"The Shell Seekers" is a generational novel that follows the life of Penelope Keeling, a woman in her sixties, who reflects on her past while dealing with her three grown children, each with their own selfish motives. When Penelope discovers a valuable painting in her possession, her children's greed surfaces as they pressure her to sell it. Instead, Penelope embarks on a journey of self-discovery and reflection, revisiting her bohemian past, her wartime romance, and the beauty of her father's paintings. The novel explores themes of family, love, loss, and the importance of art and beauty in life.

The series is a family saga that spans generations, focusing on the lives, loves, and tribulations of the Cazalet family. Set primarily between the 1930s and 1950s, the narrative delves into the personal and societal impacts of events like World War II on the extended family. Through vivid characterizations and intricate relationships, the story explores themes of time, change, and the endurance of family bonds against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving England. Each book in the series captures a different era, reflecting the shifting dynamics within the family and the country at large.