts that were put into place for protection, along with island life, old fashioned war time romance, and the horror of imprisonment in the Japanese work camps. There is so much going on in this novel and so many reasons to love it; a true un-put-downable story for lovers of contemporary and historical fiction alike.

Annie Seaton fleshed out all of her characters fully, she maintained an edge of suspicion and threat throughout both timelines to perfection, and she knew just the right moments to apply a romantic touch without undermining the more serious aspects of the story. There is a lot of sadness throughout this novel, not just within the events but also within the character's lives. I was appalled at Olivia's father and his treatment of her, but I was also deeply saddened at the way corporations nullify the importance of environmental protection. There is no room for seeing, truly seeing with absolute clarity, the bigger picture of setting aside environmental protection for monetary gain if you are only ever focused on the dollars. Annie really tapped into this with intricate detail and precise analogy.

There were also plenty of wrenching moments within the WWII sections of this story. So many WWII novels orbit around the war in Europe. It was refreshingly real to read about the war that was on our back door and the effects this had on our everyday lives as well as those who were fighting in the air and out at sea to keep our country free. I particularly enjoyed Annie's depictions of island life back in the 1940s, the beauty and the harshness of it.

There was a bit of uncertainty within me as to how these two storylines were going to fully mesh, but rest assured, Annie steers you home with the skill of a true storyteller. I highly recommend Whitsunday Dawn. It would make an ideal book club selection and a perfect gift for a wide range of readers.

Thanks is extended to HarperCollins Publishers Australia via NetGalley for providing me with a copy of Whitsunday Dawn for review.

Another fantastic book by Annie Seaton. Set in the beautiful Whitsundays and far North Queensland. I really felt like I was there while reading this book.
This book is written in dual time narrative, WWII to present day. I enjoyed the way that Annie has written this book, as historical novels are usually not something I read a lot but I was so drawn into the story and I thoroughly enjoyed it all. She has created such a unique story about our Great Barrier Reef.
Olivia Sheridan works for her father, at a big mining company Sheridan Corp. She sent to the Whitsunday Islands to give a presentation about a mining proposal. This trip makes Olivia really look at her life and decide what she wants of her future. Olivia meets and an old lady, who everyone calls ‘Auntie Tat’, she has dementia and she thinks that Olivia is her long-lost sister Lilian. She tells the stories of her family and the war and this is where we learn about the story of Lily.
The historical narrative is set during WWII and with the invasion of the Japanese into Northern Australia. This is where we met Lily and her family. Lily's story was heartbreaking and emotional rollercoaster and it was also a reminder of all the sacrifices made during war. I really felt for Lily and Jack and all that they both went through.
I would say my favourite characters in the book were Olivia and Flynn, their tug of war relationship and their antics had me laughing.
The romantic suspense was flowing through out both narratives and this story had me hooked. When an author can get someone, who does not read historical to enjoy it immensely then they have written a book worth recommending to others.
All I can say it you are in for a fantastic story line that is set in one of the most beautiful settings in the world, the Whitsundays!!! Pack your bags as you are off on an adventure of a lifetime.
I would absolutely without any hesitation recommend this book.

Olivia Sheridan is sent to the beautiful Whitsunday Islands to represent her father’s mining company on a proposed project. But after a botched community presentation she starts to question what her father’s company is really involved in.
As she is slowly drawn to the beauty around her and to local jack of all trades called Flynn, who seems to pop up everywhere around her, they start to realise that the knowledge Olivia has about the company has placed them both in danger.

I really enjoyed this book, especially as my favourite romantic suspense theme is when two people are attracted to each other (even though they don’t think they are) and work together for a common goal, with no relationship angst!
This novel also has a parallel storyline running set in the early years of the Second World War involving local identity Auntie Tat, who is succumbing to dementia and thinks that Olivia is her long lost sister Lilian. Both story lines where very well done and I loved how it all came together at the end.
A very enjoyable read and thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for an ARC copy to read.

Whitsunday Dawn was my first Annie Seaton book, and I enjoyed it so much it won't be the last!

