"The Distant Hours" is a novel by Australian author Kate Morton. It was first published in 2010 and is a work of historical fiction that blends elements of mystery, romance, and family drama.
The story is set in both the present day and the past, and revolves around the discovery of a lost letter that was written during World War II. The letter is found by a young woman named Edie, who is the daughter of a publisher and has always been curious about her mother's mysterious past.
The letter leads Edie to Milderhurst Castle, a decaying and isolated mansion in the English countryside, where she meets the three elderly Blythe sisters who live there. As Edie delves deeper into the secrets of the castle and the Blythe family, she uncovers a tragic love story from the past that has haunted the family for decades.
Through multiple timelines and perspectives, "The Distant Hours" weaves a complex and emotional tale of family secrets, love, loss, and redemption. Morton's vivid descriptions of the castle and the English countryside add to the atmospheric and haunting tone of the novel, while the intricate plot keeps the reader engaged and guessing until the very end.
Overall, "The Distant Hours" is a well-crafted and engrossing novel that showcases Morton's talent for blending historical and contemporary elements to create a captivating story. It is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, mystery, and family dramas.
