1930s Melbourne

The majority of the novel occurs in Melbourne, Australia during the 1930s. There are not many significant time markers, and despite the historic period the novel exists in, it feels modern and fresh. Because the narrator is a child during this time, surrounding political, cultural and social forces are not fully described. Lily does, however, mention the occurrence of the Australian Depression, as well as increased government censorship of the arts.

The Trentham household

Much of the novel occurs in the Trentham house, which exists as an almost alternative reality, plush with gardens and forests and endless space to roam and create. The house is described to be a mansion, with seemingly endless property for the young girls to play on. In the house there are many studios for the artists to complete and compile their work.

The garden

Lily’s continued fascination with the Trentham garden...