A review by mandylovestoread
The French Gift by Kirsty Manning
4.0
The French Gift was the second book by Australian author Kirsty Manning that I have read and I loved it. Devouring this heart breaking story of courage and will, of friendship and war in less than 24 hours. It is based on true events of WWII and it is a story that will inspire you, it did me.
Told over 2 time periods the story is based around Josephine Murrant. In the past we learn about her time as a prisoner first in France and then in Germany during the war. Her cellmate was a woman called Margot Bisset, a maid who has been accused of a murder that she did not commit. The 2 women endure harsh conditions during the years and they form strong friendship. Years later after Josephine's death, her niece by marriage is assisting with an exhibition honoring the life of the great French author. The hunt for an unfinished manuscript reveals a whole lot more than anybody bargained for.
It is a beautiful novel, set against the backdrop of wartime Europe and the present day Cote D'Azure. Once again, historical fiction is teaching me about these lesser known war heroes and I love it. I cried as I went on this journey with Josephine.
Thanks to Allen and Unwin for my advanced copy of this book to read. Released in Australia March 30th.
Told over 2 time periods the story is based around Josephine Murrant. In the past we learn about her time as a prisoner first in France and then in Germany during the war. Her cellmate was a woman called Margot Bisset, a maid who has been accused of a murder that she did not commit. The 2 women endure harsh conditions during the years and they form strong friendship. Years later after Josephine's death, her niece by marriage is assisting with an exhibition honoring the life of the great French author. The hunt for an unfinished manuscript reveals a whole lot more than anybody bargained for.
It is a beautiful novel, set against the backdrop of wartime Europe and the present day Cote D'Azure. Once again, historical fiction is teaching me about these lesser known war heroes and I love it. I cried as I went on this journey with Josephine.
Thanks to Allen and Unwin for my advanced copy of this book to read. Released in Australia March 30th.