The year is 1939, and in Paris, France a young woman is about to commit a terrible betrayal…
For Iris, each visit to her mother in St Mabon’s Cove, Cornwall has been the same – a serene escape from the city. But today, as she breaths in the salt air on the doorstep of her beloved childhood home, a heavy weight of anticipation settles over her. Iris knows she’s adopted, but any questions about where she came from have always been shut down by her parents, who can’t bear to revisit the past.
Now, Iris can’t stop thinking about what she’s read on the official paperwork: BABY GIRL, FRANCE, 1939 – the year war was declared with Nazi Germany.
When Iris confronts her mother, she hits the same wall of pain and resistance as whenever she mentions the war. That is, until her mother tearfully hands her an old tin of letters, tucked neatly beside a delicate piece of ivory wool.
Retreating to the loft, Iris steels herself to at last learn the truth, however painful it might be. But, as she peels back each layer of history before her, a sensation of dread grows inside her. The past is calling, and its secrets are more intricate and tangled than Iris could ever have imagined.
A beautifully written and addictively compelling historical novel about the terrible choices ordinary people were forced to make in the horrors of World War Two. If you loved The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Alice Network and The Nightingale, you will devour this book.
What readers are saying about this book:
“What a beautiful story, I absolutely loved it… a book that you won’t want to put down. Also, remember the tissues!” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This story was compelling, emotional, and left me thinking about what would come next every time I had to set it down.”Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Not just a gripping historical narrative but also an exploration of the power of love, resilience, and the human spirit. That even in the darkest times, there is hope, compassion, and the potential for redemption.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“An emotional and heartbreaking story and also one of unconditional love… It is a story of what family is. This is a very compelling story and one I highly recommend.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“What a beautiful story, I absolutely loved it. With a heart-wrenching decision, lovely characters, awful characters, beautiful settings and lots of love it's a book that you won’t want to put down. Also, remember the tissues!” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This book is one that as soon as you start reading you cannot put down. I highly recommend reading it.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“A gripping, emotional journey into the impact of war on ordinary families… Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The Last Train from Paris is one inspirational story that will grip you… I truly loved reading it.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This is a beautifully written book with a powerful message about families… Truly a book to savor.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dian Chapman
Jane Bartram
T. T. Thomas