It's the story of Liv, who whilst working for her father's company is sent to sway community opinion in favour of a coal loader being developed in the area. It's the story of Fynn, who will do everything in his power to prevent the development taking place. It's the story of Aunty Tat, who mistakes Liv for her long-lost sister, which also leads us to the story of Lily, and exactly what happened to her.

All with the backdrop of the gorgeous Whitsunday Islands, and you know you're on a winner!

For me, Lily's story was the standout. It was heartbreaking and sweet, and a very real reminder of the sacrifices made during war.
Liv and Fynn are both such likeable, fun characters as well that getting to know them was a joy.
The vibrant imagery of the locations is magical (is that due to nature or the author's brilliance? I'll let you be the judge). And honestly, it makes me want to hop a plane right this minute.

And look, I enjoyed this so much I'm now going to find a physical copy to give my Mum for her birthday (so if that's not a raging endorsement, I don't know what is!).

**I received a copy of this ebook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**

Whitsunday Dawn by Aussie author Annie Seaton is my first read of hers and I thoroughly enjoyed it. A dual time narrative (always a fave of mine when done well) from WWII to present day to. You will find both narratives captivating as the author seamlessly weaves an intriguing and suspenseful mystery. What better than an engaging historical fiction combined with a modern day crusade to help save Australia’s Great Barrier Reef! All of this is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Whitsundays and it will have you wishing you could visit the islands some time soon.

The historical narrative is set during the war years with the seemingly imminent invasion of the Japanese to Northern Australia. I loved learning about life on the island for Lily and her family, with an overall tale that will surely pull at your heartstrings. The current day narrative throws light on the Great Barrier Reef and its surrounds. Present day issues of greed and corruption in pursuit of the almighty dollar, but at what cost? An interesting insight into power - those that have it and the will of people power to try and make a difference. It was wonderful to watch the personal growth of Olivia as she comes to terms with how to truly make a life for herself.

Both stories have romance, suspense intriguing drama filled plots and an engaging cast of characters. All of this is tied together with family secrets and fall outs. You will appreciate the love interests in both timelines, you will have an understanding for the good and bad sides of families and people in general. This book truly has a little bit for everybody whether it be history, conservation, exotic locations, romance and worthy drama with an unexpected twist at the end.

Set time aside to curl up with this book and be transported to the stunning Whitsunday from the seemingly idyllic life on the island of the 1940s to present day quests to save a natural heritage. Both timelines I loved, so two stories for the price of one really as you wait for answers to unfold and hopeful for connections to be made. Whitsunday Dawn is one book I certainly have no hesitation in highly recommending.


This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release

As a long time visitor to Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays, this book was right up my ally. Set in a beautiful destination and two time frames, the story slowly unfolds, take your time to wrap yourself up in Annie Seaton's words and the wonders of this magical place, you will love it.

The book evokes many emotions and I found myself elated at times and very sad at others. I was cheering for Olivia, both in her attempts with her Father and her job and then with Fynn.

Many heart in mouth moments with Jack and Lily, especially in the war scenes, and hoping Jack would get his wish and make amends for his believed wrong doings.

A beautiful ending, one which I certainly didn't see coming and made this book so much more than just a story.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for the opportunity to read and give an honest review and especially a big thank you to Annie Seaton for a great read.

Annie Seaton is one of my favourite Australian authors. It’s not just because she used to teach at my high school and is a lovely lady, but her books are wonderful! Really well written and meticulously researched.

I was introduced to her recent books when I read Kakadu Sunset, and I adored it! Romantic suspense is my favourite genre and I was happy when Daintree and Diamond Sky soon followed. I found myself falling in love with the characters and the beautifully described Australian settings. This time, the suspense takes a bit of a back seat as she delves into a more historical romance setting, but still with splashes of suspense remaining throughout.

Olivia works for her father, a big head of a ruthless corporation, and is sent to the Whitsunday Islands to give a presentation about a mining proposal that her the company has invested in. However, when she gets there a chance encounter with an old woman leads her on a journey of discovery about her life and future, and also delves the story back in time to war, romance and heartache.

