Charlotte is on her way to Tuga de Oro, a small island in the South Atlantic, to study the endangered Gold Coin Tortoises. During the journey, she suffers from severe seasickness and is attended to by Dan, who is returning to Tuga after 15 years in the UK to become the Chief Medical Officer.
They grow close, and Charlotte is shocked to learn that Dan is engaged.
Upon arriving on the island, Charlotte finds it challenging to adjust but soon becomes more involved in island life than she anticipated. She reveals another reason for her visit: solving a 30-year-old mystery.
The story is set in this unique location, a small island only accessible at certain times of the year and often requiring an expensive berth on a supply ship. The islanders mostly remain on Tuga their entire lives, with only a few travelling abroad for education and then returning.
The way of life on Tuga is portrayed vividly, highlighting the values and beliefs essential for survival. Charlotte's experiences are unusual and captivating, and it is rewarding to see her character develop. While she initially comes to study tortoises, her secret mission unfolds as the plot progresses, adding depth to her journey.
Thank you so much to the author - Francesca Segal, and the teams at Chatto Books, Vintage Books and Tandem Collective UK for organising this read-along.
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