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The English Wife
‘An emotive and engaging read’ Rosanna Ley ‘Rich, evocative and utterly immersive, this beautifully written book swept me away ’ Jenny Ashcroft ‘ Evocative , sensual and authentic’ Jane Johnson VE Day 1945 : As victory bells ring out across the country, war bride Ellie Burgess’ happiness is overshadowed by grief. Her charismatic Newfoundlander husband Thomas is still missing in action.
Until a letter arrives explaining Thomas is back at home on the other side of the Atlantic recovering from his injuries. Travelling to a distant country to live with a man she barely knows is the bravest thing Ellie has ever had to do. But nothing can prepare her for the harsh realities of her new home… September 11th 2001 : Sophie Parry is on a plane to New York on the most tragic day in the city’s history. While the world watches the news in horror, Sophie’s flight is rerouted to a tiny town in Newfoundland and she is forced to seek refuge with her estranged aunt Ellie.
Determined to discover what it was that forced her family apart all those years ago, newfound secrets may change her life forever…
This is a timeless story of love, sacrifice and resilience perfect for fans of Lucinda Riley, Lorna Cook and Gill Paul. ‘An emotive and engaging read’ Rosanna Ley ‘Rich, evocative and utterly immersive, this beautifully written book swept me away ’ Jenny Ashcroft “ An epic tale of family, tragedy & love … I highly recommend this book!!” Books, Wine, Cats 5* “The sense of suspense makes this story a page turner! Highly recommend this book , especially if you’re looking for a WWII era book without all of the historical stuff ” To Read is to Breathe , 5* “ I couldn’t put it down . It was not your typical historical novel & I think that’s what I loved about it. Great book! ” Dabbookclub , 4* “ A book that drew me in from the first pages! The characters come alive, they’re so well written. Fans of historic fiction will love this story . An author to follow” Consumer review, 4*
Until a letter arrives explaining Thomas is back at home on the other side of the Atlantic recovering from his injuries. Travelling to a distant country to live with a man she barely knows is the bravest thing Ellie has ever had to do. But nothing can prepare her for the harsh realities of her new home… September 11th 2001 : Sophie Parry is on a plane to New York on the most tragic day in the city’s history. While the world watches the news in horror, Sophie’s flight is rerouted to a tiny town in Newfoundland and she is forced to seek refuge with her estranged aunt Ellie.
Determined to discover what it was that forced her family apart all those years ago, newfound secrets may change her life forever…
This is a timeless story of love, sacrifice and resilience perfect for fans of Lucinda Riley, Lorna Cook and Gill Paul. ‘An emotive and engaging read’ Rosanna Ley ‘Rich, evocative and utterly immersive, this beautifully written book swept me away ’ Jenny Ashcroft “ An epic tale of family, tragedy & love … I highly recommend this book!!” Books, Wine, Cats 5* “The sense of suspense makes this story a page turner! Highly recommend this book , especially if you’re looking for a WWII era book without all of the historical stuff ” To Read is to Breathe , 5* “ I couldn’t put it down . It was not your typical historical novel & I think that’s what I loved about it. Great book! ” Dabbookclub , 4* “ A book that drew me in from the first pages! The characters come alive, they’re so well written. Fans of historic fiction will love this story . An author to follow” Consumer review, 4*
448 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2020
4493 people are currently reading
9647 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Chinn
15 books101 followersAdrienne Chinn was born in Grand Falls, Newfoundland, grew up in Quebec, and eventually made her way to London, England after a career as a journalist. In Britain she worked as a TV and film researcher before embarking on a career as an interior designer, lecturer, and writer.
Her second novel, The English Wife -- a timeslip story set in World War II England and contemporary Newfoundland -- was published in June 2020 and has become an international bestseller. Her debut novel, The Lost Letter, was published by Avon Books UK in 2019. Her third novel, Love in a Time of War, the first in The Three Fry Sisters series centred around three English sisters, was published in 2022, with the second book in the series, The Paris Sister, following in 2023. The third book in the series, In the Shadow of War, was published in 2024. A stand alone historical timeslip novel, The Queen's Necklace, will be published in 2025, and the fourth book in The Three Fry Sisters series will be published in 2026.
Her second novel, The English Wife -- a timeslip story set in World War II England and contemporary Newfoundland -- was published in June 2020 and has become an international bestseller. Her debut novel, The Lost Letter, was published by Avon Books UK in 2019. Her third novel, Love in a Time of War, the first in The Three Fry Sisters series centred around three English sisters, was published in 2022, with the second book in the series, The Paris Sister, following in 2023. The third book in the series, In the Shadow of War, was published in 2024. A stand alone historical timeslip novel, The Queen's Necklace, will be published in 2025, and the fourth book in The Three Fry Sisters series will be published in 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 376 reviews
October 10, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK and Adrienne Chinn for my copy of The English Wife.
England 1946.
Ellie Parsons is nervous, she’s leaving England with her baby son Emmett to finally live with her husband Thomas in Newfoundland Canada and due to WW II she hasn’t seen him in two years. Saying goodbye to her father Henry and sister Dottie is really hard and she’s traveling across the Atlantic Ocean to the other side of the world and when will she ever see them again? Thomas is living at home, he’s staying with his parents, he’s recovering from his war wounds and she has no idea how severe his injuries are? She leaves England, sets sail on a ship full of very excited war brides and young children. Ellie gets a big shock when she arrives, her husbands injuries are worse than she thought and Newfoundland is nothing like home. The living conditions are very primitive in Tippy’s Tickle, the newlyweds are living with her husband’s parents her mother in law finds fault with everything she does and doesn’t like her.
September 2001.
Sophie Parry is on a plane when it’s diverted to Newfoundland and she was on her way to an important business meeting in New York. She has no idea what happened, she’s shocked to discover America had been attacked by terrorists, she decides to call her aunt Ellie who lives in Newfoundland, to see if she can stay with her for a few days and finally meet her. For some reason Sophie’s mum Dottie didn’t have a very good relationship with her sister, they didn’t keep in contact with each other and she’s always wondered why?
Newfoundland 2011.
Sophie returns to Newfoundland to visit her aunt, she’s now 89 and her only living relative. Sophie is really there on business, the land in Tippy’s Tickle might be suitable for a golf course and a possibly a resort?
This is when the story starts to get confusing; having three time lines, multiple characters, crazy plots and farfetched secrets was too much for me. I would have preferred the story to have been about war brides and only have two timelines. It would have been a far more enjoyable, easier to follow and I gave the book three stars. I have shared my review on Goodreads, NetGalley, Amazon Australia, Edelweiss, Kobo, Twitter, Barnes & Noble and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
England 1946.
Ellie Parsons is nervous, she’s leaving England with her baby son Emmett to finally live with her husband Thomas in Newfoundland Canada and due to WW II she hasn’t seen him in two years. Saying goodbye to her father Henry and sister Dottie is really hard and she’s traveling across the Atlantic Ocean to the other side of the world and when will she ever see them again? Thomas is living at home, he’s staying with his parents, he’s recovering from his war wounds and she has no idea how severe his injuries are? She leaves England, sets sail on a ship full of very excited war brides and young children. Ellie gets a big shock when she arrives, her husbands injuries are worse than she thought and Newfoundland is nothing like home. The living conditions are very primitive in Tippy’s Tickle, the newlyweds are living with her husband’s parents her mother in law finds fault with everything she does and doesn’t like her.
