The Shell Seekers is a novel that centers around the life of Penelope Keeling, an elderly woman reflecting on her past and the significant relationships that have shaped her. The story unfolds as Penelope navigates the complexities of familial ties, particularly with her three adult children, each of whom has their own aspirations and expectations regarding her legacy. Through her memories, readers gain insight into her spirited youth, her romance with a gifted artist, and the experiences that have forged her identity. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, and the importance of art and tradition. Penelope's connection to a painting left by her father becomes a symbol of her family's history and the choices they make about what truly matters in life. As her children grapple with the value of the painting and their interests in it, the story delves into the conflict between materialism and emotional bonds, prompting reflections on what inheritance really means.