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Šampanės našlės
Šampanė, 1939-ieji.
Gabrielė Leblank Diuprė perima šeimos ateitį į savo rankas. Ruošdamasi artėjančiam karui ji paslepia brangiausio šampano atsargas už netikros sienos vyno rūsyje, nors turėtų iškelti prabangų pokylį šeimos šampano gamybos verslo dviejų šimtų metų jubiliejaus proga. Bet jai įsitraukus į pasipriešinimo judėjimą, vyno rūsys paslėps ne vien priešų taip geidžiamą šampaną...
Buvusi populiari Paryžiaus aukštuomenėje Gabrielės motina Helena ankstesniame kare prarado vyrą. Dabar jos namus rekvizavo vokiečiai, plėšiantys regiono vynuogininkus, kad patenkintų Trečiojo reicho troškimą mėgautis aukščiausios rūšies šampanu. Tačiau Helenai iškyla dar didesnis pavojus, nei netekti turtų. Helena slepia savo kilmę, nes tokie žmonės kaip ji nėra saugūs nacių okupuotoje Prancūzijoje.
Šeimos matrona Žozefina stebi, kaip jos numylėtas vynuogynas kenčia nuo neįtikėtinai prastų oro sąlygų. Tuo metu, kai marti ir dukraitės susiduria su priešais ir netikėtais sąjungininkais, gilus tikėjimas nuveda ją kitu pasipriešinimo keliu.
Kad ir kas nutiktų, Leblankų moterys, pasitelkusios drąsą ir sumanumą, ryžtasi bet kokia kaina išlikti gyvos ir išsaugoti laisvę bei šeimos paveldą...
Gabrielė Leblank Diuprė perima šeimos ateitį į savo rankas. Ruošdamasi artėjančiam karui ji paslepia brangiausio šampano atsargas už netikros sienos vyno rūsyje, nors turėtų iškelti prabangų pokylį šeimos šampano gamybos verslo dviejų šimtų metų jubiliejaus proga. Bet jai įsitraukus į pasipriešinimo judėjimą, vyno rūsys paslėps ne vien priešų taip geidžiamą šampaną...
Buvusi populiari Paryžiaus aukštuomenėje Gabrielės motina Helena ankstesniame kare prarado vyrą. Dabar jos namus rekvizavo vokiečiai, plėšiantys regiono vynuogininkus, kad patenkintų Trečiojo reicho troškimą mėgautis aukščiausios rūšies šampanu. Tačiau Helenai iškyla dar didesnis pavojus, nei netekti turtų. Helena slepia savo kilmę, nes tokie žmonės kaip ji nėra saugūs nacių okupuotoje Prancūzijoje.
Šeimos matrona Žozefina stebi, kaip jos numylėtas vynuogynas kenčia nuo neįtikėtinai prastų oro sąlygų. Tuo metu, kai marti ir dukraitės susiduria su priešais ir netikėtais sąjungininkais, gilus tikėjimas nuveda ją kitu pasipriešinimo keliu.
Kad ir kas nutiktų, Leblankų moterys, pasitelkusios drąsą ir sumanumą, ryžtasi bet kokia kaina išlikti gyvos ir išsaugoti laisvę bei šeimos paveldą...
416 pages, Hardcover
First published July 27, 2021
162 people are currently reading
5571 people want to read
About the author
Renee Ryan
62 books710 followersRenee Ryan grew up in a small Florida beach town. Surfing didn’t work for her, but that didn’t keep her from watching others tackle the waves. To entertain herself during those countless hours of “laying-out”, she read many of the classics. It wasn’t until the summer between her sophomore and junior years at Florida State University that she read her first romance novel. Hooked from page one, she spent hours consuming one book after another while working on the best (and last!) tan of her life.
Two years later, armed with a degree in Economics and Religion, she explored various career opportunities, including stints at a Florida theme park, a modeling agency, and a cosmetic conglomerate. She went on to teach high school Economics, American Government and Latin in between coaching award-winning cheerleading teams. Several years later, with an eclectic cast of characters swimming around in her head, she began seriously pursuing a writing career. What better excuse to avoid housework and ignore clocks?
Two years later, armed with a degree in Economics and Religion, she explored various career opportunities, including stints at a Florida theme park, a modeling agency, and a cosmetic conglomerate. She went on to teach high school Economics, American Government and Latin in between coaching award-winning cheerleading teams. Several years later, with an eclectic cast of characters swimming around in her head, she began seriously pursuing a writing career. What better excuse to avoid housework and ignore clocks?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
August 8, 2021
Fabulous. What a wonderful story. I started out thinking that this is just another World WarII book. I was wrong.
“Courage is not a single act, Gabrielle, but a mindset that like the vines requires constant tending.”
This is the compelling story of three generations of woman and their battle to save their vineyard.
Josephine the matriarch is losing her memory and documents everything in her hidden journal.
Helene, Josephine’s daughter in law was married to her only son and has lost him in another war. Helene has her own hidden secrets.
Gabrielle is Helene’s eldest daughter.They are all widows facing Nazi occupation in France. Their chateau is taken over by a German soldier.
Each woman makes dangerous decisions to protect what is theirs, without telling the others.
Gabrielle builds a wall in the cave where the wine is stored to hide her precious champagne.
Helene becomes the personal assistant to the German soldier Von Schmidt and is at his beckoned call.
Josephine is losing her memory and using that to her benefit by pretending to be confused to obtain secret information to pass on to the resistance.
This is a powerful thought provoking novel. It is a heartfelt and gripping story, that is beautifully written. This book will stay with you long after you read this book.
Highly recommended.
I won this book from Goodreads giveaway program and the author,
“Courage is not a single act, Gabrielle, but a mindset that like the vines requires constant tending.”
This is the compelling story of three generations of woman and their battle to save their vineyard.
