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Chasing the Butterfly
From a vineyard in the south of France to the sophisticated city of Paris, Ella Moreau searches for the hope and love she lost as a young girl when her mother abandoned the family. Ella's journey is portrayed through a heartbroken child, a young woman's struggles during the tumultuous times surrounding World War II, and as a reflective adult.
Through a series of secret paintings, her art becomes the substitute for lost love—the metaphor of her life. But when her paintings are discovered, the intentions of those she loves are revealed.
Through a series of secret paintings, her art becomes the substitute for lost love—the metaphor of her life. But when her paintings are discovered, the intentions of those she loves are revealed.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2014
190 people are currently reading
1851 people want to read
About the author
Jayme H. Mansfield
5 books82 followersLoosening the reins and leaning into a creative life—that’s Jayme’s sweet spot as an author, artist, and educator. Speaking at book clubs and interest groups, teaching the writing craft, and guiding others in their artistic pursuits at her long-time art studio, Piggy Toes, is the icing on the cake. The transformative power of art and faith are common threads in her award-winning historical and contemporary novels, Chasing the Butterfly, RUSH, Seasoned. Her most recent release, Portrait of Deceit, is a literary suspense and delivers the same. Her bold floral abstractions and imaginative landscapes blend luscious color and playful texture—a testimony to what she refers to as “playing in the paint!”. Visit her website for books, original art, and creative expression!
Jayme lives on ranch in southern Wyoming where two very needy Golden Retrievers run the roost.
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Chasing-The-But...
Jayme lives on ranch in southern Wyoming where two very needy Golden Retrievers run the roost.
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Chasing-The-But...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
May 5, 2015
In Chasing the Butterfly, debut fiction author Jayme H. Mansfield brings out wonderfully realized imagery and emotion as well as a cast of flawed people, Mansfield's deft style causing the reader to view this story chiefly set in France as its heroine Ella Moreau would: as if through the eyes of an artist.
The effects of Ella's mother's abandonment of the Moreau family, the tragedy of World War II, and the pleasures and pains of Ella's growth as a young woman and a gifted painter come through, at times, enigmatically, but effortlessly on the whole. Mansfield weaves together the complexities of human relationships, of love and loss, confusion and hope, as well as the oppression of guilt and the power of forgiveness.
On a minor note, I suspect that Remy's theme might have had a more definite impact if a little more time was given to his character before the war instead of mainly after it. Also, as something I find in many novels, it's a bit strange when pronouns for God are sometimes capitalized, sometimes not, unless the inconsistency is intentionally included to reflect characters' different perceptions of Him, which I didn't particularly see to be the case in this novel.
This poignant story culminates into an almost impossibly beautiful finish and an affirmation of tried love's capacity, and I wouldn't at all mind reading more from this author in the future. Brava!
____________
I received a free copy of this book, for which I give my honest review, through Goodreads First Reads.
The effects of Ella's mother's abandonment of the Moreau family, the tragedy of World War II, and the pleasures and pains of Ella's growth as a young woman and a gifted painter come through, at times, enigmatically, but effortlessly on the whole. Mansfield weaves together the complexities of human relationships, of love and loss, confusion and hope, as well as the oppression of guilt and the power of forgiveness.
On a minor note, I suspect that Remy's theme might have had a more definite impact if a little more time was given to his character before the war instead of mainly after it. Also, as something I find in many novels, it's a bit strange when pronouns for God are sometimes capitalized, sometimes not, unless the inconsistency is intentionally included to reflect characters' different perceptions of Him, which I didn't particularly see to be the case in this novel.
This poignant story culminates into an almost impossibly beautiful finish and an affirmation of tried love's capacity, and I wouldn't at all mind reading more from this author in the future. Brava!
____________
I received a free copy of this book, for which I give my honest review, through Goodreads First Reads.
November 27, 2014
Inspirational books often portray families with a sweet Christian Mother; not so in this book. Mansfield portrays a Mother who hasn’t really grown up herself. Her husband decided to move the family to France. They would work the vineyard, make wine and the children would have the small village experience. Mama, Marie Moreau, didn’t want to be there and one day she packed a bag, bought herself a ticket and returned to America. I must admit to my strong emotions while reading certain parts of the book as this Mother betrayed her children by disappearing.
