What are the motifs in The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher?

War is a reoccurring idea in this book. For Penelope, the event of war has a tremendous impact on her life. She officially grows up during World War II and the influence of the war will have significant long-term consequences on her life overall.World War I had an indirect impact on Penelope's life as it brought Sophie and Lawrence together. Without the war, it is quite possible her parents would have never married and had her. Penelope will also find marriage and love during World War II, but they will not be with the same man.