Denied the chance to complete her education in Romania, Elena seeks opportunities further afield. Lured by lies into prostitution, she seeks refuge desperate to save herself and her family.

Leaving behind a dysfunctional family, Penny flies to England to pay her last respects to her sister, little knowing what awaits or that she may never return alive.

‘The Silver Lining’ is the fourth book in the Silveries series from the pen of British-based author, Angela Dandy. We return to Magnolia Court and slip effortlessly back into the lives of the well-loved residents. A recent bereavement amongst their number has resulted in a new arrival in the form of Penny, who brings with her a no-nonsense attitude and a fierce determination, making her a good fit for her new surroundings.

We then travel to Bucharest as a seemingly unrelated plot starts to develop. Readers of the Silveries will be taken out of their comfort zone as the harrowing story of Elena develops. The two worlds collide in an unlikely and chaotic way, plunging the plucky Magnolia gang and Penny in particular, into a dilemma which will prove to be far more dangerous than any of them can possibly imagine.

The story is written in the third person and the past tense with the action being seen from the perspectives of several different protagonists. We explore the backstories of the main Romanian characters and this gives us insight into their actions but elicits little sympathy or empathy. There is a good balance between description and dialogue with a steady pace throughout the story.

I confess to hoping for a slightly different ending but all loose ends were neatly tied and Angela Dandy has created an absorbing story. Whilst this book is part of a series, each stands alone. It is probably helpful to start with the first book, just to become familiar with all the names of the residents of Magnolia Court. However, in this instalment, the setting is a backdrop rather than the main focus of the tale.

As with her other books, ‘The Silver Lining’ is a tale of good versus evil. I very much enjoyed the story and wonder if Angela Dandy will allow us to again drop in to the wonderful world she has created at Magnolia Court? I award five well-deserved stars.

Born in Grantham, I attended school in Newton Abbot before departing for a career in London. Majoring in IT in the 70s, exploring sales, marketing, training and communications along the way, I completed my first career managing major projects.

I then embarked on my second career – writing. I wrote Lakeside while relaxing in California’s National Parks. I have since published The Silver Sting, and its sequels. My stories draw on people I have come to care about and minorities whom I believe should have a voice. The characters in my book have their own unique lives. They represent the richness and diversity of life. They are a part of me.

I live in Stratford-upon-Avon and naturally love theatre. I now write plays as well as novels and short stories. In between times I make time to enjoy and entertain my family, travel, and potter in my garden.