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LIFE IS FULL OF DOWNS AND UPS
LIFE IS FULL OF downs and ups...
The One and Only Dolly Jamieson
Dolly Jamieson is not homeless, she’s merely between permanent abodes. The 78-year-old spends her days keeping warm at the local library, where she enjoys sparring with the officious head librarian and helping herself to the free morning tea. It’s not so bad, really.
But it’s certainly a far cry from the 1960s, when this humble girl from Geelong became an international star of the stage. As the acclaimed lead in the Broadway production of The Rose of France, all Dolly’s dreams had come true.
So how, in her old age, did she end up here?
When Jane Leveson, a well-to-do newcomer to the library, shows an interest in Dolly, the pair strike up an unlikely friendship – and soon Jane is offering to help Dolly write her memoirs.
Yet Dolly can detect a deep sadness in the younger woman’s eyes. Perhaps by working together to recount the glittering highs, devastating lows and tragic secrets of Dolly’s life, both women can finally face their pasts and start to heal . . .
what are readers saying?
"If you read nothing else this year, read this book!
This is Lisa Ireland’s breakout novel. You will fall in love with Shirley as Ireland takes you on a journey through her life as a young woman, to her life now as an elderly woman, her husband suffering from dementia. It’s a story about the complications of life and love, and the ways we redeem ourselves. A stunning read."
“Lisa Ireland’s writing is simply magical, and Shirley’s charming and heartfelt story brought me to tears again and again. 'The Secret Life of Shirley Sullivan' is one of my favourite books, ever.”
"A beautiful and moving tribute to love, family, relationships and ageing is bestowed on the pages of Lisa Ireland’s new novel. 'The Secret Life of Shirley Sullivan' is equal parts heartwarming, heartbreaking and poignant. What an unforgettable journey this novel presented from start to the finish."
"This book will take you on a journey unlike any other, but it’s a journey that will stay with you for a long time to come. I absolutely loved this book and I cannot highly recommend it enough to anyone who is looking for their next read."
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what are readers saying?
“From the glamour of Broadway in the 1960s to the realities of life for the unhoused today, this is a riveting and heartbreaking story of friendship, second chances and hope."
Kelly RimmerNYT Bestselling Author
"This novel had me from the first page. It’s been years since a book has made me feel like this."
Sally HepworthNYT Bestselling Author
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