Josephine the matriarch is losing her memory and documents everything in her hidden journal.
Helene, Josephine’s daughter in law was married to her only son and has lost him in another war. Helene has her own hidden secrets.
Gabrielle is Helene’s eldest daughter.They are all widows facing Nazi occupation in France. Their chateau is taken over by a German soldier.
Each woman makes dangerous decisions to protect what is theirs, without telling the others.
Gabrielle builds a wall in the cave where the wine is stored to hide her precious champagne.
Helene becomes the personal assistant to the German soldier Von Schmidt and is at his beckoned call.
Josephine is losing her memory and using that to her benefit by pretending to be confused to obtain secret information to pass on to the resistance.
This is a powerful thought provoking novel. It is a heartfelt and gripping story, that is beautifully written. This book will stay with you long after you read this book.
Highly recommended.
I won this book from Goodreads giveaway program and the author,
December 31, 2024
The Widows of Champagne follows three generations of Leblanc women, and how they survived the Germans invading France in 1939, and when a former wine merchant Helmut von Schmidt and now a weinführer seizes their home Chateau Fouché-Leblanc and moves in.
Josephine Leblanc lived through The Great War and she's concerned about the welfare of her daughter in-law Hélène, and her granddaughters Gabrielle and Paulette. Josephine is getting older, her memory isn’t the best and her maid Marta is her friend and confidant.
Gabrielle Leblanc Dupree is a young widow and has taken over running the vineyard for her grandmother, and she hides two hundred years of hard work and best vintages behind a fake wall in the cellar and hopes the cobwebs conceal what she’s done. Gabrielle thinks her pretty younger sister Paulette is spoilt and her mother Hélène is to blame, she’s a flirt and doesn’t understand how dangerous their situation is and unfortunately she's right.
Hélène is Gabrielle’s and Paulette’s mother and her husband Etienne was badly wounded in The Great War and suffered terribly for the rest of his short life. Hélène will do anything to keep her daughters safe and hide her secret heritage and even if it means her family and neighbours think she’s a collaborator.
The well written and engrossing narrative follows what happens to the Leblanc women Josephine, Hélène, Gabrielle and Paulette after the Germans invade France, and the Champagne region and move into their home. The ladies have to follow their gut instincts and astuteness, have unwavering courage and fortitude and while never really knowing who they can and cannot trust.
Five stars from me and I highly recommend The Widows of Champagne and I’m looking forward to reading Renee Ryan’s new book The Last Fashion House in Paris.
Josephine Leblanc lived through The Great War and she's concerned about the welfare of her daughter in-law Hélène, and her granddaughters Gabrielle and Paulette. Josephine is getting older, her memory isn’t the best and her maid Marta is her friend and confidant.
Gabrielle Leblanc Dupree is a young widow and has taken over running the vineyard for her grandmother, and she hides two hundred years of hard work and best vintages behind a fake wall in the cellar and hopes the cobwebs conceal what she’s done. Gabrielle thinks her pretty younger sister Paulette is spoilt and her mother Hélène is to blame, she’s a flirt and doesn’t understand how dangerous their situation is and unfortunately she's right.
Hélène is Gabrielle’s and Paulette’s mother and her husband Etienne was badly wounded in The Great War and suffered terribly for the rest of his short life. Hélène will do anything to keep her daughters safe and hide her secret heritage and even if it means her family and neighbours think she’s a collaborator.
The well written and engrossing narrative follows what happens to the Leblanc women Josephine, Hélène, Gabrielle and Paulette after the Germans invade France, and the Champagne region and move into their home. The ladies have to follow their gut instincts and astuteness, have unwavering courage and fortitude and while never really knowing who they can and cannot trust.
Five stars from me and I highly recommend The Widows of Champagne and I’m looking forward to reading Renee Ryan’s new book The Last Fashion House in Paris.
July 19, 2021
THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE is such an amazing historical fiction story that held my interest until the very last page. At times, I found myself holding my breath, afraid of what was around the corner for these strong and brave women! Three generations of widowed women taking care of the vineyards of Chateau Fouche-Leblanc which has been taken over by a German soldier and no one is safe. They have no privacy in their own home and family heirlooms begin to disappear. Not to mention, how much of their champagne stock the Nazis are depleting!
When I read the preview for THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE, I knew it was going to be an emotional story and I knew it was going to make me cry. I had no idea I would be sobbing and be an emotional wreck after finishing it. Renee Ryan’s latest book, THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE is the story of three women and how each reacts to the challenges of living in France under Nazi occupation. The brave and determined women suffer at the hands of the Germans and takes everything they deal with without ever losing their courage and commitment to their country and family.
While THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE is focused on the lives and different personalities of these three very strong women and how each in their own way responds to the horrors of war, the question at the very heart of the book is – would I risk my life and when and most important, my child’s life – to save my family legacy? Despite the often numbing effects of war and the constant threat of death, compassion and love underscore the characters’ decisions and actions. Needless to say, the story brings a strong emotional response. So keep the tissues handy. The persecution of the Jews is such an injustice it makes your heart bleed to read of what they suffered at the hands of the Germans. Few books have driven home the absolute atrocities brought on by war and the individual impact on women and their lives. Men have always been noted for their bravery, but the women bore their own sacrifices, seldom given credit for.
THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE will stay with you for a long time after you finish reading it. I have no idea when I will be able to read another book, but right now I can’t stop thinking about this one. There were several times I found myself desperately wanting to keep reading, to find out what would happen next, but I was afraid to turn the page, scared of the possible fates awaiting these characters. Renee Ryan has a magical way of telling dramatic stories about women, friendship and family. THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE will be sure to strike the reader’s heart and compassion for these brave women willing to do anything in an effort to protect their own will be strong!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
When I read the preview for THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE, I knew it was going to be an emotional story and I knew it was going to make me cry. I had no idea I would be sobbing and be an emotional wreck after finishing it. Renee Ryan’s latest book, THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE is the story of three women and how each reacts to the challenges of living in France under Nazi occupation. The brave and determined women suffer at the hands of the Germans and takes everything they deal with without ever losing their courage and commitment to their country and family.
While THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE is focused on the lives and different personalities of these three very strong women and how each in their own way responds to the horrors of war, the question at the very heart of the book is – would I risk my life and when and most important, my child’s life – to save my family legacy? Despite the often numbing effects of war and the constant threat of death, compassion and love underscore the characters’ decisions and actions. Needless to say, the story brings a strong emotional response. So keep the tissues handy. The persecution of the Jews is such an injustice it makes your heart bleed to read of what they suffered at the hands of the Germans. Few books have driven home the absolute atrocities brought on by war and the individual impact on women and their lives. Men have always been noted for their bravery, but the women bore their own sacrifices, seldom given credit for.
THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE will stay with you for a long time after you finish reading it. I have no idea when I will be able to read another book, but right now I can’t stop thinking about this one. There were several times I found myself desperately wanting to keep reading, to find out what would happen next, but I was afraid to turn the page, scared of the possible fates awaiting these characters. Renee Ryan has a magical way of telling dramatic stories about women, friendship and family. THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE will be sure to strike the reader’s heart and compassion for these brave women willing to do anything in an effort to protect their own will be strong!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 28, 2021
Three generations of widowed women taking care of the vineyards of Chateau Fouche-Leblanc.
Gabrielle is the youngest of the women and the most responsible for keeping the vineyard alive, but she knows the Germans have been occupying European countries and knows France won't be spared.
Gabrielle knows she must somehow keep the best champagne from falling into the hands of the Germans. She builds a concealed wall to hide her best stock in hopes it will not be discovered.
Her mother, Helene, and her grandmother are concerned about the occupations, but they have another secret to keep.
Finding out the Germans had invaded France was bad enough, but when one arrives at the Chateau's door and demands to live there with the women is even worse.
We follow the women as they endure the German occupation of France and their home and struggle to save their champagne legacy.
Gabrielle was my favorite because of her resilience and efforts.
Helene was cool but calculating, and she was desperately trying to protect and save her family and her secret.
Josephine, the matriarch, was likable and tough, and I felt sorry for her because of her memory issues, but her diary is what helped protect her family since it told what she had seen and forgotten.
The fierceness of this family and the vineyard owners all over Reims to protect their vineyards, their champagne, and their country was very evident.
Fans of France during WWII, strong women, champagne and how it's made won't want to miss this marvelously written, pull-you-in story line.
Ms. Ryan's writing style is engaging and quickly captures your attention.
THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE is a beautiful read with true-to-life characters and marvelous descriptions of what the French people and these women endured and fought for.
A fantastic read as you feel the terror, the love, and the strength of each woman.
Be sure it is in your reading list. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley and a print by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Gabrielle is the youngest of the women and the most responsible for keeping the vineyard alive, but she knows the Germans have been occupying European countries and knows France won't be spared.
Gabrielle knows she must somehow keep the best champagne from falling into the hands of the Germans. She builds a concealed wall to hide her best stock in hopes it will not be discovered.
Her mother, Helene, and her grandmother are concerned about the occupations, but they have another secret to keep.
Finding out the Germans had invaded France was bad enough, but when one arrives at the Chateau's door and demands to live there with the women is even worse.
We follow the women as they endure the German occupation of France and their home and struggle to save their champagne legacy.
Gabrielle was my favorite because of her resilience and efforts.
Helene was cool but calculating, and she was desperately trying to protect and save her family and her secret.
Josephine, the matriarch, was likable and tough, and I felt sorry for her because of her memory issues, but her diary is what helped protect her family since it told what she had seen and forgotten.
The fierceness of this family and the vineyard owners all over Reims to protect their vineyards, their champagne, and their country was very evident.
Fans of France during WWII, strong women, champagne and how it's made won't want to miss this marvelously written, pull-you-in story line.
Ms. Ryan's writing style is engaging and quickly captures your attention.
THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE is a beautiful read with true-to-life characters and marvelous descriptions of what the French people and these women endured and fought for.
A fantastic read as you feel the terror, the love, and the strength of each woman.
Be sure it is in your reading list. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley and a print by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2021
The Widows of Champagne is about three generations of Leblanc women whose lives have been marred by loss and war. With the enemy literally at their door, each must choose a course of action. One will take a stand. One will cling to faith. One will strive to protect her secret. None of them will be the same when the war is over.
I appreciate Renee Ryan's efforts to develop a complex family dynamic. The invisible scars these women bear provide great insights into their motives. Of the three Leblanc widows, I connected most easily with Gabrielle. A fighter, she refuses to stand by while the Germans plunder her family's land and legacy. Joining forces with her against their occupiers is grand-mère Josephine. During her ever-shortening moments of lucidity, she proves to be a valuable asset to her family and to the Resistance. When presented alongside her daughter and her mother-in-law, Hélène Leblanc comes across as shallow and aloof. It wasn't until more of her backstory was divulged that I began to soften towards her.
As someone who has read numerous World War II novels, set in various countries and on multiple continents, it's good to be reminded just how much I have yet to discover about this period. As it's presented, the invasion of Reims and the Reich's demands on area farmers provided many tension-filled moments. Add to this the sense of presence I felt within each scene thanks to the author's detailed descriptions and you have a story that engages the reader's mind and heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I appreciate Renee Ryan's efforts to develop a complex family dynamic. The invisible scars these women bear provide great insights into their motives. Of the three Leblanc widows, I connected most easily with Gabrielle. A fighter, she refuses to stand by while the Germans plunder her family's land and legacy. Joining forces with her against their occupiers is grand-mère Josephine. During her ever-shortening moments of lucidity, she proves to be a valuable asset to her family and to the Resistance. When presented alongside her daughter and her mother-in-law, Hélène Leblanc comes across as shallow and aloof. It wasn't until more of her backstory was divulged that I began to soften towards her.