Little Ella Moreau’s Papa was a dreamer but he was a great Father, even taking another boy into the family as his own.
Mansfield reveals the heart of a young girl (Ella) as she grows into a woman. Painting became Ella’s escape. She eventually was recognized for her work but the child suffered numerous losses, which affected her faith in God and in people.
There are many facets to the story; family betrayal, fear of Hitler’s advances in Europe, moral failures, and forgiveness. A romance is woven into the story line too.
The author paints beautiful landscapes and family images with her words. Loved the book and might choose to read it again.
Thanks Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas for my Kindle version of the book for my honest review. So well written, Mansfield took me to the scenes until I wanted to be on that field with Ella chasing butterflies.
Little Ella Moreau’s Papa was a dreamer but he was a great Father, even taking another boy into the family as his own.
Mansfield reveals the heart of a young girl (Ella) as she grows into a woman. Painting became Ella’s escape. She eventually was recognized for her work but the child suffered numerous losses, which affected her faith in God and in people.
There are many facets to the story; family betrayal, fear of Hitler’s advances in Europe, moral failures, and forgiveness. A romance is woven into the story line too.
The author paints beautiful landscapes and family images with her words. Loved the book and might choose to read it again.
Thanks Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas for my Kindle version of the book for my honest review. So well written, Mansfield took me to the scenes until I wanted to be on that field with Ella chasing butterflies.
October 6, 2014
What a powerful Captivating read! It has all the elements of a great novel.
1. Historical God-centered fiction set in south France on a family-owned vineyard
2. Written from the viewpoint of the main character young Ella in 1929 to a young adult in 1960
3. Well-written realistic subject matter that follows not only Ella but her family and beaus. I never looked back in the novel to see what I had missed. Every word written built on the previous words. All of the characters had their unique personalities. They made some good and some bad choices along the way, just like us ... And the readers gets to see how God works it out for his glory.
4. What more can I say? A lot. This book is thought provoking, creative, artsy, romantic, tragic, wonderful, a book I could not put down, a book I will "pickup" and read again. Did I tell you that this book is the authors debut novel?
Anyway this is my opinion, BUY the book. I was graciously given a PDF form of the book to read from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolina's in exchange for my opinion. I hope I will be blessed to read more of this author's works.
1. Historical God-centered fiction set in south France on a family-owned vineyard
2. Written from the viewpoint of the main character young Ella in 1929 to a young adult in 1960
3. Well-written realistic subject matter that follows not only Ella but her family and beaus. I never looked back in the novel to see what I had missed. Every word written built on the previous words. All of the characters had their unique personalities. They made some good and some bad choices along the way, just like us ... And the readers gets to see how God works it out for his glory.
4. What more can I say? A lot. This book is thought provoking, creative, artsy, romantic, tragic, wonderful, a book I could not put down, a book I will "pickup" and read again. Did I tell you that this book is the authors debut novel?
Anyway this is my opinion, BUY the book. I was graciously given a PDF form of the book to read from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolina's in exchange for my opinion. I hope I will be blessed to read more of this author's works.
January 30, 2015
A novel that takes place in France, and is about an artist. Two of my favorite ingredients for a great read! Jayme's first novel, Chasing the Butterfly, draws you in and the characters and their life struggles make this one hard to put down. A captivating read about a very dysfunctional family that you just keep rooting for because you know in your heart (and Jayme's) that things will work out in the way they were meant to be. You definitely want to read this one!!
January 8, 2022
An interesting and fascinating read of a young woman's struggle for acceptance and the need to prove herself in difficult and dysfunctional circumstances. The ups and downs of her life will keep you emotionally involved.
November 18, 2014
Chasing The Butterfly by Jayme Mansfield is a beautifully written novel dealing with the themes of love, love lost and forgiveness. It spans a period of just over twenty years beginning in1929, and including the traumatic years of World War II.
Ella Moreau, born in America to an American Mum and a French Father, returns to Rousseau with her family, following the death of her Grandfather. Her father, Henri will take over the running of the family vineyard.
Ella Moreau is just seven years old when her mother leaves. It is a day that will shape the rest of Ella's life, as she is left with just her father and two brothers.