September 2001.
Sophie Parry is on a plane when it’s diverted to Newfoundland and she was on her way to an important business meeting in New York. She has no idea what happened, she’s shocked to discover America had been attacked by terrorists, she decides to call her aunt Ellie who lives in Newfoundland, to see if she can stay with her for a few days and finally meet her. For some reason Sophie’s mum Dottie didn’t have a very good relationship with her sister, they didn’t keep in contact with each other and she’s always wondered why?
Newfoundland 2011.
Sophie returns to Newfoundland to visit her aunt, she’s now 89 and her only living relative. Sophie is really there on business, the land in Tippy’s Tickle might be suitable for a golf course and a possibly a resort?
This is when the story starts to get confusing; having three time lines, multiple characters, crazy plots and farfetched secrets was too much for me. I would have preferred the story to have been about war brides and only have two timelines. It would have been a far more enjoyable, easier to follow and I gave the book three stars. I have shared my review on Goodreads, NetGalley, Amazon Australia, Edelweiss, Kobo, Twitter, Barnes & Noble and my blog. https://karrenreadsbooks.blogspot.com/
June 16, 2020
The story is set in England, WWII. Newfoundland 2001 & 2011
Ellie and Dottie were sisters and the story revolves around them, their husbands and their children. Dottie didn't like when Ellie met Thomas. She tries to control her and keep her from breaking up with her long term boyfriend, George. But Ellie eventually marries Thomas and they emigrated to Newfoundland. The sisters are estranged.
9/11 2001: Dotties daughter is on a flight to New York. It's diverted to Newfoundland
The chapters tell us what era we are going to read about. I felt some parts of the story dragged out while others were beautifully written. This is an interesting read and look into how family dynamics, secrets and choices they made connected. It's one of those stories you could go on about, but it's best to read it for yourself nd make your own opinions. There's parts of the story that are a little out of sync, but that didn't put me off.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and the author Adrienne Chinn for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Ellie and Dottie were sisters and the story revolves around them, their husbands and their children. Dottie didn't like when Ellie met Thomas. She tries to control her and keep her from breaking up with her long term boyfriend, George. But Ellie eventually marries Thomas and they emigrated to Newfoundland. The sisters are estranged.
9/11 2001: Dotties daughter is on a flight to New York. It's diverted to Newfoundland
The chapters tell us what era we are going to read about. I felt some parts of the story dragged out while others were beautifully written. This is an interesting read and look into how family dynamics, secrets and choices they made connected. It's one of those stories you could go on about, but it's best to read it for yourself nd make your own opinions. There's parts of the story that are a little out of sync, but that didn't put me off.
I would like to thank NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction and the author Adrienne Chinn for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2020
The English Wife, written by a new author to this reader, is a lovely historical romance. The story transitioned a bit slow for me in the beginning but gradually picked up pace and my attention. The only drawback that irritated me a bit was the prgression of the story toggling back and forth through time periods which had me confused at times. The scenic locations of this story is during WWII and the Year 2001 where if you are the reader, you are getting a view of both eras in history, that as I've mentioned can be sometimes confusing.
I thought the characters were interesting and the different settings were depicted well as some historicals do if the are well written in the book. This story did not excite me as much as I thought it would, however is was just average to this reader.
Thank you Netgalley and Harper Collins for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
3-Stars
I thought the characters were interesting and the different settings were depicted well as some historicals do if the are well written in the book. This story did not excite me as much as I thought it would, however is was just average to this reader.
Thank you Netgalley and Harper Collins for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
3-Stars
February 17, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
The crossing had been awful, the waves a seascape of mountains and valleys, the ship like a cork bouncing and tipping its way across the Atlantic.
She imagines him in twenty years’ time, jowls dropping from his square jawline, his eyes drooping and watery. By then he’d look like a vulture. Turning into his spirit creature.
You look fine. You could wear my grandfather’s pyjamas and you’d look amazing. If I wore my grandfather’s pyjamas I’d look like my grandfather.
Those chaps could find a diamond in a glass mountain.
My Review:
This captivating tale was quite the saga, I couldn’t seem to put it down and despite its impressive length of 450 pages, I absorbed most of it in a day and savored every well-chosen word. The storylines were skillfully nuanced, devastating, cunningly contrived, and brilliantly paced; my curiosity was well and truly tipped from beginning to end. The characters were cleverly constructed, curiously compelling, and realistically flawed. Poor Ellie, she was forever to be screwed over by her sister, as dramatic Dottie was a piece of work.
I realized I was woefully unenlightened of Newfoundland other than a vague awareness of where it resided on a map. I adored the frequent use of their Creole and argot with such colorful and imaginative phrasings, although their gut-foundered menus of scrunchions and cod and brewis, as well as their frigid weather, sounds simply ruinous. And while I was quite taken by their belief and understanding of fairies, personally, I much prefer Tinkerbell.
The crossing had been awful, the waves a seascape of mountains and valleys, the ship like a cork bouncing and tipping its way across the Atlantic.
She imagines him in twenty years’ time, jowls dropping from his square jawline, his eyes drooping and watery. By then he’d look like a vulture. Turning into his spirit creature.
You look fine. You could wear my grandfather’s pyjamas and you’d look amazing. If I wore my grandfather’s pyjamas I’d look like my grandfather.
Those chaps could find a diamond in a glass mountain.
My Review:
This captivating tale was quite the saga, I couldn’t seem to put it down and despite its impressive length of 450 pages, I absorbed most of it in a day and savored every well-chosen word. The storylines were skillfully nuanced, devastating, cunningly contrived, and brilliantly paced; my curiosity was well and truly tipped from beginning to end. The characters were cleverly constructed, curiously compelling, and realistically flawed. Poor Ellie, she was forever to be screwed over by her sister, as dramatic Dottie was a piece of work.
I realized I was woefully unenlightened of Newfoundland other than a vague awareness of where it resided on a map. I adored the frequent use of their Creole and argot with such colorful and imaginative phrasings, although their gut-foundered menus of scrunchions and cod and brewis, as well as their frigid weather, sounds simply ruinous. And while I was quite taken by their belief and understanding of fairies, personally, I much prefer Tinkerbell.
June 25, 2020
What sounds from the book description like a dual timeline story is actually a triple, if not quadruple, timeline story although most of the first part of the book takes place either in WW2 Norwich or in Newfoundland in 2001. Some concentration is needed to keep track of the different storylines as the chapters switch frequently back and forth in time. However, it’s well worth the effort as you’re soon drawn into what is an increasingly multi-layered story.
In essence, all roads lead to the quaintly named Tippy’s Tickle in Newfoundland. Coincidence or fate? Ellen arrived there in 1946 as a war bride to join her husband, Thomas, and Sophie, Ellen’s niece, finds herself there when the plane in which she’s travelling to New York is rerouted to Newfoundland due to the 9/11 terror attacks. As to how Sophie ends up in Tippy’s Tickle, well, that’s less “of all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world, she walks into mine” from Casablanca as “of all the tea queues in all the world he ends up in mine”.