As someone who has read numerous World War II novels, set in various countries and on multiple continents, it's good to be reminded just how much I have yet to discover about this period. As it's presented, the invasion of Reims and the Reich's demands on area farmers provided many tension-filled moments. Add to this the sense of presence I felt within each scene thanks to the author's detailed descriptions and you have a story that engages the reader's mind and heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
August 13, 2021
Loved it! Five stars! 🍇
Reims, France 1939, widowed twenty-seven year old Gabrielle LeBlanc-Dupree, hides twenty thousand bottles of her family’s vintage champagne beneath her family’s ancient chateau. With the Nazi’s nearing France, Gabrielle is intent on securing their future’s new start should the Third Reich invade, and of course loot them of the chateau’s treasures. She tells no one her secret, not her sixteen year old sister Paulette, or her widowed mother Helene or grandmother Josephine, the family matriarch who’s losing her memory.
Reims, France 1940, Germany invades France, and within a month a cold, steely-eyed officer for the reich, requisitions the Chateau for his lodging. That’s when we find out about Josephine and Helene’s secret that could be their family’s undoing. They reveal it to no one. Until it is, and an unlikely friend protects this family of women, and their neighbors. I LOVED the surprise twist in this story, and through all the madness surrounding their small community.. love is found between the most unlikely pair! So good — not to be missed!
*Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for kindly sharing a review copy with me. All opinions are my own.
Reims, France 1939, widowed twenty-seven year old Gabrielle LeBlanc-Dupree, hides twenty thousand bottles of her family’s vintage champagne beneath her family’s ancient chateau. With the Nazi’s nearing France, Gabrielle is intent on securing their future’s new start should the Third Reich invade, and of course loot them of the chateau’s treasures. She tells no one her secret, not her sixteen year old sister Paulette, or her widowed mother Helene or grandmother Josephine, the family matriarch who’s losing her memory.
Reims, France 1940, Germany invades France, and within a month a cold, steely-eyed officer for the reich, requisitions the Chateau for his lodging. That’s when we find out about Josephine and Helene’s secret that could be their family’s undoing. They reveal it to no one. Until it is, and an unlikely friend protects this family of women, and their neighbors. I LOVED the surprise twist in this story, and through all the madness surrounding their small community.. love is found between the most unlikely pair! So good — not to be missed!
*Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for kindly sharing a review copy with me. All opinions are my own.
October 6, 2021
One of my dominant reasons of reading fictional history is that I have an opportunity to learn something new. The three multigenerational women in The Widows of Champagne were resilient & courageous as they fought to save their family’s vineyard during the horrors of WWII. There are plenty of discussion issues for book review clubs.
Brava to author, Renee Ryan!
Brava to author, Renee Ryan!
July 18, 2021
See my review on my blog https://veganbookblogger.wordpress.co...
Three generations of women all working hard to bring their vineyard into the future in Champagne, France. These women are widows and all are strong in mind and body. Their family has worked the vineyards through good times and bad for over 200 years. Champagne runs through their veins, they will do anything to protect the family's vineyards.
The women, a grandmother,her daughter-in law and the granddaughter live comfortably well off.
Their home has been requisitioned by the Germans who give them the "courtesy" of allowing them to stay in their own home.
With their best vintages hidden behind a fake wall in the basement will the enemy be able to find it to satisfy the unquenchable thirst the Third Reich’s has for the finest champagne?
The family matriarch with her slipping memory is fighting the hardest battle of her life.
The women all carry secrets, one that would mean instant death for the family .
These family will carry on through sheer determination to keep things running showing courage in the face of fire.
Excellent book and I hope to see more like it by the author!
Pub Date 27 Jul 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
March 1, 2021
Stunning, gripping, and unexpected... this WWII story about three generations of widows in the Champagne region of France blew me away. There's danger, secrets, and love in this new story from Renee Ryan. Fans of The Nightingale will LOVE this one.
December 7, 2020
"The Widows of Champagne is a riveting novel of WWII France. I held my breath many times as the three generations of widows negotiated the treacherous landscape of war. Highly recommended."
March 19, 2023
2.5 stars for me rounded up to 3. I enjoy WW2 stories so this one caught my eye. It’s a good read but not one I loved. It was kind of slow moving and I didn’t like some of the story elements. There’s a surprising twist that was unexpected that made for a cool tilt to the story but overall this story was just okay for me.
October 27, 2021
A heartbreaking, inspiring look at what we will do for the ones we love. Ryan confronts some of the ugly, difficult things that happened in France during the war, and the book is richer for it.
November 29, 2021
Renee Ryan’s The Widows of Champagne is a beautifully written novel of strength, sacrifice and survival . If you are a fan of WW2 fiction with strong female protagonists I definitely recommend this book.
Three generations of widowed Leblanc women Josephine, Helene and Gabrielle operating their family owned vineyard struggle to survive during the Nazi occupation of France and subsequently their home in Reims. They shoulder their individual responsibilities to their family each bearing the weight of their own secrets and struggles. The sacrifices they make and the most difficult decisions they have to take while withstanding the pressures of an increasingly oppressive regime reflect their strength and indomitable spirit. The author has penned each of these women in a way that commands admiration and respect.
With the looming threats of discovery , betrayal and much worse how their choices and actions eventually carve their individual and collective destinies makes this a poignant and emotional story that will stay with me for a long time.
I received a print copy of this book in a giveaway hosted by the author with no obligation. This review reflects my unbiased thoughts and opinions.