Ella deeply loved her mother and dreams of the day she will return. Her young life is scarred, and Ella releases her emotions by painting, following a bargain that Ella makes with God. Ella fears ever loving anything or anyone again, believing that she is incapable of love.
The novel takes the reader on a journey of discovery, written mainly through Ella's eyes, in the first person. As it skips chunks of time, the novel reads like a diary with important moments highlighted. For Ella to really live her life to the full, she needs to learn to trust God and to love again - but will she?
For a full life and a Godly life, forgiveness needs to be given. To find out to whom and why, you must read the novel.
Some novels end for the reader when the last word is read, but Chasing The Butterfly is so beautifully written, that it's words remain, even though the novel is ended - it will leave the reader pondering over the twin themes of love and forgiveness - and I found that a feeling of peace and beauty remained in my soul.
Ella Moreau, born in America to an American Mum and a French Father, returns to Rousseau with her family, following the death of her Grandfather. Her father, Henri will take over the running of the family vineyard.
Ella Moreau is just seven years old when her mother leaves. It is a day that will shape the rest of Ella's life, as she is left with just her father and two brothers.
Ella deeply loved her mother and dreams of the day she will return. Her young life is scarred, and Ella releases her emotions by painting, following a bargain that Ella makes with God. Ella fears ever loving anything or anyone again, believing that she is incapable of love.
The novel takes the reader on a journey of discovery, written mainly through Ella's eyes, in the first person. As it skips chunks of time, the novel reads like a diary with important moments highlighted. For Ella to really live her life to the full, she needs to learn to trust God and to love again - but will she?
For a full life and a Godly life, forgiveness needs to be given. To find out to whom and why, you must read the novel.
Some novels end for the reader when the last word is read, but Chasing The Butterfly is so beautifully written, that it's words remain, even though the novel is ended - it will leave the reader pondering over the twin themes of love and forgiveness - and I found that a feeling of peace and beauty remained in my soul.
October 14, 2014
Chasing The Butterfly by Jayme Mansfield
From a vineyard in the south of France to the sophisticated city of Paris, Ella Moreau searches for the hope and love she lost as a young girl when her mother abandoned the family. Ella's journey is portrayed through a heartbroken child, a young woman's struggles during the tumultuous times surrounding World War II, and as a reflective adult. Through a series of secret paintings, her art becomes the substitute for lost love the visual metaphor of her life. But when her paintings are discovered, the intentions of those she loves are revealed.
Wonderful story about Ella Moreau and her family.
will Ella Moreau find the hope and love she lost as a young girl when her mother abandoned the family?
why didn't Ella's Mama believe she saw something wonderful on their family’s voyage?
what are the secrets that could tear the Moreau family apart?
Did Ella Moreau find the hope and love she lost as a young girl when her mother abandoned the family?
who is your favorite character in this story?
And why?
Chasing The Butterfly by Jayme Mansfield is a wonderful well written 5 stars book.
I highly recommend reading Chasing The Butterfly by Jayme Mansfield.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jayme Mansfield.
this book is the authors debut novel.
I was given a PDF form of the book to read from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolina's in exchange for an honest review.
From a vineyard in the south of France to the sophisticated city of Paris, Ella Moreau searches for the hope and love she lost as a young girl when her mother abandoned the family. Ella's journey is portrayed through a heartbroken child, a young woman's struggles during the tumultuous times surrounding World War II, and as a reflective adult. Through a series of secret paintings, her art becomes the substitute for lost love the visual metaphor of her life. But when her paintings are discovered, the intentions of those she loves are revealed.
Wonderful story about Ella Moreau and her family.
will Ella Moreau find the hope and love she lost as a young girl when her mother abandoned the family?
why didn't Ella's Mama believe she saw something wonderful on their family’s voyage?
what are the secrets that could tear the Moreau family apart?
Did Ella Moreau find the hope and love she lost as a young girl when her mother abandoned the family?
who is your favorite character in this story?
And why?
Chasing The Butterfly by Jayme Mansfield is a wonderful well written 5 stars book.
I highly recommend reading Chasing The Butterfly by Jayme Mansfield.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Jayme Mansfield.
this book is the authors debut novel.
I was given a PDF form of the book to read from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolina's in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2016
How does a young girl ever get over the memory of watching her mother drive away from her family forever? What kind of damage does that cause, and how does she cope? Ella's way was to focus on painting, because, in her mind, if she paints the people she loves they won't go away.
