The Last of the Apple Blossom

7 February 1967 and bushfires ravage the area near Hobart. Catherine rushes home to check on her family and their orchard only to found their house and much of the orchard destroyed and her brother missing. Understandably her parents are devastated and Catherine makes the decision to give up her job as a teacher to assist her father restore the family apple orchard.

Catherine's friend, Annie, lives on the adjoining property with her husband Dave and their six children. Dave's friend, Mark, and his son, Charlie, also live on the property. Annie's house is OK but the fire has left other challenges for the family.

The Last of the Apple Blossom by Mary-Lou Stephens is the story of families trying to maintain a living on their properties in challenging times.  Throughout the book the author reminds the reader of challenges faced by Tasmanians, especially the orchardists and how adjustments needed to be made. England joining the European Common Market in 1972 was the last straw for many of the orchardists trying to grow and promote apples for which the island was famous. Changes needed to be made by those continuing to be involved in the apple industry plus the need to diversify. 

The affects of these changes on the lives of the orchardists and their families and friends is  a focus of a historical fiction novel that also explores the effects that secrets and lies have on those trying to survive in difficult times.