🇫🇷 Book Review: Mrs. Endicott’s Splendid Adventure by Rhys Bowen
A charming, life-affirming historical novel about reinvention, friendship, and finding joy in unexpected places.
Rhys Bowen, beloved for her historical fiction and mystery novels, returns with Mrs. Endicott’s Splendid Adventure—a delightful tale set on the eve of World War II that celebrates second chances and the courage to start over. With vivid settings, endearing characters, and a touch of romance, this novel is perfect for fans of The Venice Sketchbook and The Tuscan Child.
🕊️ Plot Overview
In 1938 Surrey, England, Ellie Endicott’s world is upended when her husband of thirty years demands a divorce to marry a younger woman. Instead of crumbling, Ellie takes the Bentley and sets off for the South of France with her housekeeper Mavis and elderly friend Dora, both seeking escape from their own troubles.
Their journey leads them to the sleepy fishing village of Saint Benet, where Ellie rents a dilapidated villa and begins to rebuild her life. Along the way, they rescue a pregnant girl, befriend eccentric locals, and encounter Nico, a mysterious fisherman who stirs something unexpected in Ellie’s heart. But as war looms, their idyllic retreat is threatened, and Ellie must summon strength she never knew she had.
💫 Why It Shines
- Empowering Female Leads: Ellie, Mavis, and Dora are beautifully drawn, each facing personal demons with grace and grit.
- Atmospheric Setting: The French Riviera is rendered with warmth and detail, offering a lush backdrop for transformation.
- Themes of Reinvention: Bowen explores how betrayal can lead to liberation, and how love can bloom in the most unlikely places.
- Historical Depth: The encroaching threat of WWII adds tension and urgency, grounding the story in real-world stakes.
📚 Critical Praise
- “A delightful story of a heroine whose inner strength triumphs over adversity.” — Kirkus Reviews
- “A masterfully told tale of friendship, love, and perseverance… as uplifting as it is gripping.” — Historical Novels Review
🏁 Final Verdict
Mrs. Endicott’s Splendid Adventure is a heartwarming escape into a world of resilience, romance, and rediscovery. If you enjoy historical fiction with strong women, scenic settings, and emotional depth, this novel will leave you smiling—and maybe booking a trip to the Riviera.