In dual time stories I sometimes find myself more invested in the story set in the past than in the present. This wasn’t the case with The English Wife. Not that the events that see young Ellen travelling across the world from her home in Norwich aren’t compelling, it’s just that the reader pretty much knows the trajectory of her story from the book description. Although, having said that, there are secrets to be discovered even there and the author keeps the reader waiting quite a while until these are revealed.
Sophie’s unplanned – and unwanted – stopover in Newfoundland in 2001 is an obstacle in her otherwise organised-to-the-last-detail life. (Her determination to get to New York for an interview reminded me of the wonderful 1945 film I Know Where I’m Going, in which Joan Webster, played by Wendy Hiller, is prevented by bad weather from making the crossing to the island of Kiloran.) Sophie soon falls under the spell of Tippy’s Tickle and who could blame her because there’s a lovely sense of community about the place and it is surrounded by beautiful, rugged landscape. Although outsiders are known as “Come-From-Aways”, its inhabitants are welcoming and hospitable as well as accepting of difference. It was good to see diverse characters playing such a part in the story. As it happens, Tippy’s Tickle isn’t the only thing to cast a spell on Sophie during her stay. However, sometimes things don’t work out the way you want.
Ten years later – to the day – Sophie is travelling back to Tippy’s Tickle on an assignment for the architectural practice for which she works. They are planning a lavish leisure development – hotel, golf course, the works. If you know the film Local Hero [Ed: that’s enough of the film references], you’ll have an idea that the plans may not be greeted with universal enthusiasm, especially as it affects people to whom Sophie has grown close. For some, it threatens their sense of security and a way of life that is all they have ever known; something they will do anything to prevent. How will Sophie negotiate this dilemma? You’ll need to read the book to find out.
I can’t finish this review without commenting on the fabulous insight into Newfoundland culture the book provides, including colloquialisms such as being “gut-foundered” (hungry).
The English Wife is a skilfully-crafted, multi-layered story about family secrets, missed opportunities, second chances and finding out what’s really important in life.
In essence, all roads lead to the quaintly named Tippy’s Tickle in Newfoundland. Coincidence or fate? Ellen arrived there in 1946 as a war bride to join her husband, Thomas, and Sophie, Ellen’s niece, finds herself there when the plane in which she’s travelling to New York is rerouted to Newfoundland due to the 9/11 terror attacks. As to how Sophie ends up in Tippy’s Tickle, well, that’s less “of all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world, she walks into mine” from Casablanca as “of all the tea queues in all the world he ends up in mine”.
In dual time stories I sometimes find myself more invested in the story set in the past than in the present. This wasn’t the case with The English Wife. Not that the events that see young Ellen travelling across the world from her home in Norwich aren’t compelling, it’s just that the reader pretty much knows the trajectory of her story from the book description. Although, having said that, there are secrets to be discovered even there and the author keeps the reader waiting quite a while until these are revealed.
Sophie’s unplanned – and unwanted – stopover in Newfoundland in 2001 is an obstacle in her otherwise organised-to-the-last-detail life. (Her determination to get to New York for an interview reminded me of the wonderful 1945 film I Know Where I’m Going, in which Joan Webster, played by Wendy Hiller, is prevented by bad weather from making the crossing to the island of Kiloran.) Sophie soon falls under the spell of Tippy’s Tickle and who could blame her because there’s a lovely sense of community about the place and it is surrounded by beautiful, rugged landscape. Although outsiders are known as “Come-From-Aways”, its inhabitants are welcoming and hospitable as well as accepting of difference. It was good to see diverse characters playing such a part in the story. As it happens, Tippy’s Tickle isn’t the only thing to cast a spell on Sophie during her stay. However, sometimes things don’t work out the way you want.
Ten years later – to the day – Sophie is travelling back to Tippy’s Tickle on an assignment for the architectural practice for which she works. They are planning a lavish leisure development – hotel, golf course, the works. If you know the film Local Hero [Ed: that’s enough of the film references], you’ll have an idea that the plans may not be greeted with universal enthusiasm, especially as it affects people to whom Sophie has grown close. For some, it threatens their sense of security and a way of life that is all they have ever known; something they will do anything to prevent. How will Sophie negotiate this dilemma? You’ll need to read the book to find out.
I can’t finish this review without commenting on the fabulous insight into Newfoundland culture the book provides, including colloquialisms such as being “gut-foundered” (hungry).
The English Wife is a skilfully-crafted, multi-layered story about family secrets, missed opportunities, second chances and finding out what’s really important in life.
March 1, 2020
War bride Ellie finds herself moving clear across the Atlantic to Newfoundland to be with her husband and young son. She has left her father and sister behind and tried to make life a good one for her children despite a harsh mother in law. Once her husband tragically drowns, life really becomes a struggle and she makes a deal with someone from her past.
Architect Sophie is on her way to NYC in September of 2001 to interview with a prestigious firm. The events of 9/11 divert her to Newfoundland where she looks up the aunt she’s never met, Ellie. Time spent with Ellie unveils secrets and hidden talent that Sophie wasn’t aware of. Her time in Tippys Tickle changes her and sets her out on a path of self discovery and a truth once buried deep in the ocean.
This story is so sensual and so touching. Alternating between WWII era and 9/11 era and beyond, you spend much of the book wondering why these two vastly different but strong and determined women had never met before. Ellie’s sister Dottie plays a big part of the story...but it is very easy not to like her until you realize that she has her own issues that she’s dealing with that make her the way she is and plays a part in why Ellie and Sophie are meeting so many years later.
The sense of suspense makes this story a page turner. The characters are all easily relatable. I smiled because there are dachshunds in this book and I’m a dachshund mom so I had a slight personal connection there! Another thing I loved about this book is the subtle use of whales to describe emotion. They spend their lives swimming along on a path that seems predestined but when they leap out of the the water, they become free and life can take on a new direction when they hit the water!
Highly recommend this book, especially if you’re looking for a WWII era book without all of the historical stuff. Thank you to NetGalley and Adrienne Chinn for a chance to read this before it’s publication date! It was wonderful!!
Architect Sophie is on her way to NYC in September of 2001 to interview with a prestigious firm. The events of 9/11 divert her to Newfoundland where she looks up the aunt she’s never met, Ellie. Time spent with Ellie unveils secrets and hidden talent that Sophie wasn’t aware of. Her time in Tippys Tickle changes her and sets her out on a path of self discovery and a truth once buried deep in the ocean.
This story is so sensual and so touching. Alternating between WWII era and 9/11 era and beyond, you spend much of the book wondering why these two vastly different but strong and determined women had never met before. Ellie’s sister Dottie plays a big part of the story...but it is very easy not to like her until you realize that she has her own issues that she’s dealing with that make her the way she is and plays a part in why Ellie and Sophie are meeting so many years later.
The sense of suspense makes this story a page turner. The characters are all easily relatable. I smiled because there are dachshunds in this book and I’m a dachshund mom so I had a slight personal connection there! Another thing I loved about this book is the subtle use of whales to describe emotion. They spend their lives swimming along on a path that seems predestined but when they leap out of the the water, they become free and life can take on a new direction when they hit the water!
