The Girl You Left Behind

Having loved “Me Before You” I didn't have to think too hard before buying Jojo Moyes new novel. A week before it's release I read the prequel novella “Honeymoon In Paris” which introduced the characters really nicely but it isn't essential as the book stands up on it's own without the additional novella material.

The story of Liv whose husband David passed away four years before, fracturing her world is heartbreaking. She meets an ex cop Paul who seems to offer a new relationship but just as they begin to get close he suddenly bolts from her home with no explanation.

It transpires his job is to reunite works of art stolen during wartime with their rightful owners and the painting Liv's late husband bought for her on their honeymoon is the centre of his latest case. Thrust onto opposing sides, fighting for the painting it seems destined to drive them apart.

This story is woven beautifully with that of Sophie Leferve, the subject of the painting in question and wife of the artist. Her story is one of a woman trying to survive in Fance in World War I and the sacrifices she made for her husband and family and her complex relationship with the German Kommendante in charge of her French village.

Beautifully written, gripping most especially evocative when dealing with Sophie's story and a fantastic tale of love and betrayal. Drawing resonance between Liv and Sophie's stories it was a great read.