Orphans of the Storm by @CeliaImrie

By Pamelascott

Nice, France, 1911: After three years of marriage, Marcella Navratil has finally had enough. Her husband, Michael, an ambitious tailor, may have charmed her during their courtship, but their few years of marriage have revealed a cruel and controlling streak. The 21-year-old mother of two is determined to get a divorce.

But while awaiting the Judges' decision on the custody of their children, Michael receives news that changes everything.

Meanwhile fun-loving New York socialite Margaret Hays is touring Europe with some friends. Restless, she resolves to head home aboard the most celebrated steamer in the world.

But as the ship sets sail for America, carrying two infants bearing false names, the paths of Marcella, Michael and Margaret cross and nothing will ever be the same again.

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'They are here with you?' There was a hesitation in Aunt Therese's voice that frightened Marcella. TUESDAY, 9 APRIL 1912, NICE

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(@BloomsburyBooks, 14 December 2021, ebook, 416 pages, borrowed from @GlasgowLib via @BorrowBox)

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This has been on my TBR list for ages and I'm delighted I finally got a chance to read Orphans of the Storm. I thought this was a terrific read. I liked the fact the books opens in dramatic fashion with an enraged Michael taking drastic action to punish his wife for daring to leave him then split into two timelines - everything that led to that moment and what happens after. I found this to be a well-written and engaging read that I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend.