I was immediately grabbed by the conflict surround this story. The idea of lost love and second chances intrigued me. I also loved that the story was set around WW II. With the threat of the Nazi occupation Anne and Alexis are torn away from each other. Although they are only children both have very strong feelings for each other. As the story progresses Anne and Alexis have both moved on from their childhood love and both marry and have children. When Anne and Alexis meet they immediately feel everything they use to for each other. I personally thought that the author did a fantastic job with the scene where they are reunited.

As Anne and Alexis struggle to figure out how they can or if they should make room in their lives for each other they have to struggle with their commitments. I thought this was a beautiful and passionate story. My heart ached for both characters and I kept hoping that they would get their happily ever after. I really enjoyed the historical setting and the descriptions and the times and places. I highly recommend and enjoyed this beautiful and heartbreaking book about two people that just want to love each other.

For those following my reviews it's no secret I prefer my love story full of passion, complications and tragedy. I was NOT disappointed with Marny and her incredibly love story.

The rich descriptions of Paris and surrounding cities and countryside were lush. I felt as if I was in France. When an author crafts a strong setting, transporting the reader to time and place, truly adds to the reading experience. Marny explored the annihilation war causes physically, emotionally and mentally along with environmental ruin. Many historical references peppered the narrative once again complimenting storyline and characters.

The plot was low on predicability, high with twists and turns, not to mention filled with anguish, passion, joy and sorrow, a mark of a quality solid love story. As a whole, the entire story felt more nonfiction than fiction thanks to impeccable detail and dense writing on the authors part.

Characterization was superb. Marny allowed the reader an up close and intimate sketch of the three main characters. You felt the emotional toll, anguish and elation. An intricate set of characters involved in an equally intricate situation. Anne, stoic, grace under pressure. A woman loving with everything, a woman torn between her familial obligations. A woman of few words, her emotions and actions consequential. Alexis is a mystery. We learn the basics but lack his full on emotional rawness. We learn more of him through Anne. He's a man torn, trapped and frustrated. Francoise is a man quick to flee. He fails to ferret the obvious issues with Anne and it's revealed he is all flight and no fight. Of all the marvelous protagonists I felt a warmth and connection to Anne. Her reactions were fitting to such a precise plot. Her anguish, torment and loyalty is affecting. You understand her predicament without question, you grapple along with her as she decides her fate.

The fact this story stemmed from childhood to adulthood keeps your attention, enough tension and curiosity drives the reader to turn the next page in anticipation of what's to follow. A wonderful story of true love. I'd love a follow up on Anne and other significant characters brought to our attention. Mixing war and love, you know it will contain plenty of drama, tears and hardship leaving the reader to guess the ending. Highly recommend this memorable story of young love that never ended.

Captivating story of two who as children were separated during the 2nd world war in France and reunited many years later to discover true love. The author also gives us a fascinating look at the art scene in Paris.

The scenes of Monmarte were the first thing that drew me to this book- it’s my favourite place in Paris. I loved the descriptions throughout of the city and surrounding areas. You really could imagine yourself there.
It follows Anne and Alexis who knew each other in childhood. Alexis saw Anne as a little sister whilst she really liked him.
The book spans many years starting in war time. The two are split by the war, friends are scattered all over France.
When she meets him again many years later what will she consider- will she abandon her family to be happy with him? Will he leave his wife and son? They meet- but can they both give up what they have to be truly happy together. Anne is working in an Art Gallery and Alexis is a teacher in Canada.
The book ends in the 1980’s- will they end up together? You’ll have to read the book and see.
Many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book.