Patriotism
is not enough. I must have no hatred or bitterness towards
anyone. Nurse
Edith Cavell, on the eve of her execution, 1915
Scarred
by his experiences in World War I, German doctor, Sebastian Braun
lives a quiet life tending to his patients and his beloved garden.
Until Sophie Hathaway bursts into his life and challenges his
dearly-held beliefs. And just at the moment Sebastian discovers love
for the first time war is on the horizon once again, threatening not
just his peace of mind…
As
the Germans approach the Channel Islands, Sebastian has to make
choices: be the peace-loving man he has become or stand up and fight
for his principles? When he and Sophie are separated, Sebastian is
left realising love may have eluded him forever. Until a chance
meeting in Paris sets the wheels in motion for a dangerously
devastating love affair.
Set
against the backdrop of World War II, The
Paris Affair is
a poignant story, beautifully told of love, loss and the resilience
of the human spirit.
The author’s writing in The Paris Affair has surpassed itself, with prose and ideas that touch the reader deeply, making it a brilliant read for many reasons. The main character, Sebastian, is unique for the genre and time period, and his story is narrated from a first-person perspective, allowing the reader to become his advocate. Sebastian is a German veteran of WWI who has made a new life for himself on the island of Sark, where he tends his garden and wants nothing to do with the new war. The story takes place during WWII, with Sebastian telling his life story to a prison priest as he awaits execution.
The book is set in various locations, including the Channel Island of Sark, the Cornwall coast, and Paris. Despite the title, the book is not solely about Paris or an affair. While romance does play a role in Sebastian's character arc, the book is much more than that. The mysterious Sophie and the invading Nazis are about to turn Sebastian's life upside down.
The Paris Affair is a quality WWII historical fiction that is thought provoking for quiet contemplation. It is a story within a story, with a dash of mystery and romance, and an ending that will surprise the reader. It’s a book not to be missed, as it speaks to the soul and touches the reader deeply. Sebastian's story is complex and engaging, and his understanding of life and people is remarkable. It is a book that will stay with the reader long after the final page has been turned.
***arc generously received courtesy of One More Chapter via NetGalley***
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