An RNA Romantic Novel Award nominee.
by Fiona ValpyFrom the bestselling author of Sea of Memories comes the story of two remarkable women, generations apart, who must use adversity to their advantage and find the resilience deep within.
The Book:
Heartbroken and hoping for a new start, Abi Howes takes a summer job in rural France..
at the Château Bellevue. The old château echoes with voices from the past, and soon Abi finds herself drawn to one remarkable woman’s story, a story that could change the course of her summer—and her life.
In 1938, Eliane Martin tends beehives in the garden of the beautiful Château Bellevue. In its shadow she meets Mathieu Dubosq and falls in love for the first time, daring to hope that a happy future awaits. But France’s eastern border is darkening under the clouds of war, and history has other plans for Eliane…
When she is separated from Mathieu in the chaos of German occupation, Eliane makes the dangerous decision to join the Resistance and fight for France’s liberty. But with no end to the war in sight, her loyalty to Mathieu is severely tested.
The Book Reviewed:
The gaudy account of France and the background décor made me feel like I was actually there right in the story itself, from the stunning setting of the château, to the profound fear felt by French people during the occupation.
The authors accounts are so lovely, from the buzz buzz buzzing of the bee colonies and the champagne honey, to beautiful descriptive colours of the gardens. It’s easy to see that Valpy spent 7 years living there by the way that she made everything seem so real, even the smells, and feel everything that she describes.
The plot was imaginary but Valpy involved historical proceedings such as the disturbing massacre at Tulle that happened.
The French language adds to the fullness of the story and really takes you to the setting! not speaking French in know way will hinder you from understanding what’s going on, but in the same way, if you understand the French words used, it certainly enhances the story for you.
At one-point Eliane’s Mother Lisette says, ’Whether we win or lose this war, we will have to live with the consequences of our decisions.’’
Lisette’s words ring just as true today in our day to day lives. Ultimately this is a novel about the essence of humanity, resistance and dogged hope despite the circumstances. It is thoroughly recommended.
Overall a fabulous read and page turner you won’t put down. I highly recommend The Beekeepers promise, it’s another must read..