Ella's dad is French and inherited his family's vineyard, so he took his family off to France from NYC. Her mother never wanted to go, never it in and eventually left.
Ella's brothers and her father had to cope and work on the vineyard. Their family takes on a 14 year old orphan (Andre) who becomes a part of the family. After years of this, and a family altering tragedy, Ella falls hard for him, but he's just another one of the people she's afraid to lose, so she never pursues it. Instead, as an adult her art is clearly a gift from God, so she goes off to Paris to work with a woman who is well known for her art gallery, and begins another life away from the home she loves.
So much more happens as well, but I can't give it all away. What I can say is this was well written. Even though there were different voices throughout the book (and you have to read several sentences before you can figure out who's speaking), it is so well done it feels more like several people telling you the story, rather than feeling like you're reading a book.
I recommend this!
Ella's dad is French and inherited his family's vineyard, so he took his family off to France from NYC. Her mother never wanted to go, never it in and eventually left.
Ella's brothers and her father had to cope and work on the vineyard. Their family takes on a 14 year old orphan (Andre) who becomes a part of the family. After years of this, and a family altering tragedy, Ella falls hard for him, but he's just another one of the people she's afraid to lose, so she never pursues it. Instead, as an adult her art is clearly a gift from God, so she goes off to Paris to work with a woman who is well known for her art gallery, and begins another life away from the home she loves.
So much more happens as well, but I can't give it all away. What I can say is this was well written. Even though there were different voices throughout the book (and you have to read several sentences before you can figure out who's speaking), it is so well done it feels more like several people telling you the story, rather than feeling like you're reading a book.
I recommend this!
November 11, 2014
This is the debut book for this author.I received an ARC from the Good Reads site.However, I would have bought it and any more by the author. The genre would be light Christian Fiction but also can be classified as Historical Fiction. The story line flowed so well that I read it in one sitting. The author's descriptions are very vivid in areas, staying with you for days. The only thing I was disappointed about was that the ending seemed abrupt and I would love to have seen some characters fleshed about a bit more. The story begins with Ella ,a young girl, chasing after her mother who is leaving the family. As she grows older she begins to paint and learns to put all her fears and emotions into her work including her hidden love for her adopted brother Andre. Trouble with family members, friends and the war in France postpones her Paris debut. When she does go she is a huge success but is still not happy, even with a new boyfriend and friends. Health conditions of her father bring her home where she has to decide to stay or go back to Paris for her career. The suddenly her mother wants to come back in the picture. The intentions of others are not all for her good, but as she reflects on them the path to forgiveness opens for Ella.
November 9, 2014
I received this book from Goodreads giveaways.
Chasing the Butterfly is a beautiful and very well-crafted novel by Jayme Mansfield.
Set within a cast of flawed characters both in New York and France, Ella Moreau grows up thinking she has been the cause for the many losses in her life, starting with her mother's abandonment when she is just 5. Only through her paintings is she able to really experience the beauty of her world and reconcile herself to the life she feels she might have had if her mother had not deserted her family. This story carries Ella from childhood through to adult life, complete with hardship not only for herself but also for her entire family, as she becomes a well-respected and in-demand painter, and ultimately allows herself forgiveness and opens her heart to love and fully live life once again. What a beautiful reminder for all of us of the importance of keeping God as the focus of our lives, and the amazing grace He can and will show each of us if we trust in Him. Such a unique and well-crafted story of family, loss, acceptance, forgiveness, and redemption.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this wonderful debut novel!
Chasing the Butterfly is a beautiful and very well-crafted novel by Jayme Mansfield.
Set within a cast of flawed characters both in New York and France, Ella Moreau grows up thinking she has been the cause for the many losses in her life, starting with her mother's abandonment when she is just 5. Only through her paintings is she able to really experience the beauty of her world and reconcile herself to the life she feels she might have had if her mother had not deserted her family. This story carries Ella from childhood through to adult life, complete with hardship not only for herself but also for her entire family, as she becomes a well-respected and in-demand painter, and ultimately allows herself forgiveness and opens her heart to love and fully live life once again. What a beautiful reminder for all of us of the importance of keeping God as the focus of our lives, and the amazing grace He can and will show each of us if we trust in Him. Such a unique and well-crafted story of family, loss, acceptance, forgiveness, and redemption.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this wonderful debut novel!