Three generations of widowed Leblanc women Josephine, Helene and Gabrielle operating their family owned vineyard struggle to survive during the Nazi occupation of France and subsequently their home in Reims. They shoulder their individual responsibilities to their family each bearing the weight of their own secrets and struggles. The sacrifices they make and the most difficult decisions they have to take while withstanding the pressures of an increasingly oppressive regime reflect their strength and indomitable spirit. The author has penned each of these women in a way that commands admiration and respect.
With the looming threats of discovery , betrayal and much worse how their choices and actions eventually carve their individual and collective destinies makes this a poignant and emotional story that will stay with me for a long time.
I received a print copy of this book in a giveaway hosted by the author with no obligation. This review reflects my unbiased thoughts and opinions.
June 24, 2021
“A thousand German soldiers are not equal to one LeBlanc woman.”
The Champagne region suffered greatly at the hands of the Nazis; merciless pillaging and requisitioning of both homes and superior cuvees. Renee Ryan focuses on the 5 year Nazi occupation and its impact on Reims, the region made famous for its champagne production. She showcases the resourcefulness and selflessness of the people as they spent much of the war outfoxing the occupying forces.
In 1939 the Chateau Fouche-LeBlanc vineyard in Reims was requisitioned by the Nazis and the three generations of LeBlanc women, all widows, were expected to remain in the estate to serve a high-ranking official in the Wehrmacht who dictated their every move. When valuables start to go missing, the woman start to question his loyalty.
Josephine, the matriarch and my favourite character, is struggling with dementia. Ryan realistically represents her condition throughout the novel and readers are ever aware of the frustration at the debilitating effects of this disease. Josephine knows that her memory is going and makes accommodations. Read carefully, though, sometimes she plays up on her memory issues!
Helene, Josephine’s daughter-in-law, uses creative diplomacy in dealing with Hauptmann von Schmidt’s volatility. I can’t even imagine how difficult it would have been to smile and be sweet and accommodating to the enemy.
Gabrielle and Paulette, Helene’s daughters, each deal with the occupation differently. Gabrielle is strong and resourceful and finds a way to fight back. Paulette is young and naïve. Regardless of their reactions, each woman has the LeBlanc family interest at heart.
The vineyard may be fictional, but the methode champenoise is historical fact. Replacing select vintages with second rate wines and hiding the best were commonplace in this region known for its resistance.
This story of resistance, betrayal and heartache needs to be on your radar come July 27, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Renee Ryan, Harlequin and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The Champagne region suffered greatly at the hands of the Nazis; merciless pillaging and requisitioning of both homes and superior cuvees. Renee Ryan focuses on the 5 year Nazi occupation and its impact on Reims, the region made famous for its champagne production. She showcases the resourcefulness and selflessness of the people as they spent much of the war outfoxing the occupying forces.
In 1939 the Chateau Fouche-LeBlanc vineyard in Reims was requisitioned by the Nazis and the three generations of LeBlanc women, all widows, were expected to remain in the estate to serve a high-ranking official in the Wehrmacht who dictated their every move. When valuables start to go missing, the woman start to question his loyalty.
Josephine, the matriarch and my favourite character, is struggling with dementia. Ryan realistically represents her condition throughout the novel and readers are ever aware of the frustration at the debilitating effects of this disease. Josephine knows that her memory is going and makes accommodations. Read carefully, though, sometimes she plays up on her memory issues!
Helene, Josephine’s daughter-in-law, uses creative diplomacy in dealing with Hauptmann von Schmidt’s volatility. I can’t even imagine how difficult it would have been to smile and be sweet and accommodating to the enemy.
Gabrielle and Paulette, Helene’s daughters, each deal with the occupation differently. Gabrielle is strong and resourceful and finds a way to fight back. Paulette is young and naïve. Regardless of their reactions, each woman has the LeBlanc family interest at heart.
The vineyard may be fictional, but the methode champenoise is historical fact. Replacing select vintages with second rate wines and hiding the best were commonplace in this region known for its resistance.
This story of resistance, betrayal and heartache needs to be on your radar come July 27, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Renee Ryan, Harlequin and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
May 19, 2021
I'm not sure that words will do this marvelous book justice. Renee Ryan definitely earns 5/5 stars for her creative historical fiction account of Champagne, France during the German occupation. There are many difficult parts to read due to the events and brutality of the era, yet it is worthwhile to capture a glimpse of what people endured. This account of three strong generations of women is beautifully written with a stunning conclusion and planted a motivation to read more from the author.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
December 1, 2023
Wow, what a book! I dove into The Widows of Champagne thinking it might be just another sad World War II tale, but boy, was I in for a treat. This novel took me on a journey with three generations of resilient women fighting to safeguard their family’s vineyard during a tumultuous time in France.
Gabrielle Leblanc Dupree, a woman with a secret mission, is at the forefront. Instead of gearing up for a grand celebration of two centuries of champagne excellence, she orchestrates a covert operation to protect the vineyard’s most precious vintages from the clutches of the Nazis. The tension is palpable, and you can feel the weight she carries on her young shoulders.
Then there’s Hélène, Gabrielle’s mother, a former Parisian socialite who lost her husband to a previous war. Now, her home is under German control, and the vineyards are being plundered to quench the Third Reich’s insatiable thirst for the finest champagne. But Hélène harbors an even more significant secret—a heritage hidden in the shadows.
Josephine, the family matriarch, oversees it all, witnessing her beloved vineyard facing its most challenging harvest. The narrative weaves through the struggles of these incredible women, dealing with enemies, unexpected allies, and a deep well of faith that becomes a wellspring of resistance.
