Ellie Dean lives in a tiny hamlet set deep in the heart of the South Downs in Sussex which offers the tranquillity so necessary for an author. Ellie finally married her childhood sweetheart eight years ago, and together they share two daughters, three sons and six grandchildren, who are scattered all over the world.

Ellie Dean is a pen name used by Australian-born author Tamara McKinley, known for her heartfelt and intricately woven historical novels. Raised in Tasmania by her maternal grandmother and her sisters, she developed a passion for storytelling and the written word from an early age. After moving to England for her education, she overcame cultural challenges and skepticism from teachers about her potential as a writer.
Her literary career began later in life, following marriage and raising her children, with her first attempts at writing focusing on her family’s story. After two thrillers and numerous multi-generational sagas, she gained international recognition for her Australian novels, which have been translated into over twenty languages.
Under the pseudonym Ellie Dean, she shifted to a gentler genre, crafting the beloved Cliffehaven series. Set during World War II on England’s south coast, the series follows the Reilly family at Beach View Boarding House. With meticulous research and a deep respect for the wartime resilience of ordinary people, Ellie Dean brings her characters to life, exploring themes of family, love, and perseverance.
The Cliffehaven series has grown to include over 20 books, each delving into the trials and triumphs of its characters during a challenging era. Despite the challenges of writing, Dean finds joy in the editing process, ensuring her stories are polished and engaging for her readers. Her dedication to her craft and her genuine connection with her characters have made her a cherished author for fans of historical fiction.
Ellie Dean novels
There’ll Be Blue Skies

(First family saga)
In 1939, sixteen-year-old Sally Turner and her polio-stricken younger brother, Ernie, are evacuated to the south coast. With their mother absent and their father away at sea, Sally struggles to protect Ernie from being placed in an orphanage. Rescued by Peggy Reilly of Beach View Boarding House, Sally finds solace amidst the chaos of war but must confront heartbreak and separation as Dunkirk looms.
Far From Home

(Second family saga)
In 1940, Staff Nurse Polly Brown moves to Cliffehaven to be closer to her severely injured husband, Adam, but the war forces her to send her daughter, Alice, to Canada for safety. Heartbreak strikes when Polly learns Alice’s ship has been torpedoed. At Beach View Boarding House, Polly finds support as she grapples with devastating losses and the realities of wartime nursing.
Keep Smiling Through

(Third family saga)
In 1940, seventeen-year-old Rita Smith faces upheaval when her Italian neighbors are interned as enemies of the state. Determined to support the war effort, Rita becomes a fire warden after her home is bombed. Despite heartbreak and separation, Rita’s resilient spirit shines through in Cliffehaven’s close-knit community.
Where the Heart Lies

(Fourth family saga)
Julie Harris, a midwife in London’s East End, loses her family in a bombing raid and becomes the guardian of her infant nephew, William. Seeking refuge in Cliffehaven, Julie struggles with the devastating news that William’s father is missing in action and a health crisis for the child she has grown to love as her own.
Always in My Heart

(Fifth family saga)
Sarah Fuller flees Singapore with her sister as the Japanese invade, leaving behind her fiancé and parents. In Cliffehaven, Sarah joins the Women’s Timber Corps and tries to build a new life while fearing for her loved ones. With the support of the community, she finds the strength to endure the heartbreak of war.
All My Tomorrows

(Sixth family saga)
Eighteen-year-old Ruby Clark escapes her abusive husband and war-torn London to find refuge in Cliffehaven. Though her struggles persist, she finds hope, support, and the possibility of a new future at Peggy Reilly’s Beach View Boarding House.
Some Lucky Day

(Seventh family saga)
In 1942, Kitty Pargeter, a skilled pilot, faces life-changing injuries after a crash landing. Struggling to cope with her disability and the loss of her brother, Kitty is uplifted by the unwavering support of Peggy Reilly and the Beach View family. Determined to return to flying, Kitty fights to rebuild her life.
While We’re Apart

(Eighth family saga)
Mary Jones, newly orphaned after a bombing raid, uncovers a shocking secret in her father’s diaries. Seeking answers, she moves to Cliffehaven, where Peggy Reilly befriends her. But as Mary’s past unravels, Peggy fears getting involved may bring trouble to them both.
Sealed With a Loving Kiss

(Ninth family saga)
After losing her parents in a bombing raid, Mary Jones moves to Cliffehaven and begins working at the Kodak factory. Supported by Peggy Reilly and the Beach View family, Mary uncovers a long-hidden secret that could change everything for her and those around her.
Sweet Memories of You

(Tenth family saga)
In 1943, Peggy Reilly faces new challenges when her sister, Doreen, seeks refuge at Beach View after a traumatic experience. As Doreen’s threatening ex-husband resurfaces, Peggy’s strength is tested as she works to protect her family and friends.
Shelter From the Storm

(Eleventh family saga)
April Wilton, a WREN stationed in Portsmouth, falls in love with Daniel, an American soldier of mixed heritage. Their romance blossoms despite the challenges of war and prejudice. But with Daniel’s deployment looming, their love is put to the ultimate test.
With Hope and Love

Cliffehaven, May 1944: Peggy Reilly struggles to keep Beach View running amid rising tensions and the anticipation of the Allied invasion. With her family scattered by war, Peggy leans on her indomitable spirit to bring love and hope back to those she holds dear.
As The Sun Breaks Through

The gripping new Second World War novel from The Sunday Times Top Ten bestselling author.