Historical Fiction

Lost Family

Category:Historical Fiction

Author:Katherine Williams

  • Publisher: Atmosphere Press
  • Publication Date: June 11, 2024
  • Number of Pages: 274
  • ISBN-13: 979-8-89132-277-6

A gripping tale set during WWII unfolds with a peculiar encounter. Initially skeptical of an attractive associate's claim about a vintage photo resembling him, Ben Griffiths is intrigued when he discovers a painting among his late grandmother's belongings, mirroring the photo's location. This uncanny coincidence propels him on a journey to France, where he uncovers a heart-wrenching secret. In 1939, France, seventeen-year-old Amélie Maurois, a budding artist, sees her dreams shattered by the German invasion. Instead of pursuing art school, she uses her talents to forge documents, helping persecuted individuals escape certain death. Amidst her courageous acts of resistance, she crosses paths with a British agent, leading to a dangerous liaison. Facing threats and violence from angry neighbors, Amélie's grit and determination are put to the test as she navigates the perils of Occupied France.

Lost Family is an intricately woven tale of love, betrayal, and unspoken stories against wartime turmoil. The story follows the lives of the characters in two vastly different settings: Sablé-sur-Manse, France, in the throes of World War II, and the tranquil countryside of North Wales in the present day. Katherine Williams masterfully crafts a story that is rich in detail, emotion, and suspense, drawing readers into a world where past and present collide. The characters are at the story's heart, with ingeniously explored inner struggles that drive the narrative forward. In Sablé-sur-Manse, young Amélie faces the challenges of adolescence and the looming shadow of Nazi occupation. Her journey from innocence to bravery is compellingly portrayed as she becomes entangled in the dangerous world of the Resistance. The dynamic between Amélie and her family, particularly her father, is stunningly executed, highlighting the sacrifices made for freedom. In North Wales, Ben's quest to carve out a new life amidst personal and professional setbacks resonates with authenticity. His determination to revitalize a dilapidated inn mirrors Amélie's resilience in adversity. The narrative voice is immersive and evocative, transporting readers from pre-war France's idyllic countryside to contemporary Wales's rugged landscapes. Williams skillfully paints the setting, from the lazy afternoons by the river in Sablé-sur-Manse to the misty mornings in North Wales, creating a vivid backdrop for the unfolding drama. The narrative is punctuated by emotionally engaging scenes, from the harrowing rescue on the riverbank to the clandestine meetings in occupied France; each scene is imbued with a sense of urgency and suspense that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. With its richly drawn characters, atmospheric settings, and compelling narrative, this novel will have readers spellbound. 

Reviewed By: Bertin Drizller

Reviewed Date: April 26, 2024

Category: Historical Fiction