Highly recommend this book, especially if you’re looking for a WWII era book without all of the historical stuff. Thank you to NetGalley and Adrienne Chinn for a chance to read this before it’s publication date! It was wonderful!!
June 17, 2020
The English Wife by Adrienne Chinn is a historical romance that is told from multiple points-of-view. I enjoyed the authors descriptions of Newfoundland and the remote town of Tippy’s Tickle. The country sounded rugged, remote, and beautiful. I could just imagine how cold it was living by the water from the author’s words. Ellie, Sophie, Sam, Dottie, Becca, Florie, George, and Thomas are just a few of the characters in the story. The POV originally alternates between Sophie and Ellie, but it branches out into the other characters along the way. In addition to the various POVs, the time period changes. The story begins in February of 1946 with Ellie sailing to Newfoundland. We also have Sophie in September of 2011 getting ready to return to the small inlet of Tippy’s Tickle on business. It then goes back to 1940 (moving forward through the war years) and 2001. The chapters are short which leads to a choppy flow. I would just get into Ellie’s story and then I am back to Sophie. It is a wonder I did not get whiplash. It leads to a confusing story. It felt like the author wrote two different stories and then took pieces from each to make into one book. I would put my book down and come back to it utterly lost. I had to backtrack to figure out which character was speaking and where I was in time. The story lacked continuity. Sophie and Ellie’s stories come together in the end with an expected conclusion. Secrets get revealed, but they can be discerned before they are revealed. I was not a fan of Emmett Parsons, Ellie’s son. He was an odd duck. I wish the author had taken the time to establish Ellie and Sophie in the beginning. They needed to be fleshed out and given life. While I liked Ellie, Sophie did not appeal to me. I felt that most of the characters were flat. I was also put off by the amount of foul language just in the first couple of chapters (it is in the rest of the book as well, just not so much at once). I really wanted to like The English Wife, but it just did not work for me.
August 2, 2020
During World War II, 18-year-old Ellie is living with her family in England. She has been comfortably dating George for years and they are planning on getting married once the war is over. Thomas is a soldier from Newfoundland who is based in England. Ellie and Thomas meet at a dance, and though she tries to fight it, they fall in love and get married before Thomas is shipped off to Italy. She doesn't hear from him for a long time and when she does, she discovers he has been shipped home to Newfoundland with an injury. She joins him there with their son, Emmett, and discovers that life in rural Newfoundland is a lot different than England ... they have no electricity or indoor plumbing, the men fish and drink, and she's living with her in-laws (her mother-in-law hates her because she's English and Catholic ... it didn't seem like Thomas stuck up for Ellie to his mother and let her take the abuse).
On September 9, 2001, Sophie is flying from London to New York for a job interview. Her plane gets grounded in Gander, Newfoundland. Remembering her Aunt Ellie lives in Newfoundland, Sophie gets a ride and arrives at Ellie's house rather than staying with the rest of the "plane people" scattered around Gander. Aunt Ellie is very pleased to welcome her long-long niece into her home and Sophie gets to know Ellie's son, Emmett, son-in-law, Sam, granddaughter, Becca (her mother, Ellie's daughter, had passed away) and Florie, Ellie's friend.
I'm not a fan of period books but I liked this one. I liked the writing style and most of the characters (Dottie, Ellie's sister, was annoying). It's written in third person perspective with the focus on wherever the action was. I liked that it was set so much in Newfoundland and I found the author captured the flavour of their accents. The book bounces around between three different timelines. I don't usually mind this style but I found it took a while for me to catch the rhythm. I found it odd that during the 9/11 week Sophie spent in Newfoundland, no one there was overly concerned there about the terrorist attacks.
The editing could have been better ... there was missing punctuation and typos (it's Port aux Basques not Portes aux Basques ... the author should know this since she's originally from Newfoundland).
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2020/08...
On September 9, 2001, Sophie is flying from London to New York for a job interview. Her plane gets grounded in Gander, Newfoundland. Remembering her Aunt Ellie lives in Newfoundland, Sophie gets a ride and arrives at Ellie's house rather than staying with the rest of the "plane people" scattered around Gander. Aunt Ellie is very pleased to welcome her long-long niece into her home and Sophie gets to know Ellie's son, Emmett, son-in-law, Sam, granddaughter, Becca (her mother, Ellie's daughter, had passed away) and Florie, Ellie's friend.
I'm not a fan of period books but I liked this one. I liked the writing style and most of the characters (Dottie, Ellie's sister, was annoying). It's written in third person perspective with the focus on wherever the action was. I liked that it was set so much in Newfoundland and I found the author captured the flavour of their accents. The book bounces around between three different timelines. I don't usually mind this style but I found it took a while for me to catch the rhythm. I found it odd that during the 9/11 week Sophie spent in Newfoundland, no one there was overly concerned there about the terrorist attacks.
The editing could have been better ... there was missing punctuation and typos (it's Port aux Basques not Portes aux Basques ... the author should know this since she's originally from Newfoundland).
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2020/08...
August 17, 2020
Ellie is swept off her feet by Thomas, a soldier from the Newfoundland regiment, during World War II in Norwich, England. Thomas turns Ellie's life upside down with a whirlwind romance and quick elopement before he is sent off to war. Ellie doesn't receive another letter from Thomas until she learns that he has been injured and is now back home in Newfoundland recovering. Ellie packs up to leave the only home she has ever known with her newborn son, Emmett to forge a life in a new land with a man she barely knows.
September 11, 2001- Sophie Parry leaves London for New York. She is interviewing for her big break at an architecture firm. Unexpectedly, her plane is routed to the nearest airport in Newfoundland. Stuck in a small town and unable to reach her interview. Sophie seeks out her mother's sister that her family has long been estranged from. Sophie's Aunt Ellie welcomes her with open arms and introduces her to a family she never knew.
The English Wife is a multi-faceted historical fiction drama with dual timelines, intrigue, secrets and lies. I love a good dual-timeline and this one delivered. I loved that both Ellie and Sophie were tough, determined and willing to go against the grain. The writing was able to weave together Ellie's story in the 1940's along with her sister Dottie, her former fiance George and Thomas along with Ellie and Sophie in 2001 and 2011 in a way that I could easily follow. It was very interesting to see Ellie in the light of the 1940's and the 2000's; she was still very much herself, but different in many ways. Sophie was a surprising character, from the very beginning I knew that she had a difficult decision to make between sealing her career and destroying the family and town that she has just found. This created tension right from the beginning that carried throughout the story. As things progressed, secrets came out that changed my perspective as well as the characters. I really wish people would have stopped messing with Ellie's life; however, she seemed to come out ok in the end. In addition, I enjoyed Sam and Becca's characters as well as the town of Tippy's Tickle. I could imagine the houses, the seascapes and the songs of the whales singing.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
September 11, 2001- Sophie Parry leaves London for New York. She is interviewing for her big break at an architecture firm. Unexpectedly, her plane is routed to the nearest airport in Newfoundland. Stuck in a small town and unable to reach her interview. Sophie seeks out her mother's sister that her family has long been estranged from. Sophie's Aunt Ellie welcomes her with open arms and introduces her to a family she never knew.
