Suzanne Fortin

Like most historical novels, "Beyond a Broken Sky" had a dual timeline. Both stories took place at Teton Hall, one in 2022 and the other during the Second World War. Usually, I prefer the historical story but in this novel, I was more intrigued with the modern one. I found Rhoda the stronger of the two protagonists, especially at the start and while Alice did grow on me, she never won me over the way Rhoda did.

Part love story and part mystery "Beyond a Broken Sky" was a quick, easy read with short chapters and an intriguing storyline. There was plenty of mystery, twists, and intrigue, and a beautiful front cover. An enjoyable read.… (plus d'informations)

A historical novel set in the village of East Chinnock, Somerset, England, in the dual timelines of 2022 and 1945. In 2022, Rhoda Sullivan is an artisan/glazier of stained glass windows and sent from Singlewood Museum in West Sussex to examine and assess a stained glass window in a church on the property of Telton Hall. In 1945, Alice Renshaw was a young unmarried woman who awaited giving birth to her child on a farming property in the countryside thanks to the generosity of Louise Hartwell, owner of Telton Hall.

It was fascinating to learn in the "Acknowledgements" that the inspiration for the novel was from the story of Anton Günther, a German prisoner of war held at a camp in Yeoville and had a connection with the village church.

With atmospheric writing, an intriguing mystery began due to the assessment of a stained glass window. The characters are well-developed, and the reasons for their emotions, actions, and reactions to situations are revealed and express the multi-layered dimensions of their lives, giving readers a deeper understanding of the past in wartime and the societal mores of that time. It also reveals how deeply past decisions and experiences can affect the present.… (plus d'informations)