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The Dressmaker's Gift

A tale of courage, secrets, and resilience in wartime

Fiona Valpy author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Amazon Publishing

Published:1st Oct '19

Should be back in stock very soon

The Dressmaker's Gift cover

This compelling narrative in The Dressmaker's Gift weaves together the lives of three women during WWII and the impact of their choices across generations.

In The Dressmaker's Gift, the gripping tale unfolds against the backdrop of Paris in 1940, where three young seamstresses navigate the complexities of life under Nazi occupation. Each woman carries her own secrets that could lead to dire consequences. Mireille, a war-scarred fighter, risks everything by working with the Resistance, while Claire finds herself entangled in a dangerous liaison with a German officer. Vivienne, meanwhile, harbors her own hidden truth that could change everything. The choices they make not only affect their lives but also resonate through generations.

Fast forward to the present day, Claire's granddaughter, Harriet, arrives in Paris, feeling lost and disconnected from her roots. As she settles into the same building where her grandmother once lived, Harriet begins to uncover the hidden truths of her family's past. The revelations are both enlightening and haunting, leading her to confront the shadows that have shaped her lineage. The emotional journey she embarks on is one of self-discovery and understanding, as she learns about the sacrifices made by the women before her.

The Dressmaker's Gift is a poignant exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the bonds that tie families together, even in the face of adversity. As the three seamstresses grapple with their choices during one of history's darkest times, Harriet's quest for identity reveals how the echoes of the past can profoundly influence the present.

“Must Read of the Week” Saturday Express

“A wartime story that captures the era well and is a real page-turner as the different lives and generations come together like a beautifully woven fabric.” The People’s Friend

“An intriguing and nostalgic read.” Woman & Home

“You’ll be immersed in this twisting, colorful tale.” Take A Break

“The historical detail and distinctive characters will draw you in.” Woman’s Weekly

“Equal parts heartbreaking and life-affirming, The Dressmaker’s Gift is sure to be welcomed by fans of historical fiction.” Culturefly

“This book broke me and left me utterly speechless, yet I cannot recommend it enough…A beautiful, powerful, and emotive read—one of the best books I have ever read.” The Writing Garnet

The Dressmaker’s Gift is a commendable dual time story about love and survival against all odds. It shows us, without any shadow of doubt, the power and strength there is to be found in friendship.” Jaffa Reads Too

The Dressmaker’s Gift is, in itself, a gift of a book to read…a beautifully written book with four interesting and inspiring women at its core. The historical detail is seamless and brings the experiences of the war to life in shocking detail.” Bookliterati Book Reviews

“Movingly written with great heart and immaculately researched, the love of true friends can support and sustain you through life altering trauma.” Rachel Read It

The Dressmaker’s Gift portrays the strength within friendships and how women were also pivotal during the war. An emotional read and great story.” Jera’s Jamboree

The Dressmaker’s Gift is a brilliant and thought provoking read that beautifully explores trauma, friendship, courage, love, and loss.” Best Book Forward

“It is full of suspense, twists, and turns but most importantly it is full of courage and heart. I hope you all have got a chance to check it out and read this incredible book.” Sissi Reads

ISBN: 9781542005135

Dimensions: 210mm x 140mm x 19mm

Weight: 295g

287 pages