The English Wife is a multi-faceted historical fiction drama with dual timelines, intrigue, secrets and lies. I love a good dual-timeline and this one delivered. I loved that both Ellie and Sophie were tough, determined and willing to go against the grain. The writing was able to weave together Ellie's story in the 1940's along with her sister Dottie, her former fiance George and Thomas along with Ellie and Sophie in 2001 and 2011 in a way that I could easily follow. It was very interesting to see Ellie in the light of the 1940's and the 2000's; she was still very much herself, but different in many ways. Sophie was a surprising character, from the very beginning I knew that she had a difficult decision to make between sealing her career and destroying the family and town that she has just found. This created tension right from the beginning that carried throughout the story. As things progressed, secrets came out that changed my perspective as well as the characters. I really wish people would have stopped messing with Ellie's life; however, she seemed to come out ok in the end. In addition, I enjoyed Sam and Becca's characters as well as the town of Tippy's Tickle. I could imagine the houses, the seascapes and the songs of the whales singing.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
March 11, 2020
The story of a family, in 1940’s England and in 2000’s Newfoundland. Ellie is a young lady in 1940, just beginning a new job and dealing with World War II. She meets a soldier from Newfoundland while she is engaged to her life-long friend, George. The future story begins on 9/11, 2001. Ellie had an estranged sister, Dottie, that lived back in England . Her adult daughter, Sophie, is on a flight to NY City that is diverted to Newfoundland because of 9/11. Sophie meets a biker, Sam, and the story begins. The book moves from present to past in each chapter. I never have been a fan of books written this way and it holds true for this one. I think the continuity of the story is out of sync this way and the reader loses any momentum gained in interest along the way. It also makes the characters more one-dimensional and shallow. The results are characters that the reader cannot identify with or even care about.
August 2, 2020
This is a beautifully written historical fiction novel that seamlessly incorporates two, or even three timelines. There is the one set during the war in the UK and there are the one, or two, set in Newfoundland in 2001 and in 2011. I learnt a lot from this lovely, observant book. The English Wife is written with great compassion and explores friendship, forgiveness and the ability to change. Chinn has a fantastic command of language, this really was poetical at times. Highly recommended.
July 1, 2020
3.5 stars. This book alternates between (basically) two timelines - the first during World War II and the second in the aftermath of the Twin Towers attack. Ellie is present in both - we watch her in World War II as she copes with bombings, love, and loss, as well as with a demanding younger sister. And we see her as an old woman (though not the center of the story) in Newfoundland after the Twin Towers, when her niece Sophie finally comes for a visit. The stories unfold fairly slowly, with great attention to characterization and detail. I think one of my favorite parts was the town of Tippy's Tickle, the attitudes of the people who lived there, and the beauty of the Newfoundland landscape. It is a place I know almost nothing about, and it was nice to learn a little bit. The time shifts happen pretty rapidly - there is often just a few pages in one timeline before it switched to another. For me personally it would have been nice to spend more time in each before a switch. However, I enjoyed both stories and I didn't find myself dreading a switch - I just wanted to linger longer in each.
My thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for a chance to read this book!
My thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for a chance to read this book!
December 3, 2020
Linda/Vancouver/Langley/BC/Canada
This is a beautiful book to read. Enjoyed all the historical parts of the second world war. Ellie Burgess is the center of this book. She lives in England and marries a man by the name of Thomas Parsons who is fighting the Nazi's with the Canadian army. He comes from Tippy's Tickle in Newfoundland. Thomas was wounded in the war and lost a leg. He was in hospital in England for a number of months and then he was sent home to Newfoundland. Once Ellie finds out that Thomas is not missing and is in Newfoundland she boards a ship to go to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Her father and sister have come with Ellie to make sure she arrives safely. It is very difficult for Ellie as she feels like a stranger with Thomas's family. She is not prepared for the harsh weather and the rocky terrain. She has also come over with her baby son Emmett. This is the time after the war and the early years after the war too. Ellie receives a letter from her sister's daughter Sophie who wants to come to Newfoundland to meet her aunt Elle. Sophie's mother passed away prior to that. When she arrives she is picked up by "Sam" a friend of the family is Tippy's Tickle. Time is 2001. Won't say anymore as it needs to be read to really enjoy such a beautiful story written by the author. It was so nice to hear so much about Newfoundland. Have not been there but I hope to see it for myself when I make a trip to Halifax, Nova Scotia next year. Have been to New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island and for 2 years we lived in a place called Paspbiac on the Gaspe Peninsula in Quebec. My husband was sent out from Vancouver to get the boat building industry going as the manager there. It was a great experience for us and for our 2 boys that were 4 and 11 years old. The weather is very harsh and the wind blows all the time. We went to Prince Edward Island which was so beautiful. Will sign off now. Don't want to tell the whole story. It is a lovely book well worth reading. This book is a keeper for me. Finished this book in mid November.
This is a beautiful book to read. Enjoyed all the historical parts of the second world war. Ellie Burgess is the center of this book. She lives in England and marries a man by the name of Thomas Parsons who is fighting the Nazi's with the Canadian army. He comes from Tippy's Tickle in Newfoundland. Thomas was wounded in the war and lost a leg. He was in hospital in England for a number of months and then he was sent home to Newfoundland. Once Ellie finds out that Thomas is not missing and is in Newfoundland she boards a ship to go to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Her father and sister have come with Ellie to make sure she arrives safely. It is very difficult for Ellie as she feels like a stranger with Thomas's family. She is not prepared for the harsh weather and the rocky terrain. She has also come over with her baby son Emmett. This is the time after the war and the early years after the war too. Ellie receives a letter from her sister's daughter Sophie who wants to come to Newfoundland to meet her aunt Elle. Sophie's mother passed away prior to that. When she arrives she is picked up by "Sam" a friend of the family is Tippy's Tickle. Time is 2001. Won't say anymore as it needs to be read to really enjoy such a beautiful story written by the author. It was so nice to hear so much about Newfoundland. Have not been there but I hope to see it for myself when I make a trip to Halifax, Nova Scotia next year. Have been to New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island and for 2 years we lived in a place called Paspbiac on the Gaspe Peninsula in Quebec. My husband was sent out from Vancouver to get the boat building industry going as the manager there. It was a great experience for us and for our 2 boys that were 4 and 11 years old. The weather is very harsh and the wind blows all the time. We went to Prince Edward Island which was so beautiful. Will sign off now. Don't want to tell the whole story. It is a lovely book well worth reading. This book is a keeper for me. Finished this book in mid November.
July 28, 2022
This author is from my hometown in NFLD. I loved the book and related to the culture and language. I read this when I was visiting NFLD for the first time in years- it fit like a well worn shoe!
February 16, 2021
I really enjoyed this historical family saga. Loved reading about Newfoundland and following the family relationships through World war 2 to very recent times. The interesting plot unravels as secrets get revealed.
May 14, 2020
This book is told in multiple timelines. Sometimes it works and sometimes it does not. This is a mixed bag of WWII England, 9/11 and 10 years after 9/11 in Tippy's Tickle, Newfoundland.
I liked this story of Sophie, Ellie, Sam, Becca and a host of others. I did really enjoy the characters in this book and I thoroughly enjoyed the books setting. I removed a star because the flow of the story with the alternating chapters just seemed a bit off.
Many thanks to Netgalley and One More Chapter for this advanced readers copy. This book is due to release in June 2020.