As an oenophile, I reveled in the intricate details about winemaking, especially the champagne-making process. The storytelling is not just captivating; it’s downright beautiful. With three strong female leads who are both likable and courageous, the book envelops you in the terror, love, and bravery of these remarkable women. Trust me; their stories will linger in your mind long after you turn the last page.
Here’s a rare statement from me—I’m crossing my fingers for a sequel! The Widows of Champagne is one of the best books I’ve read this year, and it’s a solid 5-star recommendation. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey.
** Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a comp of this book. The opinions are my own.
Gabrielle Leblanc Dupree, a woman with a secret mission, is at the forefront. Instead of gearing up for a grand celebration of two centuries of champagne excellence, she orchestrates a covert operation to protect the vineyard’s most precious vintages from the clutches of the Nazis. The tension is palpable, and you can feel the weight she carries on her young shoulders.
Then there’s Hélène, Gabrielle’s mother, a former Parisian socialite who lost her husband to a previous war. Now, her home is under German control, and the vineyards are being plundered to quench the Third Reich’s insatiable thirst for the finest champagne. But Hélène harbors an even more significant secret—a heritage hidden in the shadows.
Josephine, the family matriarch, oversees it all, witnessing her beloved vineyard facing its most challenging harvest. The narrative weaves through the struggles of these incredible women, dealing with enemies, unexpected allies, and a deep well of faith that becomes a wellspring of resistance.
As an oenophile, I reveled in the intricate details about winemaking, especially the champagne-making process. The storytelling is not just captivating; it’s downright beautiful. With three strong female leads who are both likable and courageous, the book envelops you in the terror, love, and bravery of these remarkable women. Trust me; their stories will linger in your mind long after you turn the last page.
Here’s a rare statement from me—I’m crossing my fingers for a sequel! The Widows of Champagne is one of the best books I’ve read this year, and it’s a solid 5-star recommendation. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey.
** Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a comp of this book. The opinions are my own.
July 26, 2021
Ryan wrote an incredibly heartfelt story about three generations of widowed Leblanc women who are taking care of the vineyards of Chateau Fouche-Leblanc during the Nazi occupation of France. Each of the women respond to the conflict in their own way, and they will be changed in more ways than they will ever know.
The writing is completely immersive and emotional. The atrocities and horrors of what the women had to go through is harrowing, and yet they continue to sacrifice their own lives to do what is right against the evil Reich.
I highly recommend this stunning and gripping historical fiction story.
The writing is completely immersive and emotional. The atrocities and horrors of what the women had to go through is harrowing, and yet they continue to sacrifice their own lives to do what is right against the evil Reich.
I highly recommend this stunning and gripping historical fiction story.
August 13, 2021
Loved it! Five stars! 🍇
Reims, France 1939, widowed twenty-seven year old Gabrielle LeBlanc-Dupree, hides twenty thousand bottles of her family’s vintage champagne beneath her family’s ancient chateau. With the Nazi’s nearing France, Gabrielle is intent on securing their future’s new start should the Third Reich invade, and of course loot them of the chateau’s treasures. She tells no one her secret, not her sixteen year old sister Paulette, or her widowed mother Helene or grandmother Josephine, the family matriarch who’s losing her memory.
Reims, France 1940, Germany invades France, and within a month a cold, steely-eyed officer for the reich, requisitions the Chateau for his lodging. That’s when we find out about Josephine and Helene’s secret that could be their family’s undoing. They reveal it to no one. Until it is, and an unlikely friend protects this family of women, and their neighbors. I LOVED the surprise twist in this story, and through all the madness surrounding their small community.. love is found between the most unlikely pair! So good — not to be missed!
*Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for kindly sharing a review copy with me. All opinions are my own.
Reims, France 1939, widowed twenty-seven year old Gabrielle LeBlanc-Dupree, hides twenty thousand bottles of her family’s vintage champagne beneath her family’s ancient chateau. With the Nazi’s nearing France, Gabrielle is intent on securing their future’s new start should the Third Reich invade, and of course loot them of the chateau’s treasures. She tells no one her secret, not her sixteen year old sister Paulette, or her widowed mother Helene or grandmother Josephine, the family matriarch who’s losing her memory.
Reims, France 1940, Germany invades France, and within a month a cold, steely-eyed officer for the reich, requisitions the Chateau for his lodging. That’s when we find out about Josephine and Helene’s secret that could be their family’s undoing. They reveal it to no one. Until it is, and an unlikely friend protects this family of women, and their neighbors. I LOVED the surprise twist in this story, and through all the madness surrounding their small community.. love is found between the most unlikely pair! So good — not to be missed!
*Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for kindly sharing a review copy with me. All opinions are my own.
October 3, 2021
The Widows of Champagne tells the story of three generations of women of the fictional Chateau Fouche-LeBlanc Vineyard during the Nazi occupation of France from 1940 to approximately 1945. We meet grandmother Josephine who is struggling with confusion and forgetfulness; daughter-in-law Helene who had been married to Josephine's only son; and Helene's two daughters: Gabrielle, the eldest who loves the vineyard as much as her mother and grandmother, and the youngest daughter Paulette, who is self-absorbed and foolish, putting all of their lives at risk. When the Nazis occupy the Champagne region of France, each of the women makes their own choices - some good, some incredibly misguided. I was surprised to learn that top Nazis "requisitioned" homes from the owners and helped themselves to their owners' possessions as well as the wine from the vineyards. I'm a sucker for a happy ending and this book gave me that. No spoilers - but I do recommend this book. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2021
What would you do if the unthinkable happened? When the Nazis invade France, that is the situation which confronts Josephine, Gabrielle and Helene in this multi-generational story. What choices would you make to protect your family, your home, your country and yourself? Renee Ryan does a masterful job, hitting all the right notes, balancing historical accuracy with deeply layered characters. Occupied France comes alive as Ryan weaves an intricate tale of loss, betrayal, and the cost of love amidst the ravaging evil of war. Definitely a page-turner with a surprising twist near the end. This is one for the keeper shelf. Riveting, haunting, bittersweet in the best tradition of historical fiction. Lyrical prose not to be missed. Lisa Carter, Daphne award-winning author of The Stronghold
May 16, 2021
This compelling story of three generations of women, all widows, are determined to save the Chateau Fouch-LaBlanc Vineyard during the Nazi occupation of France during World War II. They know that nothing will be safe, which leads Gabrielle to hide their most precious vintage behind a wall. The wine, not yet champagne, she proclaims is their family's legacy - it will be their future. This is gripping story of survival during a challenging time in history that will grab your heart from the beginning to the end. Highly recommend.
