Review: a romance on the sweeter side, the characters carry angst and secrets, disillusionment and personal prejudices
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 07 28, 2013
While the story is a romance on the sweeter side, the characters carry angst and secrets, disillusionment and personal prejudices to keep it out of the saccharine realms.Sophie has just lost her Parisian grandmother, a woman addicted to that certain `status' in society, and her introduction to the rich and famous in Paris.  Growing up with a French mother and an English father, her life was far different to the moneyed classes her grandmother associated with: and after her mother's death and her father's slide into depression, a young Sophie was the sole support of the family.Jean Luc was a world-renown racing driver, one of the rich and famous, ever in photographs with different glamorous women on his arm.  Fodder for the tabloids, he disappeared from public view mysteriously a few years back.  Also disillusioned with the circle he was a part of; Jean Luc appreciates the benefits, but is far more than the shallow, go fast playboy that was portrayed.When a work placement opportunity opens up for Sophie, and only Sophie and it is necessary for her to accept the position to obtain her degree: Sophie and Jean Luc are placed in close proximity as the position is for the family silk manufacturing business that he now runs, bringing it from the edge of ruin.This was a lovely dance of give and take, with Lyon and the old city, famed for silk manufacture become a character in the story itself: it's beauty and the unique stories told of the days when silk ruled the city, and everyone supported the industry.  Add to that the lovely descriptions of the silks, the brilliant colors and Fairfax's ability to bring the fabrics to life and the settings are just gorgeous and full of imagery.  The relationship between Sophie and Jean Luc, her finding her own feet to express herself despite her fears of being inadequate, her dogged determination to protect her family, and the loyalty to her mother's promise  all manage to create a character that is finding her own footing, and self, amidst great change and turmoil.  Jean Luc, on the other hand, initially feels like a child that was told no only once in his life - and he wants that no to become a yes.  While he also is aware of the emptiness of his fast and furious life, as he was living in the spotlight, he also has an attraction to all that comes with it: being a child of privileged means he isn't always aware of Sophie's experiences, although he is intrigued with her.As the two come to know one another, and the guarded nature of their interactions starts to ease, the palpable attraction between the two, and their admiration of one another's talents and personalities is apparent, and the reader starts to see that they are a formidable pairing, meant to be together.What emerges is a realistic portrayal of the obstacles that both characters need to overcome to find their forever together.  Helena Fairfax has created a beautifully engaging debut novel that shows how age and experience will change our perceptions and readjust our ties to childhood promises, allowing for fulfillment as an adult.I received an eBook copy for purpose of honest review for France Book Tours. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.