I’ve read so much WWII historical fiction, but I’m always looking for something new in this genre that gives me an additional perspective. This new book by Kristin Harmel, an author I’ve previously enjoyed, is set in the Champagne region of France during German occupation:

The Winemaker’s Wife

Mixing past and present, love and betrayal, this is the story of two couples who run a winery and another that run a restaurant, each making different choices to survive while serving the Germans.

In the present day, Liv is returning to the area with her grandmother who is still holding secrets from those years.

I loved the setting and mystery of this book, which kept me guessing until near the end, as well as the characters who showed a wide variety of responses to challenges. Plus, it gave me a greater appreciation for champagne because of what many of its makers did to aid resistance.

“This champagne represents history, my dear. Heroism. Bravery. The people behind these wines helped save France.”

I enjoyed every minute of this book!