When young English settler William Thompson meets a shocking end in New Zealand in 1892, newspapers soon reveal that his wife, Alice, has been entangled with William's best friend, who is soon on trial for murder. Gossips know Alice has a new baby boy. So, is he William's child, or the son of a murderer? Shunned by the trial judge, Alice flees back to England.
In this true story, author Lindsey Dawson retraces the crime and delves into how the drama's echoes might have rippled through the Thompson family. Running from old Auckland to contemporary California, this captivating tale uncovers tales of love, longing and exile spanning four countries over more than 130 years. It weaves together family secrets, historical exploration and genealogical discovery in a rich and engaging narrative.