August 14, 2022
This is a beautiful yet dramatic telling of WW2 France. When a member of the Nazi party moves into the château of a prominent family vineyard in Champagne, the lives of the women who live there are forever altered. These fierce women will protect what belongs to them all while playing along with the enemy. I’m always intrigued by the power of the resistance and to what lengths they will fight.
The story has religious views of Judaism & Christianity
The story has religious views of Judaism & Christianity
May 30, 2021
Absolutely fantastic
August 14, 2021
📚 Hello Book Friends! I took a small break and spent a wonderful weekend with my girlfriends at our place on the lake. It was such a fun weekend.
THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE by Renee Ryan is an extraordinary historical fiction. To start… look at that gorgeous book cover; it is absolutely perfect for this novel. The novel is beautifully written and stirs all the right emotions. It tells the story of three widows during WWII, their choices, their courage, and their losses. The characters are written perfectly and play each an important role in the story. I was captured by the intelligent and riveting plot. I cannot say enough about this book to give it all the praises it deserves. Pick up a copy today and find out by yourself how beautiful this book is.
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July 27, 2022
The Widows of Champagne is a story of three women - three widows managing a Chateau in war ridden France in 1939 -40.
I didn't realise I had signed up for such an emotional roller coaster when I picked it up. Gabrielle, Josephine and Helene, all won by hearts in their own way. Helene was a bit mysterious at first but the more chapters I read with her POV, the more sad she made me. The level of sacrifices she makes for her family and the Chateau itself, all the while pretending to be self preserving and nonchalant, it made my heart heavy.
Gabrielle's bravery was commendable, the way the passes on useful information to her father in law and never wavers from it is amazing. I didn't know prior to reading this book the level of savagery German soldiers resorted to during the war and the huge impact it had on every single person of a country. Their looting and staking their claims on everyone and everything was disgusting.
I am sure I am going to read more of historical fiction books which include independent women and the role they played during the war because I absolutely loved this one.
I didn't realise I had signed up for such an emotional roller coaster when I picked it up. Gabrielle, Josephine and Helene, all won by hearts in their own way. Helene was a bit mysterious at first but the more chapters I read with her POV, the more sad she made me. The level of sacrifices she makes for her family and the Chateau itself, all the while pretending to be self preserving and nonchalant, it made my heart heavy.
Gabrielle's bravery was commendable, the way the passes on useful information to her father in law and never wavers from it is amazing. I didn't know prior to reading this book the level of savagery German soldiers resorted to during the war and the huge impact it had on every single person of a country. Their looting and staking their claims on everyone and everything was disgusting.
I am sure I am going to read more of historical fiction books which include independent women and the role they played during the war because I absolutely loved this one.
March 8, 2024
An interesting story of the French Resistance told by a family of champagne makers. The narrative is told from all three women's point of view. The reader knows everything but each character only know their perspective. Each woman participates in the Resistance without letting the others know their role. I loved the matriarch, and how she used her age to feign forgetfulness and misunderstanding of events when she in reality was acting very wisely. Unfortunately her forgetfulness does become worse and worse. There are surprising twists and it makes the reader wonder how brave would they be when met with such life and death challenges.
July 27, 2021
The Widows of Champagne is a compelling novel which takes place during the Nazi occupation of France during the Second World War. The courage and determination exhibited by the three generations of Leblanc widows drew me into the story immediately.
The novel employs the alternative narrative technique which allows the reader to understand the characters thoughts and emotions. Renee Ryan’s descriptive writing depicts the family matriarch Josephine’s decline perfectly. Josephine struggles with her memory but, she’s clever enough to figure out that the Germans are stealing valuable paintings and family heirlooms. The Germans ignore Josephine believing that she is senile which enables her to pass on important information to the résistance.
Helene choses to fight for her family’s heritage in an unorthodox way as she believes she has the most to lose as the Nazi’s invade Reims. The author crafts Helene perfectly as she chooses to align herself with the German officers who occupy the chateau. Can she be trusted?
Gabrielle is the vineyards winemaker. She is determined to preserve her family and their heritage—the vineyards. I admired Gabrielle’s strength of character, her sense of duty and her determination to survive all of the obstacles in her path. Each of the three woman faced difficult choices and they remained steadfast in their beliefs.
The Widows of Champagne is a thought provoking novel of bravery, faith and sacrifice. The suspenseful storyline drew me into the story immediately and kept me on the edge of my seat with its unexpected twists and turns. I could feel the despair when France surrendered to the Germans, the tension when the chateau was occupied and the very real sense of danger that the widows faced every day. This poignant story has made a lasting impression on me. Through the characters of Josephine, Helene and Gabrielle, the author depicts the war in occupied France from a woman’s point of view -- this resonated with me.
The Widows of Champagne is a must read for historical fiction readers—it’s a beautifully written story of the Leblanc’s courage to preserve their heritage.
The novel employs the alternative narrative technique which allows the reader to understand the characters thoughts and emotions. Renee Ryan’s descriptive writing depicts the family matriarch Josephine’s decline perfectly. Josephine struggles with her memory but, she’s clever enough to figure out that the Germans are stealing valuable paintings and family heirlooms. The Germans ignore Josephine believing that she is senile which enables her to pass on important information to the résistance.
