Summer at Gaglow

In Summer at Gaglow, a family's legacy unfolds across generations, exploring themes of love, loss, and the impact of war on their lives.

Set against the backdrop of 1914, Summer at Gaglow begins on the day of Emanuel's twenty-first birthday. Eleven-year-old Eva and her sisters are busy preparing their family estate, Gaglow, for a grand celebration. However, the joy of the occasion is soon overshadowed by the ominous discussions of war that accompany their brother's return from Hamburg. When he is called away to serve, Eva realizes that the world she knows is about to change forever, leaving her to navigate the uncertainty of a new reality.

Fast forward seventy-five years, and the fall of the Berlin Wall brings Sarah's father back to the memories of Gaglow. He begins to share stories of the grand East German estate that has been part of their family's history. As Sarah embarks on a journey to reconnect with her roots, the narrative shifts between her vibrant life in London and the poignant experiences of her grandmother during the tumultuous times of the First World War. This dual timeline explores the complexities of family ties, loss, and the enduring impact of history on personal identity.

Summer at Gaglow beautifully intertwines the lives of four generations, revealing how love and resilience shape their experiences. Through Esther Freud's evocative storytelling, readers are invited to reflect on the legacies of the past and the ways they resonate in the present. The novel is a touching tribute to the enduring bonds of family amidst the trials of time.