Picture Imperfect

An adult sequel to beloved fan-favourite children’s novel The Illustrated Mum.

‘Sorry to wake you in the middle of the night, but we have a lady here who’s not very well. She says she’s called Marigold, Queen of the Sky?’

Dolphin Westward’s life was always a supporting role in her mother Marigold’s vibrant, chaotic story. Now, at thirty-three, not much has changed. She navigates a cramped bedsit, a tattoo shop job, and the recurring task of retrieving her “illustrated mum” from the local police station.

Dol longs for escape, for a life beyond the familiar rut. Could gardener Lee and his daughter Ava offer a chance at a wholesome family life? Or perhaps a passionate fling with the charming actor Joel is the answer? Then there’s her successful sister Star’s invitation to Scotland and a new life with her family.

Torn between paths, Dol faces a critical choice. Will she remain an extra in someone else’s narrative, or will she finally find the strength to write her own story?