Helene choses to fight for her family’s heritage in an unorthodox way as she believes she has the most to lose as the Nazi’s invade Reims. The author crafts Helene perfectly as she chooses to align herself with the German officers who occupy the chateau. Can she be trusted?
Gabrielle is the vineyards winemaker. She is determined to preserve her family and their heritage—the vineyards. I admired Gabrielle’s strength of character, her sense of duty and her determination to survive all of the obstacles in her path. Each of the three woman faced difficult choices and they remained steadfast in their beliefs.
The Widows of Champagne is a thought provoking novel of bravery, faith and sacrifice. The suspenseful storyline drew me into the story immediately and kept me on the edge of my seat with its unexpected twists and turns. I could feel the despair when France surrendered to the Germans, the tension when the chateau was occupied and the very real sense of danger that the widows faced every day. This poignant story has made a lasting impression on me. Through the characters of Josephine, Helene and Gabrielle, the author depicts the war in occupied France from a woman’s point of view -- this resonated with me.
The Widows of Champagne is a must read for historical fiction readers—it’s a beautifully written story of the Leblanc’s courage to preserve their heritage.
July 12, 2021
The Widows of Champagne is a very thought-provoking and thoroughly compelling story. I highly recommend The Widows of Champagne by author Renee Ryan. This story will stay with me long after reading the last page. Three widows run the LeBlanc winery in France as the Nazis come to invade France. Each one of them makes dangerous decisions to protect their family, their winery, and their country. Grandmere Josephine, mother Helene, and daughter Gabrielle's secrets and difficult decisions have them living in extremely tense times especially when a Nazi officer moves in and takes over their home.
"The weather was proving a more immediate threat than the evil lurking on the other side of the Maginot Line. One bad harvest would not ruin them. The other enemy very well could. Hitler and his ravenous henchmen showed no mercy. The conquered. They invaded. And then, they looted. If France fell into Nazi hands, they would not get the best of the LeBlanc treasures. Not if Gabrielle succeeded tonight."
"And, oh, how she loved them, with a fullness of a heart that couldn't bear another loss."
Fans of WWII historical fiction will find this riveting story fascinating and unexpected.
Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy of The Widows of Champagne, all opinions are my own.
"The weather was proving a more immediate threat than the evil lurking on the other side of the Maginot Line. One bad harvest would not ruin them. The other enemy very well could. Hitler and his ravenous henchmen showed no mercy. The conquered. They invaded. And then, they looted. If France fell into Nazi hands, they would not get the best of the LeBlanc treasures. Not if Gabrielle succeeded tonight."
"And, oh, how she loved them, with a fullness of a heart that couldn't bear another loss."
Fans of WWII historical fiction will find this riveting story fascinating and unexpected.
Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy of The Widows of Champagne, all opinions are my own.
July 25, 2021
The Widows of Champagne is a generational story. Three women working in their own way to fight against the rein of terror upon their little town during WW2. All have lost the men they love and now all must fight to hold on to their last hope...the chateau and the vineyard during occupation.
✨Josephine, grandmother, in her late seventies is slowly losing her memories but trying to hold on to the remnants of her family’s history
✨Helene, her daughter in law, doing what must be done to protect her daughters regardless of the hell she will go through herself
✨and Gabrielle, Helenes Daughter, works to pick up the pieces and hold the family together through a strength all her own.
I went in blind and I enjoyed it that way. If you love historical fiction I think this is a great option. It doesn’t deflect away from the unspeakables that happen when a Nazi inhabits a home. I loved where some plot lines traveled and others felt fairly realistic. It explores family relationships and power in women.
There were a few things I wished would have been developed a bit more...especially when it came to the relationships. The second half of the book definitely was stronger than the first and I found myself wanting to know what would happen up to the very end! A solid 4 star story.
✨Josephine, grandmother, in her late seventies is slowly losing her memories but trying to hold on to the remnants of her family’s history
✨Helene, her daughter in law, doing what must be done to protect her daughters regardless of the hell she will go through herself
✨and Gabrielle, Helenes Daughter, works to pick up the pieces and hold the family together through a strength all her own.
I went in blind and I enjoyed it that way. If you love historical fiction I think this is a great option. It doesn’t deflect away from the unspeakables that happen when a Nazi inhabits a home. I loved where some plot lines traveled and others felt fairly realistic. It explores family relationships and power in women.
There were a few things I wished would have been developed a bit more...especially when it came to the relationships. The second half of the book definitely was stronger than the first and I found myself wanting to know what would happen up to the very end! A solid 4 star story.
April 30, 2021
A beautifully written story about the sacrifices and risks people will take to protect what they love. The three Leblanc widows, Matriarch Josephine, her daughter Helene, and her granddaughter Gabrielle are the women behind Chateau Fouché-Leblanc, a centuries-old champagne dynasty. The outbreak of WW2 will find all three forced to make difficult decisions in order to survive. None of these decisions are easy. At least one of these women will carry the guilt of her actions with her for the rest of her life.
Woven into all of this is a message that some things are bigger than ourselves and that having faith that a higher power will win out can keep us from falling apart.
Ryan's writing is top-notch. What I loved about this book is that she doesn't wrap everything in a neat bow. With a recognition that war changes everything, characters don't magically heal and rifts aren't suddenly repaired.
Thanks to Harper Collins and Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Woven into all of this is a message that some things are bigger than ourselves and that having faith that a higher power will win out can keep us from falling apart.
Ryan's writing is top-notch. What I loved about this book is that she doesn't wrap everything in a neat bow. With a recognition that war changes everything, characters don't magically heal and rifts aren't suddenly repaired.
Thanks to Harper Collins and Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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