Limerence: A true story

by Liz Hickin

It is 1948 and the War has ended; the London Olympic Games have begun. Audrey is a young, fresh-faced English girl who meets Hubert, a young French soldier amidst a sea of spectators. Under a starry sky and fireworks celebrations, a young romance is born. Relief from austerity, camaraderie, goodwill and a return to prosperity fills the air; the young couple vow to continue their relationship, however long distance and Hubert's military responsibilities prevent them. Time and distance take two lovers in different directions; however Hubert cannot let go of his darling Audrey and enters into a state of Limerence, writing her obsessive love letters. Can Hubert find his one true love, his English Rose?

142 pages, Paperback

Published April 26, 2020

Reviews

[Rebecca Fraser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Limerence takes the reader on multiple journeys in an exploration of location, love, loss, and longing all intertwined in the incredible true account of Frenchman Hubert’s lifelong obsession with ‘English Rose’ Audrey, a girl he met and romanced briefly at London’s 1948 Olympic Games.

The multi-viewpoint structure serves Limerence well, with readers gleaning an understanding of the impact Hubert’s obsessive love has on those closest to him—ripples that span generations. I am continually fascinated by the human condition, and Hubert’s unwavering pursuit of Audrey, spanning decades and oceans, for a love unreciprocated is both troubled and troubling…yet who could not be moved by those afflicted by the debilitating condition of limerence?

I’ve come to know the author’s style well over the past few years, and what I most enjoy is her ability to seamlessly meld research with recall to deliver narrative steeped in fact without sacrificing story. The details interwoven throughout Limerence bring various eras and locations to life with admirable attention to detail, setting, and a sense of place. A highlight for me was the description of the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games—a real treat, and such historical merit! A most rewarding read, best enjoyed over several sittings with a fine sherry!

[Marnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liz’s delightful novel, Limerence, tells the story of unrequited love from a chance meeting at the Olympic Games in 1948. It’s the true story of Liz’s sister and a Frenchman she met, who spent his life holding Audrey in his heart and the affect that had on those closest to him.

[Michelle Ham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely adored this true story, and found it hard to put down. Lizzie's writing style transported me to another time, and the multiple perspectives had me feeling for all the 'characters' involved.

Lizzie researched this story through the myriad of love letters Hubert wrote to her sister Audrey, (as well as speaking with Audrey herself) but she has speculated in parts to flesh out this melancholy and intriguing account of obsessive love also known as Limerence.

I've often met fascinating people (such as Lizzie) and pondered how great it would be to collaborate with them to produce a book about their lives and experiences. Limerence has inspired me to consider this idea for more than a passing minute. Ugh, the pain of having too many ideas!

Definitely worth a read if historical non-fiction that reads like compelling fiction sounds good to you.

Meeting the author definitely helped bring this to life for me. Get out and meet indie authors and buy their books if you can - it's the best!

[Muriel Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liz Hicklin.s short novel 'Limerence' tells the true story of her sister Audrey and the man she spent a brief time with during the 1948 Olympic Games in London. French Hubert becomes infatuated with Audrey, who doesn't reciprocate. Hubert becomes obsessed with Audrey. Over many years his obsession, sometimes pathetic to the point of creepiness, sometimes touching, affects his life in drastic and unexpected ways. I became as obsessed reading Limerence as Hubert was with Audrey. I read it in one sitting. It's seriously good. Nostalgic for those who remember the period, a tragic love story for all. A great holiday read!

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow... I had never heard the word limerence, but now fully understand the meaning! To know this is a true story is both sad and amazing! Liz Hicklin, you have written a heart felt tribute to Hubert and Audrey, your dear sister. You have woven the moving facts into a story which I couldn't put down. I truly hope Hubert found his peace.