October 12, 2014
Set in the wine country of France and Paris, with the backdrop of WW11, this beautifully descriptive story follows Ella and her family through a childhood tragedy of abandonment, an unexpected death, and secrets that could tear the Moreau family apart.
An unexpected reunion, and secrets revealed through hidden paintings, brings the story full circle, with love, loss, and forgiveness which will let the family move on.
Jayme has crafted a spellbinding, and thought provoking story, that will stay with you long after you've read the last page...
An unexpected reunion, and secrets revealed through hidden paintings, brings the story full circle, with love, loss, and forgiveness which will let the family move on.
Jayme has crafted a spellbinding, and thought provoking story, that will stay with you long after you've read the last page...
August 6, 2016
So eloquently written!! The author masterfully transports the reader from your favorite reading nook to the South of France. While in the South of France, the story of a family's happy times and sad times are told in such a way that we see the power of forgiveness in those relationships that are worthy of second chances, no matter how much time has passed, and we witness those transgressions that loving humans are not always able to look past. Such an enjoyable read!
October 24, 2014
it was a page turner. I couldn't put the book down. What a beautiful story! I loved the way Jayme wove the storyline and tied the characters together. She wrote in such a way that I could visualize the village in France and the vineyadds and scenery that Ella painted. Such heartbrake and hope woven together.
October 18, 2014
Chasing the Butterfly was a great debut novel by author Jayme Mansfield. Although this is not my normal genre, she made me want to keep reading. It was very well written and I would recommend Chasing the Butterfly.
November 22, 2014
Very well written. A heartwarming story of letting go of the past.
November 20, 2014
Heartwarming
Heartwarming and thought provoking. Forgiveness and loving. Dysfunctional family dynamics. Believable characters. All the above and so much more. Enjoyed.
Heartwarming and thought provoking. Forgiveness and loving. Dysfunctional family dynamics. Believable characters. All the above and so much more. Enjoyed.
May 1, 2019
Listening to #ChasingTheButterfly AudioBook I got a good glimpse into the French countryside, the vineyards and Paris. As I heard Chasing The Butterfly I enjoyed the book a bit differently as this is the first audio book I heard. Ella is a sweet, talented young girl, an artist, an excellent painter who faces the loss of her mother while quite young. She does not understand the reason her mother has walked out leaving their family. Heartbroken, she put her heart and soul into her paintings. As she grows into a kind, genteel lady her art is discovered making her work much sought after.
The story is her journey as she learns to overcome the disappointment and lies. She finds love when she least expects it and overcomes heartbreak. The story is of faith in God and oneself.
This is the first audio book I listened to and I have a mixed reaction to it. First the good things – I liked the book. I liked the story and the way it progresses. The narrator kept the flow going and ensured each character had a distinct voice making it easy to follow. The thing I disliked was the French accent – it was good in most places but sometimes it became so heavy that I had a tough time understanding what the characters were saying especially the men.
Though I did not read the book even though I had it but I was tempted to. I heard the book over a few weeks and in spite of the breaks, the audio immediately got me back to the book just like reading.
The story is a well paced and more than a love story, it is a tale of faith, family and of love that endures. The father-daughter relationship is beautifully explored as is the love of God that binds them. He may be invisible but if you have faith all things are possible. The love she finds and how Andre supports her makes for a heartwarming read. I have been reading quite a few books of #ChrisFic and I find the way authors link the story and its twists and upheavals to god’s handiwork quite a change to read.
The book has depth, a strong storyline and lots of beauty. The beautiful paintings, the emotions and finally the faith that unites against greed and conniving makes for a peaceful read. It was just so calming to read this book. This could be a true story based during the World War II it reflects the fears, angst and sad war casualties. The book is a very realistic representation of that time. Yet it also brings out the goodness and charm of those times – when neighbours looked out for each other and your word meant everything.
Chasing The Butterfly is a word to read or heard to savour and enjoy at leisure as the author paints with her words and not just the paintings that Ella does.
(I received an audiobook from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, the review is my own unbiased opinion.)