I absolutely love the Whitsunday Islands. My husband and I got engaged there and it holds a special place in my heart. Her descriptions of the landscape and waters are so vivid and beautiful. I could almost picture the view from her balcony, and the pristine blue water that she was sailing in.

The jumping back and forth in time worked really well and the breaks in the story were well timed. Having a different focus on each part of the story allowed it to flow really beautifully and was very enjoyable. I loved that there were two romances to focus on!

Even though I don’t read many historical books, I really enjoyed the story of the war in the Whitsundays! Something I would never have thought I would be interested in, however found myself googling it after I had finished the novel.

I thought the characters were great in both time settings. I really liked Fynn and Olivia. I thought her father was a great character, I would have liked their relationship to have been explored a little more, but he was a great character to hate!

Would I recommend Whitsunday Dawn?
Absolutely! Another beautiful Australian setting and captivating story by a fabulous Australian author. I am looking forward to the next one!

Many thanks to the publisher and Annie Seaton via Netgalley for a copy of Whitsunday Dawn to review.

Olivia Sheridan was part of Sheridan Corp, a mining company her father owned and ran. He was ruthless, but she’d always known that. Her efforts to impress had gone on for the past eight years. This was her big chance – the big presentation for the Whitsunday Islands. But Liv had no idea the passion of the locals would be so heartfelt – after all, she’d spent her life behind her desk, going over figures. She had never been to this pristine wonderland before.

When an elderly lady named Aunty Tat grabbed her arm in the street, calling her Lily, Liv was stunned. But when she learned Aunty Tat had mistaken her for her sister who had gone missing over sixty years prior, during the war, Liv was sad and did her best to reassure Aunty Tat. The dementia was strong some days…

Fynn James was a man of some prominence on the island – but he was as determined to stop the mining proposal as anyone else. As Liv came to know him, and make a few friends, she realized her father’s plans were not feasible. But could she do anything about it? She already knew she was in trouble – but surely her father wouldn’t do anything to her; would he?

Whitsunday Dawn by Aussie author Annie Seaton is, in my opinion, this author’s best yet! Set in two time-frames, with the war years and the Japanese attacks on northern Australia; and current day, highlighting the threat on the Great Barrier Reef and its surrounds. I was enthralled – romantic suspense mixed with historical fiction. Two of my favourite genres. An intriguing plot with family secrets; characters who grew and became individuals; mystery, heartache and drama – brilliant! Whitsunday Dawn is one I highly recommend.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read and review.

This was one of those books that I got comfortable with and climbed into. What a journey it took me on, present day issues, greed and powerful companies that need taking down. There was a mystery from the Days of WW2 that intertwined in this tale. I don't often like books that skip back and forth but the author wrote it seamlessly. Both eras had interesting stories and I couldn't wait until they connected, you know that you know..but you're not sure how. Family secrets that needed to come to light, you start gripping your kindle...yes but oh how sad. I was in tears by the end. Just wonderful Annie, you wove a magical tale in a beautiful part of our Country.

Annie Seaton is into a winner with this new dual timeline novel, I found it very hard to put down. What a fabulous read, with both timelines completely drawing me in. Set in 1942 and 2018 Annie draws the threads together to weave a story full of intrigue and family secrets. I enjoyed seeing Olivia grow and come into her own and the connection she had with Fynn turn into something more. I highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a great read.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for a copy in return for an honest review.

I just loved this book. So prevelent with things that are happening in Australia at the moment. I could not put it down.

I've read a couple of Annie's books but this one has been the best by far and different from the other ones I've read.

I love The Whitsundays and have visited there a few times and Annie did a wonderful job describing the area. I don't usually like stories that jump back and forth between times but Annie did a great job and it wasn't too much. Even though I had an idea what the outcome would be it didn't take away from the story at all. This had a great mix of mystery and suspense with a bit of love and family reconnecting. Thoroughly entertaining.