I liked this story of Sophie, Ellie, Sam, Becca and a host of others. I did really enjoy the characters in this book and I thoroughly enjoyed the books setting. I removed a star because the flow of the story with the alternating chapters just seemed a bit off.
Many thanks to Netgalley and One More Chapter for this advanced readers copy. This book is due to release in June 2020.
July 2, 2020
Two Sisters
The English wife was truly heartbreaking. It is all about choices, relationships, and circumstances. This book holds two stories with origins in WWII England.
The first story is that of two sisters Ellie and Dottie. Ellie a young woman with a boyfriend named George meats a handsome soldier from Newfoundland and marries him breaking George's heart. Ellie's sister Dottie has a crush on George and hates Ellie for marrying Thomas her soldier and moving far away leaving her behind.
The second story is that of Sophie, Dottie's daughter whose plane is waylaid to Newfoundland because of the 9-11 World Trade Center incident, in 2011 and her return to Newfoundland in 2011. This story is about Sophie and her romance with Sam.
The book holds secrets between George and Ellie that involve George, her son Emmett and Sophie.
I enjoyed the book, however, it was rather confusing with the triple time periods and I was confused at times and had to backtrack to figure out where I was in the story.
I would have enjoyed reading book one the WWII years in a bit more detail, especially between Dottie and George, and Book two the 2001 and 2011 years with Sophie, Ellie, Sam and Becca maybe starting earlier with Sam and Willa in Boston when Willa's accident happened with more details on that story.
I felt that I had more questions throughout the book that the stories were put together a bit piecemeal leaving out scenes and details to fit it all in one book.
I did enjoy the characters and the scenes behind the story. It was worth reading, but could have been better. The book cover is beautiful.
Thanks to Adrienne Chinn , Harper Collins U.K., One More Chapter, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy for an honest review.
The English wife was truly heartbreaking. It is all about choices, relationships, and circumstances. This book holds two stories with origins in WWII England.
The first story is that of two sisters Ellie and Dottie. Ellie a young woman with a boyfriend named George meats a handsome soldier from Newfoundland and marries him breaking George's heart. Ellie's sister Dottie has a crush on George and hates Ellie for marrying Thomas her soldier and moving far away leaving her behind.
The second story is that of Sophie, Dottie's daughter whose plane is waylaid to Newfoundland because of the 9-11 World Trade Center incident, in 2011 and her return to Newfoundland in 2011. This story is about Sophie and her romance with Sam.
The book holds secrets between George and Ellie that involve George, her son Emmett and Sophie.
I enjoyed the book, however, it was rather confusing with the triple time periods and I was confused at times and had to backtrack to figure out where I was in the story.
I would have enjoyed reading book one the WWII years in a bit more detail, especially between Dottie and George, and Book two the 2001 and 2011 years with Sophie, Ellie, Sam and Becca maybe starting earlier with Sam and Willa in Boston when Willa's accident happened with more details on that story.
I felt that I had more questions throughout the book that the stories were put together a bit piecemeal leaving out scenes and details to fit it all in one book.
I did enjoy the characters and the scenes behind the story. It was worth reading, but could have been better. The book cover is beautiful.
Thanks to Adrienne Chinn , Harper Collins U.K., One More Chapter, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy for an honest review.
October 22, 2020
RATING 3.5 STARS
Time buries all wounds. Dig them out, and the wounds still bleed. Better to keep them buried.
Sophie- the year is 2002, Sept 9, the daughter of Dottie and George of England. Sophie is on her way to New York for the interview of her life when she is laid over in Newfoundland.
Ellie-Sophie's Aunt and the estranged sister of Dottie now living in Newfoundland. The English Wife.
Sam-the son of law of Ellie who has fate has it, meets up with Sophie
Thomas - the husband of Ellie that swept her off her feet and changed her course from England to Newfoundland.
These main characters are what drive this historical fiction. The narration is switched from beginning of 9/11 to the beginning of World War 2. The setting themselves set the prose to ironies of a time that has the unknown to what the future holds especially for our English Wife. Ellie and her sister Dottie relationship suffers when Ellie leaves her family and fiancé George for Thomas. That builds the tension but it doesn't stop there. Sophie comes into Ellie's life not understanding why her mother has not spoken to her sister for all these years. With many family secrets and dysfunctions the characters come together with a climax end that bring the families full circle. The type I did not see coming.
A special thank you to Harper Collins and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Time buries all wounds. Dig them out, and the wounds still bleed. Better to keep them buried.
Sophie- the year is 2002, Sept 9, the daughter of Dottie and George of England. Sophie is on her way to New York for the interview of her life when she is laid over in Newfoundland.
Ellie-Sophie's Aunt and the estranged sister of Dottie now living in Newfoundland. The English Wife.
Sam-the son of law of Ellie who has fate has it, meets up with Sophie
Thomas - the husband of Ellie that swept her off her feet and changed her course from England to Newfoundland.
These main characters are what drive this historical fiction. The narration is switched from beginning of 9/11 to the beginning of World War 2. The setting themselves set the prose to ironies of a time that has the unknown to what the future holds especially for our English Wife. Ellie and her sister Dottie relationship suffers when Ellie leaves her family and fiancé George for Thomas. That builds the tension but it doesn't stop there. Sophie comes into Ellie's life not understanding why her mother has not spoken to her sister for all these years. With many family secrets and dysfunctions the characters come together with a climax end that bring the families full circle. The type I did not see coming.
A special thank you to Harper Collins and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
June 23, 2020
The English Wife by Adrienne Chinn is a delightful dual timeline novel with action set in 1940 and 2001, both moving forwards. It is a wonderful warm read that I adored.
The novel is set in Norwich during the war, and in 2001 in Newfoundland after a plane is diverted due to 9/11.
Families are a complicated affair. Relationships blossom and later die as hearts are consumed with hate and unforgiveness. As bitterness sets in, lives are tainted.
We have to make sure that we have the correct priorities. “Be careful you don’t miss the important things while you’re being so busy.” No one ever gets to the end of their life wishing they had spent more time in the office. The power and greed of corporations contrast with lives of love. One character is forever chasing fame and fortune. Neither will ever bring happiness. True wealth and treasure is to be found in people.
I absolutely loved The English Wife. Adrienne Chinn has perfectly captured the atmosphere of uncertainty during times of war and the rugged freedom that is found in Newfoundland. Adrienne Chinn is a new author to me but I want to read more novels by her.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
The novel is set in Norwich during the war, and in 2001 in Newfoundland after a plane is diverted due to 9/11.
Families are a complicated affair. Relationships blossom and later die as hearts are consumed with hate and unforgiveness. As bitterness sets in, lives are tainted.
We have to make sure that we have the correct priorities. “Be careful you don’t miss the important things while you’re being so busy.” No one ever gets to the end of their life wishing they had spent more time in the office. The power and greed of corporations contrast with lives of love. One character is forever chasing fame and fortune. Neither will ever bring happiness. True wealth and treasure is to be found in people.