The story is her journey as she learns to overcome the disappointment and lies. She finds love when she least expects it and overcomes heartbreak. The story is of faith in God and oneself.
This is the first audio book I listened to and I have a mixed reaction to it. First the good things – I liked the book. I liked the story and the way it progresses. The narrator kept the flow going and ensured each character had a distinct voice making it easy to follow. The thing I disliked was the French accent – it was good in most places but sometimes it became so heavy that I had a tough time understanding what the characters were saying especially the men.
Though I did not read the book even though I had it but I was tempted to. I heard the book over a few weeks and in spite of the breaks, the audio immediately got me back to the book just like reading.
The story is a well paced and more than a love story, it is a tale of faith, family and of love that endures. The father-daughter relationship is beautifully explored as is the love of God that binds them. He may be invisible but if you have faith all things are possible. The love she finds and how Andre supports her makes for a heartwarming read. I have been reading quite a few books of #ChrisFic and I find the way authors link the story and its twists and upheavals to god’s handiwork quite a change to read.
The book has depth, a strong storyline and lots of beauty. The beautiful paintings, the emotions and finally the faith that unites against greed and conniving makes for a peaceful read. It was just so calming to read this book. This could be a true story based during the World War II it reflects the fears, angst and sad war casualties. The book is a very realistic representation of that time. Yet it also brings out the goodness and charm of those times – when neighbours looked out for each other and your word meant everything.
Chasing The Butterfly is a word to read or heard to savour and enjoy at leisure as the author paints with her words and not just the paintings that Ella does.
(I received an audiobook from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, the review is my own unbiased opinion.)
July 20, 2019
Amazing book! This shows how our sin affects many more people than just us, even when no one else knows about it. That our wrong thoughts - thoughts that aren't true about God or go against what His Word says - can destroy us and our lives. Those thoughts will continue hurting us until the truth is finally accepted, and forgiveness is given. To me, it also showed how prone we are to believing the lies, to sin, and how merciful, faithful and good God is to us. When bad things happen, there's a tendency to blame God for them, and at the same time forget our blessings and become blind to new blessings. The more we allow ourselves to dwell on the negative, the darker our minds get. I love how it also showed how the light of God's truth and love can chase that darkness away and give us the abundant life God intends for us to have. (By abundant life I don't necessarily mean lots of money or things.) Good book with a lot of depth.
August 28, 2017
This story spans from 1929 to 1960, through the Second World War, it begins in New York City across the Atlantic Ocean to France. A wonderful, inspirational, historical romance debut.
A story of the Moreau family is told by Ella, a young daughter with a great talent in art that she believes comes from God.. Her painting are wonderfully described in water color and in oil paints throughout the story. This novel is about Ella's family, three brothers, her mother, and Papa the way their lives worked out for each of them. Papa always being the head of the family.
This is an excellent historical romance with family, love, heartbreak, forgiveness, and hope. I recommend this book to everyone. A fast paced read with love and devotion, with a wonderful ending.
A story of the Moreau family is told by Ella, a young daughter with a great talent in art that she believes comes from God.. Her painting are wonderfully described in water color and in oil paints throughout the story. This novel is about Ella's family, three brothers, her mother, and Papa the way their lives worked out for each of them. Papa always being the head of the family.
This is an excellent historical romance with family, love, heartbreak, forgiveness, and hope. I recommend this book to everyone. A fast paced read with love and devotion, with a wonderful ending.
February 27, 2021
This covers a family's story from 1929 to 1954. Abandoned by her mother, Ella and her two brothers grow up in the family vineyard in southern France. She goes to Paris to study art under the patronage of a gallery owner. During the war the orphan son of a family friend is taken in by her father and he raises him like a son. After the war, Ella's career is booming in Paris. Her mother in New York City keeps articles about her from newspapers and magazines. Ella has a relationship with a Frenchman whose motives are questionable. Her brother Jack comes back from the war beaten down and becomes a heavy drinker. He treats his family terrible and doesn't help in the family business. Ella has an attraction to Andre the orphan her Dad raised. Lots of action. Great book!
