My Sister's Child by Lyn Andrews

A beautiful and raw story about a young woman who would do anything for those she loves and a close-knit community that stands together through many hardships.

The Ryans are a family who struggles to get by, but their coal- mining business has kept them afloat. When a tragic fire causes them to lose everything they worked so hard for, a dark cloud hangs over them. Molly Ryan seeks help from her husband's brother and he seems kind and willing to lend a hand. However, they quickly realise that he has aggressive tendencies and a drinking problem.

When tragedy strikes once more, it's up to Ellen Ryan to foster peace and put her father's dream back together. Although she was young, she had a strong and wise head on her shoulders. With the help of the community and her willpower, Ellen did the best she could to get herself and her family through dark times.

Her stepsister Annie leaves her infant son Daniel on the Ryan's doorstep. Ellen cares for for him and loves him as her own. She fears for Daniel's safety as well as the rest of her family's. Ellen and Annie may not have had the best relationship, but Ellen continued to support her eventhough Annie's pride often got in her own way.

The inhabitants of Milton Street prove that you don't need wealth and social status to lend a helping hand. Their compassion is awe-inspiring and they don't just sit by and watch each other suffer. They take a stand against people like John Meakin and Connor Ryan, bringing comfort to their neighbours. Dr. Jenkinson valued this caring quality and never looked at this community with disdain.

My Sister's Child is a novel with depth and emotion, about the power of compassion, friendship, family, love and loyalty.

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