I absolutely loved The English Wife. Adrienne Chinn has perfectly captured the atmosphere of uncertainty during times of war and the rugged freedom that is found in Newfoundland. Adrienne Chinn is a new author to me but I want to read more novels by her.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
June 25, 2020
A well written historical fiction, by a new author for me. It is the stories of two women, one in 1940 and the other after 9/11. The journey of a young
English girl during WWII and her marriage to a Newfoundlander, from war torn England to the post war era of the strange, wild coast of the island.
This is a tale of families, their struggles, their secrets and the burden of failed dreams and disappointments. It focuses on the strength of Ellie, determined to make a life for her children, when faced with a strange country, a mother in law that hates her and the love of a man burdened with a war injury that leads him to drink and despair. Leaving a loving father behind, a sister who feels betrayed by her leaving, for a man they didn’t really know, Ellie manages to make the most of her dreary life.
I enjoyed the book, although I often found the alternating time frames confusing and disruptive to the flow of events. Adrienne Chinn is a talented writer, with wonderful descriptions of the landscape and characters.
I thank #OneMoreChapter and #NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
English girl during WWII and her marriage to a Newfoundlander, from war torn England to the post war era of the strange, wild coast of the island.
This is a tale of families, their struggles, their secrets and the burden of failed dreams and disappointments. It focuses on the strength of Ellie, determined to make a life for her children, when faced with a strange country, a mother in law that hates her and the love of a man burdened with a war injury that leads him to drink and despair. Leaving a loving father behind, a sister who feels betrayed by her leaving, for a man they didn’t really know, Ellie manages to make the most of her dreary life.
I enjoyed the book, although I often found the alternating time frames confusing and disruptive to the flow of events. Adrienne Chinn is a talented writer, with wonderful descriptions of the landscape and characters.
I thank #OneMoreChapter and #NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
July 26, 2021
Well ….. I wanted to enjoy this book and I tried to but …. apart from it being very difficult to remember what had happened or not happened yet, who knew or didn’t know things yet, due to the incredible amount of times it goes back and forth in time, I didn’t care about a single character in the book and had an urge to slap most of them for one reason or another.
The book left me with a large “Oh yes, as if !!!
Disappointed.
The book left me with a large “Oh yes, as if !!!
Disappointed.
February 13, 2021
Another fascinating piece of historical fiction with a second contemporary timeline. While there's a touch more of the contemporary than the historical, the pieces fit beautifully together, with very believable and empathetic characters (and a few bits of romance along the way). My full book review of this novel is on my blog here.
http://tcl-bookreviews.com/2021/02/12...
http://tcl-bookreviews.com/2021/02/12...
January 14, 2021
Meh. Do Newfoundlanders really speak this poorly? I couldn’t get past the bad grammar spoken all the time. There was too much plot, too poorly developed characters and no one was very likable.
February 22, 2021
3 1/2 stars - an enjoyable read, set partially in Newfoundland, which was an intriguing backdrop
http://perfectretort.blogspot.com/202...
http://perfectretort.blogspot.com/202...
February 22, 2021
Two stories full of secrets that can finally bring out the truth!
Ellie Burgess has kept her life in order with the way she wants it to be in London with the threat of war. She is studying art and engaged to her lifelong friend George. But after the war begins and her best friend is killed in a bombing, she feels that she must do her part and join the fire service. Her predictable love life also takes a turn when she meets a Newfoundlander named Thomas Parsons. She realizes that she loves George but has never been in love with him as she is with Thomas. She makes a decision that compromises every relationship within in her family and elopes with Thomas before he is sent off to war. After almost of year of no correspondence after he is taken a POW, Ellie has all but decided that Thomas has perished until she finally receives a letter from him back in Newfoundland. She packs up her belongings with their newborn son and heads across the Atlantic in a course that will forever change her life.
Sophie Parry is on a flight from London to New York for an interview with a prestigious architecture firm on September 11, 2001. When her plan is diverted to Gander, Newfoundland and she realizes that she is not getting to New York anytime soon, she decides to call on her Aunt Ellie that she has never known. Her mother hated her aunt and she never knew why. Could it be fate that brought them together now?
I love a book that manages to come full circle from beginning to end. There were quite a lot of little twists towards the end of the book, several of which were quite surprising. I loved reading both stories, and it took having Ellie’s backstory to really understand Sophie. I really felt for Ellie with all that she had to go through, but she was a trooper. I also enjoyed watching Sophie’s character get developed and grow with an understanding of what to live for instead of how she was living. There is so much going on in this novel that it would take a long time to unpack, but I feel that the reader should enjoy the gift that this book really is. There is a lot of Newfoundland slang throughout the book that is pretty easy to pick up on. This is the first book that I’ve read set there, but it seems like it would be a beautiful place to visit.
There is a little bit of foul language throughout the book, but it doesn’t overpower the story. Even so, I recommend this book for mature readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Ellie Burgess has kept her life in order with the way she wants it to be in London with the threat of war. She is studying art and engaged to her lifelong friend George. But after the war begins and her best friend is killed in a bombing, she feels that she must do her part and join the fire service. Her predictable love life also takes a turn when she meets a Newfoundlander named Thomas Parsons. She realizes that she loves George but has never been in love with him as she is with Thomas. She makes a decision that compromises every relationship within in her family and elopes with Thomas before he is sent off to war. After almost of year of no correspondence after he is taken a POW, Ellie has all but decided that Thomas has perished until she finally receives a letter from him back in Newfoundland. She packs up her belongings with their newborn son and heads across the Atlantic in a course that will forever change her life.
Sophie Parry is on a flight from London to New York for an interview with a prestigious architecture firm on September 11, 2001. When her plan is diverted to Gander, Newfoundland and she realizes that she is not getting to New York anytime soon, she decides to call on her Aunt Ellie that she has never known. Her mother hated her aunt and she never knew why. Could it be fate that brought them together now?
I love a book that manages to come full circle from beginning to end. There were quite a lot of little twists towards the end of the book, several of which were quite surprising. I loved reading both stories, and it took having Ellie’s backstory to really understand Sophie. I really felt for Ellie with all that she had to go through, but she was a trooper. I also enjoyed watching Sophie’s character get developed and grow with an understanding of what to live for instead of how she was living. There is so much going on in this novel that it would take a long time to unpack, but I feel that the reader should enjoy the gift that this book really is. There is a lot of Newfoundland slang throughout the book that is pretty easy to pick up on. This is the first book that I’ve read set there, but it seems like it would be a beautiful place to visit.
There is a little bit of foul language throughout the book, but it doesn’t overpower the story. Even so, I recommend this book for mature readers.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
August 3, 2020
This story is told in several parts, with different perspectives: all which build on one another to present a story that leaves readers with a solid sense of a circle coming to completion. Sophie is an architect, heading to New York on September 11th when her plane is re-routed to Gander, Newfoundland. Never actually “ hearing the story of her aunt, living in Newfoundland since the war, Sophie decides to ask the locals about her – and soon finds herself immersed in family she’s never met, in a place that is utterly foreign to her.
Sophie’s aunt Ellie married a Canadian serviceman during World War II, in effect fracturing her relationship with her sister Dottie, and moving to Newfoundland as soon as possible. A big change for the girl from England, with a now disabled husband who was prone to drink, a mother-in-law who didn’t accept those from “away” and the beautiful but often stark landscape and life on “The Rock”. While Ellie was struggling with adjusting to being far away from family and all she knew, Dottie was nurturing her grudge, trying to ‘make it big’ and always keeping tabs on Ellie’s former boyfriend, the man she’d had a crush on for forever.
Add in the widower of Ellie’s daughter, his hearing-impaired daughter, the story of how Ellie came to Newfoundland and Dottie came to marry her former boyfriend, and answers to Sophie’s questions all start to be answered. Until the planes are again functioning and she leaves to pursue her own life – not to return for years. With solid history and background, easily accessible emotions and struggles and the unique flavor and approach to life that is found in Newfoundland, Chinn has created an engaging story that blends beauty and struggle and comes up with an opportunity for a second chance at life and happiness for Sophie.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Sophie’s aunt Ellie married a Canadian serviceman during World War II, in effect fracturing her relationship with her sister Dottie, and moving to Newfoundland as soon as possible. A big change for the girl from England, with a now disabled husband who was prone to drink, a mother-in-law who didn’t accept those from “away” and the beautiful but often stark landscape and life on “The Rock”. While Ellie was struggling with adjusting to being far away from family and all she knew, Dottie was nurturing her grudge, trying to ‘make it big’ and always keeping tabs on Ellie’s former boyfriend, the man she’d had a crush on for forever.
Add in the widower of Ellie’s daughter, his hearing-impaired daughter, the story of how Ellie came to Newfoundland and Dottie came to marry her former boyfriend, and answers to Sophie’s questions all start to be answered. Until the planes are again functioning and she leaves to pursue her own life – not to return for years. With solid history and background, easily accessible emotions and struggles and the unique flavor and approach to life that is found in Newfoundland, Chinn has created an engaging story that blends beauty and struggle and comes up with an opportunity for a second chance at life and happiness for Sophie.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
February 17, 2021
Trigger warnings: 9/11, war, grief over the loss of a loved one
Ellie is an English art student during World War II when bombs start being dropped on her English town. She meets a soldier from Newfoundland and marries him, and must travel to Canada to be with him after the war is over.
Sophie is Ellie's niece, who doesn't know about her estranged aunt until she sees a Christmas card in the mail from Ellie. She copies down her Canadian address and thinks nothing of it until years later her plane is grounded in Newfoundland on 9/11.
The stories are told in non-linear timelines, with Ellie's story beginning at the end of the war when she is traveling to Newfoundland. Then the narrative loops back to tell Ellie's wartime story. Sophie's story begins on the tenth anniversary of 9/11 when she is flying to Newfoundland for the second time for her company. Then the story of the flight ten years prior begins to unfold.
It becomes apparent within the first few chapters of the book why Ellie and her younger sister Dottie might have severed ties, and it involves a man. But is this man what drove the wedge between them? It is clear that Dottie doesn't want her older sister to leave England at the end of the war.
Sophie was raised in England but lives in New York City working for a prominent architectural firm. Her breathtaking photos of Newfoundland from her unintentional trip a decade prior have captured the attention of her firm as a new travel destination. Sophie must return to the rural area to convince the townspeople of the firm's plan to build a hotel nearby. Returning to the area means she must revisit her relationships with her aunt and an old flame.
While Ellie's wartime story would naturally be the more interesting of the two timelines, Sophie's story still captivates with historical details of 9/11 and her discovery of the self she left behind as she pursued a safe career.
Recommended for readers of historical fiction, family sagas, and women's fiction.
I received an electronic galley copy of this title from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Read the review here: https://guenevol.wixsite.com/novelmav...
Ellie is an English art student during World War II when bombs start being dropped on her English town. She meets a soldier from Newfoundland and marries him, and must travel to Canada to be with him after the war is over.
Sophie is Ellie's niece, who doesn't know about her estranged aunt until she sees a Christmas card in the mail from Ellie. She copies down her Canadian address and thinks nothing of it until years later her plane is grounded in Newfoundland on 9/11.
The stories are told in non-linear timelines, with Ellie's story beginning at the end of the war when she is traveling to Newfoundland. Then the narrative loops back to tell Ellie's wartime story. Sophie's story begins on the tenth anniversary of 9/11 when she is flying to Newfoundland for the second time for her company. Then the story of the flight ten years prior begins to unfold.
It becomes apparent within the first few chapters of the book why Ellie and her younger sister Dottie might have severed ties, and it involves a man. But is this man what drove the wedge between them? It is clear that Dottie doesn't want her older sister to leave England at the end of the war.
Sophie was raised in England but lives in New York City working for a prominent architectural firm. Her breathtaking photos of Newfoundland from her unintentional trip a decade prior have captured the attention of her firm as a new travel destination. Sophie must return to the rural area to convince the townspeople of the firm's plan to build a hotel nearby. Returning to the area means she must revisit her relationships with her aunt and an old flame.
While Ellie's wartime story would naturally be the more interesting of the two timelines, Sophie's story still captivates with historical details of 9/11 and her discovery of the self she left behind as she pursued a safe career.
Recommended for readers of historical fiction, family sagas, and women's fiction.
I received an electronic galley copy of this title from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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June 23, 2020
I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. The English Wife by Adrienne Chinn is a sweeping historical fiction novel with strong romantic elements. The story covers the time from 1940 to 2011 and Is mainly the story of Ellie Burgess a young art student in Norwich England who during the war meets a soldier from Newfoundland named Thomas Parsons with whom she falls in love, and after the war journeys to an isolated fishing village in Newfoundland as a bride and young mother. The chapters move between the present and the past and tell the stories of Ellie’s estranged sister Dottie, George Parry, her former fiancé, and Sophie Parry, her niece who arrives in Tippy’s Tickle Newfoundland after her plane is forced to land at Gander on September 11, 2001. The story encompasses love of all sorts, the sacrifices we make for those we love and how secrets and lies weave a web of bitterness that can take generations to heal.
I enjoyed this book and do recommend it. Publishing Date: June 23, 2020 #TheEnglishWife #AdrienneChinn #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter #bookstagram #historicalfiction
I enjoyed this book and do recommend it. Publishing Date: June 23, 2020 #TheEnglishWife #AdrienneChinn #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter #bookstagram #historicalfiction
October 9, 2020
What a beautiful read! We have two couples, their stories set decades apart, Ellie and Thomas, and Sophie and Sam. The two couples shared an intertwined history. Ellie and Thomas first met while he was stationed in England during WWII. They fell in love, were married and moved to Newfoundland, where Thomas was born. Sophie and Sam meet through intriguing circumstances beyond their control, not completely unaware that they share strong ties in their history. This was such a lovely, well written book, filled with well developed characters and a thoughtful plot. I loved it!
I would like to thank Adrienne Chinn, Harper 360 - One More Chapter and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I would like to thank Adrienne Chinn, Harper 360 - One More Chapter and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 31, 2022
Ellie did not have an easy life. During the second world war, in England, she met and married a soldier from Newfoundland Canada. After he was seriously wounded she joined him in Newfoundland and there they raised a family until Thomas drowned in an accident. The story goes back and forth between the forties and fifties and 2011. Ellie is joined by her niece, Sophie, who finds it hard to change her thinking and way of living after years of following an architectural career in both London and New York. The ending is a surprise that the reader doesn't see coming. I found it hard to get used to reading a book written in the present tense.
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