October 2, 2019
This mesmerizing, but heartbreaking, historical family interactive novel is one of the saddest books I've ever read despite a happier ending. Effectively depicts how young children internalizes and blames themselves for misdeeds or tragedies involving family members. Yet, conveys how something involving self-expression (ie art in this novel) is very therapeutic with the ultimate need of forgiveness for complete healing. The first person perspective made it even more relatable in the complicated scenarios surrounding this novel. As a suggestion, I would include a picture of Ella as an overlay on the butterfly cover to entice more readers.....
February 6, 2017
Loved this!
So glad this book came my way. Loved the characters and their real life struggles. I enjoy stories told from a child's perspective. To be let into her life and feelings was wonderful. Absolutely great writing and hope to see more from this author. Highly recommended!
So glad this book came my way. Loved the characters and their real life struggles. I enjoy stories told from a child's perspective. To be let into her life and feelings was wonderful. Absolutely great writing and hope to see more from this author. Highly recommended!
October 13, 2017
Ella
This story is about the life of a child transported to France to live at her father's winery. This is pre WWII. Then Ella is abandoned by her mother. We follow her thru the growing up years as she blames herself for her mother leaving, for the death of her brother, and any thing else where someone leaves. War comes and eventually she moves to Paris to work on her painting career. Give this book a read. You'll be glad you did.
This story is about the life of a child transported to France to live at her father's winery. This is pre WWII. Then Ella is abandoned by her mother. We follow her thru the growing up years as she blames herself for her mother leaving, for the death of her brother, and any thing else where someone leaves. War comes and eventually she moves to Paris to work on her painting career. Give this book a read. You'll be glad you did.
September 18, 2023
I was entirely engrossed in the first 30+ chapters of this book! I wanted to read multiple chapters a day. The author pulled me into this work of historical fiction with her emotional characterization and vivid artistic descriptions; however, I felt that as the main character grew older, the story arc got muddled. I felt far less connected to Ella and her emotions in the final chapters. The young girl that shared her heart and fears so deeply in the beginning felt distant as an adult. Not intentionally characterized as such, but distant from the author’s writing. To me, the final chapters seemed like the author was trying to wrap this emotional tale up in a nice bow, but it didn’t need it. I feel this book would have made a greater impact on the reader if it ended in a way that felt more true to Ella’s character and life story. Maybe something tying back to the green flash and God’s gifts? Ultimately, it was an enjoyable read and I would recommend it to friends, at the very least to see how they feel about the conclusion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2017
Historical Family Drama
Loved the time piece which took place from the mid 1930's to the early 1960's. Loved the location in France. Loved the descriptive artist's eye of what she painted and some of God's love thrown into the drama.
Loved the time piece which took place from the mid 1930's to the early 1960's. Loved the location in France. Loved the descriptive artist's eye of what she painted and some of God's love thrown into the drama.
July 13, 2019
Innovative
From the beginning your heart aches for each character for a different reason. The book in it's entirety is an accumulation of pain. Jayme, I love the pieces on forgiveness, and enjoyed each player in this dramatic, heartfelt read.
From the beginning your heart aches for each character for a different reason. The book in it's entirety is an accumulation of pain. Jayme, I love the pieces on forgiveness, and enjoyed each player in this dramatic, heartfelt read.
September 5, 2019
I loved this book. I was captivated with the first chapter and couldn't put it down.
A masterly woven story about love, heartache, art, and France. When reading, I had
no trouble visualizing I was in France.
A masterly woven story about love, heartache, art, and France. When reading, I had
no trouble visualizing I was in France.
June 3, 2020
Like an old-fashioned slide show, this story gives us snapshot chapters following Ella, a girl who seems fated to lose everyone she gets close to. There are sweet descriptions of the French countryside, water colour painting, and butterflies. An enjoyable poetical read.
July 9, 2020
Written like you were there
Written so well you feel like you’re experiencing it as well.
Learning how God’s grace works is a miraculous thing when you feel like you’re lowest of sinners.
Written so well you feel like you’re experiencing it as well.
Learning how God’s grace works is a miraculous thing when you feel like you’re lowest of sinners.
October 21, 2020
Christian historical novel
I enjoyed the story it brought a lot of tears, and sadness but after all it needed with happiness. I liked the honor given to the Lord.
I recommend the book&the author
I enjoyed the story it brought a lot of tears, and sadness but after all it needed with happiness. I liked the honor given to the Lord.
I recommend the book&the author
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews