LJ Ross Book Club: A Historical Romance Novel for December
Northumberland-born LJ Ross is the bestselling author of the DCI Ryan murder mystery series. Each month, she shares an exclusive Book Club pick with Living North readers
This month’s LJ Ross Book Club selection is the historical romance novel, Last Christmas in Paris, from New York Times bestselling author Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb. Set during the Great War, it spans four Christmases, but begins in August 1914 when Evie Elliott watches her brother, Will, and his best friend, Thomas, depart for the front line. She believes, as everyone does at that time, that the war will be over by Christmas, and the trio plan to celebrate together among the romantic cafés of Paris. Unfortunately, as history tells us, things turned out very differently…
LJ’s Thoughts:
‘This is a beautifully written novel, perfect for cosying up with on a winter’s evening. The story is a careful balance, mirroring the very different experiences of Evie and Thomas – the one, frustrated by life as a privileged young lady, and who longs to play a greater role in the conflict; and the other, dealing with the unimaginable horrors of war, who also faces personal struggles back at home. The characters exchange letters and, through the written word, fall in love. It’s a classic device, perfect for the genre and tone of the novel, which made for a very enjoyable read.’
